SF Bay Ferries Transform Into Floating Pop-Up Concert Venues
San Francisco Bay Ferry is bringing live music to select Friday sailings this January, turning regular commute rides into floating concert experiences. The new pilot series, Tides & Tunes, features local musicians performing on routes between Oakland/Alameda, Richmond and Vallejo, with shows included in the regular ferry fare. Performances take place on the first four Fridays of the month, January 2, 9, 16 and 23, offering riders a chance to enjoy live music against the backdrop of the Bay and city skyline.
Tides & Tunes Schedule (January 2026)
Friday, January 2
Anthony Arya (folk-rock singer-songwriter)
Appeared on NBC’s The Voice at age 15 and has since released four albumsFriday, January 9
LOLAH (soulful pop-rock)
Performances featured on select sailingsFriday, January 16
DJ Night
Live DJ sets with an all-ages atmosphere on select routesFriday, January 23
LOLAH returns
Performances featured on select sailingsExact times and routes vary by date and line, with performances taking place on regularly scheduled ferry trips.
What Riders Should Know
- Performances are included with standard ferry fare
- Space is limited and boats can sell out
- Most ferries have onboard bars
- Riders must exit and re-pay fare if they choose to ride multiple legs
- Weather and water conditions can affect performances
The program reflects a broader trend among Bay Area transit agencies experimenting with cultural programming onboard, as public transportation looks for new ways to attract riders outside traditional commute hours.
Read more at SF Chronicle and San Francisco Bay Ferry
