Nostalgic Ferryboat

The Berkeley Ferryboat was built in 1898 and it carried passengers between San Francisco and Oakland until 1958. It was then converted into a stationary gift shop for 12 years before it was purchased by the Maritime Museum of San Diego. It took 3 days to have it towed by tugboat from San Francisco to San Diego where it was restored and converted into a museum.

I passed by this boat whenever I visit, but I never thought about embarking on it until I happened to bored this one particular afternoon so I decided what-the-heck.

Think about the boat's journeys through the century ferrying commuters to work and refugees across the bay after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Imagine the laughter, sadness, fear, and excitement that have taken place.

Berkeley's interior where passengers sat during their journey

Look at the beautiful stained glass windows and shiny hardwood floors.

Refreshment stand where food and drinks were sold on board

This was a picture above the refreshment area. I imagine it could have been a photo of two long-time attendants.

During the boat's renovation, donors could dedicate part of the boat to a loved one. Each passenger bench has one of these dedication plaques. I thought this one was the most interesting.

Hanging on the wall was a certificate such as this one given to passengers who made the final journey on one of these bay ferries.