If you’re planning a visit to Alcatraz in the coming weeks, there’s news that could force you to change your plans. Since October 26, 2026, the famous San Francisco island has been temporarily closed to visitors, with all tours suspended through November 18.
The reason does not directly involve the infamous prison, considered one of the must-see attractions in San Francisco, but rather the ferry dock, which allows tourists to reach the island. Reopening is scheduled for November 19, although the date may change (we’ll keep you updated if that happens). Below, you’ll find some information on what happened and guidance on what to do if you’ve already purchased tickets.
Why is Alcatraz closed for the third time in 2026?
So this isn’t about renovation work on the notoriously escape-proof prison that once housed Al Capone: the problem lies with the large pilings anchored in the seabed that support the floating ferry dock. In January, after one of the five support pilings failed, Alcatraz remained closed for nine days. A second shutdown, lasting six days, came in April to reinforce the three remaining structurally sound pilings.
During the current closure, the two damaged pilings are being completely replaced and, according to the National Park Service, once the work is finished, the docking system should provide another 20 to 30 years of service. The work is being funded and carried out by Alcatraz City Cruises, the company that operates ferry service to the island.
When will Alcatraz reopen, and what happens to reservations?
The closure covers all visits from October 26 through November 18, inclusive. Tours are expected to resume on Thursday, November 19, 2026, unless bad weather or unforeseen work delays push back the reopening. The schedule must also take into account environmental regulations in San Francisco Bay, which restrict this type of work after November 30.
If you booked a tour directly through Alcatraz City Cruises, your reservation has been canceled and you will receive an automatic refund, with no need to submit a request. The company says refunds take 5–7 business days to process. If, on the other hand, you purchased a tour through another website (such as those listed here) or a travel agency, you’ll need to contact the seller directly.
If you have a little flexibility in your itinerary, you can rebook for November 19 or later, subject to availability. Also keep in mind November 26, Thanksgiving Day: Alcatraz will still be closed, as it is every year.
For those visiting San Francisco during the closure, Alcatraz City Cruises is offering a 90-minute sightseeing cruise on San Francisco Bay through November 1, allowing visitors to admire the island up close without actually landing on it. This is a separate tour and must be booked separately.
If, on the other hand, you want to plan your visit to the prison after it reopens, check out our complete Alcatraz guide.
