Boston · CRUISES & BOAT TOURS
The harbour is the reason the city is here, and it is still the best view of it. These 15 range from a one-hour skyline cruise to a four-hour run out to the whale grounds, each priced and clear on how long you are actually on the water.
Ride Boston’s amphibious Duck Boat past major landmarks, then splash into the Charles River for a lively 20-minute city view.
“Duck boat tour was well worth it! Different view from the bus tours and the guide was hysterical! Assigned seats was a nice touch.”
Watch humpback, fin, and minke whales from Boston with New England Aquarium naturalists on a comfortable 3.5 to 4-hour cruise.
“What an amazing experience, hot hot to see four whales , a group of 3 and 1 on their own , the staff on board were fab , helpful and knowledgeable, time went by so quick”
Review of Boston’s high-speed whale-watching cruise to Stellwagen Bank, with practical advice on wildlife, weather, crowds, seasickness, and value.
“INCREDIBLE experience!!! Highly recommend if you’re traveling to Boston - I went solo but would be so fun with friends/family too. After reading reviews about people getting seasick, I came prepared with motion sickness wristbands, an ear patch, and Dramamine just to be overly cautious. With all of that, I felt great the whole trip! I went toward the end of October & stayed on the top deck the whole time - it got very cold while we were heading out to the feeding ground so definitely bundle up! The staff and crew were incredible and very informative. We got SO lucky and saw 6 whales!!! We left the dock…”
Cruise Boston Harbor for one hour of history, skyline views, USS Constitution, Castle Island, and lively narration from Long Wharf.
“Mike dealt with the disruption by other passengers perfectly. His awareness of the problem with people talking loudly as he was trying to give his tour and his ability to deal with it was very professional and polite. He was very informative and easy to converse with”
Review of Boston’s 60-minute historic harbor cruise, with USS Constitution, Boston Light, skyline views, narration, tips, and value advice.
“The tour was interesting and comfortable. It was nice to see Boston from the harbor and the USS Constitution from a closer vantage point. The tour guide gave great information. The only down side was that the sound system was not that clear. With all the noise in the harbor, it was frequently difficult to hear the guide.”
Review of Boston’s 90-minute sunset harbor cruise, with skyline views, USS Constitution, history, onboard bar, pricing, and practical tips.
“I highly recommend this harbor cruise!! I took my husband for his 60th birthday. The boat was nice with outdoor seating. The captain’s narration was interesting and fun. Seeing the city go from sunset to nighttime was amazing. You can’t beat this experience! Reserve your parking ahead across the street at the 55 Purchase Street/International Place garage. We paid $15 altogether booking it ahead. Don’t miss this! We loved it!!”
Watch Boston’s sunset from the harbor, hear the USS Constitution’s cannon, and enjoy skyline views, light commentary, and onboard drinks.
“Unfortunately for us, we had a rainy sunset cruise. However, still had a wonderful time, through some mist and rain, we were still able to see the city and learn some key features. We enjoyed a light bite and enjoyed the seasonal drink menu as well.”
Sail Boston Harbor aboard the Liberty Star, with skyline views, friendly crew, optional sail-raising, drinks, and a relaxed 90-minute outing.
“Best thing we did while in Boston. The captain and crew were wonderful. Even rescued someone's hat. Unforgettable.”
Sail Salem Sound aboard the historic schooner Fame, help raise the sails, steer the boat, hear local stories, and enjoy a cannon shot.
“Absolutely recommend - the captain and crew were not only fun and engaging, but they were very kind and entertaining.”
Cruise Boston Harbor at sunset aboard the Northern Lights, with skyline views, light commentary, a full bar, and cannon fire from USS Constitution.
“The cruise was very nice. The food and drinks were good. But we have to wait for our food more time than we expected.”
Sail Boston Harbor aboard a replica schooner for city views, harbor islands, Fort Independence, and a relaxed 1.5 or 2-hour outing.
“Great time on Boston Harbor. The sailing was great and we enjoyed watching the aircraft coming into Logan International.”
See Boston Harbor at sunset, hear live history, and watch the skyline light up on this relaxed 90-minute cruise from Rowes Wharf.
“very little fact narration, most of the time spent identifying other cruise ship and hearing about the encore shuttle. not much distance covered. took an extra 20 minutes for them to even be able to dock the boat. don’t waste your money.”
Boston’s Codzilla is a 45-minute, 40-mph harbor thrill ride with sharp turns, loud music, skyline views, and plenty of spray.
“Best value for the money. Never expected the ride to be so exciting. Got the maximum enjoyment by sitting at the rear of the boat to get the full experience. Will tell all my friends it’s well worth the trip into Boston.”
Review of Boston’s two-hour sunset tall-ship cruise, with skyline views, drinks, crew tips, pricing, weather rules, and booking advice.
“Absolutely loved this experience aboard the Liberty Star. We had gorgeous city views from the water. The captain and deck hands were professional and informative yet extremely funny. Price was fair and we enjoyed the drink selection aboard.”
Watch Boston’s skyline turn gold on a 90-minute narrated harbor cruise with sunset views, historic sights, and the USS Constitution’s cannon salute.
“The boat tour was great. Great views & the tour guide made it very enjoyable & funny. Only bad part was the annoying family that was being very loud & listening to music the whole time on their phone. Would have liked to throw them overboard. Would still highly recommend though!”
Pick a walk, a harbour or a dark street.
