Top Boston Cruises & Sailing
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Leave dry land behind for unmatched views of Boston's waterfront sites. Boston cruises are a great way to explore the harbor, and many include perks like narration, dining, and drinks. Some wildlife-themed cruises also head to an offshore marine sanctuary just east of the city, where you can catch sight of whales and other sea life. How you travel is up to you: With options that include tall ships, duck boats, and high-speed catamarans, booking a Boston cruise is easy.
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There are plenty of high-quality Boston boat cruises. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:
Boston boat cruises start at US$30 per person, while private full-day tours can reach upwards of US$1,500. Most tours fall somewhere in between, with options covering highlights such as the Charles River and Boston Harbor. Most travelers believe seeing the city’s historic sites while listening to live commentary onboard is well worth the price.
Most Boston boat cruises last 1-3 hours, including sunset cruises and sightseeing tours. During these cruises, you can see Boston landmarks from the water. If you’d like to spend more time on the water, you can explore other Massachusetts destinations on a full-day tour that leaves from Boston.
Absolutely, children are welcome on Boston boat tours—they're a great family-friendly activity. The Boston Duck Sightseeing Tour is an especially popular option for kids. Note that an adult must accompany all kids under the age of 18 on tours.
On Boston boat cruises that start in Boston Harbor, you'll see the USS Constitution, Bunker Hill Monument, Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, and the Boston Harbor Islands. On duck boat tours, you’ll start on land and pass Boston Common, Quincy Market, and the TD Garden before you splash down into the Charles River.
Sightseeing tours of Boston that take place on the water typically include narration and often feature tales and commentary about famous landmarks. Harbor cruises tend to allow you to take in the sights at your own pace and may include food and drinks.
There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Boston aside from cruises. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:
Boston cruise prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best cruises to book now:
The duration of Boston cruises varies, so look through the options and find what suits you before booking—short trips are ideal for some essential sightseeing, while longer cruises might include whale-watching or dinner. Also, consider whether you want food and drinks included in the price of your tour, or if you’re willing to pay for refreshments onboard. If you’re planning a trip during the peak spring and summer seasons, book your cruise well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Cruises offer a charming way to see the sights of Boston, and the best way to enjoy your trip is to dress appropriately for the weather: Think comfy footwear, warm layers, and a waterproof coat if rain is forecast. Also, plan your journey to the boarding point with plenty of time to board and a chance to grab seats with the best views.
The best time for Boston cruises is May or June, when you can enjoy the mild spring weather with fewer crowds than in the summer. If you’re keen to visit in summer (June to August), you’ll likely experience good weather, but expect higher prices and more people. Be mindful of special events, such as Fourth of July celebrations, as cruises around these times will book up quickly. If you’re keen to see some whales on your Boston cruise, the peak season for whale-watching is June to September.




































