Top Providence Water Tours

Get an in-depth look at Providence from a boat cruise that travels along the waterways of Rhode Island’s capital city. Your guide shares live commentary about historical landmarks and modern destinations as you take in sites including the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier, Providence Industrial Harbor, Providence River, Waterplace Park and the pedestrian paths of Riverwalk. Choose a daytime or evening cruise, and feel free to bring your own refreshments on board.

WaterFire—an annual installation by artist Barnaby Evans, which sees lighted braziers and flickering flames reflected along the Providence River—is a much-loved Providence event, and this boat tour offers unparalleled access to the exhibition. Meet your captain at the basin of Waterplace Park, hop aboard your vessel, and set off along the full length of the installation after dark, to enjoy the best views of the fires.

Take a boat tour along the Providence waterways to discover 300 years of architectural history. Led by the Providence Preservation Society, uncover the city's stories, sight lines, and subtle details. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, witness historic Providence from the best vantage point in town. Passengers must be at least 10 years old to join this tour.

Enjoy a memorable way to explore Providence—and learn all of the city’s spookiest ghost stories and creepiest lore—on this after-dark boat tour. Make your own way to the dock, hop aboard your vessel, and set sail with Captain Peter. Your costumed guide, accompanied by flickering lanterns, will share stories and secrets as you cruise along the water and admire views of the city illuminated after dark.

Our Mother’s Day Mimosa Tours offer a fun, relaxing cruise through the beautiful Providence waterways, featuring a 50-minute cruise packed with local sights and charm. Our Captains will guide you along the Providence Riverwalk, Rhode Island School of Design, WaterPlace Park, District Park and the Providence Industrial Harbor. Sit back, soak up the scenery, and toast Mom with complimentary mimosas, while the whole family enjoys time together on the water. It’s the perfect blend of sightseeing, sipping, and celebrating Mom! Please Note: These cruises are not narrated. If you would like a narrated tour, please book the Historic Narrated Tour.

Step aboard for a one-of-a-kind river tour as we welcome Roger Williams back to Providence! Portrayed by historian and Roger Williams expert John McNiff, our founding father will guide you through his remarkable life, travels, and the legacy he built right here in Rhode Island. This exclusive 75-minute cruise blends scenic views, immersive storytelling, and a touch of theatrical flair. From tales of exile and religious freedom to the founding of Providence itself, Roger brings history to life in a way that’s both entertaining and enlightening. Don’t miss your chance to meet Roger…on the river! It’s history with heart, humor, and a front-row seat to our capital city. We welcome passengers ages 12+ on this tour.

Cruise the Providence River as you sample a selection of beverages from a Rhode Island winery on this wine-tasting boat tour. Your captain will share information about downtown Providence landmarks while you savor and discuss six different wines. Experienced oenophiles and those new to wine-tasting can both enjoy this fun and festive twist on a sightseeing tour.

Fourth of July fireworks shows are always worth seeing but always hard to do in the crowds. Avoid the holiday crowds on land by booking this Providence Fireworks Cruise. Bring your own bottle on the cruise and see the sights of the downtown area and waterways before your captain anchors down for the show.

Enjoy a relaxing evening cruise along Providence’s waterways while being entertained by the magical WaterFire show. Starting from Providence Marina, you’ll get a great view of this seasonal attraction, which lights up the city. Travelers with all kinds of interests will be amazed by the WaterFire show, which includes movement, participation, and, of course, fire and water.

Pride Rides 2026: Make Waves, Make Magic! Celebrate Providence Pride where it sparkles the most—on the water. These cruises bring big energy, bold color, and pure queer joy as our Captains guide you through the city’s iconic waterways. Expect laughs, vibes, and a whole lot of fabulous fun. What Makes This Ride Iconic? A Pride‑powered cruise past the festival grounds at District Park, the historic Riverwalk, and into the basin of Waterplace Park. Bomb beats and TikTok‑worthy moments that practically demand a camera roll takeover. Epic skyline views of the capital city as your backdrop. Event Details Launch Site: Just steps from the festival grounds at 101 Dyer Street, Providence, RI Limited Sailings: Spots disappear fast—So grab your crew, grab your glitter, and let’s make waves for love, equality, and celebration in Providence!

Perfect for food and wine enthusiasts, this cruise delivers a truly memorable—and delicious—experience in the heart of downtown Providence! Join us as we welcome aboard local oyster farmer Graham Watson, owner of West Passage Oyster Co. in South County. Graham will be shucking his premium oysters fresh on deck while sharing stories from his offshore farm near the John Chafee Nature Preserve in the West Passage of Narragansett Bay, as our crew will keep the wine and Prosecco flowing to round out this indulgent, one‑of‑a‑kind cruise. Feeling adventurous? Guests are invited to try their hand at shucking as Graham demonstrates his favorite techniques for a fun, hands‑on moment. It’s the quintessential culinary‑meets‑boating event of the summer—right here in Providence, and absolutely not to be missed. Ages 21+ only.