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.

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.

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.

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.