Boston · BOSTON HARBOR & CHARLES RIVER CRUISES
65 reviewed
From duck boats on the Charles to fast catamarans out to the whales at Stellwagen Bank, the harbor is Boston at its best. Here are the 15 cruises worth booking: which chase whales and which stick to the skyline, how long each runs, and the sailing to pick for calm water and good photos.
Ride Boston on a classic WWII duck boat, then splash into the Charles River for skyline views, laughs, and quick landmark context.
“Super fun and good way to see Boston on land and in water. Fun ride for the whole family. The conductors are very knowledgeable.”
Boston Harbor whale watch with New England Aquarium naturalists on a fast, comfy boat, big windows, and lots of outdoor deck time.
“We saw 6 humpback whales on the tour. So many good photos of the whales coming out of the water! Amazing experience! Please do check the weather before you book it.”
A 3.5-hour high-speed Boston whale watch to Stellwagen Bank with a naturalist guide, indoor cabin comfort, and a strong shot at whales and dolphins.
“Had an absolute fantastic trip. Informative, and we were lucky with so many sightings! A really good option for a Boston experience! There is always a chance you won’t see whales, but the ride out was is great. Bring something to contain your hair if it is long and a jacket. Even if warm, the wind can be chilly. 10/10 experience.”
A 1-hour Boston Harbor cruise from Long Wharf with live narration, big-window comfort, and standout Revolutionary War sights.
“It was comfortable cruising. Loved the guide, she explained everything with some humor and jokes. The weather was great for the day, sunny and warm. It was very enjoyable and informative.”
A narrated 1-hour Boston Harbor cruise from Long Wharf, past USS Constitution and Boston Light, with skyline views and lively stories.
“The tour itself was great - especially the narration and history shared. I was a little surprised by the interior of the boat. Definitely aged with torn upholstery. Seemed a bit beat up. Overall still a worth while tour.”
90-minute Boston Harbor sunset cruise from Rowes Wharf with guided narration, USS Constitution views, skyline photos, and an onboard bar.
“Excellent staff and views of city. Great way to see sights and spend sunset”
2-hour Boston Harbor sunset cruise from Rowes Wharf with views of Old North, Charlestown Navy Yard, USS Cassin Young, and USS Constitution cannon.
“Too long and not much narrative from the crew. We heard the people on top level enjoyed more information”
Sail Boston Harbor on the Liberty Star tall ship. 90 minutes of skyline views, captain Q&A, and onboard drinks. Bring your lunch.
“Beautiful afternoon Great staff & captain Best view of Constitution Great refreshments at reasonable prices”
Sail the Salem Sound on the replica privateer schooner Fame. Help hoist sails, steer, and enjoy the cannon shot and harbor views.
“The people who ran the Fame and the event were friendly, knowledgeable, and personable. Very much enjoyed that it was a smaller group on board and it was a nice trip. If you choose, you can help hoist the sails and participate or you can just enjoy the ride!”
Classic Northern Lights sunset cruise in Boston Harbor with Fort Independence, inner-harbor views, and the USS Constitution cannon at dusk.
“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 on a replica pilot schooner with great crew Q&A, Seaport and island views, and a card-only bar for wine and beer.
“We have a beautiful experience. The crew were helpful and engaging. Loved the time with friends. Enjoy your experience.”
Live narrated sunset cruise from Rowes Wharf with Boston skyline views, USS Constitution sights, and a full bar in 90 minutes.
“It was super good! Get a seat in the front of the boat and bring a jacket for night cruises. Such a fantastic time!! The microphone was a little quiet in some parts of the ship.”
A 45-minute Codzilla speed boat in Boston Harbor with loud music, big horsepower turns, and a wet water-coaster ride from Long Wharf.
“Very fun boat ride. Bring a hairbrush or have your hair tied back. Everyone will get wet but it seems the back of the boat was sprayed much more than the front.”
Sail Boston Harbor on a classic tall ship at sunset. Two hours, great views, and a galley bar for drinks, snacks, and photos.
“We had such a great time! Loved the experience! Would recommend to anyone! The drinks and atmosphere was wonderful and was inclusive for all ages.”
A 90-minute narrated Boston Harbor sunset cruise from Long Wharf, with skyline views, Fort Independence stories, and the USS Constitution 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!”
