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Boston Harbor Cruises & boat tours

Our most recommended Boston Harbor Cruises & boat tours

Boston: Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

1. Boston: Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Go whale watching off the coast of Boston on a comfortable, high-speed catamaran with maximized outdoor and indoor viewing capacity. Look out for humpback, finback, and minke whales, as well as white-sided dolphins on this adventure cruise. Benefit from the best-guided experience, with professional researchers from the Whale Center of New England, the region's foremost authority on whale populations, on-hand to provide you with expert commentary. After you find your crew at the dock, board the high-speed catamaran that offers the fastest, most comfortable way to explore the Atlantic.  Make the most of the 3 outside viewing decks, climate-controlled cabin space with cushioned seating, tables, state-of-the-art sound and video systems, and a galley offering snacks and beverages for purchase. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for:  Humpback whales The humpback’s name comes from the way its back arches out of the water when preparing for a deep dive. “Megaptera” is its true scientific name, which means “large-winged,” in reference to its long flippers. Finback whales Finbacks are second only to Blue Whales in overall size, measuring in at 45-70 feet in length and weighing approximately 40 tons as full-grown adults. Minke whales A sleek, small dolphin-like baleen whale, Minkes are the most abundant whale in the world today with a population numbering well over 1 million worldwide. White-sided dolphins Found only in the North Atlantic, in waters just south of New England and north to Norway, these playful mammals feed on single prey such as squid, unlike whales, who feast on large numbers of small fish.

Boston: Harbor Sunset Yacht Cruise

2. Boston: Harbor Sunset Yacht Cruise

Embark on a sunset yacht tour of Boston Harbor. Step aboard the classic Northern Lights yacht, a coast guard certified vessel with a captain and crew. The motor yacht Northern Lights is stylized after the classic New England 1920s-style steamships. Sit back and relax in a climate-controlled (with heating and air-conditioning) cabin, or enjoy the sea breeze on the open-top deck. Be sure to visit a fully stocked bar on the main deck to purchase refreshments by credit card, to sip refreshing drinks as you cruise along the harbor. The Northern Lights yacht is one of the most comfortable and versatile cruise vessels in Boston Harbor, at 115 feet in length it features six bathrooms and provides ample seating throughout the ship for up to 149 passengers. Built for taking groups of people on spectacular sightseeing adventures, she is the perfect vessel for taking groups of friends and family out to see the harbor.

Boston: Historical Sightseeing Cruise

3. Boston: Historical Sightseeing Cruise

Board a sightseeing cruise in Boston and take a tour around Boston Harbor. Experience breathtaking views, refreshing sea breezes, and vividly told stories of Boston's past and present as you admire the city's sights from the water. Depart from Long Wharf, then Cruise past the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned US Navy warship afloat today, marvel at the Bunker Hill Monument, and catch a glimpse of the fabled Old North End Church steeple. Hear heroic tales told by expert narrators and learn about local legends from the Revolutionary War. You'll also discover how the harbor was transformed into one of the cleanest waterways in the country. Enjoy the best view no matter the weather, with spacious outdoor viewing decks when the weather is fine, and indoor spaces with large windows if you want to be indoors. Onboard refreshments and snacks are also available for purchase.

Boston: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor

4. Boston: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor

Admire the sights of Boston with a 2-hour lunch or 3-hour dinner cruise on Boston Harbor. Savor an extensive buffet aboard the Spirit of Boston, and visit any of the 3 climate-controlled decks to watch the city glide by. Upon arrival, receive a personal greeting and have your photo taken by the ship's photographer to capture the memory. After being seated at your private table, feast on your lunch or dinner buffet consisting of creative meals prepared fresh daily. While you eat, listen to tunes from an onboard DJ. After your meal, go out on deck for panoramic city views. SAMPLE BUFFET MENU Salads Caesar Salad Romaine Lettuce | Aged Reggiano Parmesan Cheese | Herb Croutons Bow Tie Pasta Salad Scallions | English Cucumbers | Roma Tomatoes | Dill & Mustard Vinaigrette Vegetables, Potatoes, and Pasta Roasted Broccoli Florets, Creamed Corn and Cheddar Cheese Casserole, Mashed Potatoes Entrees Baked Ziti Pasta, Oven-Baked Atlantic Flounder, Filet Honey, and Sesame Chicken, Italian Beef Meatballs, Braised Beef Short Ribs Desserts Seasonal Spirit Dessert Display Please note that menu items are subject to change.

Boston: Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

5. Boston: Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

Meet at Rowes Wharf and set off on a guided boat tour. This sunset cruise will give you unparalleled views of Boston's famous landmarks. Escape the heat and admire Boston’s beautiful skyline and the historic USS Constitution as the sun sets behind the city. Your expert guide will be able to tell you about some of the city's landmarks and history. As evening sets in, the sunset cruise will highlight popular and famous scenes set at Boston Harbor from both past and present. Snacks and cold beverages including water, juice and soda; as well as a full bar, are available on every boat.

Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise

6. Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise

Experience an elegant dining cruise on the Boston Harbor aboard the luxury cruising vessel, Odyssey. Your voyage begins with being welcomed aboard by the captain and crew. The ship's photographer will take a picture to capture the memory.  After being seated at your private table, tuck into your gourmet brunch buffet or 3-course lunch or dinner consisting of creative meals prepared fresh daily by the onboard executive chef. Finally, ance to live music or relax on one of three climate-controlled decks as you enjoy the scenery of the Boston skyline. Menu items are subject to change. Sample Lunch and Dinner Menus Starters (choice of one): Watermelon and baby arugula salad For dinner on Wednesdays - Saturdays only: Hornblower signature seafood chowder Jumbo shrimp cocktail (extra charge) Seafood Tower (extra charge) Main (choice of one): Root vegetable fricassee Broiled salmon filet with roasted tomato vinaigrette Oven-roasted chicken breast with rosemary and thyme For dinner on Wednesdays - Saturdays only: Braised beef short ribs with Fresno pepper demi glaze Choice of Dessert (choice of one): Signature chocolate cake Mixed fruit with strawberries New York-style cheesecake SAMPLE BRUNCH BUFFET MENU Early Risers: Breakfast pastries Scrambled eggs Breakfast meats; potatoes French toast Late Risers: Kale quinoa salad Green goddess pasta salad Ceasar salad Oven-roasted whitefish Kid’s chicken tenders/fries Hand-carved strip loin Hand-carved oven-roasted Turkey Desserts: Odyssey's signature dessert: cakes, brownies, seasonal fruits

Downtown Boston Harbor Weekend Cruise with Brunch

7. Downtown Boston Harbor Weekend Cruise with Brunch

Weekends are a time for relaxing and getting your days started the right way. Join a Mimosa and Bloody Mary Cruise aboard the elegant Northern Lights to jump start your relaxation mode. While aboard, choose from a variety of mimosas and bloody Mary's. Enjoy the gourmet brunch buffet and select a cozy seat aboard the Northern Lights as you cruise around Boston Harbor to capture panoramic views of Boston. This is the perfect event for groups looking to entertain guests from out of town. You can see the sites without giving up a relaxing weekend. Small bridal parties can be accommodated and next day wedding parties. The Brunch Cruise offers the perfect event for individuals or a group looking to celebrate and relax. Also, see historic sites along the harbor such as: the harbor islands (Castle Island, Deer Island, Spectacle Island, Long Island, Lovells Island, Georges Island) Independence Fort, Bunker Hill Monument, USS Cassin Young, USS Constitution, Old North Church, Boston’s Seaport District with historic Fishing Markets and Boston’s incredible skyline.  The brunch menu includes pastries, granola, yoghurt, smoked salmon, bagels, fruit, scrambled eggs, potato hash, bacon, ham, salad, and dessert.

Boston: Harbor Champagne Sunset Sail from Rowes Wharf

8. Boston: Harbor Champagne Sunset Sail from Rowes Wharf

Embark on a sightseeing sunset cruise on Boston harbor and soak up the views of the famous skyline. Admire city highlights, including the Inner Harbor Islands and the Boston Fish Pier.    Board an elegant sailing yacht, the ' Adirondack III.' Travel in style on a classic 80 foot pilot schooner that is comfortable and spacious. Glide smoothly over the water and have the option of purchasing a refreshing drink at the onboard bar. Admire views of the historic scenery of Boston Harbor as you pass by the Boston Fish Pier and the Moakley Federal Courthouse at Fan Pier. Capture pictures of Castle Island and the Donald McKay monument. Cruise through the Inner Harbor Islands. Step back in time as you cruise by the historic Charleston Navy Yard. Go by the lush greenery of the Waterfront Park and take in the modern architecture of buildings like the New England Aquarium. Take a selfie in front of the Boston skyline. Have your questions about the sights and history of Boston Harbor and its surrounding areas answered by the attentive crew. Hear facinating facts and old-time legends about the maritime world of Boston. Return to your meeting point at the end of the tour.

Boston: Downtown Harbor Sailing Cruise

9. Boston: Downtown Harbor Sailing Cruise

Experience Boston like never before onboard the 80-foot pilot schooner Adirondack III. Enjoy a round-trip of smooth sailing, with some invigorating speed to boot. Within minutes of leaving dock, you’ll forget the distractions of life on land as you experience the joy of a sailing adventure. Cruise past landmark attractions, such as the Boston Fish Pier, Moakley Federal Courthouse at Fan Pier, and Castle Island. Drift past the Inner Harbor Islands and see the historic Charleston Navy Yard. Look out for the green oasis of Waterfront Park and the home to hundreds of marine critters, including sharks and sea turtles, at New England Aquarium. Your knowledgeable captain and crew will be on hand to answer questions about the sights and history of Boston Harbor and its surrounds, from interesting facts to old-time legends. Wines and local micro beers are available to purchase onboard, while complimentary soda and water will keep you hydrated along the way.

Boston: New England Harbor Cruise

10. Boston: New England Harbor Cruise

Boston Harbor is home to 34 islands and nearly every island has a story to tell. From its fortifications and hauntings to lighthouses and wildlife sanctuaries, the harbor is full of rich and unique history that will keep your attention throughout the trip.  Notable things to see include the Old North Church, Bunker Hill Monument, USS Cassin Young, the USS Constitution, Fort Independence, Boston's Seaport District, and Spectacle Island. The motor yacht's design was inspired by classic New England 1920s style steamships. She is one of the most comfortable and versatile cruise vessels in the Boston Harbor. She is 115-feet in length, features six bathrooms and provides ample seating throughout the ship. She is built for taking groups of people on spectacular sightseeing adventures. Thus, she is excellent for taking out groups of friends and family to see the harbor. Sit back and relax in the climate-controlled cabin or enjoy the sea breeze on the open top deck. During your harbor cruise, the captain will provide narration and the crew will be around to assist in making your trip more comfortable. Be sure to visit the fully stocked bar on the main deck to purchase refreshments.

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What people are saying about Boston Harbor

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 757 reviews

Our harbor tour was great! The weather was working with us during our hour tour. Seeing Boston from the harbor was wonderful. Give you a different perspective. Plus, the guide was very good. Easy to hear, funny and very informative. I would highly recommend the tour.

Great relaxing cruise to see the sights of Boston harbor! The cannon bast from the USS constitution was a real treat.

I would suggest that if you're not prepared for cold chilly weather don't go during the winter months.

I did like the cruise but changing the wharf after making hotel reservations added a lot to our walk.

We had a great time on our tour around the harbor.