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Boston Waterfront Cruises & boat tours

Our most recommended Boston Waterfront 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: Historical Sightseeing Cruise

2. 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: Harbor Champagne Sunset Sail from Rowes Wharf

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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.

Boston: 1.5-Hour Dog-Friendly Harbor Cruise

6. Boston: 1.5-Hour Dog-Friendly Harbor Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing sightseeing cruise with the entire family — dogs included. As you sail along the Boston Harbor, see beautiful views of the skyline and tick off the city highlights. Start from Rowes Wharff and glide past such historic landmarks like the Federal Courthouse, the Seaport District, and the working pier. Enjoy snacks and drinks available on board as you take photos of the Boston skyline. See the historic USS Constitution, the US Navy's oldest warship, in her berth in the Charleston Navy Yard. Finish the cruise at the North End of the harbor and head back to Rowes Wharf.

Boston Harbor: Full Moon Cruise with Champagne Option

7. Boston Harbor: Full Moon Cruise with Champagne Option

The cruise will start from Rowes Wharf and head out towards the fish pier and logan airport. Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure. During the cruise, you will be right under the flight path of Boston Logan Airport and hear the engines roar as the planes land and take off. We will head towards the Boston Harbor Islands and then back to the dock along the East Boston and Charlestown waterfronts. View the USS Constitution, the United States Navy's oldest commissioned ship, in all its splendor under the moonlight. There is a full service bar and light snacks available for sale during your cruise. You can also select an option to have a glass of prosecco included in your ticket.

Boston: Dog-Friendly Halloween Costume & Sightseeing Cruise

8. Boston: Dog-Friendly Halloween Costume & Sightseeing Cruise

Relax on a scenic cruise tour of Boston Harbour with your furry friends on this Halloween Dog Days Costume Cruise. Enjoy socializing with other dog owners and spot creative costumes while enjoying the sights of Boston Harbour. Kick back, relax and enjoy some fresh air while you cruise around the harbor in your best costume with your furry friend. Take in all the sights and rich history with your four legged friend while enjoying a beverage and socializing with other passengers and their dogs. Enjoy views of the city, fish pier, Logan airport and the U.S.S. Constitution, and take part in a positively wonderful Costume parade with prizes. Take advantage of the cash bar and light snacks for sale, and enjoy an included DJ and dance floor as part of the experience.

Other Sightseeing Options in Boston Waterfront

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What people are saying about Boston Waterfront

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 527 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.

Amazing trip to whale watch. We were able to see tons of whales and seals along the way. The boat was crowded but still plenty of room to move around and enjoy the time on the boat! Amazing staff and well organized.

Great experience! Get there early so you can get a good spot. We went the first weekend of November 2022 and saw soooo many whales!

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

Except for the heat it was a real good outing, informative and friendly staff.