boston harbor city cruises rezensionen

The 7 Best Boston Harbor Cruises [2024 Reviews]

Boston may not be as glittery as New York City, or as opulent as Paris, but it is absolutely the perfect place to visit if you’d like to immerse yourself in the cradle of American history.

Every time I visit, I fall more in love with the way the wind tousles my hair and the salty sea air fills my lungs. Towering skyscrapers contrast legendary landmarks like the Old North Church and Fenway Park, creating beautiful images you have to see to believe.

If you want to experience it in one of the best ways possible, I highly recommend checking out these top Boston Harbor dinner and sunset cruises. History, beauty, and adventure intermingle here, from the infamous Boston Tea Party to harbor island mysteries – there’s something for everyone.

Best Boston Harbor Sunset & Dinner Cruises

Quick answer: the 7 best boston harbor cruise tours for 2024.

• Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
• Boston: Harbor Champagne Sunset Sail from Rowes Wharf
• Signature Spirit of Boston Lunch Cruise
• Boston: Sunset Tall Ship Harbor Cruise
• Sunset Sailing Cruise on a Tall Ship in Boston Harbor
• Sightseeing Day Sail around Boston Harbor
• Boston: Downtown Harbor Sailing Cruise

Boston Harbor Cruise Reviews

1. boston harbor: gourmet brunch or dinner cruise.

• Duration:  2 – 3 hours
• Departure:  60 Rowes Wharf, Boston
• Departure Time: 7:00 PM
• Includes:  Buffet brunch or 3-course dinner, coffee, tea, iced tea, onboard DJ and dance floor

Starting things off on the right foot, we have one of the most popular tours of its kind in all of Boston. The Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Tour  is perfect for those who are looking to enjoy life, and perhaps get down to some danceable tunes on board!

If you’ve just landed in the city or its your first time there, this is a perfect introduction to the shimmering waters and the interesting architecture which surrounds it.

Once you arrive to your comfortable boat, you’ll be escorted on board where you’ll get to hang out and relax for a while and enjoy being greeted by the captain and crew.

I felt like the staff was top-notch, with an elegant and charming atmosphere and incredible attention to detail and customer service. As you meet them, you’ll have a photo taken to capture the moment by the ship’s professional photographer.

Once seated at your private table, the stage is set for a culinary adventure that honestly was a pleasant surprise.

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The executive chef is simply a genius, creating a gastronomic symphony consisting of a 3-course plated dinner (you can also opt for a lavish buffet brunch if you’re looking for a morning tour).

Whatever you choose, you can count on each dish dancing on your taste buds, showcasing the chef’s creativity and dedication to using fresh, quality ingredients.

However, the food, combined with the panoramic views of Boston’s skyline, seeing the iconic Bunker Hill, and the impressive USS Constitution were all amazing!

The live DJ put on songs to get everyone dancing, and with the Odyssey’s three climate-controlled decks, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the view and the entire experience.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. boston harbor champagne sunset sail from rowes wharf.

• Duration:  2 hours
• Departure: 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston
• Departure Time:  7:30 PM
• Includes:  2-hour sunset sail tour,  Captain and crew, complimentary water

The allure of the open sea, gentle sway of a boat, and the warm setting sun on the skin is always appealing when you’re in Boston. On this next tour, you’ll feel like you’re being transported back in time on an elegant 80-foot classic Schooner.

The Boston: Harbor Champagne Sunset Sail from Rowes Wharf is a fantastic way to enjoy a celebratory evening with that special someone, or a wonderful precursor to a delicious dinner onshore. This sightseeing sunset cruise is romantic, yet engaging enough to bring children along, too!

As the sails catch the evening breeze, you’ll be able to fully relax onboard and enjoy the sprawling Boston skyline while settling in and enjoying either complimentary water, beer, wine, or champagne.

Soft drinks are also available to purchase, which I did feel like should have been free of charge, but it wasn’t a big deal. However, I was really impressed by the vessel itself: the Adirondack III, which offered mesmerizing views.

You’ll get to see all kinds of historic sites, from the Boston Fish Pier to the Moakley Federal Courthouse – each one being a testament to the city’s rich heritage.

The graceful vessel was super smooth, making the thoughtfully-curated selection of beverages that much more enjoyable as we journeyed on. What really made the experience special, though, was the attentive crew who regaled us with tales of the sea.

You’ll learn all about the Charleston Navy Yard, Waterfront Park, the secrets of Boston Harbor, and more, as you pass each location. As the sun starts due set, it casts beautiful gold and amber across the horizon, making it perfect for some selfies against the Boston skyline!

Don’t forget to take snaps of Castle Island, the Donald McKay Monument, and the nature, itself!

3. Signature Spirit of Boston Lunch Cruise

• Duration:  2 hours
• Departure:  200 Seaport Blvd. Boston
• Departure Time:  12:00 PM
• Includes:  2-hour lunch cruise, All-you-can-eat buffet, DJ entertainment, Coffee, tea and iced tea, taxes and fees

Instead of going out to lunch somewhere on land, why don’t you try something exclusively “Boston” and enjoy dining right on the water where so many important moments from American history occurred?

The Signature Spirit of Boston Lunch Cruise Tour  will take you to a world of breathtaking historic city views with a laid-back and fun-filled ride like no other.

This tour perfectly melds history, beautiful sites, and tasty eats with professional staff that are there to ensure you have a fantastic experience right from the get-go!

Arrive at the Seaport World Trade Center, where you’ll board the beautiful vessel that features multiple decks for you to enjoy different kinds of views.

After exploring the decks, you can find your way to a table against the panoramic windows and get ready for an amazing lunch buffet! It is all-you-can-eat and I found everything but the desserts to be exceptional (the desserts aren’t bad, just nothing special).

As you glide through the waters, get ready to pass by the World Trade Center, the site where rebels started the Boston Tea Party, where the Boston Massacre claimed the lives of many colonists, and more.

One of the coolest parts of the tour, for me, was seeing the World War II Naval destroyer, the USS Cassin Young, along with the USS Constitution, known lovingly as “Old Ironsides”.

You’ll hear all about the oldest fully-commissioned naval vessel in the world, as well as Fort Independence, and the Tobin Memorial Bridge: a symbol of progress. Head up to the top deck, where you can get some fresh air and views that stretch out as far as the eye can see.

This makes for some fantastic videos and photos, with no obstructions to block your field of vision. Oh, and if you feel like getting your groove on, there is a live DJ on board spinning all kinds of fun tunes! You can choose to get out on the dancefloor or simply focus on the amazing views all around you as you cruise on.

4. Boston Sunset Tall Ship Harbor Cruise

• Duration:  1.5 to 2 hours
• Departure:  1 Central Wharf, Boston
• Departure Time: 6:00 PM
• Includes:  Cruise, learn how to hoist sails properly

How would you like to be whisked away on a sailing experience that will ignite your sense of wonder and take you on a historic journey through Boston Harbor’s legendary waters?

With the  Boston: Sunset Tall Ship Harbor Cruise Tour , you’ll be transported to a bygone era by boarding either the majestic Schooner Liberty or the nimble Liberty Star.

See and learn all about the Boston skyline, the iconic harbor, and the various neighborhoods’ backgrounds all from the prime viewing location right on the water, as the sun is setting!

Upon arrival to the harbor, you’ll be greeted by the captain and crew and can even help the crew hoist the same old-school way! It’s not for the faint of heart, but it is a fun activity that most people won’t have done before!

Either way, enjoy the cool breeze and help out or relax, enjoy a drink, and watch as the others struggle to haul the massive sails! Everyone is incredibly friendly and you can tell that they truly enjoy sharing the experience and their knowledge with visitors.

If you select the Liberty Star ride, it will be 1.5 hours, while the Liberty Clipper will be a bit longer, at 2 hours long. If you’d like, you can even take a turn at the helm and get an idea of what it’s like to steer such a massive vessel!

While no coolers or BYOB is permitted and while there is no food served on board, you can bring your own food and make a picnic while cruising along and taking in all the sites!

As you cruise along, the captain and crew will tell you all about the rich and rather dramatic history of Boston and its harbor. Take photos and enjoy the magnificent views of the Boston skyline, with its array of architectural marvels, where the Prudential Tower and John Hancock Tower rises proudly out over the water.

5. Sunset Sailing Cruise on a Tall Ship in Boston Harbor

• Departure: 6:00 PM
• Departure Time:  Central Wharf, Boston
• Includes:  Free exercise if you help the crew hoist those sails, Sales tax, unique view of the Boston skyline, Sunset Cruise of Boston Harbor on one of the famous Tall Ships

This next 2-hour tour has proven to be some of the most fun you can have while in Boston! The Sunset Sailing Cruise on a Tall Ship in Boston Harbor Tour  also gives you the option of sailing out on the 67-foot Liberty Star or the 125-foot Liberty Clipper, where you will be able to enjoy interesting stories, views, and a beautiful experience.

This classic sailing adventure will take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city and go back in time, with plenty of fresh air and sunshine!

Start off by making your way over to the Central Wharf, where you’ll meet up with the captain and crew before boarding. You get to choose if you’d like to help the crew by grabbing a line and hoisting up the sails, or relaxing and watching the fun take place in front of you.

If you have any questions, they’re more than happy to fill you in on technique or anything else you may want to know. I loved how much space there was onboard, with plenty of different viewpoints to catch the surrounding harbor and skyline views.

This is a great way to spend an afternoon before grabbing dinner and watching the sunrise from one of the best vantage points possible. As you cruise on, you’ll pass important sites such as Fort Independence, East Boston, the Charlestown Navy Yard, and much more.

As you pass each location, the crew will recount interesting anecdotes and fun stories that only enrich the experience, overall. Should you get thirsty or want a little snack, they sell both at the ship’s galley bar, too.

6. Sightseeing Day Sail around Boston Harbor

• Duration:  1.5 to 2 hours
• Departure Time: Variety of times available
• Includes:  Unique tour

This is the perfect way to create a fun and relaxing time when in the city, especially if it’s your first time in Boston.

The Sightseeing Day Sail around Boston Harbor Tour  is one of the best ways to get the “lay of the land” in a short amount of time, so you can further explore the ones that caught your attention later on.

With smooth sailing, interesting historical accounts, an environment perfect for all ages, and fantastic views, you definitely need to consider this tour!

I will say that this is one of the more “basic” tours in terms of food and entertainment such as live music and dancing, but that didn’t detract at all from our experience. In fact, for history buffs (particularly regarding American history), I found this to be one of the most interesting options out there!

Your tour will start off by you and your party heading to Rowes Wharf, where you’ll board a replica of a pilot schooner which was so impressive!

After boarding, you’ll have plenty of time to ask the captain and crew any questions you may have about the vessel, their jobs, or the city, itself. I loved how knowledgeable and friendly everyone was, which made it feel like you were simply hanging out with friends.

You do get to choose between either a 1.5-hour or 2-hour tour, which I felt were both timed and planned nicely.

There is a water cooler available to fill reusable bottles, so remember to bring one if you plan on hydrating. There is also a card-only bar on board where you can enjoy wine, beer, and plenty of soft drinks. With various start times available, you’re sure to be able to fit this tour in, no matter what your schedule looks like!

7. Boston Downtown Harbor Sailing Cruise

• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Departure: 70 Rowes Wharf
• Departure Time: 1:00 PM or 3:00 PM
• Includes:  1.5 or 2-hour sailing cruise (depending on option selected),  Captain and crew,  Complimentary soda and water

Prepare to throw out any mundane plans you may have had and instead, embark on an exhilarating voyage that will completely redefine your perception of Boston.

The  Boston: Downtown Harbor Sailing Cruise Tour  will ship you and your party off on a sailing adventure that’s perfect for the entire family, no matter the age or background of the participants.

You’ll get to experience the 80-foot pilot schooner, the Adiondack III, which gives you insane views of Beantown and its downtown area that you’re sure to fall in love with.

Meet up with your captain and crew at Rowes Wharf and hop onboard so you can be escorted around and find the perfect spot to soak it all in. Feast your eyes on a panorama packed full of iconic landmarks that you may already know about from movies or school.

From the storied Boston Fish Pier to the rather imposing Moakley Federal Courthouse at Fan Pier, you’ll get to see history and culture literally unfolding as you sail on by.

As you pass each area, the crew will fill you in on any interesting anecdotes as well as more well-known stories about them. I was particularly captivated by the majestic Castle Island, which was known for all kinds of important battles fought and victories won, here.

If you’re into maritime heritage at all, you’ll love seeing the historic Charleston Navy Yard and hearing fascinating tales about the people who frequented it and special events that occurred here.

The Waterfront Park is a beautiful green haven that offers a bit of a break from the busy city streets, along with the New England Aquarium which you may choose to explore more later on. If you would like any recommendations, I found the captain and crew to be practically experts on the matter.

FAQs About Boston Harbor Cruises

Q: how much do boston harbor cruises cost.

A: The prices of Boston Harbor Cruises vary depending on the type, duration and season. A short one-hour sightseeing cruise is about $35, while a three-hour dinner cruise will cost about $70.

Q: When do Boston Harbor cruises operate?

A: Boston Harbor Cruises operate from April to November, with some exceptions depending on the weather and demand. The schedules and frequency of the cruises will vary on the time of year.

Q: What can I see and do on a Boston Harbor cruise?

A: On a Boston Harbor Cruise, you can see and do many things depending on your interests and preferences. You can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, historic landmarks, islands and lighthouses from the water. You can learn about the history and culture of Boston and its harbor from live narration or audio guides. If you get lucky you might some marine wildlife like whales, dolphins or seals. You can savor delicious food and drinks on board a lunch or dinner cruise.

Q: What are the types of harbor boat tours & cruises?

• Historic Sightseeing Cruise : A one-hour cruise that covers the history and highlights of Boston and its harbor, such as the USS Constitution, Bunker Hill Monument, Old North Church and more. Whale Watching Cruise: These three-hour cruises will take you to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, one of the world’s most active marine sanctuaries, where you can see whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds.
• High-Speed Thrill Boat Cruise : Codzilla, a 45-minute cruise that features a 70-foot speed boat with a toothy paint job, an original soundtrack and a lot of splashing. You can expect to get wet and have fun on this ride.
• Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise : These two or three-hour cruises have a buffet-style meals, live music, dancing and panoramic views of the city and the harbor. You can choose from different dining vessels, such as the Boston Odyssey or the Spirit of Boston.
• Sunset Cruise : These 90-minute cruises showcase the beauty of Boston at dusk. Enjoy a cocktail while listening to some music and watching the sunset.

Boat Comfort

The Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise is our Editors Choice for the best Boston harbor cruise.

Krysha Thayer

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6 Top Boston Harbor Cruises

Venture on the water to explore Beantown's waterfront, maritime history and more.

Courtesy of City Cruises by Hornblower

Boston is the most populous city in New England – and for good reason. This Massachusetts metropolis may host modern shopping, dining and cultural attractions , but Boston is built upon a rich American tapestry created over the centuries that's still visible in its quaint neighborhood streets and stone houses. The city's historic harbor along the Massachusetts Bay set the scene for a significant portion of Boston's story; once the site of Revolution-era protests like the Boston Tea Party, this body of water is now primarily used for revelry. No visit to Massachusetts' capital city would be complete without some time on Boston Harbor.

If you'll be in Beantown during the warmer months, consider boarding a schooner for an hour or two of sightseeing. Cruises on the harbor offer a range of historical tours, romantic dinners, unique brunches with friends or even the chance to spot some endangered whales. Whether you opt for a tall ship or a smaller vessel, soak in city views and enjoy your time on the water with the following top Boston Harbor cruises.

Boston Harbor City Cruises by Hornblower – Boston Harbor Whale Watch Cruise

Price: Adults from $70; kids from $50 Duration: 3-4 hours

Hornblower's City Experiences brand offers a wide variety of land-based and on-the-water tours. One of the most popular options is its whale watching cruise, which it operates with the New England Aquarium . From Boston's Central Wharf, you'll head to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, one of the world's most active marine sanctuaries. Whales in the region include humpbacks, minke whales, the endangered right whales and more. You can also try to spot sea birds, dolphins and other marine life. Travelers say the boat tour is great fun and most report seeing whales on the trip.

Tours generally run daily from spring through fall. Exact departure times vary by season. You'll want to arrive at least 15 minutes early and take some medication if you're prone to motion sickness. If you plan to pair this cruise with a trip to the aquarium, you can book a combo ticket to save a bit of money. Boston Harbor City Cruises also runs a variety of dinner cruises.

Check prices & availability on:

Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships – Boston Harbor Day Sail

Price: Adults from $55; kids from $35

Duration: 90 minutes

Board a schooner from the Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships and sail Boston's historic harbor in fitting style. Your tour begins by embarking on the Liberty Star, which boasts a 76-foot mast. The crew is happy to answer questions about Boston during the sail, but know that there is no narration during the tour. Travelers delight in both the tour and the boat, noting excellent views.

The fleet sails Boston Harbor from summer through early fall. Sails typically depart several times each day in the afternoon; however, specific times may vary depending on the day of the week. You can also hop onboard for a brunch cruise, a fireworks cruise or for the yearly USS Constitution turnaround sail.

Classic Harbor Line Boston – Northern Lights Sunset Cruise

Courtesy of Classic Harbor Line Boston

Price: From $45 Duration: 2 hours

Along this evening tour, you'll be treated to skyline views as the sun dips below the horizon. During the journey, you'll also learn a little about Boston's history and its best sites such as Fort Independence, the USS Constitution , Old North Church's steeple and more. Refreshments are available for purchase onboard. Travelers approve of the cruise – especially the gorgeous ship – and its staff.

Departure times and days vary depending on both the sunset and the season. Keep in mind that ticket fees will be slightly higher in the high season. The company also hosts a number of themed and food cruises, such as holiday cruises and a trip that focuses on beer and barbecue.

Boston Duck Tours

Price: Adults from $52.99; kids from $37.99

Duration: 80 minutes

It's nearly impossible to visit Boston and not run into one of its renowned Duck Tours. This type of amphibious automobile was originally created as a military vehicle for World War II. The vehicles used today by Boston Duck Tours are uniquely designed to roll past city sights like Boston Common , the Old North Church and the Fanueil Hall Marketplace before or after launching into the Charles River for views of the Cambridge and Boston skylines. Past customers remember these unique tours as one of the best parts of their visit – and as a special draw for kids, the tour guides may allow children to briefly steer the boat in the water for a particularly memorable experience.

Trips depart from the New England Aquarium, Museum of Science and the Prudential Center; tour prices are the same regardless of departure point. Tours run in the warmer months, usually from late spring to fall. It's a good idea to book online in advance to secure your preferred tour time.

Massachusetts Bay Lines – Boston Harbor Moonlight Cruises

Courtesy of Massachusetts Bay Lines

Price: Adults from $28; kids from $15 Duration: 90 minutes

Referred to locally as Mass Bay Lines, this company runs an after dark cruise that travelers say has excellent views of the city lit up. If you're in need of refreshment, you'll find drinks (including alcohol) and snack onboard for purchase. For an extra special evening, sign up for a Full Moon Cruise, which takes place once per month from May to October.

Tours run a few times a month and generally start at 9 p.m. The company also runs daytime harbor cruises and themed cruises that welcome dogs onboard.

Charles Riverboat Company – Charles River Sightseeing Tours

Price: Adults from $27; kids from $18 Duration: 70 minutes

After cruising through the harbor, why not explore another Boston waterway? Along the historic sightseeing cruise of the Charles River, you'll see some of Cambridge's best sights like Harvard University and MIT , as well as Boston University, and the Back Bay neighborhood. The crew will offer tidbits and trivia during the tour. Tourgoers enjoy the outing and several mention that the company is great if booking a private charter for a large party.

Tours run late May though the end of September at 12:30, 2 and 3:30 p.m. If you wish to explore the Boston Harbor and the Charles River in the same trip, consider signing up for the company's Architecture Tour.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Boston Tours
• The Best Hotels in Boston
• The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod
• The Best Weekend Getaways in New England

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations , US Vacations , Cruises

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14 best Boston cruises and boat tours to sightsee the city

Soak in the city from the water on these top harbor cruises, ferry rides and water taxis.

To spend summer in a coastal city is to be soothed by salt air and sea breezes. Boston is arguably best enjoyed from the water, and thankfully, there are more than a dozen fun ways to take in the city by boat. Unwind on a sunset cruise, sail over to an island, go whale watching or simply hop on a water taxi for a patio day  with a little misty harbor fun. Here’s how to maximize your time on a Boston Harbor boat this season.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the  best things to do in Boston

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Boston cruises

1.  spirit of boston.

This classic harbor vessel recently got a top-to-bottom makeover after a fire in 2023: its four levels are newly renovated with more modern fixtures and finishes. Brunch, lunch and dinner cruises are fan-favorite events on board, thanks in part to the boat’s huge buffet. And for nighttime entertainment, there’s typically a DJ on the upper deck—making for a dazzling way to spend an evening under the stars. Spirit of Boston is one of the many city experiences from Boston Harbor City Cruises.

2.  ICA water shuttle

Care for a side of modern art with your harbor exploration? Consider taking the Institute of Contemporary Art ’s water shuttle from its Seaport location over to the seasonal exhibits in East Boston at the  ICA Watershed , or vice versa. Admission to the museum covers your shuttle ride, provided through Red Top Boats , and vessels run every 15 minutes.  Just make sure to select a boat departure time when you buy your museum ticket.

3.  Classic Harbor Line cruise

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

Classic Harbor Line offers a variety of ticketed cruises around Boston Harbor all year long. Choose from their yacht, Northern Lights, or the seasonal schooner, Adirondack III . You can take a standard sightseeing cruise, a sunset sail, or peruse one of the many themed cruises on offer: barbecue and beer series, holiday brunch cruises, jazz cruises, fireworks cruises and more. 

4.  Boston Launch Company water shuttle

What’s a day on the water without oysters and caviar? Navy Yard Hospitality, which operates splashy seaside restaurants in East Boston, the Seaport and beyond, has tapped Boston Launch Company to provide water shuttle service to its waterfront properties. The boat makes stops at Pier 6 in Charlestown, the Tall Ship floating bar in East Boston, and ReelHouse locations in both Eastie and the Seaport.

5.  Odyssey Cruises Boston

• price 3 of 4

Dinner cruises on the Odyssey, part of Boston Harbor City Cruises’ fleet , combine good food, a relaxing ride and a bit of sightseeing in one buoyant outing. Enjoy a plated dinner (grilled peach and arugula salad, anyone?) as you gently circle the harbor. You’ll get a front-row seat to the skyline at sunset, not to mention views of landmarks like the USS Constitution and the Nantucket lightship. Reserve a window table for the best view, and when you’re finished eating, mosey over to the cash bar and DJ deck.

6.  Ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands

The Boston Harbor Islands provide an overwhelmingly pleasant escape from city life—with hikes, swimming , camping and more—just a 30-minute ferry ride away . Hop on a ferry to Spectacle, Georges or Peddocks Island to learn about the history of the numerous islands dotting the harbor. And do make time to walk around to the back side of Georges for views of Boston Light in the distance. 

7.  “Alive After Five” cocktail cruise

The newest offering from Boston Harbor City Cruises, the “Alive After Five” cocktail cruise is aimed at folks pouring out of work on a weekday. Board at 5:30pm from Long Wharf for 90 minutes of fun after a day at the office. The plan? Sip cocktails, enjoy a live DJ and forget about screens for a while.

8.  Charles River architecture tour

Prefer to keep the shore at an arm’s length as you sail? Set out on a Charles River architecture tour, courtesy of Charles River Boat Company . You’ll drink in spectacular views of both modern and historic architecture in Boston, with a guide to narrate the most impressive design facts and features. Highlights include the Prudential Building, the Hancock Tower and Marriott’s Custom House, among other more contemporary projects. Tours depart from Lechmere Canal in Cambridge.

9.  Encore Boston Harbor water shuttle

Maybe you don’t feel like inching up I-93 on a summer’s day to get to the Encore. Why not make a day of it by cruising over to the Everett casino by boat? Free water shuttles depart from Long Wharf every 20 minutes between May 1 and September 30—just check the schedule before heading out.

10.  USS Constitution cruise

Get up close and personal with one of Boston’s most famous historical landmarks as part of this offering from Boston Harbor City Cruises . The 45-minute tour takes you over to Old Ironsides, one of the very first ships commissioned by the US Navy in 1797. You’ll have the option to disembark at the Charlestown Navy Yard to tour the USS Constitution Museum , and then hop back on for a quick harborside swing around to other historical landmarks, including Bunker Hill Monument and Old North Church .

11.  Whale watching cruise

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, just off the coast of Massachusetts, is one of the best spots for whale watching in the world. Each summer, around 50 individual humpback whales return to this hotbed of biological activity. Take a whale-watching cruise and you'll see not only these majestic mammals, but also other species of marine life, from dolphins and seabirds to ocean sunfish and sea otters. On your tour, you’ll also learn all about the marine life you encounter from a knowledgeable on-board naturalist.

12.  Mass Bay Lines moonlight cruise

Spend 90 minutes dancing in the moonlight aboard a Mass Bay Lines moonlight cruise . Seeing the skyline from the water at night is a treat in itself, though doing so with a glass of wine in hand feels like the cherry on top. Mass Bay Lines also offers a full moon cruise when the stars (or, uh, moons) align, as well as plenty of sunset cruise options.

13.  Boston Duck Tours

The city’s most iconic tour lends both land and sea perspectives to Boston’s history and architecture, all injected with a Bostonian sense of humor. These vessels are revamped, World War II-era amphibious vehicles (and occasional sports champion chariots ).  Hop on and you'll cruise the streets of Boston, then plunge into the Charles River for views of both the Boston and Cambridge skylines. You’ll get the chance to intermingle with sailboats, kayaks and, yes, local ducks. Along the way, you'll be educated and entertained by a ConDUCKtor , who will surely encourage you to quack at the locals.

14.  Seaport Ferry service

The Seaport Ferry provides ferry service to commuters coming to and from Lovejoy Wharf near North Station and Fan Pier in the Seaport. That’s not to say any old Bostonian can’t join in the seafaring fun on a weekday —you could try grabbing an after-work cocktail in the Seaport and then taking a boat over to Alcove , Night Shift Brewing on Lovejoy Wharf, or the North End for a plate of pasta. 

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We are working to resolve an issue with our main office phone line. Please call our Welcome Center number at (617) 819-3587 during operating hours: Thursday – Sunday, 9:30am – 4:00pm. You may also contact us via our email address: [email protected]

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Outer Boston Harbor Island Cleanup

An historic cleanup effort to preserve the Boston Harbor Islands and its natural treasures

About the Cleanup

The Boston Harbor Islands are undergoing a once-in-a-generation cleanup to restore their natural beauty and ecological health. Spearheaded by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Center for Coastal Studies (CCS), this initiative focuses on removing significant marine debris from five key islands: Great Brewster, Middle Brewster, Outer Brewster, Calf, and Lovells Islands.

This historic effort is supported by a coalition of federal, state, and local partners, including the National Park Service , U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service , National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Boston Harbor Now , and more. From September 13-22, trained volunteers and community members will collaborate to collect, document, recycle, and properly dispose of derelict fishing gear, vessel parts, and other debris.

Partners Involved

These partners, along with other supporting agencies and nonprofit groups, have come together to ensure the success of this monumental cleanup.

Volunteer Opportunities

The public is invited to participate in two key ways:

• “Sign Up for Pemberton Point Debris Sorting”
• “Volunteer for Day Trips”

Get Involved

Adventure cleanup days with dcr.

DCR is partnering with the Center for Coastal Studies Marine Debris & Plastics Program, Boston Harbor Park, and US Fish and Wildlife Service to plan a highly technical “adventure cleanup” on five of the outermost Boston Harbor islands at a scale never before attempted. September 16 - 19, join DCR for a day on the rocky shores of the Boston Harbor Islands, where you’ll play a crucial role in preserving the natural beauty of this unique environment. Your participation will help protect the island’s ecosystem and ensure its vitality for years to come. Sign up today and be part of this meaningful effort!

Collecting and Sorting Marine Debris at Pemberton Point in Hull

Dates: September 18 - 21 Time: 10 AM - 4 PM Location: Jo's Nautical, Hull Volunteers are invited to assist with receiving, sorting, cataloguing and loading the debris items brought from the islands to the staging area at Jo's Nautical. Instruction and equipment will be provided. Debris items will be available for volunteers to take home with them.

Volunteer for Calf Island Day Trip

Dates: September 13th & 21st Time: 8:30am - 4:00pm Location: Calf Island Come join park staff for a special volunteer day as we pick up trash and other marine debris on Calf Island! We will discuss the discuss the ecology, natural history, and cultural significance of landscapes in the park as we work to improve habitat by removing trash washed ashore.

Upcoming Events

Stewardship Event at Great Brewster Island

Come join park staff for a special volunteer day as we pick up trash and other marine debris on Great Brewster Island!

Stewardship Saturday at Calf Island

Come join park staff for a special volunteer day as we pick up trash and other marine debris on Calf Island!

Boston Harbor Islands Debris Open House

Follow us @bostonharborislands, photo gallery, maps & resources.

This project was supported in part by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Grant  with funding provided by the Inflation Reduction Act, by Department of Conservation and Recreation including American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and by US Fish and Wildlife Service through their Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration program on behalf of the natural resource Trustees for the Bouchard B-120 oil spill.

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Boston Harbor City Cruises

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Boston to Montreal

Canadian connoisseur, cruise saved to your profile, 11-day voyage.

• October 16 2025 to October 27 2025

Special Offer

With simply MORE™, our valuable offer, enjoy 2 for 1 Cruise Fares plus: FREE $600 simply MORE Shore Excursion Credit FREE Champagne, Wine & More FREE Gourmet Specialty Dining FREE Unlimited WiFi Amenities are per stateroom

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Halifax, Canada

Founded by the British in 1749, Halifax still has a British military air about it. Every day at noon, a ceremonial gun is fired at the Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fortress where the guides wear military uniforms. The exhibits have a more seafaring slant at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and include the nearly 100-year-old Acadia.

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Premier Dinner Cruise | City Cruises™

How long is the boston premier dinner cruise.

The Boston Premier Dinner Cruise lasts for 2 to 3 hours depending on schedule.

What sights can you see while on the Premier Dinner Cruise in Boston?

You can enjoy beautiful nighttime views of the Boston skyline, historic landmarks, and the picturesque harbor.

What should I wear on the Boston Premier Dinner Cruise?

Smart casual attire is recommended. Bringing a light jacket or wrap is advisable as it can get cool on the open-air deck.

How much is the Boston Premier Dinner Cruise?

The cost varies based on the booking time and any additional upgrades selected. Please check the website for the most current pricing.

Where does the Boston Premier Dinner Cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from the City Cruises dock at Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA.

Are there food and drinks available on the Boston Premier Dinner Cruise?

Yes, the cruise features a gourmet plated dinner with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. There is also a fully stocked bar offering creative cocktails, wine, and beer.

What kind of experience does the Boston Premier Dinner Cruise offer?

The cruise offers a sophisticated and enjoyable dining experience with a delicious dinner, live DJ entertainment, and stunning nighttime views of Boston harbor and skyline.

=Can I reserve a window table on the Boston Premier Dinner Cruise?

Yes, window table reservations are available for the best views. Additional upgrades to customize your experience are also available at checkout.

Is the Boston Premier Dinner Cruise suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! The cruise is perfect for celebrating special occasions with a festive atmosphere and picturesque views.

Why is the Boston Premier Dinner Cruise a great way to enjoy an evening in Boston?

The cruise provides a unique and elegant way to spend an evening in Boston with stunning views, a festive atmosphere, and delicious food, making it an unforgettable experience.

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