Sacramento’s waterfront tours offer practical ways to experience California’s capital from the water. The Historic River Cruise stands out as the most informative option, with guides sharing stories of the Gold Rush era and riverside development. For evening entertainment, the Alive After Five Cruise combines good views with DJ music – it’s especially refreshing during hot summer nights.
We particularly like the Sacramento Sights and Sips Cruise for its comfortable pace and family-friendly atmosphere. The Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise deserves special mention for its well-crafted drinks and sunset views of the city skyline.
Let’s explore the best boat tours Sacramento has to offer.
Key Points
- The Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise offers a 1.5-hour adult-only experience with a live DJ, a no-host cash bar, and small bites.
- The Sacramento Sights and Sips Cruise provides a family-friendly 1.5-hour sightseeing tour with live DJ music and handcrafted cocktails.
- The Sacramento Historic River Cruise is a 1-hour trip with live narration from the captain, showcasing the city’s landmarks and river history.
- The Sacramento Alive After Five Cruise is a 1.5-hour evening cruise for ages 21+ featuring live DJ music and a no-host cash bar.
- Sacramento offers New Year’s Eve river cruise options, including the Rock the Yacht Cruise and the River Firework Cruise, both catering to adult attendees.
Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise Sacramento 21+
The Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise is a popular 1.5-hour event held in Sacramento, USA, open exclusively to adults aged 21 and above.
It offers a lively experience with a local DJ playing Top 40 hits or guest DJs. Guests can enjoy a no-host cash bar and small bites available for purchase, though food isn’t included.
Seating is limited and non-guaranteed, with smoking allowed only on the outer decks. The cruise departs from City Cruises Sacramento, with nearby parking and public transport options.
Feedback highlights the great music, fun atmosphere, and suitability for celebrations, though some wish for a longer duration and improved seating and bar arrangements.
Read our full review: Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise Sacramento 21+ Review
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Sacramento: Sights and Sips Cruise
Offering a different experience from the Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise, the Sacramento: Sights and Sips Cruise provides a family-friendly sightseeing adventure along the city’s iconic waterways.
Priced from $35.48 per person, the 1.5-hour cruise showcases the Sacramento skyline and landmarks while a live DJ spins Top 40 hits. Passengers can purchase handcrafted cocktails and small bites as they take in the unique perspective of the Sacramento River and Old Sacramento.
The cruise operates year-round, with a special spooky-themed option available in October. Located at the L Street Dock, the cruise departs from a central location with nearby paid parking garages, making it an accessible option for travelers.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Sights and Sips Cruise Review
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Sacramento Historic River Cruise
Along the iconic Sacramento River, the Sacramento Historic River Cruise provides a captivating exploration of the city’s storied past.
The 1-hour cruise showcases scenic views of Sacramento landmarks, including the Delta King, I Street Bridge, and Tower Bridge, while a live narration from the captain delves into the river’s rich history.
With multiple departure times available, the cruise accommodates various schedules.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the cruise offers a first-come, first-served seating arrangement.
While reviews praise the scenic views and friendly crew, some critiques suggest improvements in the quality of historical narration and on-board comfort.
Nevertheless, the Sacramento Historic River Cruise remains a popular way to experience the city’s waterfront and uncover its fascinating past.
Read our full review: Sacramento Historic River Cruise Review
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Sacramento: River Cruise With Narrated History
Visitors can embark on a captivating 1-hour journey along the iconic Sacramento River, exploring the city’s rich history through a fully narrated cruise.
At £24.54 per person, the Sacramento River Cruise offers scenic views of landmarks like Tower Bridge and Old Sacramento. This family-friendly experience provides opportunities to spot river otters and eagles.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from 208 reviews, the cruise is praised for its informative guide, smooth transportation, and friendly service. Guests can enjoy snacks and drinks on board and are advised to wear comfortable shoes.
Advance booking is recommended to secure group seating and check availability for starting times.
Read our full review: Sacramento: River Cruise With Narrated History Review
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Sacramento Alive After Five Cruise 21 +
For 21 and over adults, the Sacramento Alive After Five Cruise provides a lively 1.5-hour journey along the Sacramento River.
Departing at 6 p.m., the cruise offers music from a live DJ, opportunities to mingle with friends, and stunning views of Old Town Sacramento at night.
With limited seating available on a first-come, first-served basis, there’s ample space to dance and socialize.
A no-host cash bar serves alcoholic beverages, while small bites are available for purchase.
Located near public transportation and wheelchair accessible, this cruise caters to a variety of guests, with a maximum capacity of 100 travelers.
Read our full review: Sacramento Alive After Five Cruise 21 + Review
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Sacramento: Alive After Five Cocktail River Cruise
A lively 1.5-hour cruise along the Sacramento River, the Sacramento: Alive After Five Cocktail River Cruise offers guests a chance to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Priced from $37.70 per person, the cruise features stunning views of the Tower Bridge and skyline, accompanied by a live DJ and a fully stocked bar serving handcrafted cocktails.
Small bites are also available for purchase.
With a 21+ age requirement and a non-refundable cancellation policy, this cruise is likely to sell out quickly.
The boarding location is at the L Street Dock, with paid public parking nearby.
Reviewers praise the transportation and value for money, though some suggest adding a smoking deck.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Alive After Five Cocktail River Cruise Review
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Sacramento Sights & Sips Cruise
The Sacramento Sights & Sips Cruise provides travelers a 1.5-hour tour along the scenic Sacramento River.
With a maximum capacity of 100 passengers, the cruise offers live narration by the captain highlighting facts and history about the Sacramento River.
Guests can enjoy the views from the limited, non-guaranteed seating while sipping on drinks available for purchase.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and smoking is permitted on the outer decks.
While reviews are mixed, some praised the excellent experience and the knowledgeable captain, though others noted the need for more variety in the bar offerings and food options.
Read our full review: Sacramento Sights & Sips Cruise Review
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Sacramento: Rock The Yacht River Cruise
Offering a lively and energetic alternative to the more relaxed sightseeing cruises, the Sacramento: Rock The Yacht River Cruise provides a unique party atmosphere on the waters of the Sacramento River.
Lasting 1.5 hours and priced from $44.35 per person, the cruise features a live DJ and a friendly vibe, perfect for meeting new people or partying with friends.
Guests can enjoy hand-crafted drinks and snacks from the two fully-stocked bars, with a special “Spooky Themed Rock the Yacht Experience” available in October.
Though non-refundable, the cruise is likely to sell out, so those interested should book early.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5, this cruise offers an exciting and unique way to experience the Sacramento River.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Rock The Yacht River Cruise Review
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Sacramento: New Years Eve River Firework Cruise
Ringing in the new year in style, the Sacramento: New Year’s Eve River Firework Cruise offers a luxurious 2-hour experience on the picturesque waters of the Sacramento River.
Priced at €73.93 per person, the cruise features live DJ entertainment, scenic river views, and a complimentary glass of champagne for a New Year’s toast.
With first-come, first-serve seating and a festive atmosphere, guests can enjoy small bites and drinks from the cash bar.
Though seating is limited and non-guaranteed, the cruise is wheelchair accessible.
Attendees should bring proper identification and dress casually, as the non-refundable event may have cruising limitations due to water traffic and bridge closures.
Read our full review: Sacramento: New Years Eve River Firework Cruise Review
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Sacramento: New Years Eve Rock the Yacht Cruise
On New Year’s Eve, Sacramento’s “Rock the Yacht Cruise” provides revelers a 1.5-hour excursion aboard a luxurious yacht.
Priced at $110.76 per person, the non-refundable cruise offers a chance to marvel at the illuminated Sacramento skyline and celebrate the new year on the Sacramento River.
Guests can enjoy live DJ entertainment, a complimentary glass of champagne, and a cash bar with cocktails, wine, and beer. Small bites are also available for purchase.
The cruise departs from the L Street Dock, and guests must be 21 or older.
While cruising may be affected by water traffic and the Tower Bridge, this experience promises an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration.
Read our full review: Sacramento: New Years Eve Rock the Yacht Cruise Review
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Recap
Sacramento offers a variety of cruises and boat tours, from cocktail and sightseeing cruises to historic and firework-filled New Year’s Eve excursions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon on the water or a lively evening out, there’s a cruise option to suit your interests. With so many choices, you’re sure to find the perfect way to experience the city from the Sacramento River.