York’s River Ouse offers both practical and fun ways to experience this historic city from the water. The basic daytime sightseeing cruises are informative and well-priced, usually running 45-60 minutes with good commentary about York’s riverside history. I especially like the early evening cruises – the floodlit views of medieval buildings are spectacular and far less crowded than daytime sailings.
For something special, try the Fish and Chips Cruise, which pairs classic British food with gentle river views. The self-drive boat rentals (no license needed) are perfect for independent travelers who want to explore at their own pace.
Most boats are wheelchair accessible and offer restrooms and snack bars. Based on countless visitor reports and personal experience, these water tours consistently rank as one of York’s best tourist activities.
Let’s explore the finest boat tours York has to offer.
Key Points
- The top-rated daytime sightseeing cruises in York offer scenic views, live commentary, and onboard amenities like toilets, drinks, and snacks for a relaxing exploration.
- The evening and night cruises in York feature options like the Late Night Boat Cruise with an open bar, the Early Evening Boat Cruise with live commentary, and the River Ouse Early Evening Cruise with onboard drinks.
- York’s unique cruise experiences include live music acts on a boat bar, self-drive boat hire, and self-steer boat rental, providing visitors with a personalized and enjoyable time on the River Ouse.
- Most York cruises offer accessibility features, onboard amenities, live commentary, flexible booking policies, and stroller-friendly options, ensuring an inclusive and comfortable experience for all.
- The scenic routes of York’s cruises, such as the River Ouse City Cruise and the River Ouse Floodlit Evening Cruise, showcase the city’s historic landmarks and beautiful waterways, creating a memorable sightseeing experience.
Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise in York
For a relaxing and informative way to experience York’s picturesque waterways, the Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise along the River Ouse is a popular choice.
Rated 4.3 out of 5 from over 1,000 reviews, the cruise offers scenic views and live commentary from the captain. Travelers can take advantage of the onboard toilet facilities and purchase drinks and snacks at reasonable prices.
With a maximum capacity of 120 passengers, the cruise provides an intimate and enjoyable experience. Dogs are even welcome, making it a suitable option for families.
Despite mixed opinions on the scenery quality, the cruise is generally recommended as a relaxing way to explore York from the water.
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York: Listen to Live Music Acts an a Boat Bar
Along With the scenic daytime cruises, York offers a unique experience for music lovers – the York: Listen to Live Music Acts on a Boat Bar.
This 1-hour cruise along the River Ouse features live musical performances from local artists. Guests can relax and enjoy the tunes while taking in the city’s historic sights.
The cruise is priced at €19.33 per person. With a 3.9 (515) rating, it’s a popular option for those seeking a lively and entertaining boat tour experience in York.
Whether you’re a music fan or simply want a fun evening on the water, the York: Listen to Live Music Acts on a Boat Bar is worth considering during your visit.
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Late Night Boat Cruise Through York
Although the Late Night Boat Cruise through York has a mixed review rating, it offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the city’s picturesque waterways in a relaxed evening setting.
Lasting around 70 minutes, the cruise departs at 6 PM from Kings Staith Landing and can accommodate up to 100 travelers. While there’s no commentary provided, the open bar and choice of hot drink, biscuit, or Prosecco (for those 18+) create a convivial atmosphere.
However, some guests have reported limited views and a repetitive route. Ultimately, the Late Night Boat Cruise is best suited for those seeking a casual, ambient experience rather than an in-depth sightseeing tour.
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York: River Ouse Early Evening Cruise
The York: River Ouse Early Evening Cruise offers visitors a delightful opportunity to experience the city’s historic waterways in an intimate, informative setting.
This 1-hour cruise, priced from Kč 411 per person, features live commentary, a fully stocked bar, and onboard amenities like a heated saloon and restrooms.
Guests can admire York’s iconic landmarks, learn about the city’s history as an inland port, and even indulge in hot drinks with a splash of Bailey’s.
With flexible booking and a full refund policy, this cruise is an ideal way to unwind and explore the River Ouse.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable skipper and well-organized experience.
Read our full review: York: River Ouse Early Evening Cruise Review
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Early Evening Boat Cruise Through York
Embarking on the Early Evening Boat Cruise Through York provides visitors with a captivating way to experience the city’s historic waterways. Rated 4.2 out of 218 reviews, this 60-minute cruise along the Ouse River offers a chance to sail past ancient landmarks and quaint riverside villages, while learning about York’s rich Roman and Viking heritage through live onboard commentary.
With a heated saloon and the option to purchase refreshments, the cruise caters to comfort and convenience. Wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, the experience is inclusive and accessible.
While some feedback suggests room for improvement in visibility and commentary quality, the cruise overall provides good value and a relaxing way to explore York from the water.
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York: Bishopthorpe Palace Christmas Cruise
Celebrating the magic of the holiday season, the York: Bishopthorpe Palace Christmas Cruise offers a delightful way to experience the city’s enchanting waterways.
Aboard a cozy boat, guests can admire the stunning Bishopthorpe Palace and its picturesque riverside setting, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
The cruise includes a traditional Christmas lunch or afternoon tea, complemented by mulled wine and mince pies.
As the boat glides gently along the River Ouse, passengers can soak in the charming views of historic York.
This enchanting experience is perfect for families, couples, and friends looking to get into the holiday spirit while exploring the city’s scenic beauty.
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Self-Drive Boat Hire in York
Self-drive boat hire in York offers a peaceful alternative to city sightseeing, allowing visitors to explore the city’s scenic waterways at their own pace.
Each boat can accommodate up to six passengers, with life jackets and safety briefings provided. Boats can be driven along the River Ouse, with a map supplied to help navigate the route.
A £40 security deposit is required, and arrival 15 minutes early is recommended for the briefing. The activity concludes back at the meeting location.
Positive reviews highlight the experience as a great way to see York, though issues with refund policies have been noted. Alcohol or drug influence is prohibited for the hirer.
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York: Fish and Chips Cruise
For those seeking a unique dining experience on the water, the York: Fish and Chips Cruise offers a delightful option. Priced at $25.40 per person, the 1-hour cruise takes guests along the River Ouse, providing scenic views and award-winning fish & chips from Mr Chippy.
With live commentary, music entertainment, and an on-board bar, the cruise delivers a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere. Reviewers praise the attentive crew and quality of the food, and many express intent to return.
Passengers can conveniently reserve now and pay later, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, making this cruise a flexible and enticing choice.
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Fish & Chips Boat Cruise in York
Although the Fish & Chips Boat Cruise in York offers a unique dining experience on the River Ouse, the tour is more than just a meal.
With a maximum of 60 travelers, passengers can enjoy live commentary from the captain, background music, and access to toilet facilities. The award-winning Yorkshire Fish & Chips are the main draw, served with ketchup or tartare sauce. Drinks are available at reasonable prices, ranging from £1 to £6.
While not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is stroller-friendly, and service animals are allowed.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, this cruise provides a convenient and enjoyable way to explore York’s waterways.
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York: Party Cruise With Welcome Drink, Dinner, and DJ Music
The York: Party Cruise with Drink, Dinner, and DJ offers a lively and entertaining way to experience the city’s waterways. Lasting 2.5 hours, this cruise includes a welcome drink, 2-course buffet dinner, and live DJ music.
Participants can enjoy scenic city views, request songs, and visit the onboard bar for additional drinks. While not suitable for children under 18 or stag parties, the cruise is popular for group bookings and special occasions.
However, the overall customer rating is 3.4/5, with some mixed feedback on transportation and value for money. Participants should be aware of the code of conduct and that the event may be held stationary due to flooding.
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York: River Ouse City Cruise
A popular option for visitors to York is the River Ouse City Cruise, a relaxing 45-minute to 1-hour excursion along the city’s historic waterway.
Priced at $17.78 per person, the cruise offers a unique perspective on York’s iconic landmarks, with a knowledgeable guide providing live commentary in English.
Onboard amenities include a fully stocked bar serving drinks and snacks, as well as an enclosed and heated saloon for comfort.
The typical route takes passengers upstream to Clifton Bridge and downstream to Millennium Bridge, allowing them to admire the scenery from both the enclosed saloon and the upper deck.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the River Ouse City Cruise is a convenient and enjoyable way to explore York from the water.
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York: Self-Steer Boat Rental
Self-steering boat rentals offer York visitors an alternative way to explore the city’s picturesque waterways.
These self-drive options allow you to navigate the River Ouse at your own pace, taking in the historic sights and scenery. Rentals typically range from 1-2 hours, providing ample time to discover the waterfront.
Prices start from around £15-20 per person, making it an affordable activity. While not as guided as some of York’s popular cruises, self-steering boats offer a unique sense of freedom and independence.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing float or a more hands-on adventure, these rentals provide a memorable way to experience the city from the water.
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York: River Ouse Floodlit Evening Cruise
Offering a romantic evening experience, the River Ouse Floodlit Evening Cruise in York allows visitors to admire the city’s historic sites illuminated by onboard lights.
The 1-hour cruise provides a relaxing journey along the River Ouse, with complimentary drinks, soothing background music, and an enclosed, heated saloon with a bar.
Priced from $17.27 per person, the cruise offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
Two wheelchair-accessible boats are available, and the meeting point is conveniently located near local pubs and parking.
With an overall rating of 3.9/5 from 515 reviews, the cruise is a popular choice for those seeking a scenic and atmospheric evening on the water.
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Recap
York offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to experience the city’s picturesque waterways. From sightseeing cruises to party boats, there’s something for every interest and budget. Whether you prefer a leisurely daytime excursion or a lively evening outing, York’s boat tours provide a unique and memorable way to explore the city from the water.