Oxford: Scenic Sightseeing Cruise With Gourmet Picnic

Nestled along the serene River Cherwell, Oxford’s scenic sightseeing cruise offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the city’s rich history and natural beauty. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, passengers can marvel at iconic landmarks like Christ Church College and the verdant Port Meadow, all while indulging in a gourmet picnic prepared by the renowned Folly restaurant. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, this 2.5-hour journey promises to captivate your senses and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the enchanting city of Oxford. But what secrets and stories lie hidden along the riverbanks, waiting to be uncovered?

This experience made our list of the 15 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Oxford.

Good To Know

• A 2.5-hour river cruise in Oxford that provides a scenic tour of iconic landmarks, including Christ Church College and the University Boat Houses.
• The cruise features a live English-speaking tour guide who offers historical context and insights into the region’s natural heritage and literary connections.
• A gourmet picnic prepared by The Folly restaurant is included, featuring finger sandwiches, homemade quiche or tart, and scones with elderflower presse.
• Flexible booking options allow for reservations without upfront payment, and a full refund is available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• The cruise has an overall customer rating of 4.7 out of 5, with praise for the tour guide, transportation, service, and picnic quality.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Booking Information

The Oxford Scenic Sightseeing Cruise offers a 2.5-hour river cruise with a live English-speaking tour guide, priced from £59.00 per person.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they don’t need to pay anything today to reserve their spot. This cruise is likely to sell out, so guests should check availability for starting times soon.

The cruise departs from The Folly, Folly Bridge, Oxford, OX1 4JU. Pets, smoking, and large bags aren’t allowed. Travelers with dietary requirements should contact the local partner upon booking.

With its combination of scenic views, historical context, and gourmet picnic, this cruise is an excellent way to experience Oxford from the river.

Highlights of the Scenic Cruise

Viewers on the Oxford Scenic Sightseeing Cruise can expect to witness several iconic landmarks and scenic features along the way.

Christ Church College, the University Boat Houses, and the historic Port Meadow are among the highlights they’ll encounter during the 2.5-hour journey.

The cruise also offers glimpses of the quaint Osney Island and the ancient Port Meadow, which has remained unchanged since prehistoric times.

Adding to the experience is the connection to the Alice in Wonderland story, as the Godstow area is linked to Alice Liddell and Lewis Carroll.

With an engaging live tour guide providing historical context, passengers can enjoy Oxford’s rich heritage and natural beauty during this scenic river cruise.

Historical Context and Connections

Oxford: Scenic Sightseeing Cruise With Gourmet Picnic

Beyond the scenic landmarks, the Oxford Scenic Sightseeing Cruise offers insight into the area’s rich history and cultural connections.

Port Meadow, for instance, has remained largely unchanged since prehistoric times, providing a glimpse into the region’s enduring natural heritage.

The tour also highlights the link between Godstow and the beloved Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, as this historic site was once connected to Alice Liddell, the real-life inspiration for the titular character, and her friendship with author Lewis Carroll.

Through these historical and literary associations, the cruise immerses guests in the captivating story of Oxford, blending its natural beauty with the timeless tales that have emerged from this enchanting corner of England.

Gourmet Picnic Details

A gourmet picnic, provided by the renowned Folly restaurant, complements the scenic cruise, offering guests a delightful culinary experience to savor alongside the breathtaking views.

The picnic basket includes a selection of finger sandwiches, a homemade quiche or tart of the day, and freshly baked scones with strawberry jam, clotted cream, and fresh strawberries.

To quench your thirst, an elderflower presse is included.

The traditional picnic setting is enhanced by the provided napkins, crockery, and glasses, which are to be returned at the end of the tour.

For those seeking additional refreshments, drinks can be purchased at the departure point.

The picnic’s quality and attention to detail ensure a well-rounded experience that delights the senses.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Meeting Point and Guidelines

The departure location for the Oxford Scenic Sightseeing Cruise is The Folly, Folly Bridge, Oxford, OX1 4JU.

Passengers aren’t permitted to bring pets, smoke, or carry large bags or luggage onboard.

Those with dietary requirements should contact the local partner upon booking to address any special needs.

The cruise operates under a few important guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.

Guests are expected to follow these rules, which are in place to maintain the safety and comfort of the group.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Oxford Scenic Sightseeing Cruise, with an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 99 reviews.

Reviewers were particularly impressed with the quality of the tour guide, transportation, service, and overall organization, each receiving a stellar 4.8/5 rating.

Customers highlighted the exceptional picnic provided by The Folly restaurant, though some suggested including more savory options.

A few reviewers also noted the need for more restroom breaks during the 2.5-hour cruise.

Availability and Pricing

Prices for the Oxford Scenic Sightseeing Cruise start from £59.00 per person, with the option to reserve a spot and pay later. Availability is limited, so it’s recommended to check for starting time slots that best fit one’s schedule.

The 2.5-hour cruise provides a live English-speaking guide, allowing guests to take in the picturesque landmarks along the River Thames, including Christ Church College, University Boat Houses, and the historic Port Meadow.

The cruise also includes a gourmet picnic provided by The Folly restaurant, featuring classic English fare like finger sandwiches, homemade quiche, and freshly baked scones.

With complimentary cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxing day on the water in Oxford.

Cancellation and Payment Policy

Customers can cancel their Oxford Scenic Sightseeing Cruise booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexible planning.

Alternatively, guests have the option to reserve their spot and pay nothing today, providing added convenience.

The activity is likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to check availability and book early.

Payment is due in full at the time of the cruise, though guests can pay cash, credit, or debit cards on-site.

This offering provides excellent value, with prices starting from just £59 per person for the 2.5-hour experience that includes a gourmet picnic lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Boat Accessible for Guests With Mobility Issues?

The boat’s accessibility for guests with mobility issues is unclear based on the provided information. It does not specifically mention any accommodations or special arrangements for those with mobility challenges. More details would be needed to determine the boat’s accessibility.

Can the Cruise Accommodate Dietary Restrictions Beyond Those Listed?

Yes, the cruise can accommodate dietary restrictions beyond those listed. Guests should contact the local partner upon booking to discuss any special dietary needs, and the tour provider will make every effort to cater to them.

What Is the Policy for Young Children on the Cruise?

The policy for young children on the cruise is that they are welcome, but parents should consider their needs. Infant car seats are allowed, and the cruise provides a family-friendly experience with picnic options suitable for children.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, there are discounts available for students and seniors on this sightseeing cruise. Students can receive a 10% discount, while seniors ages 65 and above are eligible for a 15% discount off the regular ticket price.

Can the Picnic Contents Be Customized or Altered Prior to the Cruise?

The picnic contents can be customized or altered prior to the cruise. Customers should contact the local partner upon booking to discuss any dietary requirements or preference changes for the provided gourmet picnic basket.

Sum Up

The Oxford Scenic Sightseeing Cruise with Gourmet Picnic offers a delightful way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and natural beauty.

Guests can enjoy a narrated journey along the river, complemented by a sumptuous picnic provided by The Folly restaurant.

With flexible booking options and competitive pricing, this experience is an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy Oxford’s rich heritage during their visit.

You can check if your dates are available here: