Lake Champlain, Your Way: A Private Day Cruise From Burlington
A 90-minute private yacht cruise on Lake Champlain—BYOB, bring a picnic, and let the lake set the pace.
The breakwater takes the first gust and softens it, a quiet guardian of Burlington’s working waterfront. Beyond it, Lake Champlain breathes—long and blue, shouldered by the Adirondacks to the west and the Green Mountains to the east. You step aboard your private yacht, a tidy, comfortable vessel that feels like a living room with a lake view, and the city falls away. Lines are cast off, the bow turns north, and the lake nudges you forward as if to say: you’ve got 90 minutes to let the world slip. This is your time.
Trail Wisdom
Aim for Golden Hour
Late-day cruises deliver softer light, calmer winds, and Adirondack silhouettes—perfect for photos and a relaxed mood.
Dress for the Breeze
Even warm days turn cool on the water. Pack a windproof layer and avoid high heels or heavy boots; go with sneakers or bare feet.
Pack a Smart Picnic
Bring easy, no-heat foods and use the provided ice and glassware. Order ahead from Spot on the Dock via the Toast app for grab-and-go convenience.
Plan for Motion
If you’re motion-sensitive, take a non-drowsy remedy 30 minutes before departure and book earlier slots when winds are typically lighter.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Rock Point’s overlook for a pre- or post-cruise walk with lake-high views
- •Juniper Island Lighthouse sightings from the water—small but unmistakable
Wildlife
Osprey, Common loon
Conservation Note
Help protect Lake Champlain by packing out trash, avoiding glass on deck, and using mineral or lake-safe sunscreen to reduce chemical runoff.
Benedict Arnold’s 1776 fleet fought the British at nearby Valcour Island, delaying their advance and shaping the Revolutionary War’s northern campaign.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Crisp views, Quieter docks
Challenges: Cool winds on the water, Changeable weather
Expect brisk breezes and bright clarity. Layers are essential; early-season cruises feel uncrowded and calm.
summer
Best for: Warm temps, Swim stops from shore later, Long daylight
Challenges: Stronger afternoon winds, More boat traffic
Summer brings the classic Champlain vibe—warm, lively, and social. Book ahead and consider morning or evening for mellower conditions.
fall
Best for: Foliage views, Cool, stable air
Challenges: Chilly evenings, Shorter days
Foliage frames the lake in color and sunsets go electric. Pack a warmer layer and aim for golden hour.
winter
Best for: Rare shoulder-season outings
Challenges: Limited operations, Cold temps and wind
Most private cruises pause for winter; if running, expect cold, clear days and dress accordingly.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Windproof JacketEssential
A light shell cuts the lake breeze and keeps you comfortable in shoulder seasons.
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Polarization reduces glare for clearer views and better photos over water.
Soft-Soled ShoesEssential
Non-marking soles protect the deck and improve traction when the lake gets choppy.
Small Dry Bag
Keeps phones, wallets, and cameras safe from spray and accidental splashes.
Common Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes—BYOB and pack a picnic. The crew provides ice, water, plates, glassware, and utensils; there’s no re-heating onboard.
How many people can the boat accommodate?
Up to six passengers per private charter for 90 minutes.
What should I wear on the cruise?
Dress in layers and wear non-marking shoes or go barefoot. Bring a windproof layer even on warm days.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
Trips may be rescheduled or refunded at the operator’s discretion for unsafe conditions. Light wind or passing clouds typically don’t cancel.
Is the cruise suitable for kids?
Yes. It’s family-friendly and calm within the breakwater; bring sun protection and snacks for younger kids.
Are pets allowed on board?
Policies vary by operator—confirm at booking. Service animals are generally accommodated.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses for glare; windproof layer for the lake breeze; non-marking shoes or bare feet for safe footing; a compact picnic with resealable containers to keep things tidy on deck.
Did You Know
Lake Champlain stretches roughly 120 miles long and reaches a maximum depth of about 400 feet; a beluga whale fossil discovered in Charlotte in 1849 proves the basin was once a saltwater arm of the Atlantic known as the Champlain Sea.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 15 minutes early to park and pick up food from Spot on the Dock; Book golden hour for the best color and calmer water; Bring a small dry bag for phones and wallets; Check wind forecasts—earlier departures are often smoother.
Local Flavor
Before boarding, grab takeaway from Spot on the Dock or a maple creemee at Burlington Bay Market. After the cruise, walk the Waterfront Park path to Foam Brewers for small-batch pours, or head up to The Farmhouse Tap & Grill for Vermont cheeses and burgers sourced from local farms. If time allows, drop into ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain to connect the dots between lake science and what you just felt on the water.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Burlington International Airport (BTV), ~15 minutes by car. Departure: Burlington Community Boathouse Marina. From downtown Church Street: ~5-minute drive or a 12-minute walk to the dock. Cell service: Generally reliable near the waterfront. Permits: None required for passengers; BYOB permitted in moderation. Arrive early for parking and pickup.
Sustainability Note
Lake Champlain is a vital regional watershed. Pack reusable containers, avoid single-use plastics, choose mineral-based sunscreen, and respect no-wake zones to protect shoreline habitats and nesting birds.
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Lake Champlain, Your Way: A Private Day Cruise From Burlington
Settle into a 90-minute private yacht cruise on Lake Champlain, where you call the shots—BYOB, picnic on deck, and soak up Adirondack-to-Green Mountain views. It’s an easy, flexible way to see Burlington’s waterfront and the region’s quiet grandeur from the best seat in the house.
Burlington, Vermont