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Step aboard Windsor Premier Cruises’ scenic two-hour trip along the Detroit River. Enjoy narrated views of historic sites, waterfront mansions, and Belle Isle with snacks and drinks onboard.
Step aboard Windsor Premier Cruises’ scenic two-hour trip along the Detroit River. Enjoy narrated views of historic sites, waterfront mansions, and Belle Isle with snacks and drinks onboard.
Book with Windsor Premier Cruises
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
271 ratings
Operated by Windsor Premier Cruises · Windsor, Ontario
Windsor, Ontario, sits directly on the southern bank of the Detroit River, a vital waterway linking Lake St. Clair with Lake Erie and separating Canada from the United States. At City Centre, Windsor Premier Cruises invites adventurers and casual travelers alike to step aboard a vessel for a two-hour sightseeing cruise that brings the river’s history and landscape into focus. This isn’t just a boat ride — it’s a narrated journey that unfolds the rich cultural and industrial stories shaped along one of North America's busiest waterways.
Setting off from the foot of Ouellette Street, behind the Canadian flag, the cruise winds past impressive waterfront mansions harking back to boom times of the early 20th century. Historic landmarks like the iconic Hiram Walker distillery come into view, contrasting with the natural beauty of Belle Isle across the river — a sprawling parkland offering lush greenery and rugged river vistas. The Detroit River itself is a dynamic environment, home to seasonal migrations of birds, glimpses of local fish species, and changing water moods that shift with weather and light.
Windsor Premier Cruises operates from May through October, rain or shine, aboard the Macassa Bay, which features a heated, climate-controlled lower deck along with partially covered upper decks. This ensures the experience is accessible and comfortable for all ages and weather conditions. Passengers can enjoy light snacks and beverages available from the onboard menu while soaking in the panoramic views and commentary, making it perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a fresh perspective on the region’s cross-border history and natural highlights.
This cruise stands out as a uniquely approachable way to engage with the waterfront, connecting Windsor’s urban energy with the river’s tranquil corridors. Whether you’re local or just passing through, Windsor Premier Cruises offers an unforgettable chance to witness the Detroit River’s evolving story from the water—a perspective often overlooked but endlessly captivating.
easy.
2 hours.
No special fitness required; accessible for all ages and mobility levels.
Advanced booking is highly recommended to secure your preferred cruise date and time.
Yes, the cruise is suitable for all ages with discounted tickets for children ages 4–11 and free tickets for children under 4.
Yes, a guide provides commentary highlighting historical landmarks and natural features throughout the trip.
The cruise operates rain or shine with indoor heated seating and partially covered decks for comfort.
Outside food and drinks are not permitted; however, a full menu of snacks and beverages is available onboard.
No, cruises are seasonal from May through the end of October.
The Detroit River has served as a critical trade and transportation corridor since Indigenous peoples first inhabited the region and played a key role during Prohibition with sites like the Hiram Walker distillery.
Efforts to maintain water quality and protect river wildlife are ongoing, with the cruise operator committed to environmentally responsible practices while showcasing the river's natural beauty.
Windsor Premier Cruises is a Windsor, Ontario-based operator offering public and special-event cruises on the Detroit River. From scheduled two-hour sightseeing trips to three-hour sunset and dance cruises, the company runs departures from Downtown Windsor and Amherstburg’s Kings Navy Yard aboard vessels such as the Macassa Bay. Cruises include narrated commentary on the Detroit River’s history and landmarks — including Boblo Island, the Livingston Channel, Belle Isle, waterfront mansions and the new Gordie Howe Bridge — and run seasonally for sightseeing routes from May through October. Offerings range from family-friendly sightseeing cruises and a Day Cruise to historic Amherstburg with a Fort Malden stop, to themed experiences like a Lunch Buffet Cruise catered by St. Clair Center for the Arts Culinary, a late-night 2 Hour Glow Cruise with a fully stocked bar (19+), and adult-oriented seasonal events including a Ghost Ship Cruise with DJ Chino. The 3 Hour Sunset Cruise features live entertainment, specialty drinks and skyline views of Windsor and Detroit, while special events include multi-hour dance cruises with live music or DJs. Onboard amenities cited in public listings include light snacks, beverages, buffet service for lunch cruises, complimentary coffee and pastries on Day Cruises, and early boarding for special events. Schedules and departure points are listed for each trip, and ticketed cruises run rain or shine when specified. These factual details help travelers choose the right cruise for sightseeing, dining or celebratory outings on the Detroit River. Tickets are sold per departure with online booking and group options.
Book with Windsor Premier Cruises