Experience Cleveland like never before with a private captained cruise along the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie. Bring your drinks and dogs for an adventure that combines city views and lakeside fun!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical effort required; suitable for all fitness levels.
Wildlife
History
The Cuyahoga River played a pivotal role in Cleveland’s industrial growth and has undergone remarkable restoration to become a recreational hub.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain water quality and preserve habitats along Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River are ongoing to protect this vital ecosystem.
Great Lakes Watersports
Experience Cleveland like never before with a private captained cruise along the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie. Bring your drinks and dogs for an adventure that combines city views and lakeside fun!
Great Lakes Watersports is a Cleveland, Ohio-based water recreation company offering parasailing, pontoon and speedboat rentals, captained cruises, jet ski rentals, and urban kayaking experiences.
The company operates on Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River, providing USCG-certified captains for captained cruises and supervised rides where noted. Parasailing flights lift riders up to 400 feet for panoramic views of Cleveland’s lakefront. The fleet includes a 22-foot Avalon Tritoon pontoon accommodating up to 13 people and a 24-foot 2022 Barletta Cabrio pontoon also seating up to 13, both equipped with Bluetooth audio and bimini tops. For faster outings, a 2022 Sea Ray SPX 230 23-foot bowrider seats up to 10 guests and includes shade and audio features. Captained Cruise options on Sea Ray and Ocean Pro vessels navigate the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie with opportunities to pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and other riverfront landmarks. Jet ski experiences use a Sea Doo GTI 130 with a 130 hp engine for one or two riders. Urban kayak rentals and guided corporate kayaking tours run on the Cuyahoga River—promoted as a top North American urban kayaking destination—with rental hours from 10am to 6pm. Seasonal evening "Unknown" events run Tuesdays and Fridays from June 1 to September 1, 7:30pm–9:45pm. Selected boats permit swimming, fishing, dogs; Bluetooth audio and bimini shade enhance comfort, jet ski rides are guided by expert staff.
Location
Cleveland, OH
Lake Erie & Cuyahoga River access
Group Capacity
Up to 13
Pontoon boats seat 13 passengers
Top Kayak Spot
Best Place (NA)
Cuyahoga River urban kayaking
Seasonal Nights
Tues & Fri
June 1–Sept 1, 7:30–9:45pm
Book parasailing, pontoons, captained cruises, jet skis, or kayak rentals — summer slots fill quickly.
Bring Your Own Drinks
Enjoy your favorite beverages onboard since you're welcome to bring drinks along for the cruise.
Dogs Are Welcome
Feel free to bring your furry friend for a pet-friendly experience on the water.
Wear Layers
Weather on the water can change quickly, so bring layered clothing to stay comfortable.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process and safety briefing.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare reflecting off the water on bright days.
summer
Light Jacket
A light jacket helps keep you warm against lake breezes in cooler weather.
spring
Waterproof Shoes
Ideal for wet decks or if you want to explore the shoreline during stops.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture iconic cityscapes and memorable moments during the cruise.