Celebrate St. Patrick's Day on Boston Harbor: Brunch Cruise with Live Irish Music

Read the full experience

Boston’s rich maritime history and vibrant Irish heritage come alive on this specially curated St. Patrick’s Day Brunch Cruise aboard the Northern Lights. Departing from 60 Rowes Wharf in the heart of Boston’s waterfront, this two-hour sailing offers a festive way to experience Boston Harbor’s iconic landmarks while indulging in a hearty Irish-inspired brunch and toe-tapping live music. It’s a unique celebration blending culture, cuisine, and coastal scenery all in one memorable journey. Board the Northern Lights, a meticulously maintained 115-foot motor yacht styled after classic 1920s New England steamships, offering both indoor comfort and open-air decks. The climate-controlled salon with wrap-around windows provides stunning protected views while the upper deck invites guests to bask in the breeze and panoramic skyline vistas. Up to 149 passengers can enjoy the spacious layout and attentive crew skilled in hospitality and safety. The brunch buffet highlights Irish culinary favorites such as freshly scrambled eggs, Irish bangers, roasted potatoes, fresh corned beef, and an Irish Flag salad, accompanied by pastries, fruit, and yogurt parfaits. This spread brings a delicious, authentic Irish touch to the high seas, perfectly complemented by an onboard bar serving classic Irish drinks like Irish coffee and beer, plus mimosas. While savoring your meal, the cruise sails past some of Boston Harbor’s most historic and picturesque sites including the harbor islands—Castle Island, Deer Island, Spectacle Island—along with the notable Bunker Hill Monument, Old North Church, and the USS Constitution. On clear days, you might spot Boston Light, America’s oldest lighthouse, and Long Island Head Light, one of the first cast-iron lighthouses in the country. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate sightings of harbor porpoises, seals, and a variety of local birds such as ospreys and herons that frequent the harbor, enriching the natural atmosphere alongside the urban backdrop. The ship’s knowledgeable crew often shares insights into the cultural and historical context of the sights along the route, deepening the experience beyond the festive revelry. This brunch cruise is an excellent kickoff to Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities, especially before heading to the famous parade or exploring the city’s lively Irish quarters. It’s also a welcoming way for visitors to engage with Boston’s maritime history and harbor ecology in an approachable setting. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this Irish-themed cruise offers a festive, sensory-rich immersion in one of America’s oldest seaports. Book early to secure your spot on this popular seasonal experience and prepare to raise a glass to Irish heritage while cruising Boston Harbor’s history and beauty.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking involved

Frequently asked questions

Are drinks included with the ticket?

Beverages are not included in the ticket price but can be purchased from the onboard bar.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility information is limited; please contact the operator in advance to discuss specific needs.

What is the cancellation policy?

No refunds are available, but you may reschedule or exchange your ticket for a gift card up to 24 hours before departure.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

Outside food and beverages, including adult drinks and coolers, are not allowed on board.

Is there seating available indoors and outdoors?

Yes, the Northern Lights features a climate-controlled salon and an open upper deck with seating.

Are children allowed on the cruise?

Children ages 3 and older are welcome; children 2 and under may board for free.

Local insights

Wildlife

Harbor seals frequently sunbathe on nearby rocks in early spring and fall
Ospreys and great blue herons are common sights around Boston Harbor’s shoreline

History

Boston Harbor is deeply tied to maritime trade and Irish immigrant culture, with the city hosting one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the U.S.

Conservation

The cruise emphasizes respectful wildlife viewing and supports sustainable boating practices to protect the harbor’s natural habitat.

About Classic Harbor Line - Boston

Classic Harbor Line - Boston operates a fleet of elegant vessels offering narrated and themed cruises in Boston Harbor. The company runs the motor yacht Northern Lights and the classic schooners Adirondack III and Adirondack IV, providing public sails and private charters. Trips include seasonal specialty cruises—such as holiday sunset and brunch cruises, a Valentine's jazz and champagne tasting, a fall foliage luncheon, and St. Patrick’s Day Irish music cruises—along with sailing and oyster tours that feature freshly shucked oysters and wine. Classic Harbor Line - Boston serves corporate events, weddings, family celebrations, and reunions with full catering and bar options available on private charters aboard Northern Lights. Public cruises vary from 1.5 to two hours and highlight Boston’s skyline, historic islands, Fort Independence, and the U.S.S. Constitution. Knowledgeable professional crews operate each vessel and offer hospitality, safety briefings, and local commentary. The Adirondack schooners prioritize traditional sailing experiences, while Northern Lights focuses on an elegant yacht atmosphere with live music and seasonal decorations. The company emphasizes memorable on-water experiences for locals and visitors seeking sightseeing, wildlife spotting, maritime history, and culinary pairings in Boston Harbor. Reservations are available for individual public tickets and private event bookings. Classic Harbor Line - Boston is a visible presence in Boston Harbor’s seasonal cruise offerings and continues to operate within local regulations and harbor navigation practices. Ticketing and schedule information are posted seasonally online and through local partner listings. Accessibility accommodations and group rates are offered when available. Contact details vary by season.

Base locationBoston, Massachusetts

Tours offered38+

Adventure tips

Arrive Early for BoardingCheck in at 60 Rowes Wharf at least 30 minutes before departure to receive your boarding pass and settle in.

Dress for Changing WeatherLayered clothing helps you stay comfortable moving between the indoor salon and the open-air upper deck.

Bring ID for DrinksValid identification is required to purchase alcoholic beverages on board—don’t forget it!

Keep an Eye Out for WildlifeWatch for harbor seals and porpoises as your cruise explores Boston Harbor’s ecosystem.

Recommended gear

Layered Clothing: Boston Harbor’s spring weather can be variable, so layers keep you comfortable both indoors and outside.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture the stunning skyline, landmarks, and lively moments throughout the cruise.
Sunglasses: Glare off the water can be strong during daylight hours—sunglasses improve comfort and visibility.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker: Protection from the harbor breeze is essential while enjoying the open decks.