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Cruise the Charles River at sunset with the Charles River Boat Company’s Ghost Tour—an atmospheric blend of haunted local history, themed cocktails, and stunning cityscape views. Perfect for adventurous adults looking for a unique way to experience Cambridge’s darker past.
Cruise the Charles River at sunset with the Charles River Boat Company’s Ghost Tour—an atmospheric blend of haunted local history, themed cocktails, and stunning cityscape views. Perfect for adventurous adults looking for a unique way to experience Cambridge’s darker past.
Book with Charles River Boat Company
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Charles River Boat Company · Cambridge, Massachusetts
The Charles River, winding through the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, offers a new kind of nocturnal adventure with the Charles River Boat Company’s Ghost Tour. This 90-minute cruise invites adventurous adults to step aboard a classic vessel and traverse the river’s reflective waters as dusk settles. Far from a haunted house thrill ride, the experience is an atmospheric blend of local history and supernatural storytelling, complete with stunning skyline views and expertly mixed themed cocktails.
As the boat glides past iconic Harvard bridges and waterfront landmarks, costumed guides recount spine-tingling tales woven from fact and folklore. Guests hear of Harry Houdini's legendary mystique, tragic fires, and chilling murders that have shaped the dark chapters of Cambridge’s past. The narratives come alive against the backdrop of softly glowing city lights mirrored in the river, making each story feel immediate and immersive.
Departing from CambridgeSide Mall, the cruise delivers a distinctive way to engage with the city’s history and landscape from the water’s edge. The Charles River Boat Company stands out for elevating the local outdoor recreation scene through these curated, themed excursions that combine education, entertainment, and the unique atmosphere of an autumn evening on the water.
The tour runs on select fall dates, offering a perfect after-work or weekend outing during the season when the air turns crisp and the early sunset casts long shadows. While not suitable for children under 16 due to the mature themes, this experience caters to curious travelers and locals alike seeking to deepen their connection to the Charles River corridor through an adventurous evening cruise.
Whether you're a history buff, a fan of ghost stories, or simply looking for an unusual way to experience Cambridge by night, the Ghost Tour is a memorable trip that brings the Charles River’s hidden past into sharp—and spooky—focus.
easy.
1.5 hours.
No special fitness level required; mostly seated and accessible by short distance boarding.
This tour is not recommended for children under 16 due to mature themes and storytelling content.
Themed cocktails and other beverages are available for purchase onboard but are not included in ticket price.
Cruises run rain or shine. The boat is heated and covered to ensure comfort during inclement weather.
Boarding is at CambridgeSide Mall, located at 100 CambridgeSide Place, Cambridge, MA, near the CanalSide Food Hall entrance.
Accessibility is limited; please contact Charles River Boat Company directly to discuss specific needs.
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, boarding 15 minutes prior to departure.
The Charles River is a historic waterway that has witnessed centuries of urban growth, industrial changes, and countless stories both factual and folklore.
Charles River Boat Company supports local environmental efforts to maintain river health through responsible cruise operations and partnerships.
Charles River Boat Company operates passenger cruises on the Charles River and Boston Harbor out of Cambridge, Massachusetts. The company offers a range of public and private experiences including Charles River Cocktail & Sunset Cruises, Tiki Boat Cruises, the Charles River Sightseeing Tour, an Architecture Tour, a Ghost Tour of the Charles River, and a Fall Foliage Cruise. Routes showcase Boston and Cambridge landmarks such as Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Prudential Building, and Hancock Tower, while passengers enjoy waterfront views of sailboats, rowing teams, and city skylines. Onboard amenities commonly include a full-service bar with cocktails, beer, and snacks, plus themed drinks for specialty cruises. The crew provides narration on history and architecture for guided tours, and knowledgeable staff steer sightseeing and themed departures. The Charles River Sightseeing Tour departs daily from CambridgeSide Mall; other cruises run seasonally or at scheduled evening times to match sunsets and special events. The operation focuses on comfortable, scenic experiences for adults and groups seeking unique gatherings, including corporate outings, bachelor(ette) parties, and celebratory events. Safety and guest experience are emphasized through trained crew members and clearly posted boarding information. Tickets are sold per cruise and experiences vary in length from roughly seventy minutes to two hours. Visitors book online or at designated departure points. As a locally based operator serving Boston and Cambridge, Charles River Boat Company is positioned to provide accessible, memorable river and harbor cruises that highlight regional history, architecture, and seasonal scenery. Advance booking is strongly recommended.
Book with Charles River Boat Company