Discover Providence from a unique vantage point with historic narrated tours and haunted boat rides on the Providence River. Comfort meets culture aboard expert-led cruises that reveal the city’s rich heritage and waterfront secrets.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for most ages and mobility levels
Wildlife
History
Providence was founded in 1636 and quickly became a key colonial port and industrial hub, its waterfront shaping much of the city’s growth.
Conservation
The Providence River Boat Company supports local efforts to maintain water quality and minimize ecological impact on the river environment.
Providence River Boat Company
Discover Providence from a unique vantage point with historic narrated tours and haunted boat rides on the Providence River. Comfort meets culture aboard expert-led cruises that reveal the city’s rich heritage and waterfront secrets.
Providence River Boat Company operates guided and leisure cruises on the Providence River and downtown waterways in Providence, Rhode Island. The company offers a range of experiences from relaxed sunset sails to specialist history and wine-focused outings. Twilight River Cruises provide a peaceful sunset cruise with complimentary wine and Prosecco from Gooseneck Vineyards and no narration, ideal for date nights. Partial WaterFire® Boat Rides run during WaterFire events, carrying up to 18 passengers for an intimate view of the lighting installations. Green Jacket Shoal Tours are 75-minute journeys led by Captain Tom alongside archaeologist David Robinson, exploring Rhode Island’s largest ship graveyard and industrial history. Vineyard Voyages feature a 60-minute tasting cruise with Gooseneck Vineyard wines, light food pairings, and casual wine discussion while cruising Providence’s scenic waterways. Sip & Sea Providence (Mimosa Cruises) offers complimentary mimosas from May through October, suited to families and couples seeking a relaxed daytime outing. Providence Architecture Tours are 75-minute narrated trips presented in partnership with the Providence Preservation Society, highlighting three centuries of architecture and local landmarks.
The company’s credibility is supported by named partners and local experts, small-group capacity on special events, and repeated inclusion in regional guides and listings. Boat operations follow local maritime rules and the voyages focus on safe, educational, and enjoyable experiences for visitors and residents alike. Reservations are recommended for Green Jacket Shoal Tours and Partial WaterFire Boat Rides due to limited capacity. Tickets and scheduling information are listed through local event pages and the company's listings.
Tours Offered
6 tours
Varied waterways and themed cruises
Typical Length
60–75 min
Most cruises run one hour-plus
Intimate Capacity
18 passengers
Cozy, small-group boat rides
Local Partners
Gooseneck & PPS
Trusted vineyard and preservation society
Book seats for a Twilight Cruise, WaterFire boat ride, wine tasting, or architecture tour and enjoy Providence from a unique riverside perspective.
Book Ahead for Seasonal Events
WaterFire® and haunted tours fill quickly—reserve your spot early to guarantee availability.
Dress in Layers for Evening Cruises
River breezes can drop temperatures after sunset; bring a light jacket for comfort.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to departure to ensure smooth boarding and seating choices.
Accessibility Friendly Boats
With minimal steps and helpful crew, these tours accommodate visitors with limited mobility.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Protects against cool breezes and changing weather conditions on the water.
spring|fall|summer-evening|winter
Comfortable Footwear
Non-slip shoes ease boarding and moving around the boat safely.
Sunglasses
Reduces glare during daytime cruises for better visibility and comfort.
summer|spring
Camera or Smartphone
Captures unique perspectives of Providence’s skyline and river landmarks.