Step aboard for a 90-minute narrated cruise on Onondaga Lake with Syracuse Boat Tours, where history, nature, and stunning waterscapes meet. Capture moments and stories that reveal the rich heritage of this Central New York landmark.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated experience with minimal physical exertion.
Wildlife
History
Onondaga Lake has long served as a significant site for the Onondaga Nation and later became central to industry and urban development in Central New York.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to restore water quality and native habitats after past industrial pollution, balancing recreation with environmental stewardship.
Syracuse Boat Tours
Step aboard for a 90-minute narrated cruise on Onondaga Lake with Syracuse Boat Tours, where history, nature, and stunning waterscapes meet. Capture moments and stories that reveal the rich heritage of this Central New York landmark.
Syracuse Boat Tours operates guided sightseeing and themed cruises departing from Baldwinsville, New York. The company runs a range of experiences along the Seneca River and Onondaga Lake, highlighting local history, wildlife, and scenic waterfront homes. Popular offerings include the Three Rivers Two Hour Tour, which passes the historic confluence of the Oneida, Seneca, and Oswego rivers, and the Historical Lake Cruise, a narrated 90-minute trip focused on Onondaga Lake’s past.
The business presents a schedule of themed events designed to appeal to diverse groups: Margarita Saturday features a curated three-margarita flight; the Riverboat Trivia Ride pairs cruising with trivia hosted by Brian from the Syracuse Trivia Company; Sunset Cruise offers relaxed evening sailing; and seasonal offerings include the Fall River Cruise with ciders from Abbott Farms. Family-friendly outings such as the Lunch Cruise to Three Rivers and Family Hour provide kid-safe entertainment and boxed lunches from Sal’s on specific departures.
Tours frequently include refreshments or boxed meals on select trips, and many experiences emphasize local partnerships and on-board narration that explain the region’s role in canal history and industry. Syracuse Boat Tours focuses on short, scenic cruises — including 90-minute and two-hour options — that combine regional storytelling, comfortable sightseeing, and themed entertainment. The company’s collaborations with local food and beverage providers and the inclusion of guided narration help establish credibility and a consistent guest experience.
Tours Offered
9 experiences
Scenic, themed, family, and seasonal options
Typical Duration
90–120 min
Short, memorable sightseeing cruises
Food & Drinks
Available on many tours
Refreshments, boxed lunches, and flights
Family Friendly
Kid-focused options
G-rated music and activities available
Reserve seats for Margarita Saturday, Sunset Cruise, trivia nights, family rides, and seasonal cider cruises — secure a memorable Syracuse Boat Tours experience.
Arrive Early to Board
The boat leaves promptly on schedule, so arriving 15-20 minutes early helps ensure a hassle-free start.
Bring a Camera
Photographic opportunities abound with historic sites and scenic views along the lake’s shoreline.
Wear Sunscreen
Much of the cruise is out in the open sun with limited shade, especially during midday.
No Outside Beverages
Due to NYS liquor laws, all beverages must be purchased from Syracuse Boat Tours onsite.
Sunscreen
Protect against strong midday sun during the mostly open-air cruise.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the historic sites and scenic lake vistas during the trip.
Light Jacket
Bring a layer for cooler spring breezes on the water.
spring
Hat
A wide-brimmed hat helps shield your face from sun exposure.
summer