Cambridge Punting Tour with Alumni Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
50 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, no prior experience needed
Overview
Discover Cambridge’s historic waterways on a 50-minute punting trip with Alumni Tours. Glide past iconic colleges, listen to captivating stories, and try your hand at punting—an experience you won't forget.
Shared • Cambridge University Punting Tour
45 minutes • Ages 3+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the charm of Cambridge on a 50-minute punting tour, gliding past eight historic colleges and nine picturesque bridges. Enjoy captivating stories from local student guides, revealing the city’s rich heritage and quirky tales. Embrace this iconic tradition and even try your hand at punting for an unforgettable adventure!
Online Reservations Recommended
Duration
45 minutes
- Tours leave every hour from 9 am until 7 pm daily in peak summer season and 9 am until dusk in the off season.
- Enjoy a private row on a 12 -seater boat
- Arrive 5 minutes before your departure time
About
A CRUISE THROUGH THE CENTURIES
Undoubtedly the best way to see the most famous Cambridge colleges in a short space of time, our punting tours typically last around 50 minutes and take you through eight colleges and underneath nine bridges. From the breathtaking sight of King’s College Chapel to the mysterious Mathematical Bridge, the stunning views provide the perfect backdrop to an intriguing and often hilarious history of Cambridge. With stories spanning centuries, including tyrannical rulers, student pranksters, and intellectual greats, all history lessons should be like this one.
A TRADITIONAL CAMBRIDGE PASTIME
Did you know that the original punts were used for transporting cargo around the fens? Ideally suited to shallow water, the punt is a flat and square-shaped boat that is pushed along with a pole. In the early 20th century, punting quickly took off as a leisure activity, and has since become an iconic part of Cambridge tradition. Nowadays punting is the most popular way among students and visitors alike to enjoy the peaceful scenery of the college backs. Don’t miss your chance to join the tradition on a shared Cambridge punting tour!
LOCAL GUIDES
Some swear they were born on a punt. Others say their father and his father before him were punters. What is certain is that all our punting tour guides are local students who are passionate and knowledgeable about Cambridge and its heritage. Feel free to ask as many questions as you like, and while you’re at it, why not have a go at punting yourself during the tour? Our guides are there to give you a real taste of Cambridge life – from a local’s perspective
What to Bring
Dress accordingly for the weather.
Adventure Tips
Dress for the weather
Bring layers and waterproofs, especially if rain is forecasted, as it can get chilly on the water.
Book in advance
Cambridge’s popular punting tours fill quickly, so reserve your spot early to secure your preferred time.
Arrive early
Get to the departure point a few minutes early to settle in and listen to the guide’s safety tips before setting out.
Bring your camera
Capture the stunning views of historic colleges and picturesque bridges along the river.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Swans
- Herons
History
The tradition of punting in Cambridge dates back to the 19th century, when boatmen would navigate the shallow waters for transport and leisure.
Conservation
Alumni Tours emphasizes sustainable tourism by managing visitor impact and maintaining the waterways' cleanliness.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cambridge
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you comfortable if unexpected rain occurs during your trip.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during sunny days on the water.
summer specific
Comfortable shoes
Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking to and from the departure point.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the iconic sights along the River Cam.