Set sail on Buffalo’s Lake Erie during a 90-minute sunset cruise with the Buffalo Maritime Center. Experience the city from the water and enjoy breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no prior sailing experience needed.
Wildlife
History
Buffalo's maritime history dates back to the 19th century, serving as a key port for trade and transportation on the Great Lakes.
Conservation
The Buffalo Maritime Center promotes sustainable boating practices and environmental stewardship in Lake Erie.
Buffalo Maritime Center
Set sail on Buffalo’s Lake Erie during a 90-minute sunset cruise with the Buffalo Maritime Center. Experience the city from the water and enjoy breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon.
Buffalo Maritime Center in Buffalo, New York preserves and activates the region’s maritime heritage by offering on-water experiences, boat rentals, and instructional paddles.
The organization operates a variety of vessels — including the silent, battery-powered Electra Launch, classic wooden sailboats, Floatmingo paddle boats, and the whimsical Salem duck boat — and runs narrated and guided outings on the Buffalo River, Lake Erie, and Hoyt Lake.
Visitors can choose from several curated experiences: the 90‑minute Electra Cruise past historic grain mills and lift bridges; Electra Thursdays, a 60‑minute evening electric boat outing on the Commercial Slip; Wednesday Night Sailing, a 90‑minute sunset sail on a wooden boat; and Tuesday Night Paddles, weekly guided paddles led by certified instructors from rotating launch sites. Floatmingo paddle boat rentals are available in two‑passenger and four‑passenger options for relaxed laps around Hoyt Lake, while Salem the Duck seats up to four adults for a lighthearted ride.
Safety measures include provided life jackets on appropriate trips and guidance from experienced sailors and certified paddling instructors. The center’s programming emphasizes accessibility, family-friendly options, and a low‑impact electric cruising option that highlights Buffalo’s industrial waterfront and natural scenery.
Programs run seasonally with scheduled public departures and private bookings available; participants are encouraged to reserve spots in advance to secure preferred dates and times for best availability and planning.
Location
Buffalo, NY
On the Buffalo waterfront
Vessel Types
Electric • Sail • Paddle
Multiple boat styles available
Tours Offered
7 Experiences
Cruises, paddles, rentals
Safety & Instruction
Certified Instructors
Guided paddles and life jackets
Secure an Electra cruise, guided paddle, or paddle‑boat rental and experience Buffalo’s waterfront from the best vantage points.
Arrive Early
Get there 15 minutes before departure to secure your spot and settle in comfortably.
Dress Accordingly
Bring layers and dress in water-appropriate clothing, as it can get breezy on the water.
Bring a Camera
Capture the stunning sunset and cityscape views—it's a photo-worthy moment.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water or a light beverage to stay refreshed during the sail.
Light Jacket
A light jacket will keep you comfortable during the cool Lake Erie breezes.
spring;summer;fall
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during daytime or outdoor portions.
spring;summer;fall
Hat and Sunglasses
Shield your eyes from the sun while enjoying the scenic views.
spring;summer;fall
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the stunning sunset and cityscape scenes as keepsakes.
all