Discover a playful way to enjoy Hoyt Lake in Buffalo with Salem the Duck. Perfect for families and friends, this whimsical boat offers fun and relaxation on the water.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes to 1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including children and seniors
Wildlife
History
The Buffalo Maritime Center has been active since the early 2000s, focusing on preserving local maritime history and providing accessible water activities.
Conservation
The center emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including boat maintenance and waste management to protect Hoyt Lake’s natural environment.
Buffalo Maritime Center
Discover a playful way to enjoy Hoyt Lake in Buffalo with Salem the Duck. Perfect for families and friends, this whimsical boat offers fun and relaxation on the water.
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.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Bring casual clothes suitable for sitting on a boat and getting a little splashed in the process.
Sun Protection Tips
Apply sunscreen and wear hats or sunglasses, especially on sunny days.
Arrive Early
Get there early to secure your preferred ride time and enjoy the lakeside scenery.
Avoid Heavy Winds
Check the weather forecast; calm days make for the safest and most enjoyable experience.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during your lakeside adventure.
summer
Hat and Sunglasses
Shield your eyes and face from the sun while riding.
summer
Comfortable Clothing
Wear light, casual clothes suitable for a boat ride.
summer
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while enjoying your time on the water.
summer