Set sail on a lively Tiki Boat Cruise along Boston’s Charles River and enjoy stunning skyline views, festive music, and tropical drinks. Perfect for celebrations or a memorable outdoor adventure in the city.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, no physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
The Charles River has been a vital waterway since colonial times, serving as a hub for trade and recreation in Boston's development.
Conservation
This operation emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction and supporting local environmental initiatives.
Charles River Boat Company
Set sail on a lively Tiki Boat Cruise along Boston’s Charles River and enjoy stunning skyline views, festive music, and tropical drinks. Perfect for celebrations or a memorable outdoor adventure in the city.
Charles River Boat Company operates passenger cruises on the Charles River and Boston Harbor out of Cambridge, Massachusetts. The company offers a range of public and private experiences including Charles River Cocktail & Sunset Cruises, Tiki Boat Cruises, the Charles River Sightseeing Tour, an Architecture Tour, a Ghost Tour of the Charles River, and a Fall Foliage Cruise. Routes showcase Boston and Cambridge landmarks such as Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Prudential Building, and Hancock Tower, while passengers enjoy waterfront views of sailboats, rowing teams, and city skylines.
Onboard amenities commonly include a full-service bar with cocktails, beer, and snacks, plus themed drinks for specialty cruises. The crew provides narration on history and architecture for guided tours, and knowledgeable staff steer sightseeing and themed departures. The Charles River Sightseeing Tour departs daily from CambridgeSide Mall; other cruises run seasonally or at scheduled evening times to match sunsets and special events.
The operation focuses on comfortable, scenic experiences for adults and groups seeking unique gatherings, including corporate outings, bachelor(ette) parties, and celebratory events. Safety and guest experience are emphasized through trained crew members and clearly posted boarding information. Tickets are sold per cruise and experiences vary in length from roughly seventy minutes to two hours. Visitors book online or at designated departure points. As a locally based operator serving Boston and Cambridge, Charles River Boat Company is positioned to provide accessible, memorable river and harbor cruises that highlight regional history, architecture, and seasonal scenery.
Advance booking is strongly recommended.
Location
Cambridge, MA
Cruises on the Charles River
Typical Length
70–120 minutes
Short, scenic cruise durations
Tours Offered
6 experiences
Sightseeing, themed, and seasonal cruises
Onboard Bar
Full-service bar
Cocktails and snacks available
Reserve sightseeing, sunset, or themed cruises now — limited seasonal sailings and popular evening departures fill quickly.
Arrive Early
Get to the dock at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Dress Comfortably
Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and bring sunglasses or hats for sun protection.
Book in Advance
Reserve your spot beforehand, especially for private events or peak summertime weekends.
Bring a Camera
Capture scenic views of Boston’s skyline and bridges from the open-air deck.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during open-air cruises on sunny days.
summer
Hat and Sunglasses
Shield your eyes and face from the sun while enjoying the deck.
summer
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your cruise.
Layered Clothing
Bring an extra layer in case of cooler weather.
spring|fall|winter