8 Summer Boat Tours on the East Coast 2024
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Boat Tours on the East Coast
Are you looking for a vacation experience like no other this summer? For the ultimate family trip, don’t miss out on seeing all that the East Coast has to offer from atop one of its stunning boats! From breathtaking coastlines and islands to sparkling cities and tranquil harbors – sailing around the eastern US is an unforgettable way to vacation. You can explore seven states with our list of 8 summer boat tours here in 2023. Get ready for some fun in the sun as we take you around these spectacular destinations!
Quick Guide: Best Boat Tours on the East Coast
In my opinion, you can’t go wrong with a dinner cruise. That’s why I put Philadelphia and Baltimore at the top. These skylines don’t get as much credit as some of the bigger cities, but they are truly breathtaking. Having personally experienced these dinner cruises I can say that it is truly a fun night in the city.
We took our kids to see some of the historical sites in Philadelphia and ended our evening on a dinner cruise, and it was the best day. If you’d like to check out where we visited, you can read my post on the best historical sites in Philadelphia here.
Let’s Dive into My Top 8 Boat Tours on the East Coast!
1. Manatee Sightseeing and Wildlife Boat Tour
5/5 (2,085 Reviews)
Ready for an exciting adventure? Come explore the wetlands of Florida on this Manatee Sightseeing and Wildlife Boat Tour! The personable and knowledgeable tour guides will show you the wonders of nature up close in a safe, covered boat. Experience majestic native wildlife like alligators, dolphins, and an abundance of birds from the comfort of your seat. Plus, you’ll have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to spot manatees as they come right up to the boat!
What’s more – every passenger will receive high-tech sunglasses to protect their eyes while on tour – ensuring that everyone gets the best views possible! Enjoy morning or afternoon tours in small groups so that everyone has time to discover unique facts about different animal species and learn about their local ecosystems. This is a can’t miss experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories!
We loved the experience nannygoat, Mar 2023
Loved the manatees. Guide was great. Gave us lots of local info. Great deck boat experience. Great area.
Great tour with family kathy_s, Mar 2023
Captain Joe was so knowledgeable, funny, and welcoming. You could tell he loves what he does. Everyone learned new things about this Florida area, manatees, state parks, red tide.
Important info:
What’s Included
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Local guide
- Polarized sunglasses and polarized phone camera lenses
- Free parking across the street from firehouse.
What’s Excluded
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Reschedule and late arrival fees
- 20% Gratuity not included in price
Departure & Return
- Port of the Islands Marina , 525 Newport Dr, Naples, FL 34114, USA
- This activity will end right where it started.
2. Savannah Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise
5/5 (2,362 Reviews)
Discover the joys of Savannah on the Savannah Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise! Spend 90 minutes of your day in one of Georgia’s ‘First City’ most unique ways—on the majestic waters. Their friendly and knowledgeable captain will happily share information about the city as you take in picturesque views from our boat. For a special treat, get up close and view Old Fort Jackson—one of America’s oldest artillery pieces. On this exciting journey, find out what made Savannah so beloved.
Take your family and friends on this memorable adventure today! Along with your lifetime memories, you’ll capture great photos that made be perfect for souvenirs. Escape the everyday life with a different kind of sightseeing experience guaranteed to bring smiles and laughter to all aboard.
Easy Breezy Victoria_C, Mar 2023
Great experience for my family. Our kids absolutely loved it. They enjoyed All of it. Downside there was only one person working the concession, which meant super long lines and wait time.
Georgia Boat Ride Donna_H, Mar 2023
Meeting nice couples on the boat and the historical narration of Savannah. Very pleasant experience.
Important info:
What’s Included
- 90-Minute Savannah Riverboat Cruise
- Fully Narrated Cruise
- Take advantage of the great photo opportunities of Savannah’s historic riverfront and skyline
- Hear the Captain’s tales and historic facts about our modern port and the visiting ships
- Bar & Grille on top deck
What’s Excluded
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- *THIS CRUISE DOES NOT INCLUDE LUNCH BUFFET* please see luncheon cruise
Departure & Return
- Riverboat Ticket Office, 9 E River St, Savannah, GA 31412, USA
- Please go to the Ticket Office before boarding. The Riverboat Ticket Office is located directly in front of the riverboat dock at 9 East River Street, directly behind City Hall and next door to the Hyatt Regency. Please provide ID with this Voucher
- This activity will end right where it started.
3. Charleston Harbor History Boat Cruise
5/5 (1,911 Reviews)
Embark on an unforgettable journey in Charleston Harbor and learn about the city’s captivating history! Get ready to cruise along the Cooper River and explore Fort Sumter National Monument on board the Carolina Belle. This scenic 90-minute sightseeing tour is perfect for families, travelers, and vacationers alike.
With multiple morning, afternoon, and sunset cruise times available, you can choose the best time for you. As you sail through Charleston Harbor, your knowledgeable guide will not only provide fascinating information about the Civil War but also tell stories of antebellum houses and other local landmarks. Plus, your voyage won’t be complete unless you get a chance to watch bottlenose dolphins frolicking in their natural habitat while soaring over some amazing bridges along the way!
Easy Breezy Victoria_C, Mar 2023
Great experience for my family. Our kids absolutely loved it. They enjoyed All of it. Downside there was only one person working the concession, which meant super long lines and wait time.
Georgia Boat Ride Donna_H, Mar 2023
Meeting nice couples on the boat and the historical narration of Savannah. Very pleasant experience.
Important info:
What’s Included
- 90-minute Charleston Harbor Sightseeing Cruise from Charleston, South Carolina
- Select from Morning, Afternoon, or Sunset Departure Times
- Enjoy panoramic views from aboard the unique 80-foot Carolina Belle
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
What’s Excluded
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Departure & Return
- 10 Wharfside St, 10 Wharfside St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
- Departure Point: Charleston Maritime Center Address: 10 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC 29401
- This activity will end right where it started.
4. French Broad Gorge Whitewater Rafting Trip
4/5 (119 Reviews)
I know this isn’t a boat cruise per se. But this one is highly rated! Take the plunge with a two-hour French Broad Gorge Whitewater Rafting Trip! Make memories that will last a lifetime and get a true taste of Asheville. With your raft, paddle, life jacket, and helmet all provided for you, there’s no stopping your adventure plans on this amazing guided tour experience you’ll never forget.
Sneak in some amazing views of Pisgah National Forest canyon from your journey through four miles of Class II and III rapids. Stop at random points in time to take swims and jumps into the cool summer river — or just take in the scenery — before chugging along to your final destination. And no whitewater rafting experience is complete without an Asheville tradition: an ice-cold craft beer on tap!
This family-friendly whitewater journey is child’s play with easy transfers to the French Broad River — perfect for adventurers who want to fill their fall days with thrills while families looking to spend quality time together will also appreciate its ease and safety guaranteed. Don’t miss out on one of the best Whitewater rafting experiences offered, book your ticket today!
Just do it! Darlene_S, Sep 2022
Great times on the French Broad River! Nick was our guide and he was great! The whole e experience was well worth our time and money!!
Would Definitely Go Again !! Gregory_J , Jul 2022
Our guide, “Stamper” was very accommodating, knowledgeable, and informative! The trip down the river had amazing views and we even stopped a few times to swim and enjoy the water. I would definitely recommend this to my friends and family, and we would go again as well. You should request “Stamper” for your upcoming trip !!
Important info:
What To Expect
- Scenic, remote and awash with breathtaking beauty, the French Broad Gorge, also known as Section 9 (FB9), rafting adventure takes you through 5 miles of intermediate-level, class II and class III rapids starting at Barnard River Park where the water enters Pisgah National Forest.
- Enjoy a laid back vibe with opportunities to stop for a jump off the raft or rocks for a refreshing dip in the river. Rafters will be on the water for 1.5-2 hours which will be filled with some of the best whitewater in all of Western North Carolina.
What’s Included
- Helmet, Life Jacket, and Paddle
- Air-conditioned vehicle
What’s Excluded
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Departure & Return
- 521 Amboy Rd, 521 Amboy Rd, Asheville, NC 28806, USA
- Meet at River Outpost at 521 Amboy Road, Asheville, NC!
- This activity will end right where it started.
5. Complete Manhattan Island Cruise
4/5 (2,436 Reviews)
Discover the ultimate NYC experience with the Complete Manhattan Island Cruise! Jump on this extended cruise and soak in the magnificent views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, and so much more – all from breathtaking perspectives that can only be found from the water. From families to travelers and vacationers alike, there’s no better way to explore the Big Apple than by discovering this iconic island!
On-board your tour guide will provide you with plenty of informative commentary about all of Manhattan’s fascinating landmarks – it’ll truly be an educational experience for all ages. But if you’d rather just relax and enjoy the scenery while taking exquisite photos, purchase some drinks and snacks available onboard – perfect for a day out on the waters! With enjoyable weather at any time of year, what are you waiting for? Get ready to see New York City like never before with one of these spectacular cruises!
Great experience! TRIO_C , Mar 2023
The tour was awesome. We had a large group of students. It rained during our trip but we were able to go inside. Would highly recommend this cruise to others!
Great trip Amanda_R, Mar 2023
We had a lovely trip , great way to see New York. Great tour guide too . Snacks a bit pricey . Overall a great experience. Would recommend
Important info:
What’s Included
- 2.5-hour Sightseeing Cruise
- Live narration by Circle Line’s guides (in English)
- Free Wi-Fi on board
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Restroom on board
- Outdoor deck
What’s Excluded
- Snacks
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Soda/Pop
Departure & Return
- Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, 83 North River Piers West 43rd Street and, 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA
- Departure Point: Tour departs from Pier 83, New York Address: Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises Pier 83 West 42nd Street New York, NY 10019
- This activity will end right where it started.
6. Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise
5/5 (175 Reviews)
Experience the city of brotherly love like never before on the Spirit of Philadelphia Dinner Cruise! This fun three-hour tour of the Delaware River is an unforgettable way to treat yourself, your family, or friends to an evening of entertainment and indulgence.
Start off with a delicious all-you-can-eat cruise buffet. Enjoy both hot and cold items, like seafood specialties, herb-roasted meats, and tempting desserts. With treats this good, even picky eaters will be more than satisfied!
Once you’ve filled up on food, get ready for some fun! Whether you want to relax on deck and soak up the amazing night views of Philadelphia’s skyline from afar or experience the onboard entertainment it’s up to you. The DJ will keep you grooving all night with a mix of classic hits perfect for dancing – just bring comfortable shoes for some serious boogying Down Under!
Excellent experience!!! Adriana_G, Feb 2023
Food was amazing! Cocktails and wine bottles very affordable, and service was surprisingly amazing!! From parking who was very attentive and helpful to the waitress and crew!!
Great atmosphere,…Tiara_W, Mar 2023
Great atmosphere, delicious food and great staff. The Dj was excellent. We had an awesome time. Will definitely be visiting again. Highly recommend
Important info:
What’s Included
- 3-hour cruise
- Delicious dinner buffet attended by server, with freshly prepared entrees, salads and desserts
- Onboard entertainment and DJ music for fun from start to finish
- Spectacular views of the Philadelphia skyline and waterfront landmarks
- Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea
What’s Excluded
- Beverages
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
Departure & Return
- 401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, 401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
- Boarding: Penn’s Landing. Parking: City Cruises does not own or operate any parking lots in the area. Local parking is available at Lombard Circle Parking Lot on Columbus Boulevard and Lombard Circle.
- This activity will end right where it started.
7. Baltimore Harbor Cruise
4/5 (395 Reviews)
Set sail for an evening of fun, food and memories on the Spirit of Baltimore Dinner Cruise! Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, our luxury experience is sure to be an eye-opening adventure. You’ll get the best views of Baltimore’s vibrant harbor – passing popular attractions like the Maryland Science Center and Pride Mast Memorial – while enjoying some top-notch entertainment. Their professional crew will keep you in high spirits while a live DJ plays all your favorite hits.
And don’t forget about the highlight of every cruise: a delicious all-you-can-eat buffet! Fresh seasonal offerings will satisfy even the pickiest eater, giving everyone something to look forward to. Afterward, stick around and enjoy our open bar before continuing your night with family or friends on the city streets. Take in breathtaking views with Spirit of Baltimore’s signature light show or revel in this once-in-a-lifetime experience beneath the stars! The Spirit of Baltimore Dinner Cruise is perfect for families, travelers, and vacationers alike!
Awesome time Pier_M, Mar 2023
We had a wonderful birthday celebration! Almond was an excellent attentive server. The buffet was better than expected. The music appealed to all and beautiful scenery from ship.
Last minute decision Michelle_J , Mar 2023
I was trying to find something nice to do for my boyfriend’s birthday. Booked this at the last minute and was super happy and pleased. He was extremely appreciative of the idea. The food was excellent!
Important info:
What’s Included
- Relax on a 2.5-hour cruise on the Patapsco River
- Enjoy a delicious cafeteria-style buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads and desserts
- Background music
- Taxes and Fees included
- Coffee and/or Tea
What’s Excluded
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Gratuities
Departure & Return
- 561 Light St , 561 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21230, USA
- Boarding: Baltimore Inner Harbor. Parking: City Cruises does not own or operate any parking lots in the area. Local parking is available at Harbor Court Garage located next to the Royal Sonesta Hotel.
- This activity will end right where it started.
8. Miami Skyline Cruise of South Beach & Venetian Islands
4/5 (1,498 Reviews)
Soak up Miami’s iconic views – peek inside Al Capone’s former digs, or eye multi-million dollar homes as you journey along Biscayne Bay. With a Spanish/English bi-lingual guide on board to share fun facts and stories, this is the kind of adventure your whole family will enjoy.
And don’t forget your sea legs – the yacht offers a cash bar with food and beverages so you can savor the classic Magic City vibe sipping an ice-cold margarita! To enhance your adventure even further, upgrade your tour with a bus ride through Miami’s picturesque downtown area or a thrilling Everglades airboat tour.
Whether it’s luxury homes, vibrant city skyline, or authentic Floridian culture that brings you here – ensure you make lasting memories on this amazing Miami Skyline Cruise around South Beach & Venetian Islands.
Great 90 minutes! Melanie_T, Mar 2023
An entertaining and relaxing trip! Manuel and crew were great! Loved seeing the lifestyles of the rich and famous. Lol
Great experience Peggy_J, Mar 2023
The crew was great! Ariana made it fun and was very sweet! Would do this again! Loved to hear about the mansions and see the Miami skyline!
Important info:
What’s Included
- 90 min sightseeing cruise of Miami
What’s Excluded
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Departure & Return
- Bayside Marketplace, 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA
- Please go towards the water and we are located right in back of Victoria Secrets. Please come and check in at the Boat
- This activity will end right where it started.
FAQs: Boat Tours on the East Coast
How do I plan a long boat trip?
Research and plan your route in advance. Consider factors such as weather, tides, currents, wind speed/direction and more. Also, research any boating regulations that may apply to your planned route. Summer boat tours on the east coast tend to book up in the early spring.
What is the cheapest way to cross the ocean by boat?
The cheapest way to cross an ocean by boat is typically considered slow passage-making where one sails at an economical speed with minimal stops along the way spending as little money as possible on supplies and fuel consumption along the length of their journey. These are usually not available to the public.
What is the longest boat trip in the USA?
The longest boat trip in the United States is believed to be an 8,600-mile solo sail across the Pacific Ocean from Seattle, Washington down to Honolulu, Hawaii completed by 16-year-old Jesse Martin in 1999 aboard his 11-meter sloop Lionheart – taking him a total of 131 days at sea!
What is the busiest boating holiday?
The busiest boating holiday is generally considered Memorial Day Weekend when thousands of boats take advantage of good weather conditions around most of America’s lakes for leisure activities such as fishing, camping or watersports like skiing or tubing! Most of these summer boat tours on the east coast charge a premium for this time period.
What state has the most pleasure boats?
Florida has been reported as having more pleasure boats registered than any other state with over 1 million vessels being recorded by US Coast Guard statistics in 2017 alone!
What is the best time to go boating?
Generally speaking, it is best to go boating during times when conditions are relatively calm such as early mornings or late evenings during warmer months while avoiding strong winds which can make navigation difficult and potentially dangerous even with experienced captains at the helm!
Why are most boats female?
Most boats are referred to as female due to their traditionally curved shapes reminiscent of a woman’s figure – this tradition dates back centuries when ships were also often named after goddesses in many cultures around the world!
What is the boating capital of the US?
Miami Beach would certainly be up there! With its warm tropical climate year-round and stunning coastline views it’s no wonder why this vibrant city has become renowned amongst sailors from all across North America for its lively party atmosphere yet still safe enough for families looking for a getaway on one of its many available charter boats!
Final Thoughts: 8 Boat Tours on the East Coast 2023
There it is – 8 Boat Tours to enjoy on the East Coast in 2023! All of these excursions are going to be an exciting experiences with spectacular sights, sure to stay with you for many years to come. So, book your next Boat Tour today!
The memories and adventure await! I’m also available privately for personalized expeditions where you can see only what interested you most! It’s a great alternative to the standard public tours, create your own story and explore the areas that make up some of the most beautiful features of this country. Don’t forget about those unique hands-on activities like painting, shelling, and even scuba diving.
Don’t delay – gaining access to all this could be just a click away. Contact me today for more information on how you can start experiencing the best that boat tour has to offer! So come join us as we cruise around our nation’s coastal waterways and wonders – be ready for a great ride!!!