India’s capital offers well-organized boat excursions that showcase the region’s rich heritage. The standout option is the Varanasi day trip, which combines an atmospheric Ganges River boat ride with the mesmerizing evening Aarti ceremony. We especially love the sunrise Taj Mahal tours from Delhi – they provide the perfect lighting for photos and beat the crowds.
Most tours thoughtfully include private transport, admission fees, and knowledgeable English-speaking guides. The best operators offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure – a valuable feature for flexible travelers.
Let’s explore the finest boat tours and cruises available in New Delhi.
Key Points
- New Delhi offers several cruises and boat tours along the Yamuna River, providing scenic views of the city and its historical landmarks.
- The most popular boat tour is the Taj Mahal tour from Delhi, which includes a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
- Some cruise options feature luxury transportation, professional photographers, and multilingual guides, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience.
- Boat tours from Delhi often include free cancellation policies and flexible booking options, allowing for easy trip planning and adjustments.
- Travelers should be aware of any accessibility restrictions or luggage limitations when booking cruises and boat tours in New Delhi.
Varanasi Day Tour With Ganges Boat Ride & Evening Aarti
Discover the spiritual heart of India on this comprehensive Varanasi day tour. This 12-hour experience includes a boat ride on the sacred Ganges River and an evening Aarti ceremony.
Offered by Viator, the tour can be canceled for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. With a 5-star rating from 4 reviews, this tour provides an opportunity to learn about the cultural and religious traditions of Varanasi.
The starting price is $80 per person, and additional costs may apply. Travelers can visit the Viator Help Centre for inquiries and access FAQs for common concerns.
Customer service is available to assist with any questions.
Read our full review: Varanasi Day Tour With Ganges Boat Ride & Evening Aarti Review
Book now: Check availability
From Delhi: Taj Mahal Tour With Photographer & Boat Ride.
This comprehensive Taj Mahal Tour with Photographer & Boat Ride takes travelers on a 10-hour excursion from New Delhi to the iconic Mughal mausoleum.
Priced from Kč 1,611 per person, the tour includes private transportation, a professional photographer, and a guided visit to the Taj Mahal.
Travelers can also enjoy an optional boat ride on the Yamuna River and a visit to Agra Fort.
The tour is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and is available in multiple languages.
With an overall 5/5 rating from previous travelers, this tour offers an immersive experience of one of India’s most renowned landmarks.
Read our full review: From Delhi: Taj Mahal Tour With Photographer & Boat Ride. Review
Book now: Check availability
From Delhi: Same Day Taj Mahal & Agra Fort With Boat Ride
Travelers can embark on a comprehensive same-day excursion from Delhi to explore the iconic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. This tour, priced from $82.66 per person, offers a 12-hour journey with convenient pickups from 8 locations.
Highlights include a guided tour of the Taj Mahal, a scenic drive, an optional lunch, a guided tour of Agra Fort, and a photo stop at the Baby Taj. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, entry tickets, and a live guide available in multiple languages.
Passengers can choose to add a boat ride on the Yamuna River. This tour provides a hassle-free way to experience the best of Agra in a single day, with the option to customize the experience to suit individual needs.
Read our full review: From Delhi: Same Day Taj Mahal & Agra Fort With Boat Ride Review
Book now: Check availability
From Mumbai : Taj Mahal Overland Tour From Cruise Ship
The Taj Mahal Overland Tour from Cruise Ship offers a captivating two-day excursion for travelers sailing into Mumbai. Priced from $472.31 per person, this tour whisks guests from the port to Delhi and Agra, culminating in an early morning visit to the iconic Taj Mahal.
Along the way, visitors enjoy private AC luxury transportation, 5-star hotel accommodation, a domestic flight, and the expertise of a live English-speaking guide.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in various languages, catering to diverse travelers.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this overland adventure from Mumbai provides a hassle-free way to experience the Taj Mahal during a cruise stop.
Read our full review: From Mumbai : Taj Mahal Overland Tour From Cruise Ship Review
Book now: Check availability
From Mumbai: Taj Mahal Tour From The Cruise Ports
Exploring the Taj Mahal from Mumbai’s cruise ports offers travelers a captivating three-day adventure.
The tour, priced at $885.61 per person, includes private transportation, hotel accommodation, daily breakfast, and guided tours of the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Itmad ud Daula’s tomb.
Travelers can enjoy a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal on the first day, followed by an early morning photography session and further sightseeing on the second day.
The tour concludes with a flight back to the cruise port.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this package provides a hassle-free way to experience the architectural wonder of the Taj Mahal.
Read our full review: From Mumbai: Taj Mahal Tour From The Cruise Ports Review
Book now: Check availability
From Goa: Taj Mahal Tour From Goa Cruise Port Mormugao
Trekking from Goa’s Mormugao cruise port opens a captivating three-day journey to the architectural marvel of the Taj Mahal.
This tour package whisks travelers from the port to Delhi, providing round-trip flights, 3-star hotel stays, and a guided exploration of the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Itmad ud Daula tomb.
Priced at Kč 21,204 per person, the tour includes private transport, meals, entrance tickets, and even tips.
Flexibility is key, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve-now-pay-later option.
Wheelchair accessibility and private group options cater to diverse needs.
With an early morning Taj Mahal visit for photography, this action-packed itinerary showcases the best of Agra in just three days.
Read our full review: From Goa: Taj Mahal Tour From Goa Cruise Port Mormugao Review
Book now: Check availability
Taj Mahal Serenity: Boat Ride & Beyond
Taj Mahal Serenity: Boat Ride & Beyond is a captivating day tour that allows visitors to experience the beauty of the Taj Mahal and Agra’s other iconic landmarks.
Priced from $141.70 per person, the tour includes a boat ride on the Yamuna River and an opportunity to explore the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort with an English-speaking guide.
Convenient pickup from Delhi, comfortable transportation, and inclusion of entrance fees and the boat ride make this a hassle-free experience.
After lunch, visitors can enjoy leisure time for shopping or relaxing before the return to Delhi.
With free cancellation and no upfront payment required, this tour offers a flexible and enjoyable way to discover the Taj Mahal.
Read our full review: Taj Mahal Serenity: Boat Ride & Beyond Review
Book now: Check availability
From Cochin: Taj Mahal Tour From Cruise Ports
A standout Taj Mahal tour from cruise ports in Cochin provides travelers a chance to discover the architectural marvel in Agra.
Priced from $298.75 per person, this 3-day private tour offers a seamless experience, with pickup from the cruise port, luxury vehicle transportation, and guided visits to the Taj Mahal at sunrise and sunset.
The tour also includes stops at Agra Fort and local handicraft shops.
Wheelchair accessibility, free cancellation, and VIP airport assistance add to the convenience.
Travelers should bring comfortable clothes, their passport or ID, and expect an itinerary that may be subject to change.
This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women.
Read our full review: From Cochin: Taj Mahal Tour From Cruise Ports Review
Book now: Check availability
Taj Mahal Tour From Celebrity Millennium Cruise
Priced from $893.29 per person, this 4-day private Taj Mahal tour offers a comprehensive experience for travelers sailing on the Celebrity Millennium cruise.
The tour includes pick-up from Cochin Port, a flight to Delhi, and private transportation throughout the trip. Guests will explore Delhi’s iconic sights like the Red Fort and Qutub Minar before driving to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise.
The tour also covers Agra Fort and the Baby Taj. With free cancellation and the option to pay later, this tour provides a hassle-free way to experience the Taj Mahal during a Celebrity Millennium cruise.
The tour is limited to 4 participants for a small group experience.
Read our full review: Taj Mahal Tour From Celebrity Millennium Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
From Cochin: Agra Sightseeing From the Cruise Port
For travelers docking at Cochin Port, this 3-day Agra sightseeing tour offers a convenient way to explore the iconic Taj Mahal and other historical sites near the cruise destination.
Priced from $163.72 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and admission fees to top attractions like the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
Highlights include a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal, an early morning viewing for sunrise photos, and guided tours of Agra’s renowned monuments.
The tour accommodates small groups of up to 15 participants and features multilingual guides.
Travelers should note the restrictions on luggage and mobility impairments.
Read our full review: From Cochin: Agra Sightseeing From the Cruise Port Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Get to the Cruise Ports From the Airport?
From the airport, you can take a taxi, Uber, or public transportation like a bus or metro to reach the cruise ports. The exact route and duration will depend on the location of the cruise port and your starting point at the airport.
What Are the Best Dining Options on the Cruise Ships?
The cruise ships typically offer a variety of dining options, including casual buffets, à la carte restaurants, and specialty eateries. Passengers can enjoy international cuisines, local delicacies, and fine dining experiences during their cruise.
Can I Book Shore Excursions Through the Cruise Line?
Yes, passengers can typically book shore excursions through the cruise line. This provides convenience and ensures the tours are vetted and coordinated with the ship’s schedule. Booking through the cruise line also offers protection if an excursion is cancelled or delayed.
What Is the Average Cost of a Cruise in New Delhi?
The average cost of a cruise in New Delhi can vary greatly, ranging from around $50 to $500 per person for a typical day-long tour. Prices depend on the type of boat, amenities, and duration of the cruise.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Booking Early?
Many cruise companies offer discounted rates for early bookings. Travelers can often save 10-20% by reserving their cruise several months in advance. Early booking discounts vary, so it’s best to check with individual cruise lines for specific offers.
The Sum Up
Cruises and boat tours are a popular way to experience the highlights of New Delhi and nearby destinations like Varanasi and Agra. Tourists can enjoy a Ganges boat ride, Taj Mahal tours with boat rides, and day trips from cruise ports. These experiences offer a unique perspective and convenient access to some of India’s most iconic sights.