Sacramento’s riverfront cruises offer practical ways to experience California’s capital from the water. These boat tours run year-round from the downtown waterfront, with most departures lasting 1-1.5 hours.
I’m especially fond of the Sacramento Historic River Cruise for its informative narration about the Gold Rush era and the city’s maritime past. For families, the daytime Sacramento River Cruise provides excellent value with its kid-friendly commentary and comfortable seating.
Evening cruises deserve special mention – the Alive After Five cocktail cruise delivers a perfect mix of city views and casual atmosphere, while the Rock The Yacht cruise brings energy with its DJ and dance floor.
Let’s explore the standout river tours worth your time and money:
Key Points
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Sacramento River offers a variety of historic river cruises, including the 1-hour Sacramento Historic River Cruise with live narration and scenic views.
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Entertainment-focused cruises like the 1.5-hour Rock The Yacht River Cruise feature live DJ entertainment, hand-crafted drinks, and a 21+ age restriction.
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The 1-hour Sacramento River Cruise with Narrated History provides a family-friendly experience with detailed historical commentary and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
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Nightlife and special events, such as the 1.5-hour Alive After Five Cocktail River Cruise, offer a lively atmosphere with live music and handcrafted cocktails.
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Visitors can celebrate New Year’s Eve with the 2-hour New Years Eve River Firework Cruise, which includes a live DJ, champagne toast, and wheelchair accessibility.
Sacramento Historic River Cruise
Consistently, visitors to Sacramento can embark on the Sacramento Historic River Cruise, a captivating 1-hour boat tour along the city’s iconic waterway.
Led by a knowledgeable captain, the cruise provides live narration covering the river’s rich history and points of interest. Passengers can enjoy scenic views of Sacramento’s landmarks, including the Delta King, Tower Bridge, and I Street Bridge, while learning about the region’s Gold Rush and Pony Express legacies.
With multiple departure times and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off services, this cruise is an ideal activity for photography, sightseeing, and immersing oneself in the city’s vibrant past.
Read our full review: Sacramento Historic River Cruise Review
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Sacramento: Rock The Yacht River Cruise
For those seeking a lively and immersive river experience in Sacramento, the Rock The Yacht River Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to dance, sip crafted drinks, and soak in the city’s scenic beauty.
This 1.5-hour cruise on the Sacramento River features live DJ entertainment, indoor and outdoor seating, and hand-crafted beverages and snacks. Priced from $44.35 per person, the cruise is a popular choice, often selling out.
While the experience isn’t suitable for those under 21, it’s an ideal outing for groups of friends looking to start their night out in downtown Sacramento.
With a 4.4/5 overall rating, the Rock The Yacht River Cruise delivers an unforgettable and lively adventure on the water.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Rock The Yacht River Cruise Review
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Sacramento: River Cruise With Narrated History
The Sacramento River Cruise with Narrated History offers a captivating 1-hour voyage along the city’s waterways.
For $31.05, guests can embark on a fully-narrated tour showcasing Sacramento’s history from the Gold Rush to present. The cruise provides scenic views of iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and Old Sacramento, and a family-friendly atmosphere with opportunities to spot wildlife.
Small bites and cocktails are available for purchase. With an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 208 reviews, the cruise is praised for its friendly staff, excellent narration, and value for money.
While group seating isn’t guaranteed, the cruise is ideal for special occasions or memorable family outings.
Read our full review: Sacramento: River Cruise With Narrated History Review
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Sacramento: Alive After Five Cocktail River Cruise
Offering a vibrant alternative to the historically-focused river cruise, the Sacramento: Alive After Five Cocktail River Cruise invites guests to experience the city’s nightlife from the waterways.
This 1.5-hour cruise along the Sacramento River features a live DJ, handcrafted cocktails, and scenic views of the Tower Bridge and skyline. Priced from $37.70 per person, the experience caters to the 21+ crowd and may sell out quickly, so booking in advance is advisable.
Though complimentary drinks aren’t provided, small bites are available for purchase onboard. Customer reviews highlight the friendly crew, accommodating service, and electric atmosphere, though some suggest more seating.
Access to the cruise involves ramps, stairs, and an elevator, depending on the embarkation point.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Alive After Five Cocktail River Cruise Review
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Sacramento: New Years Eve River Firework Cruise
On New Year’s Eve, revelers can join a lively cruise along the Sacramento River to celebrate the arrival of the new year.
The “Sacramento: New Years Eve River Firework Cruise” offers a 2-hour experience priced from ₹6,574 per person. Guests can enjoy live DJ entertainment, scenic river views, and a complimentary glass of champagne for a New Year’s toast.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible and features options to purchase small bites and enjoy a cash bar. While seating is first-come, first-served and limited, the cruise provides an enjoyable way to ring in the new year along the waterfront.
Read our full review: Sacramento: New Years Eve River Firework Cruise Review
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Sacramento: New Years Eve Rock the Yacht Cruise
Revelers looking to ring in the new year with stunning views of the Sacramento skyline can join the “Sacramento: New Years Eve Rock the Yacht Cruise.”
This 1.5-hour experience aboard a yacht offers lively DJ entertainment, a complimentary glass of champagne at midnight, and an opportunity to cruise along the Sacramento River as the city lights twinkle in the night.
Priced from $110.76 per person, the cruise includes cocktail-style seating on a first-come, first-served basis.
The event is wheelchair accessible and available in English, but has a non-refundable cancellation policy.
Participants must be 21 or older and bring a valid ID for verification.
Read our full review: Sacramento: New Years Eve Rock the Yacht Cruise Review
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Sacramento: Sights and Sips Cruise
A leisurely cruise along the Sacramento River offers visitors a chance to soak in the city’s scenic waterfront and iconic landmarks.
The Sacramento: Sights and Sips Cruise is a 1.5-hour experience that takes guests on a family-friendly journey, complete with cocktails, small bites, and live music.
Passengers can enjoy Top 40 hits spun by a local DJ while taking in views of the Sacramento skyline, Tower Bridge, and Old Sacramento.
The cruise’s seasonal spooky-themed option in October adds a thrilling twist.
With a full-service bar, limited cocktail seating, and positive reviews, this cruise is a recommended activity for both families and groups.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Sights and Sips Cruise Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Life Jackets Provided on the Cruises?
Life jackets are typically provided on cruises and boat tours for the safety of passengers. Operators want to ensure everyone has access to proper safety equipment in case of an emergency or unforeseen event during the excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Passengers can generally bring their own food and drinks on board. However, some cruises may have restrictions or additional fees for outside items. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to understand their policies.
What Is the Dress Code for the Cruises?
The dress code for cruises is typically casual and comfortable. Most cruises don’t have a strict dress code, allowing passengers to wear whatever they feel most relaxed in. Some may require slightly nicer attire for special events or dining.
Are the Cruises Wheelchair Accessible?
The cruises are generally wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available to assist passengers. However, it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility features when booking to ensure the cruise meets the individual’s needs.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruises?
Most cruises don’t have age restrictions, though some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. Passengers should check with the tour operator to confirm any age policies before booking.
The Sum Up
Sacramento offers a variety of cruises and boat tours for visitors to enjoy. From historic river cruises to cocktail cruises and New Year’s Eve celebrations, there’s something for every interest. Whether you’re looking to learn about the city’s past or simply relax on the water, these tours provide a unique and memorable way to experience Sacramento’s waterways.