Gliding along York’s River Ouse is one of the best ways to experience this historic English city. Simple, well-organized boat tours depart regularly from central locations along the riverbank. The early evening cruise stands out, offering informative commentary about York’s 2,000-year history. For a special night out, the dinner cruise combines good food with dancing, while the traditional fish and chips cruise serves up Britain’s favorite meal on the water. Particularly appealing is the self-drive boat option – perfect for independent travelers who want to explore at their own pace. Let’s look at our recommended boat tours in York.
Key Points
- York offers a variety of evening boat cruises, including an early evening cruise, a floodlit cruise, and a late-night cruise, with high customer ratings.
- Daytime sightseeing cruises provide informative commentary on landmarks and scenic views along the River Ouse, with a maximum capacity of 120 travelers.
- Unique boat experiences, such as self-steering rentals, self-drive boat hire, party cruises, and fish and chips cruises, cater to different interests and group sizes.
- Cruises range in price from £17.18 to $56.63 per person, with straightforward booking processes, refund policies, and group discounts available.
- Cruises offer scenic and cultural highlights, including views of historic landmarks, live music, informative guides, and a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere.
Early Evening Boat Cruise Through York
The Early Evening Boat Cruise Through York provides a captivating opportunity to explore the historic city from a unique vantage point.
Departing from Kings Staith 1 in the early evening, the cruise offers breathtaking views of ancient landmarks and riverside villages.
Travelers can enjoy the heated saloon with beverages and snacks while learning about the region’s rich Roman and Viking heritage.
Accommodating up to 100 passengers, the cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are permitted.
With an overall rating of 4.0 based on 218 reviews, the cruise provides a relaxing and informative experience for visitors seeking to discover the enchanting sights of York from the tranquility of the Ouse River.
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York: Listen to Live Music Acts an a Boat Bar
Visitors to York can experience a unique blend of live music and scenic river views aboard the city’s boat bar. This popular attraction offers guests the chance to enjoy performances by local musicians as they cruise along the River Ouse.
The boat bar features a well-stocked bar, serving a variety of drinks to complement the lively atmosphere. Guests can choose from a range of tour options, with durations ranging from 45 minutes to 1 hour. Prices start from £17.82 per person, making it an affordable and entertaining activity for both locals and travelers alike.
The boat bar’s combination of live music, riverside scenery, and a convivial atmosphere makes it a must-visit experience in York.
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Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise in York
Setting out on a daytime sightseeing boat cruise along the River Ouse provides visitors to York with an unparalleled opportunity to soak in the city’s rich history and culture.
These 45-minute or 1-hour cruises offer informative commentary detailing the area’s landmarks, including Cliffords Tower and York Museum.
While not all boats are wheelchair accessible, the cruises provide scenic and relaxing views of the river. Refreshments are available on board, and the tours have a maximum capacity of 120 travelers.
With an average rating of 4.5 based on over 1,000 reviews, the boat tours offer a unique perspective of York and are easily accessible via public transportation.
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York: Self-Steer Boat Rental
While the popular daytime sightseeing cruises along the River Ouse offer a leisurely way to take in York’s scenic landmarks, those seeking a more independent experience can opt for self-steer boat rentals.
York’s self-guided boat tours allow visitors to explore the river at their own pace, navigating through the city’s historic bridges and waterfront. These rentals typically range from 1 to 2 hours, providing ample time to soak in the sights.
Prices start from around £17 per person, making it an affordable option for both individuals and small groups. With no prior boating experience required, self-steer boat rentals offer a unique and flexible way to discover York’s picturesque river and cityscape.
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Self-Drive Boat Hire in York
Those seeking a more hands-on way to explore York’s picturesque River Ouse can opt for self-drive boat hire.
Located in York, England, this experience allows groups of up to 6 passengers to navigate the river at their own pace, with prices starting from $19 per group.
Safety is prioritized, with life jackets provided and a briefing included. A $40 security deposit is required, and a map is supplied to help boaters navigate.
The activity ends at the same location as the meeting point, and confirmation is received upon booking.
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reviews highlight the clarity of instructions and overall enjoyable experience.
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York: River Ouse Floodlit Evening Cruise
York’s River Ouse floodlit evening cruise offers a captivating way to explore the city’s historic landmarks. This 1-hour activity allows visitors to admire York’s illuminated sites from the comfort of a heated, enclosed boat.
Guests can enjoy a choice of prosecco, hot chocolate, or soft drinks as they listen to relaxing background music. The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and the boats feature on-board facilities like a fully stocked bar.
Customers generally praise the cruise’s atmosphere, professional staff, and value for money, though some note seating proximity and lighting visibility concerns.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this evening cruise is a convenient and unique way to experience York from the River Ouse.
Read our full review: York: River Ouse Floodlit Evening Cruise Review
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Late Night Boat Cruise Through York
As night falls over the historic city, visitors can embark on a captivating late-night boat cruise along the River Ouse.
The 1-hour cruise departs at 6:00 PM, offering a paperless, instant mobile ticket. Passengers can enjoy a choice of refreshments, including Prosecco or non-alcoholic options, as they take in the scenic views of York’s illuminated landmarks.
The cruise is ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time, providing a romantic experience suitable for couples. While there’s no live commentary, soft music plays to enhance the atmospheric journey.
The cruise departs and returns to the Kings Staith Landing, with assistance available from the City Cruises team.
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York: River Ouse Early Evening Cruise
This 1-hour early evening cruise along the River Ouse provides visitors a delightful opportunity to experience York’s historic landmarks from a unique vantage point.
Priced from $17.18 per person, the cruise features an enclosed and heated saloon, restrooms, and a fully stocked bar with drinks and snacks.
A live guide offers informative and entertaining insights about York’s history and landmarks throughout the journey.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, though weather conditions may affect operations after heavy rainfall.
With an overall rating of 4.2/5 based on 742 reviews, this early evening cruise is a popular way to explore York from the water.
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York: River Ouse City Cruise
The York: River Ouse City Cruise offers visitors a 45-minute to 1-hour journey along the historic River Ouse, providing a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks. Priced from $17.82 per person, the cruise features live commentary about York’s history and significance as an inland port.
Onboard amenities include an enclosed heated saloon, restrooms, and a bar serving drinks and snacks. The cruise route varies, either passing through the city center or traveling upstream and downstream.
Meeting the cruise at Kings Staith Landing is straightforward, and customers are eligible for a full refund or rescheduling if the river levels affect operations.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5 from over 2,000 reviews, the cruise is a popular and enjoyable way to experience York from the water.
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York: Party Cruise With Welcome Drink, Dinner, and DJ Music
Travelers seeking a lively cruise experience in York can embark on the 2.5-hour Party Cruise, complete with a welcome drink, 2-course dinner, and DJ entertainment.
Priced from $56.63 per person, this popular cruise is likely to sell out, though free cancellation is available.
The experience includes a buffet featuring party foods, live music, and optional entry to a local nightclub.
However, disorderly or excessively intoxicated passengers may be refused access.
With an overall rating of 3.4/5, the Party Cruise offers an energetic river adventure, though transportation and value-for-money reviews are more mixed.
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York: Fish and Chips Cruise
One popular cruise option in York is the Fish and Chips Cruise, which offers travelers a 60-minute journey along the River Ouse while enjoying award-winning fish and chips. Priced at $25.45 per person, the cruise allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Customers can expect scenic views, an on-board bar, live commentary, and music during the experience. With an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 116 reviews, the cruise is praised for its transportation, value for money, and fish quality, though some note the music can be loud during the commentary.
The cruise operates with check-in times, and the meeting point can be found on Google Maps.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Drinks on the Cruise?
Many cruise lines and boat tours allow passengers to bring their own drinks, but it’s best to check the policies beforehand. Some may have restrictions on the types or quantities of outside beverages permitted on board.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruises?
Most cruises have age restrictions, typically requiring passengers to be at least 18 years old. However, some operators may allow younger travelers with adult supervision. It’s best to check the specific policies of the cruise line before booking.
How Accessible Are the Boats for Passengers With Disabilities?
The boats generally have accommodations for passengers with disabilities, such as ramps, wide aisles, and accessible restrooms. However, it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility features when booking a cruise to ensure it meets the passenger’s needs.
Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Cruise?
You can typically purchase tickets on the day of the cruise, but it’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. Many operators offer online reservations to make the process more convenient.
Do the Cruises Offer Any Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal Options?
Many cruises offer vegetarian and gluten-free meal options to accommodate various dietary needs. Passengers should inquire about the available menu options when booking their cruise to ensure their dietary requirements can be met.
The Sum Up
York offers a variety of boat tours and cruises to suit different preferences. Whether one desires a sightseeing cruise, a party cruise, or a self-drive rental, there are options to explore the River Ouse and experience the city from a unique perspective. These boat experiences provide an enjoyable and convenient way to discover the historic charm of York.