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Things to do in Boston Waterfront

Our most recommended things to do in Boston Waterfront

Boston: Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

1. Boston: Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Go whale watching off the coast of Boston on a comfortable, high-speed catamaran with maximized outdoor and indoor viewing capacity. Look out for humpback, finback, and minke whales, as well as white-sided dolphins on this adventure cruise. Benefit from the best-guided experience, with professional researchers from the Whale Center of New England, the region's foremost authority on whale populations, on-hand to provide you with expert commentary. After you find your crew at the dock, board the high-speed catamaran that offers the fastest, most comfortable way to explore the Atlantic.  Make the most of the 3 outside viewing decks, climate-controlled cabin space with cushioned seating, tables, state-of-the-art sound and video systems, and a galley offering snacks and beverages for purchase. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for:  Humpback whales The humpback’s name comes from the way its back arches out of the water when preparing for a deep dive. “Megaptera” is its true scientific name, which means “large-winged,” in reference to its long flippers. Finback whales Finbacks are second only to Blue Whales in overall size, measuring in at 45-70 feet in length and weighing approximately 40 tons as full-grown adults. Minke whales A sleek, small dolphin-like baleen whale, Minkes are the most abundant whale in the world today with a population numbering well over 1 million worldwide. White-sided dolphins Found only in the North Atlantic, in waters just south of New England and north to Norway, these playful mammals feed on single prey such as squid, unlike whales, who feast on large numbers of small fish.

Boston: Hop-on Hop-off Old Town Trolley Tour

2. Boston: Hop-on Hop-off Old Town Trolley Tour

Enjoy a hop-on hop-off tour aboard Boston’s charming orange and green Old Town Trolley and visit more than 100 points of interest in the city at your own pace. Enjoy the freedom to hop on or off all day and discover sights like the Boston State House, Liberty Wharf, and the Charlestown Navy Yard. Take in double-decker height views while protected from the elements. The comfortable enclosed trolleys allow you to experience elevated viewing come rain, snow, or shine. Choose between 1-day and 2-day ticket options with free unlimited re-boarding. The Boston Trolley tour covers all the major areas including downtown, Beacon Hill, Back Bay, the theater district, and the waterfront. Conductors narrate the tour, offering a fun mix of trivia and humorous stories. There are 14 stops conveniently located close to over 100 points of interest in Boston, these are: • Stop 1: New England Aquarium/Faneuil Hall Marketplace • Stop 2: Historic North End • Stop 3: USS Constitution/Charlestown Navy Yard • Stop 4: North Station/TD Bank Garden • Stop 5: Old State House * Stop 6: Beacon Hill/Antique Row • Stop 7: Cheers Bar "The Original" • Stop 8: Prudential Center/Skywalk Observatory (Currently closed due to construction) • Stop 9: Christian Science Plaza/Symphony Hall • Stop 10: Copley Place Shopping Galleries • Stop 11: Copley Square/Trinity Church • Stop 12: Old Town Trolley Welcome Center • Stop 13: Boston State House/ Boston Common/Beacon Hill • Stop 14: Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum (discounted admission included)

Boston: Historical Sightseeing Cruise

3. Boston: Historical Sightseeing Cruise

Board a sightseeing cruise in Boston and take a tour around Boston Harbor. Experience breathtaking views, refreshing sea breezes, and vividly told stories of Boston's past and present as you admire the city's sights from the water. Depart from Long Wharf, then Cruise past the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned US Navy warship afloat today, marvel at the Bunker Hill Monument, and catch a glimpse of the fabled Old North End Church steeple. Hear heroic tales told by expert narrators and learn about local legends from the Revolutionary War. You'll also discover how the harbor was transformed into one of the cleanest waterways in the country. Enjoy the best view no matter the weather, with spacious outdoor viewing decks when the weather is fine, and indoor spaces with large windows if you want to be indoors. Onboard refreshments and snacks are also available for purchase.

Boston: Harbor Champagne Sunset Sail from Rowes Wharf

4. Boston: Harbor Champagne Sunset Sail from Rowes Wharf

Embark on a sightseeing sunset cruise on Boston harbor and soak up the views of the famous skyline. Admire city highlights, including the Inner Harbor Islands and the Boston Fish Pier.    Board an elegant sailing yacht, the ' Adirondack III.' Travel in style on a classic 80 foot pilot schooner that is comfortable and spacious. Glide smoothly over the water and have the option of purchasing a refreshing drink at the onboard bar. Admire views of the historic scenery of Boston Harbor as you pass by the Boston Fish Pier and the Moakley Federal Courthouse at Fan Pier. Capture pictures of Castle Island and the Donald McKay monument. Cruise through the Inner Harbor Islands. Step back in time as you cruise by the historic Charleston Navy Yard. Go by the lush greenery of the Waterfront Park and take in the modern architecture of buildings like the New England Aquarium. Take a selfie in front of the Boston skyline. Have your questions about the sights and history of Boston Harbor and its surrounding areas answered by the attentive crew. Hear facinating facts and old-time legends about the maritime world of Boston. Return to your meeting point at the end of the tour.

Boston: Harbor Codzilla High Speed Thrill Boat

5. Boston: Harbor Codzilla High Speed Thrill Boat

Spark your adrenaline on a high-speed boat ride around Boston Harbor. Ride at break-neck speeds and enjoy the lively atmosphere on board with loud music and crew interaction. This is no ordinary boat ride. True to its name, Codzilla is monstrously fun, a thrill a minute as you scream across the water at up to 40 mph, with a few hairpin turns and 360-degree spins thrown in for evil measure. Take a cruise on the wild side as you scream for more after riding Codzilla. The wind roars, the music blares and the waves will splash during a wet and wild 40-minute ride at full blast. The ride features an original soundtrack and a show scripted by Hollywood screenwriters. Sit back and relax? Not on this cruise. The boat, Codzilla, is 70 feet of marine aluminium and bad attitude, prowling the ocean with 2 turbo-charged diesel engines, state-of-the-art water jets and 2,800 horsepower. Its unique hull design makes it capable of thrilling 360-degree turns and spinning on a dime. So be sure to secure all hats, scarves, eyewear and bad hairpieces. 

Boston: Downtown Harbor Sailing Cruise

6. Boston: Downtown Harbor Sailing Cruise

Experience Boston like never before onboard the 80-foot pilot schooner Adirondack III. Enjoy a round-trip of smooth sailing, with some invigorating speed to boot. Within minutes of leaving dock, you’ll forget the distractions of life on land as you experience the joy of a sailing adventure. Cruise past landmark attractions, such as the Boston Fish Pier, Moakley Federal Courthouse at Fan Pier, and Castle Island. Drift past the Inner Harbor Islands and see the historic Charleston Navy Yard. Look out for the green oasis of Waterfront Park and the home to hundreds of marine critters, including sharks and sea turtles, at New England Aquarium. Your knowledgeable captain and crew will be on hand to answer questions about the sights and history of Boston Harbor and its surrounds, from interesting facts to old-time legends. Wines and local micro beers are available to purchase onboard, while complimentary soda and water will keep you hydrated along the way.

Boston: New England Harbor Cruise

7. Boston: New England Harbor Cruise

Boston Harbor is home to 34 islands and nearly every island has a story to tell. From its fortifications and hauntings to lighthouses and wildlife sanctuaries, the harbor is full of rich and unique history that will keep your attention throughout the trip.  Notable things to see include the Old North Church, Bunker Hill Monument, USS Cassin Young, the USS Constitution, Fort Independence, Boston's Seaport District, and Spectacle Island. The motor yacht's design was inspired by classic New England 1920s style steamships. She is one of the most comfortable and versatile cruise vessels in the Boston Harbor. She is 115-feet in length, features six bathrooms and provides ample seating throughout the ship. She is built for taking groups of people on spectacular sightseeing adventures. Thus, she is excellent for taking out groups of friends and family to see the harbor. Sit back and relax in the climate-controlled cabin or enjoy the sea breeze on the open top deck. During your harbor cruise, the captain will provide narration and the crew will be around to assist in making your trip more comfortable. Be sure to visit the fully stocked bar on the main deck to purchase refreshments.

Boston: Guided Seafood Tasting Tour

8. Boston: Guided Seafood Tasting Tour

Begin your tour by meeting your local guide at Boston's Independence Wharf, where the viewing deck offers spectacular views of the city. Your guide will point out notable landmarks such as Fort Point and the Seaport District, which was once a bustling commercial port and is now a thriving neighborhood. You'll also be able to see the site of the historic Boston Tea Party. Next, head to the Harborwalk, a pathway connecting waterfront neighborhoods to the Boston Harbor. Learn about the history of this iconic harbor and take in the magnificent views. As you walk, pass by Long Wharf and the original port of Boston, which served as the main point of entry for goods into the city for nearly 200 years. Your guide will then take you to some of their favorite seafood restaurants, from waterfront shacks to classic eateries, where you can savor some of Boston's freshest seafood. Sample a delicious lobster roll and a cup of classic New England clam chowder. Depending on the season and availability, you may also have the opportunity to try stuffed scallops, stuffed quahog clams, raw oysters or fried clams. The tour also includes a visit to the historic Quincy Market, a popular food hall, and next door the famous Faneuil Hall, one of Boston's most significant buildings and known as the "Cradle of Liberty" for its role in hosting meetings about abolition, women's suffrage and war. End your tour at the Rose Kennedy Greenway, a public park with beautiful green spaces and restaurants, and conveniently located near transportation links. Your guide will be happy to give you recommendations on the best places to eat, drink and visit if you plan on staying longer in Boston.

Boston: 1.5-Hour Dog-Friendly Harbor Cruise

9. Boston: 1.5-Hour Dog-Friendly Harbor Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing sightseeing cruise with the entire family — dogs included. As you sail along the Boston Harbor, see beautiful views of the skyline and tick off the city highlights. Start from Rowes Wharff and glide past such historic landmarks like the Federal Courthouse, the Seaport District, and the working pier. Enjoy snacks and drinks available on board as you take photos of the Boston skyline. See the historic USS Constitution, the US Navy's oldest warship, in her berth in the Charleston Navy Yard. Finish the cruise at the North End of the harbor and head back to Rowes Wharf.

Boston Harbor: Full Moon Cruise with Champagne Option

10. Boston Harbor: Full Moon Cruise with Champagne Option

The cruise will start from Rowes Wharf and head out towards the fish pier and logan airport. Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure. During the cruise, you will be right under the flight path of Boston Logan Airport and hear the engines roar as the planes land and take off. We will head towards the Boston Harbor Islands and then back to the dock along the East Boston and Charlestown waterfronts. View the USS Constitution, the United States Navy's oldest commissioned ship, in all its splendor under the moonlight. There is a full service bar and light snacks available for sale during your cruise. You can also select an option to have a glass of prosecco included in your ticket.

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What people are saying about Boston Waterfront

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 3,602 reviews

A great way to see the sights! The drivers are very knowledgeable and bring the history to life. Our guide, Beannie, was so much fun. Her enthusiasm and energy draws you in and she got everyone involved in some way! She was an absolute joy to be with!! Any questions were answered kindly and fully. The stops are set out to see the most sights in the city and surrounding areas in an easy walk and the maps help you navigate the places you want to go. Overall a great way to see the city and not have to worry about traffic and parking.

Crafty is an amazing guide and excellent conductor. We learned so much about history and the most peculiar places. Crafty thanks for making the tour such a memorable day for me and my daughter!

I would suggest that if you're not prepared for cold chilly weather don't go during the winter months.

Great way to get around the city and the tour guide where funny fun and informative

This was absolutely fantastic way to experience the city’s history and culture!