City Cruises Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise: A First-Timer’s Guide
- Lori S.
- Jan 3
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 11
Affiliate Disclosure:
This post may contain affiliate links. If you book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tours and experiences I genuinely believe are helpful for visitors to Boston. If you’re looking for an easy, relaxing way to see Boston’s most famous landmarks without walking miles or navigating public transit, the City Cruises Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise is one of the best experiences you can add to your itinerary.
This 60-minute narrated cruise takes you out onto Boston Harbor, where the city’s history unfolds from the water—just as it did during the Revolutionary War. With live commentary, panoramic skyline views, and classic Boston landmarks along the route, it’s a perfect activity for first-time visitors, families, and anyone short on time.
What Is the City Cruises Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise?
This cruise is a fully narrated sightseeing tour that explores both the inner and outer Boston Harbor. As you sail, onboard guides share stories about:
The American Revolution
Legends of the sea
Boston’s maritime history
Iconic historical figures
Unlike hop-on hop-off tours or walking routes, this experience lets you sit back and learn while the city passes by around you.
Landmarks You’ll See from the Water
One of the biggest highlights of this cruise is how many major Boston attractions you can see in just one hour.
Notable sights include:
USS Constitution Known as Old Ironsides, this is the world’s oldest commissioned naval warship still afloat. Depending on the time of your Boston Harbor Cruise, you could experience the sunset cannon salute from the USS Constitution.
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Cruise past the restored ships that bring Boston’s revolutionary past to life.
Boston Light America’s oldest continuously manned lighthouse, still guiding ships today.
Boston Harbor Islands National Park A beautiful stretch of islands, forts, and wildlife just offshore.
Bunker Hill Monument A reminder of one of the first major battles of the American Revolution.
Old North Church Famous for the signal, “One if by land, and two if by sea.”
Logan International Airport See planes landing and taking off as you cruise past the city’s busy port.
What’s Included in the Cruise
60-minute Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise
Live narrated commentary
Stunning skyline and waterfront views
Wheelchair-accessible boat
Food and beverages available for purchase onboard
Tickets are mobile-friendly, and you can skip the ticket booth and head straight to the boat for faster boarding. Buy tickets here!
Meeting Point & Boarding Tips
Meeting Location:📍 1 Long Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
(near Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market)
Important tips:
Boarding begins 15 minutes before departure
Arrive early—late arrivals typically cannot be accommodated
The cruise returns to the same location, making planning easy
The location is ideal if you’re already exploring Long Wharf, Faneuil Hall, the North End, or the Waterfront. Accessibility & Family-Friendliness
Wheelchair and stroller accessible
Service animals allowed
Restrooms onboard (note: restrooms are not wheelchair accessible)
Suitable for most travelers, including kids and seniors
This cruise is especially great for families who want history without a long walking tour.
Is This Cruise Worth It?
Absolutely—especially if:
It’s your first time in Boston
You want to learn history in a relaxed, scenic way
You’re visiting with kids or older family members
You want great photos of the Boston skyline
You need a break from walking
In just one hour, you’ll gain context for Boston’s history while seeing many of the same landmarks people spend an entire day trying to reach on foot.
How to Fit This Cruise Into Your Boston Itinerary
This cruise works well:
Midday as a break from sightseeing
On your first day to get oriented
After exploring Faneuil Hall or the Freedom Trail
As a low-effort activity on arrival or departure day
Pair it with lunch at Quincy Market or dinner along the waterfront for a perfect Boston day.
The City Cruises Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise offers one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to experience Boston’s history. Whether you’re a history buff or just want incredible views from the water, this cruise delivers a memorable introduction to the city—no walking shoes required.
If you’re building a first-time Boston itinerary, this cruise is a smart, stress-free addition.
