Boston Swan Boats | Back in the Paddle

For generations of Bostonians, spring begins when the Swan Boats first set out across the Public Garden lagoon.

By Julia Clancy

Feb 18 2020

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2020 marks the 144th season for Boston’s Swan Boats, which have been gliding around in the Public Garden since Rutherford B. Hayes was in the White House.

D ating back to 1837, Boston’s Public Garden is rooted on land once submerged in tidal marshes. Victorian cast-iron fencing skirts the 24-acre enclave that sits alongside Boston Common in the heart of downtown, surrounded by the historic neighborhoods of Back Bay and Beacon Hill and not far from the Financial District and the waterfront. Within the Public Garden is a six-acre pond, and it is here that the city’s famous Swan Boats make their nest. Ornamented with replicas of their graceful namesake, these 30-foot-long pontoon boats have endured the Depression, two world wars, East Coast weather, and the Internet age.

Vintage Boston Swan Boats

Knowingly or not, many Bostonians hold the Swan Boats as a serene constant in the city’s endless flux. I am one of them. I rode the boats as a child; so did my mother and her mother, and so did my father and his mother. To my 7-year-old self, the swan perched on the stern loomed tall, its neck curving like half a cartoon heart. The surface of the wide lagoon was flat except for the dappled path left by the boat’s paddle wheel. A 7-year-old and her three siblings might have wished they had rocks to toss into the water, making a kerplunk like the blueberries hitting a metal pail in Robert McCloskey’s Blueberries for Sal . The same author wrote Make Way for Ducklings in 1941, which helped immortalize the Swan Boats and the Public Garden for generations of young readers.

Today, I have come back to the Swan Boats right at that annual moment when early May explodes into spring: sunlight, greenery, and pollen. It’s been two decades since my last loop on the Swans. I no longer thrill at the thought of falling in (the water is two feet deep), and what I recalled as a 40-minute jaunt around the pond actually lasts about 15. But the urge to sit on a swan on the water is there, a trinket of childhood that endures.

Boston Swan Boats History

There are no phone calls allowed here. There are no waterfalls or statues to ogle. There are puttering ducks, and pennies winking beneath the silt. Under a stone footbridge near the water is a spill of yellow tulips like cracked egg yolks. A willow tree dangles long ropes of frondlike branches over benches and grass. The hum of Commonwealth Avenue is eclipsed, somehow, by quiet.

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Weighing some 800 pounds apiece and built mainly from oak, iron, and copper, the Swan Boats have the same basic design today as the very first versions, launched more than 140 years ago. Most of the boat is filled with benches that hold 25 passengers. At the stern is the driver, who seemingly perches on the back of a swan while peddling, bicycle-style, to turn the paddle wheel; steering is done with a rope attached to the rudder. The 12 boats in the fleet are all painted, sanded, and revarnished seasonally, with workers taking care to maintain the two dozen or so parts custom-made for the Swans, the oldest of which is 109. Weather permitting, the Swan Boats operate daily from mid-April through Labor Day; an adult ticket costs less than a small latte at any of the nearby coffee shops.

Standing under the awning of the pontoon dock is owner Lyn Paget, the great-granddaughter of Roger Paget, the original proprietor. Her smile is like the mellow flicker of sun on the water, and despite her petite size there’s also something about Lyn that suggests she could hoist two adults from knee-deep water if she wanted to.

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The Swan Boat family tree is as neatly vertical as a birch. Lyn’s father, Paul Paget, took the reins from his father, John Paget, who was 86 when he retired. John’s parents, Irish immigrants named Robert and Julia Paget, debuted the Swan Boats in 1877, seven years after getting a rowboat license from the city council. When Robert died the following year of tuberculosis, Julia, pregnant with her fourth child, took over as sole proprietor. Being a woman, she was required to collect signatures from fellow Back Bay business owners as proof that she had the ability to run the Swan Boats—which she went on to do for 36 years.

“Sitting here 143 years later,” Lyn tells me, “there’s no way this would have continued to exist without her.”

Visitors trickle toward the dock awning as lunchtime approaches. Sue Ferruggio, who has worked at the Swan Boats for 24 years, collects tickets from a father-daughter duo from Arlington, a family of six from Maine, travelers from China visiting relatives, and a grandmother who once rode the boats as a girl with her grandmother.

Boston Swan Boats

I ask Lyn if she has any indelible memories from her life among the Swan Boats. I suppose I expected a family anecdote, or a nod to returning patrons for whom a boat ride is a decades-old tradition. But what she said was, “I feel so emotionally connected to what the boats mean for people. And that was especially apparent during the Boston Marathon bombings in 2013.”

Even from the lagoon, she remembers, they could hear it. A loud noise. Commotion. Sirens. That evening, the parks commissioner left it up to Lyn to decide whether to open the Swan Boats in the following days. She called every member of her close-knit little crew to see where their hearts and heads were. The consensus was unanimous: “One hundred percent of our team told me, ‘We’re in.’”

The Swan Boats reopened two days after the marathon bombings. Locals showed up. Folks who were stuck in town without a flight home showed up. People still wearing running numbers and medals showed up. “It was amazing to see how many people flocked here,” Lyn says.

Not long after that, Lyn was making small talk with a woman whose son was on the dock, in a wheelchair, waiting for his boat ride. Their family had flown from California for the marathon, which the woman ran in. Her son had been at the finish line and was hit in the leg by shrapnel when the bombs went off. The boy spent a week recovering at Boston Children’s Hospital, and this was the first day since the bombings that he had medical permission to go outdoors. He asked for a Swan Boat ride.

Lyn pauses. We both nod in the silence, unintentionally mimicking the bobbing Swans behind us.

“It’s an incredible memory of human love and persistence,” she says. “A memory like that shows what these places in the middle of cities are to people. They mean something.”

A pause, and then: “They mean something.”

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1. Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

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13. Boston Day Tour by Ferry: Salem Witch Trials Past to Present

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Paddlewheel Cruises: A Step Back in Time

Immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of yesteryear with our paddlewheel cruises. For many travelers, it’s the perfect combination of classic elegance and modern comfort.

Our paddlewheel cruisers stand as iconic symbols of a bygone era, evoking the golden age of river travel when these iconic boats ruled the waters.

The grand paddlewheels, reminiscent of a time when steam-powered propulsion was the height of innovation, infuse each voyage with a sense of nostalgia. As you step aboard, you’ll find yourself transported to a period of elegance and refinement, while still enjoying modern amenities.

History in Motion

There’s something truly captivating about the rhythmic churning of the paddlewheel as it propels the vessel along historic waterways. It’s a reminder of the past, a connection to the days when these vessels were the lifeblood of transportation and trade along rivers.

But the experience doesn’t end with the propulsion. Onboard, a world of entertainment and camaraderie unfolds. Many of our paddlewheel cruises offer themed parties, live performances, and interactive activities that help foster a sense of community among fellow passengers.

As you share in the revelry, you’ll forge connections that span generations and backgrounds, making memories that last long after the cruise concludes.

Sights and Sounds

Picture yourself in a boat on a river … cruising down the Ohio River, absorbing the picturesque landscapes that unfold before you. Or imagine navigating the winding waters of the Columbia and Snake rivers, tracing the paths of explorers who ventured into uncharted territories. Each destination tells its own story, and our paddlewheel cruises give you the unique opportunity to be a part of that narrative.

In a world where speed and efficiency often take precedence, paddlewheel cruises invite you to slow down and savor every moment. Let the gentle rocking of the boat, the soothing sounds of water, and the grandeur of the paddlewheel transport you to a time when journeys were as important as the destinations themselves.

If you’re seeking an escape from the ordinary, a voyage that intertwines history and modern comfort, then step aboard our paddlewheel cruises. As you relive the charm of a bygone era and discover new horizons, you’ll find that these cruises offer a unique blend of nostalgia and adventure, an experience that is truly timeless.

Get in touch with USA River Cruises to start planning your next adventure or to learn more about our ship types .

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Back on the water April 19th. Book early to reserve your date and time

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve got you covered.

Our Public Cruises depart from either Pier 6 or India Wharf (check our calendar or your emailed ticket to confirm boarding location)

Pier 6 Restaurant Dock – Charlestown Navy Yard (1 8th St, Charlestown, MA 02129). By public transportation, Pier 6 is a 5-minute Uber/Taxi ride or a pleasant 15-minute walk along the Freedom Trail through the Navy Yard National Park from the North Station T (green and orange lines) and Commuter Rail Station. You can also take the MBTA water shuttle from Long Wharf (Downtown) to Navy Yard Pier 4 (next to Pier 6) which departs every 30 minutes on the hour and a half hour. Water Taxi connections to Pier 6 are available from all Boston Harbor locations. If you are driving, the Pier 6 parking lot fills up early. We recommend the Flagship Wharf parking garage, it’s less expensive and next to Pier 6. There is also street parking available with no time limit on weekends.

India Wharf – Downtown next to Boston Aquarium (85 India Row, Boston MA 02110). 5 min walk from Aquarium T Station and Long Wharf. Public parking across the street at the Harbor Garage

Our Private Charters can depart from a few different locations upon request, so if you are unsure, please check your email ticket. You may be launching from:

Pier 6 Restaurant/Marina – Charlestown Navy Yard This location has the most convenient parking and bathroom options 1 Eight St, Charlestown, MA 02129 The parking garage at Flagship Wharf is just a few steps from our boarding location at the first gangway on the right side of Pier 6.

Battery Wharf – North End Boston 3 Battery Wharf, Boston, MA 02019 Take Commercial Street to Battery Wharf. Walk down Battery Wharf and follow the Harborwalk to the left. The Harborwalk will lead you to the dock.

Moakley Courthouse Dock – South Boston/Seaport 1 Courthouse Way, Boston, MA 02210 Next to the Barking Crab and diagonally across the street from the Envoy Hotel.

Liberty Wharf Dock – South Boston/Seaport 270 Northern Ave, South Boston, MA 02210 Behind Legal Seafood Harbourside

Reel House Restaurant Dock – East Boston 6 New Street, Boston, MA 02128 Behind Reel House Restaurant East Boston.

Tall Ship Oyster Bar and Food Court Dock – East Boston 65 Lewis Street, East Boston, MA 02128 New in 2021 and one of the most popular outdoor venues in Boston.

** For North End, South Boston/Seaport, Downtown, or East Boston departures, the boat will arrive closer to 10 minutes before the departure time due to shuttle time needed.

No, don’t worry! The captain can raise or lower the paddle wheel to reduce the resistance, making the pedaling easier (just like lowering the gear on a bicycle) Since everyone works as a team, you don’t have to pedal the whole time. Most people take turns and have fun pedaling or just cruising.

We can also supplement your pedal power with the outboard motor, so no one has to pedal! Most people pedal for about 5 min (but you may fool us) then socialize and enjoy the views for the rest of the cruise).

We have three boats that vary in passenger capacity:

  • Boston Patriot’s capacity is 20 with pedal stations for 12 and a lounge area for 8, and one restroom.
  • Rosie the Riveter’s capacity is 24 with pedal stations for 12 and a lounge area for 12, and one restroom.
  • Sweet Caroline’s capacity is 26 with pedal stations for 12 and a lounge area for 14, and one restroom.
  • Minuteman’s capacity is 26 with pedal stations for 12 and a lounge area for 14, and one restroom.

You could reserve two boats and double the size of your group.

On public tours we do our best to make sure that everyone gets a turn pedaling if they want by switching from lounge seats to pedaling seats. Passengers are free to move around the boat except when we are docking. We just ask that everyone not congregate in one area to keep the boat in balance.

  • Boston Patriot capacity is 20 with pedal stations for 12 and a lounge area for 8.
  • Rosie the Riveter’s capacity is 24 with pedal stations for 12 and a lounge area for 12.
  • Sweet Caroline’s & Minuteman’s capacity is 26 with pedal stations for 12 and a lounge area for 14.

It’s unlikely you’ll get wet, but dress for the weather conditions and for comfort, it can be a little windier or cooler on the harbor, so we do recommend bringing an extra layer especially for evening tours.

Sunglasses and hats are great but you will be seated under a large canopy shielding direct sun and rain. No need to bring a cooler as we have ice chests with ice in the center bar between the pedal stations for passenger use.

Yes! Riders who are of age are welcome to bring beer, wine or pre-mixed cocktails (no hard alcohol) while they enjoy their Cycleboat ride! Of course non-alcoholic beverages are okay too! We have ice, coolers and cup holders on board to make sure you always have a cold drink on hand.

This should go without saying, but we’re going to say it anyway: you must be 21 or older (and have the ID to prove it).

Please keep in mind that open containers are only allowed on board the Cycleboat and cannot be taken back onto the dock. Hard alcohol is the same as liquor, spirits, or a distilled drink. As a rule of thumb if the drink is over 20% ABV (Alcohol by Volume) it is not allowed on the Cycleboat. Hard Seltzer is perfectly fine to bring. In fact, it’s our favorite!

Sure! Yes, snacks are great or anything you can eat with one hand (i.e. sandwich). Anything that requires a fork and knife is probably not a good idea.

There is a bathroom aboard our 20, 24 and two 26 passenger boats (Boston Patriot, Rosie the Riveter, Minuteman and Sweet Caroline) for emergencies. Our 16 person boat (Cycleboat One) does not have a bathroom but can make a short bathroom stop at the tour’s halfway point.

Our public tours will operate with 6 passengers or more. If your reserved cruise has less than 6 people we may cancel it and offer an alternate cruise, give credit for a future tour, or provide a full refund.

The Cycleboat pedals rain or shine thanks to a protective canopy that covers the boat.

We do cancel tours due to extreme weather including thunderstorms or very high winds. In this case we’ll try to notify you at least 2 hours before departure time, however the captain always has the authority to cancel the tour if weather conditions change. In this case passengers will be given a credit to reschedule or a refund. Your safety is our top priority.

If we cancel a trip due to weather, you will either be rescheduled at your convenience or refunded 100%

Cancellations by our passengers with less than 72hrs in advance can not be refunded.

Cancellations prior 72hrs in advance can be rescheduled or refunded less a 15% administrative fee.

Yes! Kids 6 and up can join any cruise with adult supervision. Please keep in mind that anyone is invited to bring their own alcoholic beverages on public tours.

There is no minimum age for private charters, just let us know in advance so we can make sure to have appropriate lifejackets on board in case of an emergency.

Gratuities are greatly appreciated for a job well done at the discretion of the guest. All private charters will include an automatic 15% gratuity . You can adjust the gratuity after your cruise based on your experience.

No cash? No problem. Our crews have their own Venmo accounts or you can add a gratuity to your online reservation when you first make it or afterwards by sending us an email. All gratuities are divided equally between captain and crew.

We strongly recommend planning to arrive at least 20 minutes early for your Cycleboat ride so you can board and get situated. For public tours, the boat will leave on time (without you) because we have a daily schedule to keep and it is not fair to the other passengers to shorten the cruise.

If you have booked a private charter, we will wait to leave but it will shorten your time on the water because we have a daily schedule to keep. For North End, Seaport, or East Boston departures, the boat may arrive closer to 10 minutes before the departure time due to the need to shuttle from another location.

Each standard Cycleboat tour is 90 minutes long en route. We can also schedule longer cruises or extend a cruise based on availability.

Reach Out to Cycleboat Boston

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Sit back, relax, and join us onboard for an unforgettable experience and the best views in the city!

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Private events, family owned for over 30 years..

Since its creation in 1990, the Charles River Boat Company has offered guests the chance to experience beautiful views of both the Charles River and Boston Harbor. Charles River Boat Company is proud to showcase the incredible skyline to over 60,0000 passengers every season and is built on the ideals of genuine customer service, community engagement, and making memories with those who matter most.

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“Worth the time! This 70 minute boat tour on the Charles River was very informative. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and kept us entertained. We were able to view the many prominent building along the river and saw parts of Boston that we wouldn’t have seen from land. This a fun tour for people of all ages.”

“My group had an amazing time. It was a great venue to host a meeting. We will definitely do this again!!”

“People have been saying Friday night was the best employee outing we’ve EVER had, and I agree! Definitely looking forward to doing business with you again in the future!”

“My husband and I were married on the Lexington Riverboat; Melissa Otis was at the helm the entire time. She helped with everything from planning the menu, seating, handing tokens out to guests, and more that I’m unaware of. She was patient, timely with responses and the ultimate professional throughout the whole process…..about 1 year. The staff on the boat were equally amazing, as was the food from Jules Catering. We left almost wanting to get a divorce just so we could get remarried again…best experience and day ever!! A million thanks!”

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Recent News & Upcoming Events

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Holiday Sunset & Cocktail Cruise

As the sun sets over the picturesque Charles River, Charles Riverboat Company invites you to embark on a 60-minute journey of enchantment with our Holiday

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Ticketed Tours & Cruises

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Opening Day: Saturday, April 13, 2024 at 10am

Swan Boats

Take a Ride on the Swan Boats!

A unique Boston experience in the heart of the nation’s first botanical garden. Family owned and operated since 1877.

Plan Your Visit

Young girl visiting the Swan Boats in Boston

Come take a ride on the iconic Swan Boats in the Boston Public Garden. Open daily April-September.

Explore the History

Kids playing on swans in winter storage

The Swan Boats have been family-owned and operated since 1877. See how things have changed over the years.

How Does It Work?

Swan Boats Driver's Seat

The historic Swan Boats are pedaled by our driver with passengers on six benches.

Swan Boats tied together for overnight safety

“The Boston Swan Boats are one of few experiences that have changed so little over time, residents can almost totally replicate the beloved rides they took in their own childhoods. Sharing those memories with the young ones makes for an even more special voyage.”

Bethany Bourgault,  Yankee Magazine May 2021 issue

Spend A Perfect Summer Day On This Old-Fashioned Paddle Boat Cruise In Massachusetts

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Massachusetts native. Freelance writer and strawberry eater.

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Looking for a unique summer activity that won’t break the bank? This old-fashioned paddle boat tour in Massachusetts is just the thing. A cruise on the The Pilgrim Belle is a perfect way to spend a warm summer day on the water.

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The Pilgrim Belle leaves from Mayflower II State Pier in Plymouth. Click here to find out more about this cruise and to book tickets.

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[Announcements: Allston/Brighton]

Announcements, canoe, paddleboard & kayak in boston, allston/brighton, july 3-4th restrictions:.

Rent a Canoe, Paddleboard and Kayak in Boston and enjoy one of the most scenic sections of urban river in the country. Boating on the Charles River from our Boston location in Allston/Brighton is a wonderful respite from the surrounding city, with parkland on both shores and rowers plying the waters.

Paddle downstream towards Boston to see local colleges (Harvard, M.I.T., and B.U.) the Esplanade, and Boston skyline. Make sure to stop for a picnic

This nine-mile stretch of river has no current, allowing easy round trips. However, renters can also enjoy one-way trips to or from our Cambridge location in Kendall Square — a unique way to see the city! Learn more about our Boston Location in Allston/Brighton .

Reservations are not required. Reservations are available at some times but if you don’t see the time you want, just walk in and we’ll get you out on the water! Save time and complete your waiver before you come.

Cancellation Policy:

  • You must request a cancellation with at least 12 hours notice of your desired rental time in order to receive a refund less a 10% administrative fee. You can reschedule your activity to another day up to two hours ahead of time.
  • Please see the reschedule link in your confirmation email to reschedule your rental online or email us at [email protected] to request a refund.

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Policies & Return Times

The last boat of the evening launches one hour before closing time -- This means that you need to be at the check in desk with all members of your party at least an hour before closing, and possibly earlier than that if there is already a line on the dock.  

  • Here are some Frequently Asked Questions that may help you plan your visit
  • Bring your photo ID everytime you paddle
  • Always be prepared to get wet, wear your life jacket and ask us for a drybag to protect your belongings.
  • Smoking and Alcohol is strictly prohibited and we reserve the right to inspect your bags and coolers.

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COMMENTS

  1. Boston Cycleboat Tours

    From public tours to private parties, you'll see Boston like never before! Cycleboat Boston has been operating Boston Inner Harbor cruises since 2019. We have 4 boats Boston Patriot, Minuteman, Rosie the Riveter, and Sweet Caroline. They all have bathrooms on board and are all Coast Guard Inspected Passenger Vessels that operate on a Coast ...

  2. Luxurious Lexington Yacht Vessel in Boston

    The Lexington vessel is an authentic two level paddlewheel boat that cruises the Boston Harbor for private charters & has a full premium bar & catering options. ... The Lexington is a custom designed 75' authentic two level paddle wheel boat cruising the Boston Harbor. All privately chartered events offer a full service premium bar and a ...

  3. Cycleboat Boston

    CRUISE BOSTON HARBOR ON A PEDAL POWERED TOUR BOAT Our 1.5 hour tour starts at in the Navy Yard in Boston and opens directly into the incredible Boston Harbor. From the Cycleboat, you'll see some amazing views of Boston and American History including the Boston Tea Party Ship, the Downtown Boston Waterfront, Bunker Hill and the Charlestown ...

  4. TOP 10 BEST Paddle Boat in Boston, MA

    Top 10 Best Paddle Boat in Boston, MA - March 2024 - Yelp - Swan Boats of Boston, Community Boating, Boston Common, Charles River Canoe & Kayak, Charles Riverboat Company, Jamaica Pond, Cycleboat Boston, Boating in Boston

  5. Paddle Boston

    per adult. Tour-in-Four -- A Private four hour walking & driving city tour. 16. Historical Tours. from. $495.00. per group (up to 6) LIKELY TO SELL OUT*. Sightseeing Day Sail around Boston Harbor.

  6. TOP 10 BEST Pedal Boat in Boston, MA

    Top 10 Best pedal boat Near Boston, Massachusetts. 1. Cycleboat Boston. "I booked a pedal boat Mimosa Cruise in October 2022, as a gift. When they arriving between 9:30 and..." more. 2. Charles River Canoe & Kayak - Temp. CLOSED.

  7. Rental Rates & Available Boat Types

    Paddle Boston provides the Boston, Massachusetts area with outdoor paddlesport recreation, canoe and kayak rentals and sales, canoe and kayak classes and instruction, guided tours and trips, a full-service paddling store, kid's paddling camps and more. ... Rental Rates & Available Boat Types On-Site Rental Rates. Make a reservation and fill out ...

  8. Guided Tours & Trips

    Paddle Boston provides the Boston, Massachusetts area with outdoor paddlesport recreation, canoe and kayak rentals and sales, canoe and kayak classes and instruction, guided tours and trips, a full-service paddling store, kid's paddling camps and more.

  9. Boston Swan Boats

    Feb 18 2020. 2020 marks the 144th season for Boston's Swan Boats, which have been gliding around in the Public Garden since Rutherford B. Hayes was in the White House. Photo Credit : Emily Kan. D ating back to 1837, Boston's Public Garden is rooted on land once submerged in tidal marshes. Victorian cast-iron fencing skirts the 24-acre ...

  10. Paddle Boston

    Charles River Canoe & Kayak provides Kayak, Paddleboard, and Canoe rentals in the Boston area. We offer Paddleboard, Canoe, and Kayak rentals, sales, instruction, guided tours and trips, kid's paddling camps, and a wealth of knowledge and experience.. All of our Rental Locations have canoes and stable recreational kayaks, plus faster sea kayaks and a variety of other boat types!

  11. THE 10 BEST Boston Boat Rides & Cruises

    These are the best places for adrenaline seekers looking for boat tours & water sports in Boston: Classic Sail Boston; Boston's Best Cruises; Boston Harbor Mini Speed Boats, Inc. Paddle Boston - Charles River Canoe & Kayak; New England Aquarium Whale Watch; See more boat tours & water sports for adrenaline seekers in Boston on Tripadvisor

  12. THE 10 BEST Boston Boat Rides & Cruises (Updated 2024)

    These are the best places for adrenaline seekers looking for boat tours & water sports in Boston: Classic Sail Boston; Boston's Best Cruises; Boston Harbor Mini Speed Boats, Inc. Paddle Boston - Charles River Canoe & Kayak; New England Aquarium Whale Watch; See more boat tours & water sports for adrenaline seekers in Boston on Tripadvisor

  13. Paddlewheel Cruises: A Step Back in Time

    Our paddlewheel cruisers stand as iconic symbols of a bygone era, evoking the golden age of river travel when these iconic boats ruled the waters. The grand paddlewheels, reminiscent of a time when steam-powered propulsion was the height of innovation, infuse each voyage with a sense of nostalgia. As you step aboard, you'll find yourself ...

  14. Sightseeing Boat Tours in Boston, MA

    Francis W. Sightseeing Cruise. "Worth the time! This 70 minute boat tour on the Charles River was very informative. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and kept us entertained. We were able to view the many prominent building along the river and saw parts of Boston that we wouldn't have seen from land.

  15. Best Paddle Boarding near Downtown, Boston, MA

    Top 10 Best Paddle Boarding in Downtown, Boston, MA - November 2023 - Yelp - Charles River Canoe & Kayak, Paddle Boston, Community Boating, North Shore Kayak Outdoor Center, Contoocook River Canoe, Nantasket Kayaks, Boating in Boston, Cohasset PaddleSports, Zoar Outdoor

  16. Frequently Asked Questions I Cycleboat Boston

    Our Public Cruises depart from either Pier 6 or India Wharf (check our calendar or your emailed ticket to confirm boarding location). Pier 6 Restaurant Dock- Charlestown Navy Yard (1 8th St, Charlestown, MA 02129). By public transportation, Pier 6 is a 5-minute Uber/Taxi ride or a pleasant 15-minute walk along the Freedom Trail through the Navy Yard National Park from the North Station T ...

  17. Private Events & Yacht Charters in Boston & Cambridge, MA

    Discover the Beauty of Boston by Boat. Boston's only boat company specializing in public and private cruises on the Charles River and Boston Harbor. Plan Your Trip →. Call 617.621.3001.

  18. Paddle Boston

    Paddle Boston provides the Boston, Massachusetts area with outdoor paddlesport recreation, canoe and kayak rentals and sales, canoe and kayak classes and instruction, guided tours and trips, a full-service paddling store, kid's paddling camps and more. ... Groups of eight boats or more who plan to paddle one-way must notify us when arranging ...

  19. Home

    Take a Ride on the Swan Boats! Plan Your Visit A unique Boston experience in the heart of the nation's first botanical garden.Family owned and operated since 1877. Plan Your Visit Come take a ride on the iconic Swan Boats in the Boston Public Garden. Open daily April-September. More Info Explore the History The Swan

  20. The Pilgrim Belle Is An Old-Fashioned Paddle Boat Cruise In Massachusetts

    A cruise on the The Pilgrim Belle is a perfect way to spend a warm summer day on the water. The Pilgrim Belle is an old-fashioned paddle wheel boat and the only ship of its kind in Massachusetts. The big red wheels on the back of the vessel move it through the water, just like those iconic ships on the mighty Mississippi.

  21. Paddle Boston: Rent a Paddleboard, Canoe, or Paddleboard in Boston

    Rent a Canoe, Paddleboard and Kayak in Boston and enjoy one of the most scenic sections of urban river in the country. Boating on the Charles River from our Boston location in Allston/Brighton is a wonderful respite from the surrounding city, with parkland on both shores and rowers plying the waters. Paddle downstream towards Boston to see ...