sailboat cruise watkins glen

Boating & Lake Life

Get out on the water.

Water activities are abundant on our many lakes and waterways including  Seneca,  Cayuta , Waneta,  and  Lamoka Lakes , where you can find sailing, boating, paddling, swimming, fishing, and more.

If you'd like to rent a kayak, our outfitters, including  Summit to Stream Adventures   and  Seneca Lake Kayak , can provide expert advice, gear, and even offer guided trips.

If you'd like to fish but lack a license, be sure to visit  Finger Lakes Preserve , a secluded and private rainbow trout fishing preserve that is fully accessible for fishermen and women of all ages and experience levels. We also have a number of expert charter fishing operations and guide services  here , all of whom can help get you out on the water and casting a line in no time! There is great fishing on all of the lakes and  Catharine Creek  boasts one of the best salmon runs in the area each spring. The State of New York fishing regulations are  here . And a convenient list of where and how to purchase a fishing license is  here .

Leave your cares behind as you dip your toes into our sapphire lakes. Be soothed by the sounds of water lapping against a pebble shoreline. You can swim in Seneca Lake at  Clute Park  in Watkins Glen or  Smith Park  in Hector. Both parks are open seasonally, with lifeguards on duty.

Sail and Cruise

Enjoy a lunch of dinner cruise aboard Captain Bill's or take an hour-long sightseeing tour aboard  the Seneca Legacy . Set off on a sunset sail aboard the Schooner True Love. Behold the beauty of Hector Falls with  Falling Waters Boat Tours . The experience is yours to make!

Visit our cruise page here for additional details.

Boating & Lake Life

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Clute Memorial Park & Campground

• 155 S. Clute Park Dr. , Boat Launch Rd. (GPS Directions) , Watkins Glen , NY 14891
• (607) 535-4438
• Visit Website

Captain Bill's Seneca Lake Cruises

• 1 N. Franklin St. , Watkins Glen , NY 14891
• (607) 535-4541

Falling Waters Boat Tours

• 3816 North Falls Road , Burdett , NY 14818
• (607) 444-2428

Finger Lakes Boating Museum

• 8231 Pleasant Valley Road , Hammondsport , NY 14840
• (607) 569-2222

Captain Jim's Wine Cruises

• 8109 County Road 129 , Ovid , NY 14521
• (607) 280-4644

Summit to Stream Adventures

• 2 Seneca Harbor , Watkins Glen , NY 14891
• (607) 535-2701

Anchor Inn & Marina

• 3425 Salt Point Rd. , Watkins Glen , NY 14891
• (607) 535-4159

Captain Bill's

Seneca lake cruises, seneca harbor station.

Seneca Harbor Station Restaurant

is closed for the 2023 season.

2024 Re-opening schedule

Friday April 19th 4pm-9pm

Saturday April 20th 11:30am-9pm

Friday April 26th 4pm-9pm

Saturday April 27th 11:30am-9pm

Captain Bill's Seneca Lake Cruises

We will be re-opening in April 2024.

We have a Solar Eclipse cruise on

April 8th  2024 1pm-3pm

SCroll for more

Waterfront Dining on the Finger lakes

Destination dining afloat, sightseeing cruises.

Seneca Harbor Station offers elegant dining at our full-service restaurant replete with sandy beach patio and exceptional waterfront views from our beautiful dining room.

The casual elegance of the finely appointed Seneca Legacy is complemented by her friendly crew. Our officers and staff promise to spoil you and your guests from stem to stern. Whether sailing for dinner, lunch, cocktail,or an entertainment cruise, you will experience elegant dining afloat executed with style and charm.

Captain Bill’s offers informative sightseeing excursions. This hour long tour of Seneca Lake provides a brief look into the history of the lake and the surrounding area. The Seneca Spirit is an enjoyable way to take in the scenery and spend an afternoon.

Our story begins in 1963...

Captain Bill Simiele (pictured left) purchased a single tour boat in 1963.  From that humble beginning, his vision for the lakefront  has evolved into what we all enjoy today at Captain Bill's and Seneca Harbor Station. All who knew him felt his genuine warmth and love for all people.  From the early days through 2006, he managed with humor and had a positive influence on many lives.  We love and miss him dearly.

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CONTACT & LOCATION

TELL US WHAT YOU THINK AND HOW WE'RE DOING

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For cruise reservations call 607-535-4541

For Restaurant reservations call 607-535-6101

1 North Franklin St. Watkins Glen, NY 14891

Falling Waters Boat Tours

Falling waters boat tours fun, pure waterfall bliss, our spectacular private waterfall patio, magnificent hector falls & our private waterfall patio, falling waters boat tours | seneca lake | finger lakes, ny, our boat tour.

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Hector Falls

What we offer.

Our Boat and Waterfall Tours: On beautiful Seneca Lake, in the Finger Lakes, our 1.5 hour and 2.5 hour tours depart from a private dock at Hector Point. Our boat trip cruises the lake’s east, west and south shores with scenic sites including the majestic 250′ top to bottom Hector Waterfalls, multimillion dollar estates, 200 -400 ft. shale cliffs, state parks, rolling hillside vineyards and Watkins Glen. Falling Waters Boat Tours capture the open water fun of boating on Seneca Lake’s crystal clear waters with views that can only be experienced by boat.

Hector Waterfall: Your tour continues on land with a short walk from our lake dock takes you to our exclusive natural shale patio that meets the waterfall’s edge. Enjoy a complimentary Finger Lakes beverage while viewing the beauty of the majestic 165 ft. lower Hector Falls from our patio or explore the waterfall just steps away. Bring your water shoes and get up close walking the flat shale at the base of the falls as the refreshing water rolls over your feet. You can fully experience the tumbling water as it flows over the towering cliff. There is nothing more exhilarating! Don’t want to get in the water? You can admire the falls from the patio just 40ft away or sit on the side of the falls while admiring its pure beauty and energy. There is nothing more relaxing than watching and listening to the falling water. Day dreaming, you might ask: “Is this heaven?”

What are you waiting for? Bring your camera! The views and experiences here make for a one-of-a-kind excursion you will always remember. Book your tour with Falling Waters Boat Tours today! See our tour page and FAQ’s for more details.

Our Captain is USCG licensed and has navigated on Seneca Lake for over 10 years. Keeping you safe as we tour Seneca Lake and Hector Waterfall, while having fun, is our highest priority.

Falling Waters Boat is a 195 Stingray bow rider inboard /outboard and allows passengers to get up close to the water while cruising quietly for ease of conversation. Falling Waters Boat meets or exceeds all USCG safety requirements. She is spacious and comfortably seats 6 passengers and the Captain.

Hector Falls is a 165ft. majestic waterfall that flows adjacent to our private nature stone patio.

ABC TV Boat Tour Interview

Customer Testimonials

Dody ballard.

Embarking on the boat tour on Seneca Lake was an absolute delight! From start to finish, Captain Fred's boat tour offered us an unparalleled experience filled with perfect weather, great personality and exceptional hospitality. We are already planning our return trip, eager to relive those magical moments on the shimmering waters of Seneca Lake.

From the moment we stepped aboard, the weather seemed to synchronize with our excitement. The clear blue skies and gentle breeze were the perfect companions as we set off on our adventure. The warmth of the sun on our skin amplified the sense of serenity and joy that only a beautiful day on the water can provide.

George Avila

Tara wroble.

Our boat tour on Senaca Lake had great weather and was perfect for being on the water. We enjoyed learning the history and an old myth tale of the lake that Captain Fred delighted us with.

We will definitely be booking again for our next trip. My best friend already booked another private tour for her husband's upcoming birthday.

I appreciate the small little touches both Fred and his wife did to make our experience quite memorable for our party of 5. I highly recommend Falling Waters Boat Tours as it was pure bliss!!!

Roxanne Rothenberg

Heidi asbury.

Finger Lakes Cruises

The best way to experience the Finger Lakes is to get out on them. Views from the shore and scenic byways are iconic, but  to get the full sensory effect of the Finger Lakes you have to get on the water.

Nothing beats a summer vacation in the Finger Lakes region! There’s plenty to see and do while you’re here, but what could be better than a Finger Lakes cruise? Set off on one of the best boat cruise  tours in the Finger Lakes, and you’ll enjoy the water from a whole new perspective. CHECK OUT THE FINGER LAKES BOAT TOUR GUIDE , featuring opportunities on all 11 lakes.

A Fun, Family-Friendly Way to See the Finger Lakes

Boat cruises in the Finger Lakes can be found on Canandaigua Lake , Skaneateles Lake , Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake as well as the Erie Canal . These cruises are an inexpensive way to get on the water and see the region from a different angle, with historical cruises, lunch and dinner cruises, themed cruises, sustainability and ecology-focused tours, sight-seeing, fall foliage cruises and more.

Finger Lakes Dinner Cruises & Other Specialized Boat Tours

Many boat cruise lines offer a dinner cruise with a great selection of quality food to enjoy while you experience the sights and sounds of the water. Some boat cruise companies allow you to reserve a private boat for your Finger Lakes wedding party or other group event. Incorporate a sightseeing tour on the water for your next special event!

Check out all of the boat cruise options below and find the perfect stop for your next trip to the Finger Lakes.

Boat Rentals & Marinas 

Take your vacation into your own hands and captain your own vessel by discovering rental opportunities and marinas open to public boat launches. From high-end motor boats that will make you the envy of the lake to canoes and kayaks for exploration closer to shore, our many partners can find the best solution for your family vacation, friends weekend or escape during a business trip to the region,  

Baldwinsville

Canandaigua

Hammondsport

Sailing True Love

by Laurel C. Wemett

The 96-year-old schooner True Love, docked in the harbor at Watkins Glen, has been sailing on Seneca Lake for 13 years. Over its long life it has achieved considerable notoriety, not just from its handsome appearance and racing prowess, but for its Hollywood connection.

True Love appeared as a small model in the 1940 romantic comedy The Philadelphia Story with Katherine Hepburn and served as a set in the 1956 musical High Society staring Bing Crosby and Grace Kelly, where the pair sang the Cole Porter song “True Love.”

Following this flirtation with Tinsel Town, the True Love was relocated to St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. She sailed the Caribbean until 2008, when she was brought to the Seneca Harbor.

“The True Love is a tremendous asset to our community,” says Stephanie Specchio, director of marketing and communications of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce. “Many of our visitors come looking to enjoy nature and unplug. Sailing on Seneca Lake is a perfect opportunity to do that.”

Last fall, Alice and Eric Zany of Switzerland celebrated their anniversary on board the True Love. From May through mid-October, the True Love’s passengers include couples eager to capture some of the boat’s mystique. “When we were planning our New York trip, we were looking for a unique way to celebrate our 31st wedding anniversary,” recalls Eric Zany, “So when we found the True Love schooner, we were thrilled to book one of their last tours of the season. We both love old films and rented High Society to watch right before traveling to Watkins Glen.” The same week 20 other couples booked their anniversary cruises on the True Love. Bill Holgate, one of those who captains the True Love, mused “It must be a popular time to get married.”

Apart from the romantic setting, passengers enjoy a cruise up Seneca Lake for about 4 ½ miles, depending on the north-south breeze; a west wind can offer a sail straight up the lake. Views include Hector Falls, Riesling vineyards on the steep hillsides and the painted rocks from Native American folklore. Residential properties on the waterfront include a few stately homes.

“Schooner 101”

Landlubbers on the shore of Seneca Lake may be unable to differentiate the True Love from other sail- and wind-powered vessels gliding across the water. A schooner is a sailboat distinguished by having at least two masts, the vertical poles that support the sails. The forward mast (foremast) is shorter than any of the other masts.

Schooners became popular in North America beginning in the late 18th century because of their ability to move cargo across the Great Lakes, navigate the ocean and engage in coastal trade and fishing. They are known for being quite maneuverable and can be sailed by a smaller crew than some other vessels.

The True Love was designed by John G. Alden, an American naval architect and native of Troy. It was originally named Venona II when built in Wiscasset, Maine, by Pendleton Brothers Shipyard in 1926. From 1923 to 1932, Alden – a 2013 inductee into the National Sailing Hall of Fame – designed ten schooners all named Malabar, reportedly after a tidal island off the coast of Cape Cod that he thought sounded exotic. The Malabar VII was the first of seven sister ships, which included Venona II. Three would go on to win the prestigious and difficult Bermuda Races.

Captains and Crew

Terry Stewart of Seneca Sailing Adventures, LLC took possession of the True Love in January 2021. “It was very scary in the beginning because of the big investment,” he recalls. “We took it step by step, and it worked itself out.”

While Stewart grew up in Rochester, his family owned waterside property on the bluff of Keuka Lake, where neighbors offered the youngster opportunities to sail. He went on to become a New York State trooper and a member of the elite scuba team, participating in rescue and recovery efforts.

Stewart is no stranger to the True Love, having helped sail the boat for previous owners Lisa and Joshua Navone beginning when it came from St. Thomas in 2008. He has owned numerous vessels, including the Lee Sea Anne, a 38-foot full-keel, 12-ton sailboat, which he operated with his wife Lisa on Seneca Lake until 2014. The Lee Sea Anne daily carried up to six passengers on three-hour sails. By comparison, the 67-foot True Love is certified by the U.S. Coast Guard for 22 passengers.

After a quiet 2020, people were ready to go sailing last year because it offered outdoor activity. True Love captain duties are split between Stewart, Holgate and Dundee native Ray Brewer, who came onboard in 2021. 

“Captain Terry is a fantastic ambassador for our community,” says the Chamber’s Specchio. “He’s knowledgeable about the region and Seneca Lake and always eager to share interesting bits of information.”

Holgate, of Glenora Point, sailed as a teenager and raced a Hobie Cat, a small sailing catamaran, across Seneca Lake. A successful career selling marine products prepared him to oversee important maintenance and upkeep issues for the True Love. A graduate of the Chapman School of Seamanship, Holgate was at the True Love’s helm in the Annual Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race in 2019, when it won in its class.

Eight college-aged students make up the crew of the schooner, with two assisting on each cruise. Over 160 days in the water in 2021, they led 348 tours with a total of 6,000 passengers.

“The best part is the experience of being out here on the water with happy people,” says crew member Katie Alley who has a degree in graphic arts and handles social media for the True Love. Josh Updyke, a Watkins Glen native, has plans to enlist in the Coast Guard and describes sailing as calming and relaxing.

Stewart reflects, “The True Love has a life of her own which we just go with. She has traversed the East coast many times and has had hundreds of thousands of guests aboard who all have made a memory on her. Many return to re-establish their original happy time on her. We hope to see her

For more information visit sailtruelove.com .

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Colleges and Universities

Alfred University 1 Saxon Drive Alfred, NY 14802 607-871-2175 www.alfred.edu Bryant & Stratton – Greece Campus 150 Bellwood Drive Rochester, NY 14606 585-720-0660 www.bryantstratton.edu…

THE BEST Watkins Glen Boat Tours

Boat tours in watkins glen.

• Kayaking & Canoeing
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Schooner True Love

2. Captain Bill's Cruises

3. Summit To Stream Adventures

4. Seneca Sailing Adventures

What travelers are saying

• Schooner True Love
• Captain Bill's Cruises
• Summit To Stream Adventures

All Aboard! 3 Unique Seneca Lake Boat Tours

With summer rapidly approaching, it’s finally time to turn our attention to summer’s splendor. As the temperatures continue to rise and the Finger Lake wilderness jolts back to life, hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers set their sights on Seneca Lake. On the north end of Seneca Lake lies Geneva, NY, a quintessential harbor town filled with ice cream shops, local wineries, and the prettiest castle in the state. On the lake’s southern reach rests Watkins Glen State Park , a spellbinding natural wonder. We like to think that Geneva (and beautiful Belhurst Castle , for that matter) offers an idyllic blend of history, sophistication, and four-season fun! Thus, it’s quite common for guests to inquire about the most popular Seneca Lake boat tours. There’s just something genuinely luxuriating about motoring through a pristine lake in the heart of summer’s haze, surrounded by friends new and old.

The Top 3 Seneca Lake Boat Tours

The most popular boating option in the region is Captain Bill’s Seneca Legacy , a sturdy cruise ship with decades of nautical “experience.” The Legacy steams past many of the lake’s most beautiful stretches, including steep bluffs, bustling marinas, and head-turning Belhurst Castle herself. Seneca Lake Reel Tours , meanwhile, is a much more modest affair. Curious travelers can hop aboard this covered pontoon for an intimate, 75-minute voyage. True Love Schooner Excursions , as its name suggests, is for mirthful sailors young and old. Sailing is, after all, a tad bit more sophisticated and intricate than your average tour.

A Self-Guided Voyage

If a trip aboard one of the three best Seneca Lake boat tours isn’t in the cards, feel free to rent a vessel from Stivers Seneca Marine . Whether you plan to hook a monster trout, dive into Seneca’s center, or simply jet through the water without a care in the world, we recommend giving Stivers’ team a call. These state-of-the-art pontoons are perfect for any type of aquatic adventure, even if it’s as simple as throwing an anchor into the lake and drifting to sleep.

From the Dock: Seneca Lake’s Many Sights and Sounds

Guests are often pleasantly surprised to discover Belhurst Castle ’s lengthy wooden dock, ideal for an afternoon picnic, a bit of bass fishing, or a quick Instagram session. Families often plop down on the dock to watch the boats cruise (or sail) by, while munching on a light snack. The Hobart and William Smith Sailing team often practices and hosts competitions in these waters. It’s a lot of fun to watch these kids compete!

Historic Seneca Lake Hotels

After enjoying one of the top-reviewed Seneca Lake boat tours with the family, return to Belhurst Castle for the remainder of your stay. Yes, we’re minutes away from craft breweries , local wineries , and breathtaking waterfalls , but you won’t have to leave this historic estate to get a true sense of what makes the Finger Lakes so incredibly alluring. Please give us a call today at 315-781-0201 to book a long-awaited escape to sunny Geneva.

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Watkins Glen's Premiere BYOB Boat Tours!

Finger lakes cycle boats - cruisin' on the  seneca lake  waterfront.

Whether you're up for a scenic bike ride, a leisurely boat cruise, or just along for the journey, Finger Lakes Cycle Boats guarantees an exciting experience! Take a seat on our comfy bike seats around a table, pedal at your own pace, and soak in the sights. Passengers have the freedom to sit or stand, enjoying the view, the breeze, and great company. Plus, riders and cyclers can swap places anytime! Bring along your favorite drinks and snacks for a BYOB adventure; we'll supply the cooler and ice. And don't forget your ultimate cycling playlist – our cycle boat speakers are Bluetooth-ready for your rocking tunes!

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Ready to make some waves with Finger Lakes Cycle Boats?

We've got the perfect option to suit any occasion: our Pedal Boats (and don't worry, pedaling isn't a must!). Imagine cruising Seneca Lake while hosting your event – it doesn't get much better than that!

Feel free to bring along your favorite beverages and snacks, and remember, pedaling is totally optional.  Let's set sail and make some unforgettable memories!

Finger Lakes Cycle Boat Tours

Get ready for the ultimate boat day experience like never before! Join us for a cruise on Seneca Lake aboard our unique party boats. Bring along your favorite drinks and snacks, cue up your top party playlist, and let's embark on an unforgettable adventure together. Whether you're a duo or a group of 16, we've got the perfect boat ride just for you!

Cycle Boat FAQs

Not sure what to expect? Check out our FAQs! Experience a boat day like never before! Embark on an exhilarating journey along the shores of Seneca Lake aboard our unique party boats. Bring your favorite drinks and snacks, crank up your ultimate party playlist, and delve into the heart of wine country with us. From intimate gatherings to larger groups, we cater to parties of all sizes – join us for an unforgettable adventure on the water!

Reasons to Party!

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the water! Jump aboard a Finger Lakes Cycle Boat tour for the ultimate experience with your crew. Whether it's a birthday bash, a team outing, or just a fun day out with friends, we've got you covered!

Round up your squad of up to 16 and get ready to rock the waves. Blast your favorite tunes, crack open your drinks of choice, and soak up the stunning scenery of Seneca Lake.

No need to worry about being a cycling pro – whether you're a pedal-pushing powerhouse or a laid-back cruiser, everyone's welcome! Our expert captain will steer the ship while the whole gang pitches in to keep the fun rolling.

So kick back, relax, and let the good times flow on the water!

Tour of the Lake

Explore Seneca Lake in style on a Finger Lakes Cycle Boat tour! Pedal along the water with friends and family, taking in the stunning sights. Book your tour today and make memories to last a lifetime!

Family Reunions

Make your family reunion one to remember with a Finger Lakes Cycle Boat adventure! Gather your loved ones for a unique and unforgettable experience on the water. Pedal along Seneca Lake while enjoying stunning views, laughter, and quality time with your nearest and dearest. With space for up to 16 family members, it's the perfect way to bond and create lasting memories together. Book your family reunion getaway today!

Corporate/Team Building

Take a break from the office and bond with your coworkers on Finger Lakes Cycle Boat tours! Cycling together not only offers a fun experience but also brings people closer together, fostering teamwork and camaraderie.

Birthday Parties

Don't forget to bring along your banners, balloons, and of course, the cake, to make the occasion extra special!

Friends' Night Out

Round up your crew and hop aboard Finger Lakes Cycle Boats for an unforgettable booze cruise! Seneca Lake beckons, promising a fantastic time filled with laughter, memories, and stunning scenery.

Bachelorette/ Bachelor Parties

Join us for a pre-wedding booze cruise! Gather your closest friends for a fun-filled tour of wine country in style. Celebrate your upcoming nuptials with laughter, memories, and plenty of toasts as you cruise through picturesque landscapes and sip on your favorite beverages.

Adventure Awaits: Cruise. Connect. Cycle.

“Life is better at the lake.”

• Public Day Sailing
• Private Sails + Charters
• Engagements + Weddings
• Corporate + Team Building
• Sails & Ales
• Wine & Wind on the Water
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• Gift a Sail

HOW WILL YOU EXPERIENCE TRUE LOVE?

Cruise Routes (Interactive Map)

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Russian River Cruises

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• Moscow — St. Petersburg
• Moscow — Astrakhan
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Moscow to Saint Petersburg

13 days – 12 nights

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Gold, Platinum  Airport transfer / Check-in at centrally located Marriott Aurora***** or Ararat Park Hyatt*****

Imperial : Private airport transfer / Check-in at the luxurious Four Seasons Moscow***** only a minute from the Kremlin and Red Square

Volga dream experience:

Gold: City Tour / Novodevichy Cemetery Imperial, Platinum:  City tour / Lunch in a Moscow City Skyscraper / Novodevichy Cemetery / Sparrow Hills

Meals: Breakfast

Platinum / Imperial

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Gold:  Moscow Kremlin / Armory Museum / Red Square / GUM Department Store

Platinum:  Moscow Kremlin / Armory Museum / Red Square / St. Basil’s Cathedral / GUM Department Store / Park Zaryadye

Gold:  Tretyakov Gallery / Moscow Metro Tour.

Platinum:  Leo Tolstoy House-Museum in Hamovniki / Tretyakov Gallery / Moscow Metro Tour.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gold, Platinum:  Town of Uglich / Church of St. Dmitri-on-the-Blood

Volga dream experience: Costumed Russian Tea Ceremony & Russian Cooking Class

Gold, Platinum:  Yaroslavl City Tour / Governor’s house 

Volga dream experience: Sun Deck Barbeque

Gold:  Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery  

Platinum:  Ferapontov Monastery

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Russian Dinner with Vodka Tasting

Gold, Platinum: Kizhi Island / Lake Onega

Volga dream experience: Piano Concert – Compositions by Tchaikovsky and Rakhmaninov

Gold, Platinum:  Svirstroy village / Local resident’s home / Local primary school

Volga dream experience: Farewell Dinner, Captain’s cocktail

Gold:  City Tour / Peter and Paul Fortress

Platinum:  City Tour / St. Isaac’s Cathedral / Canal boat / Yusupov Palace

Gold:  The State Hermitage Museum / Peterhof: Park and a historic Cottage

Platinum:  The State Hermitage Museum (Early Entrance!) / Gold Room / Peterhof: Park and a historic Cottage

Gold:  Catherine’s Palace / Amber Room

Platinum:  Faberge Museum / Catherine’s Palace / Amber Room

Meals: Breakfast / Imperial

Gold, Platinum, Imperial: Check-out / Airport transfer

Volga dream experience: -

The rates are set for a cruising season. The price is not dependent on the month within a selected year

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All prices are per person based on double occupancy.

All rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Actual size of cabins can slightly differ within one category.

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Journey: Volga Dream

Price per person: not specified

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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17 Best Moscow Tours

Are you planning a visit to the capital of Russia and looking for the best Moscow tours? From Red Square to the Kremlin and from world-class art to fairytale buildings, Moscow is an enchanting city that offers plenty of excitement and elegance. Its history dates back more than 800 years, and there is culture in abundance for visitors to immerse themselves in.

Make the most of your visit with 17 of the best Moscow tours that let you see everything the city and its surroundings have to offer.

1 – Guided Tour of the Moscow Metro

Moscow’s metro is world-famous, thanks to the architectural delights on offer underground stations around the capital. This guided tour of the Moscow stations, otherwise known as “the palace of the people” lasts for 1.5 hours and includes an English-speaking guide who will tell you how the Russian metro became one of the most beautiful in the world. Highlights include Mayakovskaya station with its aviation-themed mosaics.

• Moscow metro tours

2 – Cosmonautics Museum Space Tour

Discover Cosmonautics Museum with this space tour. Dive into one of the greatest battles between the Soviet Union and the United States – the space race. Hear about the space programs of the USSR and learn about how the USSR shaped space travel and technology.

• Cosmonautics Museum tours

3 – Guided Tour of the Kremlin

A Kremlin is actually a citadel in Russian towns, and Moscow’s version is, without doubt, the most famous. The Kremlin is the heartbeat of the city, and this guided tour takes you to the most important points of interest. See Cathedral Square with its orthodox temples; Tzar Cannon with its 890mm calibre, which is the largest in the world; and the exterior of the all-important government buildings that are located within the Kremlin’s walls.

Click here to learn how to book Kremlin tickets .

• Kremlin tours

4 – Moscow City Walking Tour

One of the best Moscow tours for seeing everything the city has to offer, this small-group walking tour lasts for 2 hours and includes an expert guide. Make the most of the capital and see the cobbled spaces of Red Square, take pictures of St Basil’s Cathedral, visit the elegant Bolshoi Theatre, and enjoy the ornamental Alexandrovsky Garden.

• Moscow walking tours

5 – Night Tour of Moscow

When the sun sets, the fun begins – and it all starts with a night tour of Russia’s most famous city. The beauty of Moscow comes into full effect after hours, as iconic buildings like St Basil’s Cathedral illuminate against the night sky. Other locations on this tour include the Moscow River and the Ukraine Hotel, which is a landmark skyscraper that was constructed during the era of Stalin.

6 – Sergiev Posad Day Trip

One of the best Moscow tours that take you outside of the city, the Sergiev Posad day trip provides the opportunity to see The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox Church. It’s made up of a number of different buildings that include the blue domes of the Cathedral of the Assumption, Church of St. Sergius and the Bell Tower.

• Sergiev Posad day trips from Moscow

7 – City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise

If your time in Moscow is limited, this hop-on, hop-off bus tour is ideal – and it even features an optional cruise on the river. Choose between a 2 and 3-day ticket and see famous landmarks like Red Square, the Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre from an open-top panoramic bus with informative audio commentary. Take your experience to the next level by upgrading to a boat tour.

• Moscow hop on hop off bus tours

8 – Guided Tour of the Tretyakov Gallery

As one of the world’s most important galleries, the Tretyakov Gallery is a must-see for any art lovers and is one of the best Moscow tours for culture vultures. Learn about the masterworks of Pablo Tretyakov with a guided tour and discover the secrets behind the paintings. Other noticeable artists on view include Fedotov, Vasnetsov, Rokotov and Kiprenski, who is the author of the famous “Portrait of Alexander Pushkin”.

• Tretyakov Gallery tours

9 – Alternative Moscow: 2-Hour Walking Tour

See a different side of Moscow with this 2-hour alternative tour. An expert guide will take you around quirky streets, suburbs and squares while as your veer away from the traditional tourist hotspots. Highlights include a ride on the famous “Annushka” tram and a visit to the neighbourhood of Khitrovka, which was once known as the criminal district of the city.

10 – St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

Combine two of Moscow’s biggest attractions with a visit to Red Square and St.Basil’s Cathedral. Admire the beautiful architecture of St.Basil’s Cathedral from inside and out, before wandering Red Square and learn about the soldiers, farmers and revolutionaries that all called this famous square their home. Round things off with the changing of the guard at Alexander Garden.

• Red Square tours

11 – Bunker-42 Cold War Museum Guided Tour

Moscow is notorious for the Cold War, which lasted for about 45 years between 1945 and 1990. Head to the world-famous Bunker-42, located 65 meters below ground level, and learn about the storied past. Visit rooms and passages that were set up to shelter 3,000 people in case of nuclear attack and discover other sections, such as the equipment room and the war-proof telecommunications system.

• Bunker-42 Cold War Museum tours

12 – Architecture Tour of Moscow’s Metro and Kolomenskoye Estate

Combine the beauty of the metro stations with the Kolomenskoye Estate and see some of Moscow’s grandest sights. After visiting the elegant metro stations, it’s time to go to the Kolomenskoye Estate, which is filled with UNESCO-listed sites that are dedicated to Tsar Peter the Great.

• Kolomenskoye tours

13 – Tour of Soviet Moscow

Unpick the history of the USSR with one of the best Moscow tours for discovering Soviet Moscow. Starting at Monument to the Conquerors of Space, a tribute to the success of the Soviet space programme, the tour includes historical landmarks and interesting tidbits about Soviet Russia. There is also a visit to the All-Russia Exhibition Centre (VDNKh), a site that was constructed under the aegis of the USSR in tribute to state achievements.

14 – Moscow: 2.5-Hour Luxury River Cruise with Dining Option

Sail down the Moscow River on this 2.5 hour tour that provides a different perspective of the city and includes landmark sights. The boat features two decks and has panoramic views as well as free Wi-Fi access. Attractions along the route include Ukraine hotel, Sparrow Hills, Christ the Saviour Cathedral, Crimean Bridge, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Zaryadye Park and more.

• Moscow boat tours

15 – Izmailovo Market and Vodka Museum Tour

Visit the museum of Vodka and gain insight into one of Russia’s most famous exports and head to the Izmailovo antique and handicraft market to find a gem or two. The tour starts with Izmailovo market, which features the iconic matryoshka dolls, fur hats and amber jewellery. Next up is a trip to the Museum of Vodka, where you will discover a distillery that dates back to the 15th century.

• Izmailovo market tours

16 – Súzdal and Vladímir Day Tour

Discover Russia’s famous “Golden Ring” on this tour of two medieval cities outside of Moscow. The historic city of Vladimir is first up with its Golden Gate, which is an ancient city-fortress that dates back to the 13th century. Next up is the neighbouring town of Suzdal, which features historic architecture and the Kremlin, where you can see its striking white walls topped with blue domes.

• Suzdal & Vladimir tours from Moscow

17- Moscow Food Tasting & Walking Tour

Sample the unique flavours of Moscow with this food tour that lasts for 3 hours and features more than 15 different food and drink tastings. Weave in and out of small alleys in the city centre while enjoying the best food spots in town. See Moscow like a local while trying classic dishes from local breakfast haunts, bustling markets, the oldest monastery in Moscow, and dumpling cafes where you can taste authentic dumplings and enjoy local coffee.

• Moscow food tours