City Sights by Sea: Historic Narrated Boat Tours of Providence
Overview
Available languages
50 minutes
Mobile ticket
We're thrilled to kick off our 35th season of boat tours along the shores of Downtown Providence, Rhode Island in May 2026!
Join us for an award-winning, historic journey through the heart of Rhode Island's capital city, and learn about Providence’s rich history, stunning architecture, and fascinating landmarks from our USCG licensed Captains and expert guides.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong local, Providence River Boat Company delivers an exceptional on-the-water experience, and the perfect way to experience Providence from a whole new perspective.
Book your spots in advance, as we often sell out, and discover why we have led Providence tourism for over three decades!
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum drinking age is 21 years
We do not operate in severe or unsafe weather conditions. In the case of cancellation due to weather, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
What To Expect
Providence River
Narrated tour of the Providence waterways!
Water Place Park
Narrated tour of the Providence waterways!
Options
Daily Narrated Tours
What‘s Included
Local guide
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Price does not include parking fees. There is free & metered parking throughout our neighborhood.
Gratuities (optional). Our Captains and Crew appreciate your cash gratuities!
Soft drinks, coffee/tea, ice cream & water are available for purchase in our cafe, or you may BYOB.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Reviews
344 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Started 30 mins late
brookek426,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00The guide showed up 30 minutes late to our tour. The owner didn't offer any kind of discount for the group having to wait 30 minutes to leave. The tour was neat overall but a little disappointed in the wait.
Beautiful day on the river
Carolyn S,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Great tour on the river, the only reason I’m giving 4 stars is because of an hour delay waiting for the tour guide. Once on board, however, the guide gave us non stop info about his city. Very interesting tour.
Loved hearing the history...
Christy H,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Loved hearing the history of city. Tour guide was friendly, professional and knowledgeable. Weather was amazing as well.
Great experience on the river
Damfarm,Jun 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent tour with knowledgeable and entertaining guide. Learned a lot about Providence. Just wish the weather would’ve been better but what can you do?
Peaceful historical boat ride.
Tracy I,May 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Nice calm relaxing boat ride with a history/cultural experience. I would recommend this when visiting Providence, RI
Providence boat tour
jessiemW6130ZM,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Enjoyable small group boat tour. I thought it was especially interesting to go through the hurricane gates- I'd never seen any before. This is a very weather-dependant experience. I would skip it if you don't like the weather.
Worth the ride
stephanierM7148LJ,May 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Perfect length. Brief overview of Providence history. Knowledgable guide.
Disappointed Boat Tour
Joaquin L,May 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00Viator and Providence Tour Companydid not communicate. Viator sent messages that the tour was taking place at 11:00 and. Providence said the tour would take place at 1:00. When I tried contacting them no one called me back to confirm
Fun boat tour of downtown Providence
Z7659XKmarinal,Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a delightful boat tour of downtown Providence. The guide was interesting and engaging. Though cold on the water late afternoon, it was well worth the trip!
Providence boat tour
Linda K,Oct 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Beautiful day. Very informative. Our guide could answer questions that came up randomly. Very relaxing. Would recommend to anyone who is there for a short period of time.
Related Experiences
Operated by Providence River Boat Co.