Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise in York
Overview
Available languages
45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Welcome aboard our daytime sightseeing trip in York, where travellers embark on an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. Our daytime sightseeing trip in York promises a memorable experience filled with breath-taking sights, intriguing tales, and moments of tranquillity along the historic River Ouse. It's the perfect way to explore the essence of York in a leisurely and immersive fashion.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dogs are permitted on this cruise.
Two boats in the fleet are accessible, there may be a short wait until one arrives
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
York
Historic Landmarks: Travelers will marvel at the rich history of York with the chance to see iconic landmarks such as York Minster, Clifford's Tower, and the medieval city walls from a unique perspective. Stunning Architecture: Panoramic views of York's stunning architecture. Travelers can capture postcard-perfect snapshots of the city's skyline against the backdrop of the meandering River Ouse. Natural Beauty: York is steeped in history and surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty. See riverside greenery, quaint riverside pubs, and scenic waterfront parks, offering glimpses of the city's idyllic setting. Local Insights: Our guides will share fascinating stories and insights about York's past, present, and future. Travelers will learn about the city's Viking heritage, its role in shaping English history, and its vibrant cultural scene. Relaxation & Comfort: Travelers can relax on the open-air deck or cosy up inside the boat, savouring refreshments and snacks available on board.
What‘s Included
Toilet Facilities
Live Captain's Commentary
Scenic River Ouse Views
Drinks & Snacks (Ranges from £1 to £6)
Options
King's Staith
Reviews
1,257 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Relaxing experience
jeinorb,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Nice relaxing experience whilst being very informative, entry locations at various places. Greeted by a friendly ticket master, with the commentary from Tyler, being both informative and funny.
Boat trip
John M,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Staff very polite and helpful from arrival to leaving. Lady very knowledgeable of the area and the history. I will definitely do this again during better weather conditions so we can take the family and sit on the top.
Lovely boat cruise on the...
Massimo N,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Lovely boat cruise on the river, staff very friendly, commentary adequate, overall a fantastic experience
Excellent free walking tour.
littlebird1065,Jan 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great, in depth information and historical, fun facts on York’s many points of historical interest by our guide Frazier, on a free walking tour. Time well spent!
Cancelled and unprofessional
Carolina L,Jan 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00The tour operator cancelled the tour on the same day a couple of hours before. Still waiting for my refund. Very unprofessional. I don’t recommend.
Great fun.
Daft B,Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Enjoyable commentary from skipper Andy, accompanying lovely boat trip along the Ouse… reasonably priced drinks on board too
Lovely setting to see a different part of the city
maziejane,Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We braved the upstairs on half term. The crew were great regaling good stories to us. There is a bar on board for snacks and drinks. Well worth it.
River cruise York
victoriatX2529CF,Oct 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00Not a huge section of river , but did enjoy seeing the bridges and historical buildings. Was rather disappointed that our 45 minute cruise was cut to 35 minutes due to the the driver reaching his quota of legal driving time.??? So we had to get off at an earlier stop, we were not informed of this prior to purchasing our ticket or given a discounted ticket.
Lovely boat trip
jmcd2013,Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00All the staff at City Cruises were lovely. We had a very enjoyable trip on the River Ouse with Scott as captain. The commentary was informative and fun. The cost was acceptable, boat was busy but it was comfortable and we were happy to sit outside. We love a boat ride and this was perfectly acceptable. My only slight negative is that there isn’t that much to see from the river. Enjoyable nonetheless.
Weather dependent
tpbel,Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00This was a pleasant way to spend an hour because the Autumn afternoon was sunny and dry. There’s not much of a view from the river - you can’t see the Minster for example. But you can see the city from a new angle which is interesting. Efficient operation and choice of jetties to disembark.
From £15.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by City Cruises York