York

9 Best York River Cruises

The Ouse cruises sorted: daytime sightseeing with live commentary, evening runs with strawberries and cream and self-steer boats for the independent. The river view catches the Minster over the rooftops where the streets cannot.

1.York: Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Live Commentary

Experience York from the water with a 45-minute daytime boat cruise featuring live commentary, stunning views, and onboard bar amenities for just $20.

Most Popular★ 4.2

“Loved the tour, felt really safe and not overcrowded even in August. Lovely trip down the Ouse with helpful info and a few good jokes! Would highly recommend”

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2.Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise in York

Explore York from the river with this 45-minute sightseeing cruise, featuring expert commentary, iconic landmarks, and scenic views for an authentic experience.

★ 4.5

“Great trip, excellent commentary . Wrap up warm if you plan to sit up top. Could be a bit longer ! All staff very friendly and welcoming”

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4.York: Self-Steer Boat Rental

Discover York from the river with a self-steer boat rental. Enjoy scenic views, independence, and a relaxing hour on the water in North Yorkshire.

★ 4.6

“It was great! Would have loved a speedboat but I learned there is a speed limit on the river and speeding is not aloud but personally I enjoyed cruising by myself with the boat very much - this was in April during the day; don’t…”

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5.York: Evening Cruise With Strawberries & Cream + Drink

Experience a peaceful evening cruise on York's River Ouse with strawberries, cream, a drink, and relaxing acoustic tunes—perfect for a romantic or leisurely outing.

★ 4.1

“The staff on the boat were all friendly and helpful, and the cruise was peaceful and relaxing with music playing instead of commentary..and the strawberries and cream were delicious!”

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6.York: Fish and Chips Cruise

Experience York’s scenic River Ouse while indulging in award-winning fish and chips on this relaxing cruise, ideal for food lovers and history buffs alike.

★ 4.2

“The fish and chips were absolutely delicious the captain/guide was so informative would 100% recommend”

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7.Evening ‘Happy Hour’ Boat Cruise For All Ages In York

Enjoy York from the river with this early evening boat cruise, featuring live commentary, scenic views, and optional drink discounts—great for all ages.

★ 4.0

“It seemed like much of the cruise was dark with nothing to look at. The staff was good and commentary was fine. The price seemed okay for what was provided.”

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8.Fish & Chips Boat Cruise in York

Experience York’s scenic river with a delicious Fish & Chips cruise, featuring stunning views, live commentary, and freshly prepared British fare.

★ 4.0

“River cruise was great, we had the best weather and the fish and chips were lush. York is a beautiful place.”

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9.York: Party Cruise with Drink, Dinner, and DJ

Experience York’s vibrant nightlife on a 2.5-hour party cruise with a buffet, DJ, welcome drink, and access to Manahatta. A lively way to enjoy the city by water.

★ 3.4

“River Cruise was well organised, food was okay but nothing special! Drinks were good value for money. Really friendly staff. DJ was also very good”

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Explore York

Ghosts per square mile, Viking streets and chocolate with a history.

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