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

“A pleasant slow-paced cruise on a lovely day 😊 The captain was an excellent guide, providing history of all the sights and landmarks that we passed. Reasonable priced bar on board to enjoy the cruise with a beer in hand.”

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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

“It is a pleasant way to see a different side to the city. The commentator was knowledgeable and entertaining.”

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3.York: 60-Minute ‘Happy Hour’ Cruise For All Ages

Discover York from the water on this 60-minute 'Happy Hour' river cruise, featuring live commentary, discounted drinks, and scenic views for all ages.

★ 4.2

“Xander was an incredible skipper, we loved his humour - was just our cup of tea! even though it was dark, he did a great job illuminating the landmarks to the best of his ability using the flood lights so we could see. it was…”

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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

“We loved this activity and will probably do it again when we revisit York. The staff were really good and the price was well worth the views you see along the river. The boat needs a bit maintenance though - the windshield was so scratched…”

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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

“Fish and Chips meal was great, very fresh and tasty and the overall cruise was extremely relaxing and nice.”

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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

“A gentle cruise away from the heaving masses on a Saturday evening was so refreshing! Not a great deal to see but some interesting commentary on the bridges. The onboard bar serving snacks and drinks was an added bonus. Overall pleasant experience and worth the…”

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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

“Great fish and chips, good bar, friendly staff. Lovely river cruise and the sun shone down on us! Would recomend”

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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

“We had a brilliant night. The only thing which could do with a tweak is the food, it was nice, but a little bit more effort on presentation. Hand towels as napkins! Maybe some dips, coleslaw, sauces. We did this trip a before and the…”

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