If you’re visiting York, with its historic streets, medieval architecture, and scenic River Ouse, a boat tour is an unbeatable way to see the city from a different perspective. Whether you want a laid-back evening cruise, a culinary adventure with fish and chips, or a quick sightseeing trip during the day, York offers options that suit all interests. We particularly like the Evening ‘Happy Hour’ Boat Cruise for its relaxing vibe and informative commentary, and the Fish & Chips Cruise for a fun, tasty twist on sightseeing. Each of these experiences gives you a chance to enjoy York’s beauty and history from the water, which is often overlooked in favor of walking tours.
Quick Overview
Our list covers three outstanding boat tours in York, each with its own flavor. The Evening ‘Happy Hour’ Boat Cruise offers a relaxed, family-friendly hour-long trip with live commentary, perfect for winding down after a day of exploring. The Fish & Chips Boat Cruise combines a classic British meal with a scenic ride, making it a unique culinary experience. Lastly, the Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise provides a shorter, informative tour, ideal for those who want a quick overview of York’s landmarks. Each tour features different highlights, from historic landmarks to delicious food, giving you a well-rounded selection of water-based adventures.
1. Evening ‘Happy Hour’ Boat Cruise For All Ages In York
This evening cruise takes you on a relaxing hour-long journey along the River Ouse []. Departing from King’s Staith Landing, it’s a family-friendly option that combines scenic views with engaging live commentary about York’s Roman and Viking heritage. The boat features a heated saloon, which makes it comfortable even on cooler evenings, and you can purchase alcoholic drinks, warm beverages, and snacks at your own expense—perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
What makes this cruise special is its relaxed pace and the opportunity to escape the city’s hustle while passing by ancient landmarks and quaint riverside villages. The live commentary adds an educational touch, bringing the city’s history to life. The reviews praise the friendly crew, good music, and beautiful views, with one traveler calling it “a nice relaxing way to end the day after seeing the sites in York.” It’s a great option if you’re traveling with family or just want a peaceful way to enjoy the sunset.
Bottom line: The Happy Hour cruise is an affordable, family-friendly, and scenic way to experience York from the river, especially if you appreciate informative commentary and relaxing atmospheres.
2. Fish & Chips Boat Cruise in York
For around $37.72 per person, this Fish & Chips Cruise combines two classic British experiences: sailing along the River Ouse and indulging in freshly prepared fish and chips by Mr Chippy. Departing from the City Centre, this approximately one-hour cruise offers a delicious meal and scenic views at the same time—a wonderful fusion of food and sightseeing. The fish and chips arrive piping hot, and you can enjoy them while soaking in the views of York’s historic riverside.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to enjoy Britain’s favorite pub food in a picturesque setting. The informative commentary complements the experience, providing insights into the city’s history as you cruise past landmarks and peaceful countryside. The reviews highlight how tasty the fish and chips are and praise the friendly service. One reviewer noted that the food was lush and that the cruise offered a great opportunity to relax and take in the scenery.
This tour is best suited for food lovers, families, or anyone wanting a casual, entertaining way to combine a local meal with sightseeing. The cost reflects the inclusion of high-quality fish and chips, making it a good value for a unique culinary adventure.
Bottom line: The Fish & Chips Boat Cruise is perfect for those seeking a tasty, fun, and relaxed way to explore York’s waterways—especially if you’re craving authentic British comfort food.
3. Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise in York
If you’re short on time but still want a taste of York’s scenic beauty, the Daytime Sightseeing Cruise is a perfect pick. For about $20.70 per person, you get a 45-minute or 1-hour cruise on the River Ouse that offers a quick yet rundown of the city’s most iconic sights. It departs at several times throughout the day, providing flexibility for your schedule.
This tour is particularly rich in landmark views, including Clifford’s Tower, the York Museum and Gardens, and the medieval city walls. The live commentary offers engaging stories and details about the city’s architecture and history, making it a great way to orient yourself or introduce York to first-time visitors. The reviews are glowing, with many noting how knowledgeable and entertaining the guides are. One reviewer even said, “It is a pleasant way to see a different side of the city.”
The cruise’s short duration makes it ideal for families, quick stop travelers, or those with limited time. The unobstructed views and detailed commentary make it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.
Bottom line: The Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise is an accessible, informative, and scenic option for a quick overview of York’s key sights.
$20.70 per person
How to Choose
When deciding which boat tour to take in York, consider your budget, interest in food, and available time. If you’re after a relaxing evening with drinks and history, the Happy Hour cruise delivers. For a fun, foodie experience, the fish and chips cruise combines delicious local fare with scenic views. If you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of York from the water, the daytime sightseeing cruise offers a quick, informative trip.
Think about your family’s age and interests—a relaxed, educational cruise might suit older travelers, while families with kids might prefer the shorter daytime option. For food lovers, the fish and chips cruise is a memorable treat. To make the most of your experience, consider booking your preferred tour early, especially during peak season.
Final Thoughts
York’s waterways reveal a different side of this historic city, and each of these tours offers a unique way to experience it. The Evening ‘Happy Hour’ Boat Cruise stands out for its relaxed atmosphere and live commentary, making it perfect for unwinding after sightseeing. The Fish & Chips Cruise combines culinary delights with scenic views, ideal for a laid-back lunch or dinner. Meanwhile, the Daytime Sightseeing Cruise provides a quick, engaging overview suited for busy schedules.
For a memorable trip, pick the tour that best matches your interests—whether it’s history, food, or simply scenic relaxation. Remember, these tours tend to fill up quickly, so booking early ensures you won’t miss out on your preferred time slot. All three options promise a different way to enjoy York’s lovely River Ouse, so dive in and enjoy the city from the water.