May 18, 2023

An Architectural Excursion via Riverboat

Riverboat on Charles 1000px

Photo courtesy of the Charles Riverboat Co.

Boston has been ranked second among the best walkable cities in the country, and for many, exploring the city by foot is a great way to discover Boston’s rich history. But those with less time to spare can opt for another way to explore the city—via the Charles Riverboat Company’s architecture cruise. “It’s a great way to see a large portion of the city in a small amount of time,” says Melissa Otis, the company’s director of sales.

The architecture cruise came to fruition approximately 10 years ago, after the founder of the company, Russell Cushman, had gone on an architecture-themed cruise in Chicago. Since then, the cruise—a collaboration with the Boston Society of Architecture (BSA) and Boston By Foot —has turned out to be one of Charles Riverboat’s most popular offerings.

An Expansive View of Boston Architecture

The cruise departs from Lechmere Canal Park next to the Cambridgeside Galleria and then makes its way through the Charles River locks. According to Otis, “It’s the only public tour in Boston whose boats fit through the lock system, showcasing both the Charles River and Boston Harbor.” Adds Lynn Smiledge, a historic preservation consultant and architecture cruise tour guide, “In my opinion, the locks are the most unique experience of the tour; people really enjoy going through them.”

A guide narrates the two-hour cruise, as tourists and locals alike take in stunning views of the city while learning of Boston’s architectural history and seeing its evolution play out before them—from buildings dating as far back as 1830 to the glass façades of the city’s more modern 20th- and 21st-century buildings. “The skyline has changed significantly,” Otis says, and tourists see the contrast between the older-style architecture in downtown and the newer development in the Seaport area. Says Smiledge: “It’s an evolution not only of the architecture but also the changing fortunes of the harbor, which have shifted dramatically since the 18th century.”

HL on River

A Bridge Designed for Fish Migration

In addition to the architectural highlights—the John Hancock tower, One Millennium Place, and Marriott Custom House, to name a few—the tour also includes many fun and interesting facts. Harriet Fink, communications coordinator at the BSA, went on the cruise after having just moved to Boston. “It was a great way to get a sense of the city,” she says. On the Zakim Bridge, for instance, are little diamond-shaped openings on the roadbed that allow light to pass through the bridge and reach the water below it. Why is that important? They are for the alewife fish that come in from the harbor to spawn in the Charles River. Fink learned on the cruise that the openings were added “so the fish going through the locks could see the light ahead and be encouraged to continue swimming.” Confirms Smiledge, “The alewife don’t like to swim through large expanses of dark water, so the openings are intentionally in place so the fish are more comfortable traveling under the bridge.”

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Boston’s Diverse Architectural Styles

Many of the guides have varying architectural backgrounds, and each runs his or her respective tour a little differently. On her cruise, Fink says, she also got a primer on architectural styles: “You can begin to recognize what types of buildings they are from the water.” Adds Smiledge, “Boston has probably one of the best collections in the nation of Brutalist architecture. The masterpiece is Boston City Hall—it’s our best example of a Brutalist building.” And then there “is the one building people are really excited about,” Smiledge says: the Boston University Center for Computing & Data Sciences by KPMB Architects, also known as the Jenga building because of its cantilevered design.

Smiledge also describes a color-coded system that helps passengers discern how old a late-20th-century building is. For example, buildings built in the 1960s and 1970s generally will be white or gray (made of stone and concrete); buildings built in the 1980s and 1990s will have shades of red granite; and buildings built in the 2000s will be made of blue and silver glass.

“The tour is something I encourage everyone to go on because you’re not going to feel the same way about Boston again; you’re just going to get a whole different look at the city and at the relationships between its buildings,” Smiledge says.

The architectural cruises run from May 26 to September 3, Fridays through Sundays, at 10:00 a.m. and from September 9 through October 22 on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:00 a.m. Reserve your tickets today!

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Architecture cruises

Step off dry land and head out onto the water to experience Boston like never before!

  • Contact: Boston By Foot
  • Price: $27.50 Adults $22.50 Seniors/Students/Children under 12 $22.50 BSA Foundation and Boston By Foot Members
  • Neighborhood: Back Bay Beacon Hill Downtown South Boston
  • Event Type: Family friendly Learning and lectures Outdoor Preservation Month
  • Posted: 04/12/2017 - 2:34pm
  • Downloads: Learn more about the event

This tour offers spectacular views of historic and contemporary architecture along Boston Harbor, through the Charles River Locks, and the Charles River basin. The tour includes landmarks such as:

  • the Customs House
  • the Hancock tower
  • the Old North Church, and
  • cutting-edge contemporary design by today’s top architects.

These are simply the best waterfront views of Boston and Cambridge!

The tours start on May 28, and take place every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Tours depart from Cambridgeside Galleria Mall.

For more information, and to learn about fees, visit the Boston by Foot website .

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Exploring Boston by Sea: The Best Boat Tours in Beantown

A Large Sail Boat

Boston's rich maritime history and stunning harbor views make it an ideal city to explore from the water. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a unique perspective on the city, Boston's diverse boat tours offer something for everyone. Let's dive into some of the best boat tours available in the Hub.

Boston Harbor Cruises' Historic Sightseeing Cruise For first-time visitors or those wanting a comprehensive overview of Boston's maritime landmarks, the Historic Sightseeing Cruise by Boston Harbor Cruises is hard to beat. This 90-minute tour takes you past key sites like the USS Constitution, Bunker Hill Monument, and the Boston Tea Party Ships. Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary on Boston's history and architecture, making this tour both entertaining and educational.

Charles Riverboat Company's Architecture Cruise Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate this 90-minute cruise along the Charles River. The Architecture boat tour showcases Boston and Cambridge's stunning skylines, highlighting notable buildings and bridges. Expert guides discuss the area's architectural evolution, from colonial-era structures to cutting-edge modern designs. It's a visual feast and an excellent way to gain insight into the city's development over time.

Classic Harbor Line's Boston Harbor Islands Cruise For nature lovers and those seeking to escape the urban hustle, the Boston Harbor Islands Cruise is a perfect choice. This longer tour (typically around 2-3 hours) takes you to some of the 34 islands and peninsulas comprising the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park. You'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore islands like Georges or Spectacle, each with its own unique ecology and history.

Boston Harbor City Cruises' Whale Watching Tour From spring through fall, the waters off Boston become a feeding ground for several whale species, including humpbacks, finbacks, and the critically endangered right whales. Boston Harbor City Cruises partners with the New England Aquarium to offer whale watching excursions led by trained naturalists. While sightings aren't guaranteed, the chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is truly unforgettable.

Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships' Day Sail For a more hands-on nautical experience, consider a day sail aboard one of Liberty Fleet's tall ships. These beautiful schooners harken back to Boston's seafaring past, and passengers are encouraged to help raise the sails or even take a turn at the helm. It's an interactive and immersive way to experience Boston Harbor, perfect for those who want to feel like a true sailor for a day on this Tall Ships sailing experience.

Charles Riverboat Company's Sunset Cruise There's something magical about watching the sun set over a city skyline, and Charles Riverboat Company's Sunset Cruise captures this beauty perfectly. As day turns to night, you'll witness Boston's transformation, with buildings gradually lighting up against the darkening sky. It's a photographer's dream and a peaceful way to end a day of sightseeing.

Boston Harbor Islands Ferry While not a guided tour, the Boston Harbor Islands Ferry deserves mention for its affordability and flexibility. Operated by Boston Harbor City Cruises, this ferry service allows you to create your own island-hopping adventure. Visit Georges Island to explore Fort Warren, or head to Spectacle Island for hiking and beach activities. It's an excellent option for independent travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace.

Mass Bay Lines' Constitution Cruise History buffs won't want to miss Mass Bay Lines' Constitution Cruise . This tour focuses on the USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides," the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat. You'll get up-close views of this historic vessel and learn about its significant role in American naval history. The tour also includes other important sites around the harbor, providing context for Boston's maritime heritage.

Choosing the Right Boston Harbor Boat Tour for You With so many options available, selecting the right boat tour in Boston comes down to your interests, budget, and available time. Consider factors like tour duration, the specific sights you want to see, and whether you prefer a guided experience or more independent exploration.

Many tour companies offer combo packages or multi-day passes, which can be a cost-effective way to experience several different types of cruises. Additionally, booking in advance, especially during peak summer months, is always a good idea to ensure availability.

Regardless of which tour you choose, exploring Boston by water offers a unique and memorable perspective on our historic city. From educational tours that bring history to life, to romantic evening cruises and wildlife adventures, So hop aboard, feel the sea breeze, and discover why Boston is one of America's most beloved waterfront destinations.

Stay on Boston Harbor, with a Waterfront View Book a room at The Battery Wharf Hotel Boston Waterfront to put yourself on the harborfront, the North End, Faneuil Hall and Downtown Boston.

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Five Activities for Boston Architecture Buffs

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1. Boston Architecture Cruises

Did you know the Longfellow Bridge was named after Henry Wadsworth Longfellow because he often crossed it to court his future wife, Fanny? That’s just one of many historical tidbits you’ll learn on a Boston Architecture Cruise, offered daily through September 3, and on weekends through October 28. Co-sponsored by the BSA Foundation and Boston By Foot, the 90-minute cruises offer panoramic views of both historic and contemporary architecture from the Charles River Basin, the Charles River Locks, and Boston Harbor. Tickets are available up to two weeks in advance of a cruise, and reservations are recommended.

$29.50 for adults, $22.50 for children under 12, seniors, and students. Tickets and schedules available at  charlesriverboat.com/tickets .

2. An Instagrammable Beacon Hill Tour

How does one capture the historical beauty of Beacon Hill’s architecture in a single snapshot? Instagrammer  Matthew Dickey can show you the ropes during Historic New England’s Instagram walking tour. He’ll point out the best architectural photo ops, plus divulge a few tips and tricks.

Saturday, August 4, 3-4 p.m., Otis House, 141 Cambridge St., historicnewengland.org .

architecture boat tour boston

Photo by Eric Clark

3. Boston by Foot Tours

You can’t call yourself an architecture buff if you don’t have a fierce love for walking tours. Boston by Foot tours are excellent for learning about off-the-beaten path buildings, but it’s the organization’s “special topic” tours that we love the most. Every year, Boston by Foot offers an “Art Deco in the Back Bay” tour, “The Ladder Blocks” tour, and more. Peep the roster of regularly offered tours and special topic tours at bostonbyfoot.org .

Boston by Foot, bostonbyfoot.org .

4. Architecture Trivia Nights

The BSA Foundation launched architecture trivia nights this spring, inviting industry folks to flaunt their architecture knowledge  while noshing on pizza and beer. Keep an eye on the BSA’s event calendar for the next installment.

Architecture trivia nights,  architects.org .

architecture boat tour boston

Photo by Margaret Burdge

5. A Summer Architecture Tour of the ICA

Love it or hate it, Diller Scofidio + Renfro’s Institute of Contemporary Art is a fixture of the Seaport. These upcoming architecture tours point out the building’s most unique features—and describe how they relate to the museum’s mission.

Various dates in August and September 2018, Institute of Contemporary Art, 25 Harbor Shore Dr., ica.org .

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Boston Harbor City Cruises sunset

14 best Boston cruises and boat tours to sightsee the city

Soak in the city from the water on these top harbor cruises, ferry rides and water taxis.

Photograph: Courtesy Boston Harbor City Cruises

Jacqueline Cain

To spend summer in a coastal city is to be soothed by salt air and sea breezes. Boston is arguably best enjoyed from the water, and thankfully, there are more than a dozen fun ways to take in the city by boat. Unwind on a sunset cruise, sail over to an island, go whale watching or simply hop on a water taxi for a patio day  with a little misty harbor fun. Here’s how to maximize your time on a Boston Harbor boat this season.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the  best things to do in Boston

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Boston cruises

1.  spirit of boston.

Spirit of Boston

This classic harbor vessel recently got a top-to-bottom makeover after a fire in 2023: its four levels are newly renovated with more modern fixtures and finishes. Brunch, lunch and dinner cruises are fan-favorite events on board, thanks in part to the boat’s huge buffet. And for nighttime entertainment, there’s typically a DJ on the upper deck—making for a dazzling way to spend an evening under the stars. Spirit of Boston is one of the many city experiences from Boston Harbor City Cruises.

2.  ICA water shuttle

ICA water shuttle

Care for a side of modern art with your harbor exploration? Consider taking the Institute of Contemporary Art ’s water shuttle from its Seaport location over to the seasonal exhibits in East Boston at the  ICA Watershed , or vice versa. Admission to the museum covers your shuttle ride, provided through Red Top Boats , and vessels run every 15 minutes.  Just make sure to select a boat departure time when you buy your museum ticket.

3.  Classic Harbor Line cruise

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Classic Harbor Line cruise

Classic Harbor Line offers a variety of ticketed cruises around Boston Harbor all year long. Choose from their yacht, Northern Lights, or the seasonal schooner, Adirondack III . You can take a standard sightseeing cruise, a sunset sail, or peruse one of the many themed cruises on offer: barbecue and beer series, holiday brunch cruises, jazz cruises, fireworks cruises and more. 

4.  Boston Launch Company water shuttle

Boston Launch Company water shuttle

What’s a day on the water without oysters and caviar? Navy Yard Hospitality, which operates splashy seaside restaurants in East Boston, the Seaport and beyond, has tapped Boston Launch Company to provide water shuttle service to its waterfront properties. The boat makes stops at Pier 6 in Charlestown, the Tall Ship floating bar in East Boston, and ReelHouse locations in both Eastie and the Seaport.

5.  Odyssey Cruises Boston

  • price 3 of 4

Odyssey Cruises Boston

Dinner cruises on the Odyssey, part of Boston Harbor City Cruises’ fleet , combine good food, a relaxing ride and a bit of sightseeing in one buoyant outing. Enjoy a plated dinner (grilled peach and arugula salad, anyone?) as you gently circle the harbor. You’ll get a front-row seat to the skyline at sunset, not to mention views of landmarks like the USS Constitution and the Nantucket lightship. Reserve a window table for the best view, and when you’re finished eating, mosey over to the cash bar and DJ deck.

6.  Ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands

Ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands

The Boston Harbor Islands provide an overwhelmingly pleasant escape from city life—with hikes, swimming , camping and more—just a 30-minute ferry ride away . Hop on a ferry to Spectacle, Georges or Peddocks Island to learn about the history of the numerous islands dotting the harbor. And do make time to walk around to the back side of Georges for views of Boston Light in the distance. 

7.  “Alive After Five” cocktail cruise

“Alive After Five” cocktail cruise

The newest offering from Boston Harbor City Cruises, the “Alive After Five” cocktail cruise is aimed at folks pouring out of work on a weekday. Board at 5:30pm from Long Wharf for 90 minutes of fun after a day at the office. The plan? Sip cocktails, enjoy a live DJ and forget about screens for a while.

8.  Charles River architecture tour

Charles River architecture tour

Prefer to keep the shore at an arm’s length as you sail? Set out on a Charles River architecture tour, courtesy of Charles River Boat Company . You’ll drink in spectacular views of both modern and historic architecture in Boston, with a guide to narrate the most impressive design facts and features. Highlights include the Prudential Building, the Hancock Tower and Marriott’s Custom House, among other more contemporary projects. Tours depart from Lechmere Canal in Cambridge.

9.  Encore Boston Harbor water shuttle

Encore Boston Harbor water shuttle

Maybe you don’t feel like inching up I-93 on a summer’s day to get to the Encore. Why not make a day of it by cruising over to the Everett casino by boat? Free water shuttles depart from Long Wharf every 20 minutes between May 1 and September 30—just check the schedule before heading out.

10.  USS Constitution cruise

USS Constitution cruise

Get up close and personal with one of Boston’s most famous historical landmarks as part of this offering from Boston Harbor City Cruises . The 45-minute tour takes you over to Old Ironsides, one of the very first ships commissioned by the US Navy in 1797. You’ll have the option to disembark at the Charlestown Navy Yard to tour the USS Constitution Museum , and then hop back on for a quick harborside swing around to other historical landmarks, including Bunker Hill Monument and Old North Church .

11.  Whale watching cruise

Whale watching cruise

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, just off the coast of Massachusetts, is one of the best spots for whale watching in the world. Each summer, around 50 individual humpback whales return to this hotbed of biological activity. Take a whale-watching cruise and you'll see not only these majestic mammals, but also other species of marine life, from dolphins and seabirds to ocean sunfish and sea otters. On your tour, you’ll also learn all about the marine life you encounter from a knowledgeable on-board naturalist.

12.  Mass Bay Lines moonlight cruise

Spend 90 minutes dancing in the moonlight aboard a Mass Bay Lines moonlight cruise . Seeing the skyline from the water at night is a treat in itself, though doing so with a glass of wine in hand feels like the cherry on top. Mass Bay Lines also offers a full moon cruise when the stars (or, uh, moons) align, as well as plenty of sunset cruise options.

13.  Boston Duck Tours

Boston Duck Tours

The city’s most iconic tour lends both land and sea perspectives to Boston’s history and architecture, all injected with a Bostonian sense of humor. These vessels are revamped, World War II-era amphibious vehicles (and occasional sports champion chariots ).  Hop on and you'll cruise the streets of Boston, then plunge into the Charles River for views of both the Boston and Cambridge skylines. You’ll get the chance to intermingle with sailboats, kayaks and, yes, local ducks. Along the way, you'll be educated and entertained by a ConDUCKtor , who will surely encourage you to quack at the locals.

14.  Seaport Ferry service

Seaport Ferry service

The Seaport Ferry provides ferry service to commuters coming to and from Lovejoy Wharf near North Station and Fan Pier in the Seaport. That’s not to say any old Bostonian can’t join in the seafaring fun on a weekday —you could try grabbing an after-work cocktail in the Seaport and then taking a boat over to Alcove , Night Shift Brewing on Lovejoy Wharf, or the North End for a plate of pasta. 

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Trip: Charles River Architecture Boat Tour

June 30, 2023 @ 9:00 am.

The  bus will depart  at  9:00 am  for an  Architectural Boat Tour of Boston . This 90-minute tour, hosted by Charles Riverboat Company, offers spectacular views of historic and contemporary architecture along Boston Harbor, the Charles River Locks, and the Charles River basin. The tour– narrated by a guide from Boston By Foot and co-sponsored by BSA Space, a center for architecture and design–includes landmarks such as Marriott’s Custom House, the Prudential Building, and the Hancock Tower, as well as cutting-edge contemporary design by today’s top architects. Approximate return: 1:00 pm.  Fee:  $54.00 for ticket and transportation. Click ‘Register’  to  sign up  for this event or request a  paper Trip Sign Up form  at the  Front Desk  and submit it to Front Desk staff. Deadline to sign up is Wednesday, June 14.

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Our mission, vision, and values.

Boston By Foot is a non-profit educational organization committed to inspiring locals and visitors to discover and appreciate the diverse stories of Boston by exploring the cityscape together.

We envision a city whose residents and visitors have a deep understanding and appreciation of the city’s complex and diverse history, geography, and communities.

  • We work to create tours that help visitors and residents alike discover or deepen their appreciation for our multi-layered city.
  • We are lifelong learners; committed to sharing thoughtful storytelling through the exploration of our city’s past and present.
  • We are dedicated to rigorous and thorough research that creates meaningful, engaging, and entertaining experiences.
  • We seek to uncover untold stories, encourage new perspectives about the city of Boston, and ignite continued exploration.

Become a member, Book a private tour, or make a donation

Membership comes with benefits including admission to most walking tours, admission to all virtual programming, exclusive member previews, & more.

Private tours are available upon request for groups of up to 15 people. We’re happy to work with you to find the date, time, and tour that works best for you.

Boston By Foot, Inc. is a non-profit organization, exempt from Federal income tax under section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue code.

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Fall Cruises

Discover incredible views of boston and cambridge on our fall boat cruises of boston’s scenic charles river., fall foliage cruises, ghost tour of the charles river, what people are saying.

“Took the sightseeing tour aboard the Charles I today. We had a great time! We love Boston and this cruise is the perfect way to see the city in a different perspective. Very relaxing and enjoyable.”

“The nicest people you will ever meet and the tours are great fun!”

“It was great. Weather could not have been any better. Everyone enjoyed the cruise. Would definitely recommend this to everyone!”

“My family absolutely loved this smooth ride along the Charles River. We took the sunset boat ride at 7 pm so we enjoyed both day and evening sightseeing. I would highly recommend this for families as well as romantic boat ride. Boston skyline, BU, Harvard, and more.”

“We loved the Architectural Tour which starts in Cambridge, goes through the locks into and around Boston Harbor then back through the locks and along the Charles River. The narration from a Boston by Foot guide was interesting and so informative, focusing on not only fascinating tidbits about the various beautiful buildings along the waterfront but also lots of the rich history of the area. In addition the boat was comfortable and clean and the crew was friendly, courteous and very professional. I would HIGHLY recommend this tour to locals and tourists alike. A lovely morning on the River.”

“This was really totally enjoyable. Getting to see beautiful Boston from this vantage point is very special. Noah who was our guide and barman extraordinaire was fabulous. Booking was easy and straightforward. I will definitely do this again. A great way to end a day.”

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  1. Architecture Boat Cruises in Boston, MA

    Discover Boston's Iconic Buildings. This 2-hour tour, hosted by Charles River Boat Company, offers spectacular views of historic and contemporary architecture along Boston Harbor, the Charles River Locks, and the Charles River basin. The tour— narrated by a guide from Boston By Foot and co-sponsored by Boston Society for Architecture, a ...

  2. Boston Society for Architecture

    This two-hour tour, co-sponsored by the BSA, hosted by Charles River Boat Company, and led by Boston By Foot guides, offers spectacular views of historic and contemporary Boston architecture while providing fascinating information about many renowned architectural landmarks, including the Hancock Tower, Marriott's Custom House, and Rowes ...

  3. Sails and Cruises

    This 2-hour tour offers spectacular views of historic and contemporary architecture along Boston Harbor, through the Charles River Locks, and the Charles River Basin. The tour - narrated by a Boston By Foot guide - includes landmarks such as the Custom House, the Hancock tower, and Old North Church. These are simply the best waterfront views of ...

  4. Boston: Harbor and Charles River Architecture Boat Tour

    Your tour sets sail from Lechmere Canal, with tickets and departure conveniently outside CambridgeSide Mall's canal side. Embark on a captivating journey through Boston's architectural evolution. This tour offers unparalleled views of historic and modern architectural wonders along Boston Harbor, the Charles River Locks, and the Charles River ...

  5. Boston Society for Architecture

    The architectural cruises run from May 26 to September 3, Fridays through Sundays, at 10:00 a.m. and from September 9 through October 22 on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:00 a.m. Reserve your tickets today! The Boston Society for Architecture is a community committed to improving the quality of life for everyone through architecture and design.

  6. THE TOP 10 Boston Architecture Tours (UPDATED 2024)

    Trolley Tours. On the Ground. Ghost Tours. Tours by Duration. Boston's revolutionary past, elegant architecture, scenic harbor, and great food make a potent mix. Topping the history agenda are tours of the Freedom Trail, a 16-point route around the city's American Revolution sites, followed by hop-on hop-off trolleys, boat-and-bus combos ...

  7. Architecture cruises

    This tour offers spectacular views of historic and contemporary architecture along Boston Harbor, through the Charles River Locks, and the Charles River basin. The tour includes landmarks such as: the Customs House the Hancock tower the Old North Church, and cutting-edge contemporary design by today's top architects. These are simply the best waterfront views of Boston and Cambridge! The ...

  8. Architecture Boat Tour by Boston By Foot & Charles Riverboat

    Boston By Foot: Architecture Boat Tour by Boston By Foot & Charles Riverboat - See 431 traveler reviews, 118 candid photos, and great deals for Boston, MA, at Tripadvisor.

  9. A Sail Through Time

    historical architecture. Private Tours. To make arrangements for a private sail, please contact Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships directly at 617-742-0333 ... Finding Your Guide: All guides carry an 8×11 sign that says "Boston By Foot Walking Tours." ... Architecture Cruise; 핏. Boston By Foot is proud to receive support from ...

  10. Private Events & Yacht Charters in Boston & Cambridge, MA

    Family owned for over 30 years. Since its creation in 1990, the Charles River Boat Company has offered guests the chance to experience beautiful views of both the Charles River and Boston Harbor. Charles River Boat Company is proud to showcase the incredible skyline to over 60,0000 passengers every season and is built on the ideals of genuine ...

  11. Architecture Tour Photo Gallery

    Architecture Tour Photo Gallery with photos of our tours & vessels. You will see views of the Boston Skyline by boat on the private tour. Book online or call us.

  12. The BEST Boston Architecture 2024

    Choose between 1-day and 2-day ticket options with free unlimited re-boarding. The Boston Trolley tour covers all the major areas including downtown, Beacon Hill, Back Bay, the theater district, and the waterfront. Conductors narrate the tour, offering a fun mix of trivia and humorous stories.

  13. Best Boston Harbor Boat Tours: Explore the City by Sea

    The Architecture boat tour showcases Boston and Cambridge's stunning skylines, highlighting notable buildings and bridges. Expert guides discuss the area's architectural evolution, from colonial-era structures to cutting-edge modern designs. It's a visual feast and an excellent way to gain insight into the city's development over time.

  14. Five Activities for Boston Architecture Buffs

    3. Boston by Foot Tours. You can't call yourself an architecture buff if you don't have a fierce love for walking tours. Boston by Foot tours are excellent for learning about off-the-beaten ...

  15. 14 best Boston cruises and boat tours to sightsee the city

    5. Odyssey Cruises Boston. Things to do. Walks and tours. Waterfront. price 3 of 4. Photograph: Courtesy Boston Harbor City Cruises. Dinner cruises on the Odyssey, part of Boston Harbor City ...

  16. Trip: Charles River Architecture Boat Tour

    The bus will depart at 9:00 am for an Architectural Boat Tour of Boston. This 90-minute tour, hosted by Charles Riverboat Company, offers spectacular views of historic and contemporary architecture along Boston Harbor, the Charles River Locks, and the Charles River basin. The tour- narrated by a guide from Boston By Foot and co-sponsored by ...

  17. Group Boat Tours for Boston Harbor & Charles River

    70-minute narrated sightseeing tour of the Charles River departing daily from the CambridgeSide Mall. Tours depart at 12:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 3:30 pm. A 15-guest minimum required for group rates. Please call our office at 617-621-3001 for cruise pricing and availability. There is a 15-guest minimum for group rates.

  18. Boston Boat Tours

    Explore Boston's iconic landmarks from a unique perspective on a boat tour. Discover the city's rich history and breathtaking views along the waterways. ... Learn about the river's significance and the architectural gems that line its shores. Tall Ship Sail: Step aboard a majestic tall ship and sail around Boston Harbor like a true sailor ...

  19. Sails

    120 minutes. architecture cruise. VIEW FULL TOUR DESCRIPTION. ton's diverse cultures and people that represent both boston's historical past and its vibrant present while onboard enjoy spectacular views of boston as you explore how the age of sail shaped the city and nation this sail is presented in partnership with the liberty fleet of tall ...

  20. Charles River Sightseeing Boat Cruises in Boston, MA

    Enjoy a 70-minute, fully-narrated sightseeing tour along the Charles River. Your captain and crew will both entertain and educate while pointing out the historic and cultural sights of Boston and Cambridge. Sights include Beacon Hill, Esplanade Park, the Back Bay, Boston University, M.I.T., Harvard and countless sailboats and rowers!

  21. Boston By Foot

    Night view of the north end BostonThe Dark Side of Boston. Old State House BostonHeart of the Freedom Trail. Paul Revere's house in Boston's North EndThe North End: Boston's Immigration Gateway. Scollay Square newReinventing Boston. The Green Dragon Pub in BostonRoad To Revolution. Discover more tours. Boston By Foot is a non-profit educational ...

  22. Excursions: Boston Architecture Tour

    Advertisement. Boston Architecture Cruise. Charles Riverboat Company. 100 Cambridgeside Place. Cambridge, MA. 617-621-3001. Bakers Island Tours. Essex National Heritage Area. 10 Federal Street.

  23. Fall Cruises

    Sightseeing Cruise. "I am a volunteer tour guide with Boston By Foot, and we partner with Charles Riverboat Company to provide the Architecture Cruise which goes into Boston Harbor and back up the Charles River. I had missed narrating this cruise SO MUCH in 2020 during the pandemic emergency phase! I've narrated 3 cruises in the past week ...