The Most Exciting Water Tours
From sea to shining sea, we’ve got the scoop on the coolest water tours in the USA. Get ready to paddle, float, and boat your way to fun.
Chicago’s Buildings From The Chicago River Waters
Sailing down the Chicago River, tall buildings rise around you, telling the city’s story. With the help of a guide, you will pass by notable spots like Willis Tower, Marina City, and the Wrigley Building, learning the unique story of each of these sites.
John Picken, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Chicago River (Cont.)
Over 100 years ago, engineers changed the river’s flow, and this helped boats to go between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River. Today, the river is full of history, flowing all year round. The Chicago Riverwalk is a great place for kayaking or a peaceful boat ride.
Jrbarc!, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Relaxing River Cruise With Jazz And Creole Flavor
Listen to live jazz music from the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland as you float along the water. Relax on the deck or inside, and you may also enjoy a simple Creole dinner. This trip gives you great views of the city and a calm, easy night.
Bernard Spragg. NZ, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Natchez Steamboat (Cont.)
Sail the Natchez on the Mississippi River, running since 1975. Big wooden wheels turn, powered by an old steam engine from 1925, giving you a nostalgic feeling. This famous boat even carried a U.S. President and took part in exciting races.
Infrogmation, CC BY 2.5, Wikimedia Commons
Statue Of Liberty Cruise
Enjoy a jolly boat ride to the Statue of Liberty. With only 149 spots, this tour is great for families and friends. After the ride, come back to the pier. You’ve seen it, and now it is time to experience it. Don’t miss this chance.
Noconatom, CC BY-SA 4.0, WIkimedia Commons
Statue Of Liberty (Cont.)
At 151 feet tall, the Statue on Liberty Island represents freedom and hope, and guess what? It was a gift from France and was dedicated on October 28, 1886. Made by artist Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, its shining torch welcomes millions of people looking for new opportunities.
Eldar Kamalov, Wikimedia Commons
See Na Pali’s Beauty By Boat
The Na Pali Morning Snorkel Trip on the Lucky Lady takes you along Kauai’s lovely shore. Sail by tall rocks and green hills while dolphins swim nearby. Trying the waterslide and snorkeling to see fish and coral is also a fun plan.
dronepicr, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Swim, Eat, and Sail (Cont.)
Cruising the Lucky Lady boat along Na Pali’s coast isn’t all. More options available are swimming, snorkeling with turtles, and listening to the crew tell easy stories about the place. You can also resort to making sandwiches, and enjoying the pretty views around you.
Jeff Kubina, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Chase The Sunset On Maui
Join a sunset boat ride from Ka’anapali Beach for a nice evening. Drink tasty drinks and eat snacks from the open bar while you watch the sun go down. If you are lucky, you might see whales swimming nearby. It’s a great way to enjoy Maui’s pretty views.
dronepicr, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Spot Dolphins (Cont.)
On this boat, you’ll see great views of Maui’s coast and nearby islands. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for fun dolphins swimming in the water. Feel like dancing? No biggie, the locals give you this chance on some days.
safaritravelplus, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Great Salt Lake
Aboard a boat ride on the Great Salt Lake, and experience the biggest saltwater lake in the western United States. In just 45 minutes, you’ll float on the water with a small group. A friendly guide will share neat stories about the lake and point out local animals.
Brigitte Werner, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
A Relaxing Adventure Awaits (Cont.)
After the boat ride, jump on a kayak or paddleboard. No need to hurry; just relax and drink some water while enjoying the beautiful sights. Oh, there is bird watching too! With only ten people, you’ll have a comfy trip and hear cool facts about this special place.
Bobjgalindo, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Wild Beauty Of Louisiana’s Swamps
If you love reptiles, go on an exciting swamp tour to see alligators, snakes, and small villages in Louisiana. But don’t worry about attacks because guides keep everyone safe as they tell stories about Cajun life. Feeling more adventurous? Sneak a trip to Honey Island Swamp, too.
Pierre5018, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
New Orleans Swamp (Cont.)
This Louisiana destination is famous for big parties like Mardi Gras. Additionally, the city has a lot of history, and things got better after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Called “The Big Easy” or “Crescent City,” it is an important port and a place for visitors.
Sightseeing Cruise
Hear stories and facts from the Captain about the busy port and ships from around the world, and pass by Old Fort Jackson, one of the oldest forts in the U.S. Great views and delightful photo spots make this cruise a must-do while in Savannah.
Rick Shu, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Savannah Riverboat (Cont.)
Cruises here began with Captain Jonathan H. Claughton, who wanted to make dinner boat rides thrilling. The first boat, the River Queen, could fit 400 people. Later, they got the Georgia Queen, which holds up to 1,000 guests. Both boats have two dining areas and a top deck.
Aude, CC BY-SA 2.5, Wikimedia Commons
Exciting Whale-Watching Adventure
Whale-watching on Legacy is an exciting trip. People can see whales (especially the Gray Whale), dolphins, sea lions, and birds from the boat’s seats. The crew is friendly and points out animals you might have missed. The trip commences from San Diego’s Mission Bay.
FASTILY, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
San Diego (Cont.)
San Diego’s economy is vibrant all thanks to people, science, and research. Many people love to visit the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and Balboa Park each year. For water adventure, the beaches are perfect; surfers and kayakers enjoy the ocean while families play on the long, sandy beach.
Michael Seljos, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Ultimate Juneau Whale Watch
Whale watching in Juneau is a thrilling adventure. Starting at Auke Bay Harbor, this boat ride lets people see big humpback whales and playful orcas. Friendly guides tell cool facts about local animals while guests stay warm in a heated cabin. Snacks and binoculars help to make great memories.
Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Alaska (Cont.)
Alaska’s capital city has no roads to the rest of the state, so travel is by boat or plane. Named after gold seeker Joe Juneau, this city has beautiful sights like Mendenhall Glacier and about 30 other glaciers close by. Visitors can see whales, seals, and different birds.
Jay Galvin, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Kayaking Adventure On The Salt River
Paddle along the Salt River in Arizona’s big Tonto Forest. Start at Saguaro Lake Ranch and float through a calm ride. Watch for wild horses and other animals as you float. After two hours, a shuttle will take you back, making this trip easy and lively for everyone who loves the outdoors.
Alan Starkm, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Tonto National Forest (Cont.)
With six large lakes, like Bartlett and Saguaro, there’s a lot to see. Watch for animals like bald eagles and bobcats as you glide along the calm water. The Salt River nearby is also great for rafting and tubing trips.
Dave's98JeepTJ, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
A Fun Spot In Chicago
You can splash in its cool water, take a ride on the water, or unwind on the sandy shore. From Navy Pier to the nice Lakefront Trail, Lake Michigan brings nature to the city. There are also engaging events like the well-known Chicago Air and Water Show.
Sea Cow, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Lake Michigan (Cont.)
Chicago sits by Lake Michigan, a huge lake. It runs along 28 miles of the city, offering places to swim, take boat rides, or relax by the water. Popular spots like Navy Pier and the Lakefront Trail let people enjoy both the lake and the city.
Roman Boed, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Swamp Boat Ride
Ready for another swamy adventure? If so, take a kayak trip through Manchac Swamp, just outside New Orleans. Paddle in calm waters and see alligators and birds. This tour is easy for beginners and a fun way to enjoy nature away from the city.
Melanie Commander Thibodaux, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Oak Alley Plantation (Cont.)
This large home, built in 1839, shows what life on a plantation was like. Oak Alley Plantation, found by the Mississippi River in Louisiana, is well-known for its long path of oak trees leading from the house to the river. Now, people can visit and learn about how sugarcane was grown.
Francisco Anzola, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Explore Charleston Harbor And Discover Fort Sumter
The Charleston Harbor tour includes round-trip ferry rides and tickets, which are an easy way to see the great views of Charleston Harbor. Take an hour to check out the fort and its exhibits and learn about the events that occur in this lovely spot.
Brian Stansberry, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Fort Sumter (Cont.)
Fort Sumter is notable for being where the American Civil War started, with the first shots fired on April 12, 1861. The fort was built on an artificial island using 70,000 tons of stone from New England to protect the harbor, but it was not finished when the war started.
JERRYE & ROY KLOTZ MD, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Experience Seattle’s Beauty at Sunset
Partake in the evening colors sunset sail in Seattle aboard a stunning tall ship. This cruise offers views of the city, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains. Help hoist the sails, enjoy a drink, and watch the sunset over Puget Sound.
Meckser, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Olympic Mountains / Mount Olympus (Cont.)
As the tallest point in the Olympic Mountains at 7,980 feet, Mount Olympus has green rainforests on one side and dry meadows on the other. Mount Rainier has many types of land—green forests, colorful fields of flowers, and shining glaciers that dazzle the views.
Explore The Everglades National Park
Join a fun Everglades tour from Miami. On this trip, you’ll take an airboat ride through the swamps, where you can see alligators, turtles, and bright birds. As you do so, a guide will tell you interesting facts about plants and animals.
Daniel Kraft, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Everglades (Cont.)
Once home to Native American tribes, such as the Calusa and Tequesta tribes, a lot of land was lost because of farming and city building, with about half of its original space gone. Still, you can kayak, canoe, airboat, fish, swim, and fish. The options are endless.
GagliardiPhotography, Shutterstock
A Trolley And Riverboat Adventure
Check out Savannah with a tour that combines a trolley ride and a riverboat trip. If you would like silence, well and good, but there is also an option of a guide to show you around the old parts of town.
LoneStarMike, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Savannah (Cont.)
Tourists can see well-known places like where Juliette Gordon Low was born and the First African Baptist Church. Savannah has tasty Southern food, like shrimp and grits. The city also has great events, such as the Savannah Music Festival. With nice Forsyth Park and nearby beaches at Tybee Island.
Farragutful, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
San Diego Bay
Experience the excitement on the San Diego Splash, the first tour that goes on land and water. Start in Seaport Village, then drive along the beautiful Harbor Drive. See your bus change into a boat and splash into the bay. Look for sea lions and enjoy views of places like SeaWorld.
FASTILY, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
San Diego Bay (Cont.)
Full of history, San Diego Bay was first found by Spanish explorers in 1769 and became an important U.S. Navy base during World War II. Now, the Port of San Diego moves millions of tons of cargo every year and has a busy cruise ship terminal.
Port of San Diego, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
A Family-Friendly Boat Ride In Newport
See the lovely sights of Rhode Island with the Afternoon Grand Tour in Newport. This nice boat ride goes around Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay for 75 minutes. See cool places like Fort Adams and the Newport Bridge while you sip a free drink.
D Ramey Logan, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Rhode Island (Cont.)
Rhode Island is a small state in the USA known as the “Ocean State” because of its many beaches and water areas. It has a rich history, starting with Native Americans living around Narragansett Bay. Roger Williams founded Providence in 1636 to offer people the freedom to practice their own beliefs.
MVASCO, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
A Dolphin Adventure In Clearwater
Take a boat ride in Clearwater to see happy bottlenose dolphins! On this big boat, your Captain tells you about the area and its rich history. Float through the pretty Gulf of Mexico, where you will definitely see dolphins jumping and swimming. Snacks and drinks as you enjoy.
Gulf of Mexico Dolphins (Cont.)
These animals come in different types, and one of them is the bottlenose dolphin. It has a friendly face, and that is not all. They can live in both shallow and deep waters. If you are lucky, you can also get to spot the Atlantic spotted dolphin. Take a picture.
Underwater Adventure On The S.S. Nautilus
Hop on the yellow semi-submarine at Catalina Island. Board the S.S. Nautilus and go down six feet in the water without getting wet. You’ll see lots of fish and hear cool stories from the guides. When you come back up, enjoy great views of the island.
Santa Catalina (Cont.)
About 4,201 people live on Santa Catalina Island, mostly in Avalon, the only city. The Tongva tribe first lived there before Spain took control in 1542. In the 1920s, the island became a popular place for tourists, with ferries making it easy to visit.
Oahu’s Best Spots With Turtles And Treats
Visit Diamond Head for sunrise, see the Halona Blowhole, and relax on sandy beaches. You’ll stop at farms for snacks and explore towns along the way. The highlight? Snorkeling with sea turtles at Haleiwa Beach, plus a tour of the famous Dole Plantation before the day ends.
Eric Tessmer, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Oahu (Cont.)
Oahu is the busiest island in Hawaii and home to the state’s capital, Honolulu. It’s known for places like Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and Pearl Harbor; it blends history and nature. It also has Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the U.S.
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