Boston Harbor: Tours and Guided Visits

Boston Harbor once served as a significant trade spot for national and international business, and is the destination of the infamous Boston Party, during which, the equivalent of more than 1.8 million cups of tea were wasted.

Those who wish to discover “Beantown” in a new light can opt for a Boston Harbor tour and enjoy the city’s soaring skyscrapers, and historic monuments from afar. These excursions are ideal for anyone with a restricted schedule and cover a large expanse of water over the course of just a few short hours.

Here's all you need to know about the Boston Harbor, one of the most exhilarating destinations for sightseeing tours in Boston.

Where is Boston Harbor located?

Boston Harbor is situated within the Bay of Massachusetts and extends for 130 square kilometers, which includes 290 kilometers of coastline.

While the harbor is a main attraction in the city, it is not served by all public transportation services. The closest train station is more than 20 minutes walk away, so it's best to use the Blue Line Subway.

This line connects many parts of the city, including Wonderland Amusement Park and Bowdoin, and you’ll get off at the Aquarium stop, located along the waterfront.

Alternatively, you can catch a ferry, which stops at Long Wharf (North) or a bus.

What are the best things to do in Boston Harbor?

Boston Harbor Islands State Park

Boston Harbor Islands State Park is formed of 34 islands and attracts more than 500,000 visitors to its waters annually. One of the largest islands in this archipelago is Peddocks Island, which is known for its biodiversity and 20th-century fort.

Other attractions you will happen upon as you make your way through the park include Spectacle Island, famed for its sea glass, and Castle Island, where an impenetrable fortress stands.

Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary

Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary covers more than 1,300 square kilometers of ocean just outside Boston Harbor. As the area is protected, its waters are home to an abundance of fish species, which attract migrating whales between the months of May and October.

Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary is a prime spot to go whale watching, with a number of species gracing the waters, including the colossal blue whale, which can weigh over 180,000 kilograms and measures up to 30 meters. Other cetaceans also present in these waters include the bottlenose, white-beaked and common dolphin.

What are the best tours to visit Boston Harbor?

Boston Harbor sunset cruise

Those who wish to finish their vacation off with a bang can celebrate their loved ones over a glass of bubbly on a Boston Harbor tour that takes place at sunset. You’ll feel the tranquility of the ocean overtake you as you leave the buzz of the streets behind to admire the city from the water.

Step back in time as you enjoy this experience aboard a 1920s-style vessel and enjoy the glimmer of the sea as it sparkles gold during the day’s final hour of sunlight. If you’re lucky, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the blazing reds and vibrant oranges that fill the sky as the sun sets before witnessing the city illuminated under inky skies by millions of twinkling lights.

As you relax on deck, you’ll sail past the famous Castle Island, which houses a historic fortress named by the first President of the United States, George Washington.

Sightseeing boat tour of Boston Harbor

On this Boston boat tour, you’ll travel toward Boston Harbor Islands State Park, which is formed of more than 30 islands, scattered across the Atlantic Ocean.

Before reaching this archipelago, you’ll pass by Fan Pier, which is home to a number of attractions including a waterfront park and a museum showcasing the history of the 18th-century Boston Tea Party, during which more than 40,000 kilograms of tea were discarded into the sea.

Catch a glimpse of the Seaport World Trade Center and the curved John Joseph Moakley United States Courthouse, which has won several architectural awards. Moving on, you’ll reach the state park where you’ll hop between islands, exploring an array of remarkable destinations, including Fort Independence and the Donald Mckay Monument, from the water.

Boston Harbor high-speed boat tour

Alternatively, if your interests lie more in thrill-seeking than in sightseeing, choose a high-speed boat ride that zips through the waters of Boston Harbor. You’ll reach speeds of over 60 kilometers and feel your heart racing as you experience hairpin turns, designed to keep you on the edge of your seat.

If that isn’t enough to exhilarate you, just wait for the 360-degree turns coming your way. When you’re not being dragged through the waters of Boston Harbor, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with other adrenaline junkies and bond over your shared experience.

Boston Harbor whale watching cruise

This whale watching cruise in Boston leads you across the city’s spectacular harbor to the mouth of Massachusetts Bay, where you’ll find Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. This is one of the prime spots for marine life on the East Coast of the U.S., as it serves as a home to a plethora of migrating whales throughout the summer months.

Listen to an engaging commentary from a whale expert while you keep your eyes peeled for several species of cetaceans, including blue whales, common minke whales, and fin whales. Alongside these kings of the ocean, you may also see pods of friendly Atlantic white-sided dolphins, which are endemic to the area and identified by their distinctive coloring, as well as orcas, and bottlenose dolphins.

You’ll experience all the ocean’s wonders from a comfortable catamaran with multiple viewing decks, ensuring you get the full picture of this marine sanctuary.

What are the prices of Boston Harbor tours?

Sunset Boston Harbor tours cost just under US$50 per adult, with children (3 to 14) and seniors (65+) paying a discounted rate of US$40 each. Vessels on these tours typically accommodate up to 150 travelers at once.

You can upgrade this excursion by selecting a premium departure time. For this, you’ll pay closer to US$70 per adult and just under US$50 for children, and seniors.

High-speed boat tours in Boston Harbor cost US$50 to US$60 per adult, while children aged 3 to 12 qualify for a US$10 discount. The price of this excursion includes waterproof clothing and bags to ensure you’re comfortable while aboard.

Sightseeing Boston Harbor cruises that take place during the daytime cost just under US$60 per adult and operate in groups capped at 41 participants. Children between 3 and 14 pay US$40 each.

Whale watching Boston Harbor tours cost around US$70 per adult, while children between aged 3 to 11 pay US$40 to US$50 each.

Where do Boston Harbor tours start?

Boston Harbor boat tours usually start at the provider’s office, along Long or Rowes Wharf. You can see the exact meeting point when booking, giving you plenty of time to plan your route and arrange any necessary transportation .

Boston has a reliable and convenient public transportation network of trains, buses and trolleys, allowing you to navigate the city with ease.

Are Boston Harbor tours wheelchair friendly?

Some Boston Harbor tours, such as whale watching cruises, are suitable for wheelchair users, allowing all travelers to learn more about the world’s largest mammal. High-speed boat tours on the other hand are not suitable for any travelers with medical conditions, because of the nature of the activity.

While many excursions list their accessibility, others do not, and you may need to contact the operator directly to see whether they are able to cater to your additional needs.

When is the best time to visit Boston Harbor?

The best time to visit Boston Harbor is typically from late spring to early fall, specifically June through September. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the waterfront. This period also features numerous events and festivals.

However, it's worth noting that summer (July-August) can be quite crowded, so late spring (June) or early fall (September) might offer a more relaxed experience with milder weather.

Travel tips

• Consider getting a Boston CityPASS to save on entrance fees and activities across the city, including Boston Harbor cruises.
• Boston is a walkable city, and public transportation is efficient. Consider a CharlieCard for the MBTA system to save on fares.
• When visiting the Boston waterfront, take the time to enjoy local seafood specialities, such as New England clam chowder and lobster rolls.
• The weather in Boston can be unpredictable, so dress in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes, and don't forget to bring along some rain gear.