A boat cruise or tour is an excellent way to learn more about the history, the residents, and the way of life in Buffalo, NY. You have many options for a relaxing day or evening on the water.
- Some cruises and tours are purely for relaxation, while others incorporate educational opportunities.
- The Buffalo area offers unique and fun tours for groups and parties, couples, and families with children.
- Romantic cruises, including sunset and dinner cruises, are available for you and your partner.
When you visit Buffalo, New York, you quickly understand that the waterways in the area play a significant role in daily life. Residents and visitors enjoy kayaking, boating, running, and biking in and around the water. One of the most highly rated things to do in Buffalo is boat cruises and tours. They’re relaxing, educational, and fun! Here are some of the options to take part in this favorite Buffalo, NY, pastime.
Buffalo Harbor Cruises
The family-friendly excursions with Buffalo Harbor Cruises have narrated sightseeing trips with experienced and friendly guides. The trips take you along the Buffalo River, starting at the original lighthouse and traveling through Lake Erie and the Black Rock Canal. You’ll see the Peace Bridge, a Frank Lloyd Wright boathouse, and one of the oldest yacht clubs in the country. A Buffalo Harbor Cruise lasts for an hour and 15 minutes, and you can buy your tickets an hour before cruise time. Boarding begins 15 minutes before departure, and they do leave on time, so don’t be late!
Buffalo River History Tours
You’ll learn more in a 90-minute narrated tour with Buffalo River History Tours than you could ever imagine. Our friendly and knowledgeable guides share the history and stories of the Erie Canal. Buffalo is the largest grain port globally and home to the most extensive collection of standing grain elevators. A Buffalo River History Tour takes you up close to understand the industry responsible for the city’s size and wealth. If you want to understand the intricacies and the true nature of the area, a Buffalo River History Tour is the way to go.
Buffalo CycleBoats
Buffalo CycleBoats is anything but a typical riverboat cruise. Instead of a traditional sailing vessel, you set out on a 16-seat craft powered by the passengers. Guests enjoy drinks and pedal away on a machine similar to a bicycle at specialized stations organized around a large, comfortable bar. Non-pedaling guests enjoy cozy bench seating and beautiful views. A trip on a Buffalo CycleBoat on the Downtown Buffalo waters is an excellent way to spend a birthday, wedding party, family reunion, or corporate event. Have fun, learn about the city, and get your exercise at the same time!
Spirit of Buffalo – Buffalo Sailing Adventures
The majestic Spirit of Buffalo takes you back in time to the days of sailing glory. This 73-foot schooner, with its friendly and knowledgeable crew, will make you fall in love with the sport as the red sails catch the wind. You can jump in and help the team with the sails of the Spirit of Buffalo, or you can sit back and enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience. Choose from day and evening cruises on Lake Erie, sunset sailing, craft beer and wine excursions, and even pirate adventures for children. Spirit of Buffalo offers private and public charters to meet your needs.
Grand Lady Cruises
If you’re looking for a romantic way to spend the evening with your partner, Grand Lady Cruises offers the area’s only dinner cruise. Enjoy a delicious three-course meal, live music, and a cash bar as you cruise along for the two-and-a-half-hour trip along Lake Erie, Black Rock Canal, and the Buffalo River. Seating is assigned, so make your reservations early. A Grand Lady Cruise is also a fun way to get a group of friends together to celebrate a special occasion. Visit their website to see all their themed cruises, including Bubbly Brunch, Boat-B-Que, and Cruise for a Cause.
Buffalo Tiki Tours
Another unusual way to see the beautiful waters in the area is a Buffalo Tiki Tour. Meander around the Inner Harbor on a floating Tiki Hut. Up to six guests at a time can enjoy sunset cruises, day-long trips, wedding parties, and corporate events aboard our Hawaiian-style crafts. You can even get married on the boats, and they’ll provide the minister. Get your friends together for the party of a lifetime, or surprise your partner with a romantic cruise!
Sparky’s Fishing Adventures
Set sail for adventure on the Sparky’s Charter boat. The 19-foot Crestliner Tournament Pro has a 150hp Yamaha engine and cutting-edge line tackle and gear. Sparky’s Fishing Adventures is USSG inspected and fully insured. A trip with Sparky’s includes all the supplies you need, and they’ll clean and package your catch for you. The company operates on Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and the Niagara River under the names Lake Ontario Fishing Charter, Lake Erie Charter Fishing Service, and Lake Erie Smallmouth and Walleye Guides.
Patriot Sailing LLC
Patriot Sailing LLC goes beyond taking you on a voyage to teach you how to sail independently. The instructor holds a United States Coast Guard license and has more than 30 years of experience. You’ll learn on a safe and well-maintained craft that the USCG regularly inspects. Lessons take place in small groups of no more than three so that students get the attention they need from the instructor. If you’re not quite ready to set sail on your own, Patriot Sailing does offer private cruises and generous discounts to first responders.
Learning More About Life in Buffalo
Once you’ve spent a little time on the beautiful waterways in the Buffalo area, you may decide to make it your home, temporarily or permanently. The real estate professionals at Ellicott Development can help you find suitable residential space for you, whether you’re looking for a vacation apartment or a luxury condominium. We can also help if you’re looking to locate a business in Buffalo. We specialize in repurposing spaces while preserving historic beauty. Contact us today to find the perfect home base from which to enjoy the water.
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