Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, the Genesee River, the Erie Canal, and the Finger Lakes region on a boat tour. Enjoy stunning scenery, unique geology, and impressive waterfront homes. From the comfort of a boat, you’ll be able to spot local wildlife and learn about the rich history and culture of the area. Indulge in the serene atmosphere and breathe fresh air while enjoying a unique and unforgettable experience.
Contact cruise companies directly to learn about their unique amenities and accommodations. Some cruises may offer basic onboard comforts, such as restrooms and bottled water, while others may provide additional services like dinner, cash bars, and live music.
Day Trips Around Rochester,NewYork
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City of Rochester
Riverie
The latest addition to Corn Hill Navigation’s fleet, the Riverie, launches from the waterfront center at Corn Hill Landing. Passengers can select from various themes, including a 90-minute trip along the river, a 2.5-hour journey to Lock E-33 in Henrietta, and specialty voyages like one-hour live music and sunset cruises. Tour fee. 280 Exchange Blvd., Rochester
Monroe County
Colonial Belle
The Colonial Bell is the largest tour boat operating on the Erie Canal, with a capacity for 149 passengers. On the three-hour lock tour, you’ll experience firsthand the meaning of “Low bridge, everybody down!” The round trip covers nine miles, going west on the canal through Fairport, Bushnell’s Basin, Pittsford, and Lock 32 Canal Park before returning to Fairport. Tour fee. 400 Packett’s Landing, Fairport
Sam Patch
Corn Hill Navigation’s 1800s packet boat replica, Sam Patch, offers leisurely 90-minute cruises along the canal through Lock E-32. Expert guides share stories about the canal’s commercial history, engineering innovations, and impact on current recreational use, highlighting interesting sights. Tour fee. 12 Schoen Place, Pittsford
Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours
Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours are a great way to experience the canal and learn about its history along your narrated cruise.
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Greater Rochester
Canandaigua Lady
You can take this steamboat replica on a 90-minute narrated cruise along the north shore of Canandaigua Lake while relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Tour fee. 205 Lakeshore Drive, Canandaigua, Ontario County
Seager Marine
Enjoy a leisurely two-hour sunset cruise on Canandaigua Lake. Tour fee. 811 S. Main Street, Canandaigua, Ontario County
Surrounding Counties
Bianconi Tours
Enjoy a one-hour guided history cruise along Cayuga Lake. They also offer winery and sunset tours. Tour fee. 403 Main Street, Aurora, Cayuga County
Buffalo Harbor Cruises
The company offers narrated sightseeing tours along Lake Erie and the Buffalo River with varying departure times and durations depending on the theme. Tour fee. 329 Erie Street, Buffalo, Erie County
Buffalo River HistoryTours
Enjoy a narrated 90-minute tour of the Buffalo River. Tour fee. 44 Prime Street, Buffalo, Erie County
Captain Bill’s Cruises
Consider embarking on a 50-minute narrated Seneca Spirit sightseeing cruise for the best view of Hector Falls (165 feet tall), or relax on a 2.5-hour dinner cruise on the Seneca Legacy. Tour fee. 1 N. Franklin Street, Watkins Glen, Schuyler County
Discover Cayuga Lake
There are various themes to choose from for cruise experiences, including public, sunset, night sky, eco-cruises, and specialized trips to the farmers’ market and Taughannock Falls. Tour fee. 805 Taughannock Boulevard, Ithaca, Tompkins County
Ithaca Boat Tours
Take a narrated tour of Cayuga Lake on the 49-passenger Patrick T. Kennedy. Tour fee. 708 W. Buffalo Street, Ithaca, Tompkins County
Maid of the Mist
Get ready for a wet and wild adventure on the Niagara River cruise! Start your journey by taking the elevator from the observation tower and boarding the ship. You’ll cruise to the base of American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls to witness the power and beauty of these iconic waterfalls up close. Tour fee. 1 Prospect Street, Niagara Falls, Niagara County
Mid-Lakes Navigation
Take a 45-minute scenic cruise on Skaneateles Lake aboard the Judge Ben Wiles. For a truly unique experience, board the Barbara S. Wiles for a three-hour mail delivery trip to summer cottages and camps unreachable by road. Tour fee. 3 W. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, Onondaga County
Spirit of Buffalo
Experience the thrill of sailing on Lake Erie on this beautiful, red-sailed tall ship, a 73-foot topsail schooner. Themed sails typically last for two hours. Tour fee. 44 Prime Street, Buffalo, Erie County
True Love
Experience a scenic two-hour Seneca Lake tour with multiple daily departures, including a sunset cruise option. Tour fee. Harbor Park Pier, 1 N. Franklin Street, Watkins Glen, SchuylerCounty
Whirlpool Jet Boat
Take a thrilling 45-minute wet or dry jet-boat ride and experience the power of the Niagara River and Devil’s Hole whirlpool. Tour fee. 115 S. Water Street, Lewiston, Niagara County
Google Map ofLocations
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Do you have a favorite Rochester-area boat tour?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
Debi Bower is the founder and creative director of daytrippingroc.com and author of the award-winning book Day Trips Around Rochester, NewYork.
People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
