Rochester NY Cruises: Top Sailing & Boat Tours in 2024
Thinking about seeing Rochester from a totally different angle? Well, a boat tour might just be the ticket! The city sits pretty on the Genesee River and Lake Ontario, so it’s almost perfect for exploring by water. Very many kinds of tours are offered around here, everything from laid-back sightseeing cruises to, well, quite adventurous sailing trips. Is that something that you’d be into?
1. Sam Patch Canal Boat Tour
Now, this is more than just a boat ride, is that right? It’s really a little dip into Rochester’s past! This tour uses a replica of a historic packet boat, and, you know, it takes you along the Erie Canal. This gives you a very good idea of what canal travel was like way back when. So, imagine gliding along the water, with costumed actors sharing stories and facts about the canal’s impact. Pretty interesting stuff! We love it.
Why It’s Cool: So, not only do you get a very scenic cruise, but also, you learn a thing or two. The historical reenactments add such a great touch.
What People Are Saying: Folks really talk about how educational and very entertaining this cruise is, is that true? They love those costumed interpreters, really adding some flavor to the journey.
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Read our full review: Sam Patch Canal Tour Full Review and Details
2. Lake Ontario Sailing Charter
Maybe you’re searching for something really hands-on? Sailing on Lake Ontario might just grab your interest. So, several companies give you the chance to rent a sailboat, some with a captain, some without if you’re, you know, experienced enough. Sailing’s really great since you get to feel the breeze, take the helm, and, in a way, just get out on the open water. What a feeling!
Why It’s Awesome: It’s like a completely customized experience. Want a relaxed sunset sail? Maybe a thrilling race across the lake? It’s pretty much your call!
Good To Know: A bit of sailing know-how helps, or, still, you could hire a captain. So, check the weather forecast, okay? Lake Ontario can, actually, get pretty choppy.
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Read our full review: Lake Ontario Sailing Charter Full Review and Details
3. Genesee River Cruises
The Genesee River really snakes right through the core of Rochester, that’s for sure! Taking a cruise here really is a great method for checking out the city skyline and all of those scenic riverbanks. Several tours offer, well, narrated cruises which point out landmarks and share some local history, might be something you’d be into.
What’s to love: Relax, learn a bit, and snap some shots of the city as you float on by.
Watch out for: The river level kind of has an effect on which routes are open. So, check in advance, just in case!
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Read our full review: Genesee River Cruises Full Review and Details
4. The Colonial Belle – Erie Canal Cruise
Another trip option for diving into canal history, is that true? The Colonial Belle really offers relaxed cruises on a bigger boat, might be more comfortable for some. Usually, they provide lunch and dinner cruises, very well may include live music or themed nights. Sound interesting?
Why it might appeal: Relax on a bigger boat, have a bite, and enjoy the views all at the same time.
Remember this: Those themed cruises tend to get full. Reserving is just a good idea.
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Read our full review: Colonial Belle Erie Canal Cruise Full Review and Details
5. Private Boat Tours on Irondequoit Bay
Perhaps you’re in search of something a bit more individual? So, consider a private tour of Irondequoit Bay. Several local operators let you charter a boat just for your group. You can customize the schedule, that, too, for anything from waterskiing to a calm sunset viewing. Sounds amazing, basically!
Upside: Everything can be just how you like it! You pick the activities, the route, all of it.
To keep in Mind: Booking way ahead of time might just be the ticket, particularly during busy times.
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Read our full review: Private Boat Tours on Irondequoit Bay Full Review and Details
Going on a boat ride around Rochester may well be an awesome method to discover the city and also its surrounding locations from an entirely brand new point of view, isn’t it? If it’s an academic trip back in time you’re searching for, possibly an independent sailing experience or just a relaxed cruise, there is generally something available here for every person. So why not provide it a go then? Plan the upcoming boat trip and develop remarkable experiences on the waters of Rochester. Happy cruising to you! Basically, you should have a fun time on whichever choice you pick, you know!
