Providence Historic Narrated Boat Tour
Explore Providence’s rivers and harbor with narrated insights into history and architecture
From$38/ personincl. taxes and fees
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Discover what we've curated for you
Explore Providence’s rivers and harbor with narrated insights into history and architecture
Discover what we've curated for you
50 minutes
Guided narration, Open-air boat
Discover Providence’s waterways on a narrated open-air boat tour. Glide through the river, Riverwalk, and harbor as you hear stories of the city’s history and architecture.
Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in; late arrivals forfeit reservations. All passengers, including infants, need a paid ticket. Boats are uncovered with no onboard bathroom and are not wheelchair accessible; only service animals are allowed and children under 13 must wear a USCG-approved life vest.
Where do I check in?
Inside The Landing, our café and gift shop, at 101 Dyer Street, Providence, RI 02903.
Do infants and children need a ticket?
Yes. All passengers, including infants and children, must have a paid reservation to board. Capacity is limited to 18 passengers.
When do I need to arrive?
Tours launch exactly as scheduled. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour for check-in or your seats may be released to stand-by guests.
Is there a bathroom on the boat?
No. Please use the restroom inside The Landing before boarding.
Can I smoke or vape on board?
No. Smoking and vaping are not permitted.
Can I bring my dog?
Only service animals specifically trained to aid a person with a disability are allowed aboard.
Are the boats accessible?
The boats are not wheelchair accessible. There is a long ramp to the dock and guests must step over the side rail to board; walkers and wheelchairs may be left at your own risk.
What should I wear?
The vessels are uncovered. Wear hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen in warm weather; bring a sweater or jacket for evenings.
Do children need to wear life vests?
Yes. RI law requires children under 13 to wear a USCG-approved PFD while underway. PFDs are available for all passengers.
All tour reservations are non-refundable. You may reschedule with 72 hours’ notice. Cancellations inside 72 hours, late arrivals, no-shows, and missing party members are non-refundable and not reschedulable. Tours may be canceled for severe weather; if canceled you may reschedule or receive a full refund. Operator may reschedule or cancel when fewer than 4 passengers have booked.
We are located inside The Landing at 101 Dyer Street in downtown Providence.
This river tour operation consistently delivers memorable experiences thanks to engaging, knowledgeable guides who excel at storytelling. Captain Bob, Kelly, and Peter get frequent shoutouts for their entertaining mix of humor, local history, and theatrical flair. The haunted boat tour seems particularly popular, with guides bringing ghost stories to life while the sun sets over Providence. Guests appreciate learning about the city's history and hidden stories, including a specialized shipwreck tour that takes advantage of ideal tides to showcase 29 wrecks along the Green Jacket Shoal. The check-in spot at The Landing adds to the experience with a cafe offering snacks, drinks, and ice cream, perfect for enjoying before or after your cruise. Most reviewers found the staff accommodating when changes were needed. One guest struggled with communication when trying to arrange a private cruise, experiencing some back-and-forth and delays. However, the overwhelming majority rave about their experiences. Pro tip: bring a jacket since it can get chilly on the water, even during warmer months.
Excellent cruise, even though it was pretty cold (approx 16C). The captain made it very enjoyable with his knowledge, whit and humour. I would recommend this cruise to anyone visiting Providence
Ade Chase
December 17, 2025
Excellent cruise, even though it was pretty cold (approx 16C). The captain made it very enjoyable with his knowledge, whit and humour. I would recommend this cruise to anyone visiting Providence
Ade Chase
December 17, 2025