About
May Half Term: York’s Only Boat Tour
Make the most of the school holidays with a unique voyage through the heart of the city.
Keep the kids entertained this May Half Term with a view of York you cannot find anywhere else. As the city’s only boat tour, we offer the perfect blend of relaxation for adults and discovery for children. Our all-weather fleet features heated saloons and open top decks, ensuring your family plans remain uninterrupted regardless of the British weather.
Choose Your Holiday Experience
Whether you want a guided tour, a classic British meal, or the independence of your own vessel, we have an experience for every family.
York City Cruise
Our core sightseeing experience. Our captains provide live, entertaining commentary that brings York’s history to life, from its Viking roots to its world-famous chocolate industry. It is the ideal way to see the sights in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
- Free river-themed activity sheets for kids.
- Spot native wildlife like kingfishers along the banks.
- Heated cabins and open decks for all-weather viewing.
Fish & Chips Cruise
Combine your sightseeing with a world-famous York meal. Enjoy award-winning fish and chips from the renowned Mr. Chippy, delivered hot to the boat as you sail. It is the ultimate lunchtime treat that saves you from searching for a table in a busy city centre.
- Kid-sized portions and drink included.
- Relaxed dining with beautiful riverside views.
- The perfect high-value family upgrade.
Self-Drive Boats
Be your own captain! For families wanting a private adventure, our motorboats allow you to explore the River Ouse at your own pace. Discover the quieter, scenic stretches of the river away from the crowds.
- Seats up to 5 people: plenty of room for the family.
- No licence or previous experience required.
- Safety briefing and life jackets provided.
Why Families Choose Us
Our heated enclosed saloons ensure the family stays dry and comfortable, making us the perfect rainy-day activity in York.
Bring the whole family. Well-behaved dogs sail at no extra charge on all our sightseeing cruises.
Refresh with hot chocolates for the kids or local York beers and gins for the adults at our fully stocked bar.
We offer discounted tickets and special rates for seniors and students, and kids under 5 go free. We also proudly accept the York Pass.
Departure Points & Timings
| Landing Location | Guaranteed Daily Times | Find Us |
|---|---|---|
| King's Staith LandingYork, YO1 9SN | 10:30, 12:00, 13:30, 15:00 | View on Google Mapswhat3words: ///fight.mile.packet |
| Lendal Bridge LandingYork, YO1 7DP | 10:40, 12:10, 13:40, 15:10 | View on Google Mapswhat3words: ///oval.either.design |
Don't just take our word for it
"We had a few hours in York and wanted a nice relaxing way to see a few sights. The captain, Andy, was incredibly entertaining and charming from start to finish, providing plenty of facts and humorous historical anecdotes. We got a drink from the bar and relaxed for the trip. I'd thoroughly recommend it if you're visiting York for a day or two!"
— Richard S, TripAdvisor
Holiday Planning Tips
- Pre-booking: Half term is our busiest period. We highly recommend booking online to secure your preferred sailing time.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair access is at King's Staith Landing only. Please call 01904 628324 to confirm accessible vessel times.
- York Pass: Present your pass at the landing to board (subject to availability).
- Opening Hours: We sail daily from 1 January to 20 November. Festive programmes begin 21 November.
York Sightseeing Cruise: City Cruises Opening Hours
Sailing daily: 1st January to 20th November.
Festive Sightseeing: 21st November to 31st December.
Departure times vary by season and operational requirements. For live daily schedules, real-time updates, and guaranteed sailing times, please check our website.
