York River Cruise: Scenic Daytime Sightseeing

Discover York’s history and beauty on a tranquil River Ouse cruise. Enjoy breathtaking sights and intriguing tales on this unforgettable journey.

Duration: 45 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • York - Historic Landmarks: Travelers will marvel at the rich history of York with the chance to see iconic landmarks such as York Minster, Clifford’s Tower, and the medieval city walls from a unique perspective.
    Stunning Architecture: Panoramic views of York’s stunning architecture. Travelers can capture postcard-perfect snapshots of the city’s…
What's Included
  • Toilet Facilities
  • Live Captain’s Commentary
  • Scenic River Ouse Views
What's Not Included
  • Drinks & Snacks (Ranges from £1 to £6)
Additional Information

Join us for a delightful daytime sightseeing tour in York, where travelers can enjoy an extraordinary journey through the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. This daytime tour in York guarantees an unforgettable experience, featuring awe-inspiring views, captivating stories, and peaceful moments along the historic…

Location
City Cruises York - Kings Staith Landing
King's Staith
This cruise departs from Kings Staith 1. If you are unsure, please feel free to ask for directions from a member of the City Cruises Team on the quayside! Please note that not all boats are wheelchair accessible.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.3
(1306 Ratings)
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Joycef87
May 22, 2026
Great River Ouse Cruise - Andy took us on a great 45 minute informative cruise of the River Ouse yesterday - he has a great sense of humor and made the trip really enjoyable - his fellow colleagues were also very friendly - highly recommended - thanks Andy ( positive review from us so we don't need to mention Dave 😂😂 )
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Trek36123137791
May 17, 2026
amazing - it was a lovely day out with the kids
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Q403dwmichaelm
May 17, 2026
A relaxing and informative cruise! - This was an opportunity to cruise part of the River Ouse that runs through York. City Cruises operate several vessels. We were using the Visit York Pass which covers access many venues in the city. We were welcomed aboard and enjoyed an excellent commentary about the history of the River and its impact on the architecture (buildings and bridges and city walls). Plus some humorous anecdotes.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jkodiak19
May 12, 2026
A Cruise Down The River Ouse - Despite the weather being a little on the chilly side, the cruise was a great way to get reacquainted with York. There was a friendly staff and captain who made us feel welcome and we enjoyed all the little factoids they told us about the bridges and Saint George Field. Highly recommend 👍.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
571travel
May 28, 2026
Pleasant Boat Ride - Short tour on the river. - Nice boat ride on the river and professionally run. No real sight seeing advantage gained from the boat. Discovered the path along the river from boat which would most likely be a more rewarding expience if you are able.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Alan
May 22, 2026
Relaxing boat trip - The staff were helpful, the commentary was difficult to hear at times and limited. There was little to see of the city so a bus tour might have been a better option.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Marylou_h
May 27, 2026
Unimpressive - There is really nothing much o see on this boat ride. We definitely didn't see Clifford Tower as the tour description promised. The view of York Minster is just the very top of the towers above the trees. The ride goes under several bridges, but they are unremarkable.
Review provided by Viator
690sheilab
May 22, 2026
A frustrating waste of a potentially enjoyable trip - This was very disappointing. The price was fine for a guided river tour..but the commentary was barely audible and hardly decipherable. From the odd phrases heard, it was quite well researched and even humorous.. but it was so bad people started chatting to each other which didn't help. We did feedback ghat we could t hear, and the volume was turned up slightly but without effect. None of the crew took the initiative to describe any of the sights. We also spent too much of the 'hour' waiting to pick up passengers, and turning round.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
375billyr
May 21, 2026
Don't waste your money.my opinion - Really its a major rip off. Went 10 mins up water then back to start and done 10 mins down Water.nothing to see up river . Trees and water. Down river just what you see from sitting at the small refreshment pubs. Very disappointed. As was looking forward to it. £31 down the drain. Liverpool boat trip was far superior.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Johnlp6758cf
May 12, 2026
What commentary - Went as a group of 6 on a wonderfully sunny day (6th May ) travelled on the James Cook on the upper deck, totally unable to hear any of the commentary as the speakers just gave a "mush", views brilliant but total waste of money if you want to know anything about where you are Told the man on leaving the boat to be greeted with a shrug. Never again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $20
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).