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LAKE GENEVA BOAT TOURS

Welcome Aboard! Lake Geneva Cruise Line, one of Wisconsin’s top attractions, offers the best way to experience Lake Geneva. Explore the beauty, architecture, and scenery of the lake from one of our eight beautiful boats. Book your boat ride below.

Best of NYC

PIER 83, MIDTOWN

The only sightseeing cruise that completely circles Manhattan. See all of NYC's landmarks from temperature-controlled indoor seats or our huge outdoor deck.

• Outdoor Deck Space
• Snacks & full bar
• Photo stop at the Statue of Liberty

Cruises starting Thursday, June 6

CRUISE SUMMARY

Our World Famous Best of New York Cruise

Experience the only sightseeing cruise in New York City that completely goes around the island of Manhattan in our temperature-controlled, state-of-the-art boats.

During this 2 hour and 30 minute cruise you’ll cruise along all three NYC rivers, pass under 20 bridges and see over 130 of the city’s most iconic landmarks including the Manhattan skyline , Little Island , Hudson Yards , One World Trade Center , Brooklyn Bridge and downtown Brooklyn , Yankee Stadium , the George Washington Bridge and, of course, an up close look at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island !

Our world-famous tour guides tell the story of New York City as you journey around the full island and enjoy the best sightseeing experience NYC has to offer!

Please Note In the rare event that extreme high tides or other occasions out of our control prevent us from circumnavigating the entire island of Manhattan as planned, we'll modify our route to still give you a fantastic 200+ landmarks tour. If you have concerns, please give us a call as early as 9:30 AM the morning of the day you plan to take a cruise (212) 563-3200.

What you'll see

Our flagship cruise with the best views + every NYC landmark

Sit back, relax and enjoy breathtaking views of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty while our award winning tour guides narrate every detail along your route.

Empire State Building

Standing 1,250’ (381m) tall, it was the world's tallest building from 1931 until the World Trade Center was completed in 1972.

Chrysler Building

Classic Art Deco architecture, the building dons gargoyles that depict car ornaments and a spire modeled on a radiator grille.

An extraordinary 1.45 mile-long (2.33 km) elevated park built on an abandoned section of a former railroad.

Statue of Liberty

Standing 305’ (93m) tall, Lady Liberty has welcomed visitors since she was bequeathed to America from France in 1886.

Ellis Island

The busiest US immigrant port processed over 12 million immigrants from 1892 to 1954.

South Street Seaport

The South Street Seaport is a historic area in New York City. It features some of the oldest architecture in downtown Manhattan.

Brooklyn Bridge

The longest suspension bridge when it opened in 1883, its 276’ (84m) high towers are built of limestone, granite and cement.

Manhattan Bridge

Constructed in 1901, the Manhattan Bridge is a suspension bridge, connecting Lower Manhattan with Downtown Brooklyn.

United Nations Headquarters

Designed by an international team of architects, the UN is an international zone with its own fire department and postal service.

Gracie Mansion

This federal-style home, currently the residence of NYC mayors, was once a country estate, an ice-cream parlor and a museum.

Yankee Stadium

In its 85+ year history, this “cathedral to baseball” has hosted 6,581 Yankees regular season home games.

George Washington Bridge

The world’s busiest suspension bridge spans the Hudson River and carries over 103 million vehicles per year.

Onboard Amenities

Our state-of-the-art boats come equipped with almost everything you need for a relaxing and comfortable cruise.

Unparalleled Views Pick a seat on the outdoor deck or enjoy the view from the huge panoramic windows in our temperature-controlled indoor cabins.

Did You Say ... Incredible Outdoor Deck The best way to see NYC and Lady Liberty is "al fresco" - outside in the fresh air, enjoying the cool breezes and the warm sunshine. It doesn't get better than this!

Temperature-Controlled Indoor Space Whether it's hot or cold, rainy or sunny, we have a temperature-controlled indoor deck with plenty of seating for everyone

Onboard Café *Freshly prepared menu of sandwiches, salads and snacks available to purchase.

Refreshing Drinks *Enjoy a full bar serving hot and cold beverages including beer, wine and cocktails.

Free WiFi No need to wait to upload your favorite photos and selfies!

George Washington bridge

Guests Looking at Henry Hudson Bridge

Onboard Offerings

While we kindly ask that you refrain from bringing outside food or beverages, we've got you covered with a fully stocked snack bar and a delightful selection of beer, wine, and cocktails available onboard.

Click Here for our Full Onboard Menu

Plan Your Visit

Get ready, Get set, Get Directions to Pier 83

What To Do When You Arrive

• If you purchased Premier Tickets directly from circleline.com, please alert a red-shirted Ambassador and they will help you get through security to get to your seat quickly.
• If you bought standard tickets from circleline.com, Viator, Get Your Guide or Expedia, please go directly to boarding at the entrance to our Pier. Please have your bag open and ready to be checked by our security personnel.
• If you have a CityPASS and you have reserved your seats in advance at citypass.circleline.com , please proceed to directly to security.
• If you have another pass, such as NY Pass, Explorer Pass or Sightseeing Pass, or a voucher, please go to our ticket office to pick up your tickets and proceed to the security line.

Parking at Pier 83

If you're driving to Pier 83 we've got parking for you!

We offer convenient parking just steps away from our boats. We have a parking attendant and security personnel to ensure the safety of your vehicle and we offer covered parking as well.

Our daily rates start at $35.

Our Sightseeing Cruises Are Smoke-Free!

Smoking is not permitted on Circle Line’s regular sightseeing cruises including Liberty Midtown, Liberty Super Express, Statue at Sunset, Landmarks, Best of New York and Harbor Lights.*

Smoking may be permitted in designated areas on Circle Line’s Music Cruises, Bear Mountain Cruises, 4th of July and New Year’s Eve Cruises. Please plan your trip accordingly.

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City Cruises – Washington DC

Washington dc city cruises, 2024 water taxi pass.

Skip the traffic. All Season Long

Host Your Group Event on the Water

Potomac Water Taxi

Recommended Experiences in Washington DC

What people are saying, washington dc city cruises blog.

Plan a Post-Wedding Brunch in Washington, DC

Once the big day is done, couples can finally sit back and relax. The pressure and stress to make it a perfect event will now subside into the afterglow of success. It’s also a time when they can wrap up the festivities with one final (but highly fun…) tradition: the post-wedding brunch. And when you host a Washington, DC, wedding, a post-wedding brunch on the water is the ideal option if you want to take advantage of the city’s beautiful surroundings. Since a yacht venue for a post-wedding brunch in Washington, DC, includes exquisite views of the Potomac River, the city skyline, and its iconic landmarks, the only thing left to do is find a luxury vessel that offers all the amenities and services you desire and require. Here’s where City Cruises comes in. Our packages, fleet of vessels, features, and experienced staff make the process seamless and enjoyable. Let’s dive in and learn why you should plan your post-wedding brunch event with City Cruises in Washington, DC!

Have Your Bachelorette Party on the Water in Washington, DC

The nation’s capital is a city with nonstop excitement, historic places to see, museums and monuments to visit, and where politics is at the forefront of everything. Tourists from around the world flock to Washington, DC, throughout the year to get a taste of what the locals know about, from the wonderful architecture and parks to the restaurants and the nightlife. It is a city not to be missed. And for all its glory as a home to the U.S. presidents and where movers and shakers make their mark, this city has a romantic side, making Washington, DC, a top wedding destination. But before the wedding, this is a city that has a vibrant atmosphere and is the ideal place to host your bachelorette party on the water.

The Best Intimate and Small Wedding Venues in Washington, DC

There are so many beautiful places to tie the knot, but the stunning elegance of our nation’s capital is pretty tough to beat. With its unique blend of history, culture,

The Best Places for Team Building in Washington, DC

Work doesn’t always include fulfillment and excitement, but when it does, it certainly takes the passion for your job or career to another level, especially in the competitive work environment

Washington DC Is the Place to Be for Your Bridal Shower

Washington DC is celebrated as the capital of the United States, and many important dignitaries from around the globe have come to the city for a host of memorable events.

Plan Your Rehearsal Dinner in the Nation’s Capital, Washington DC

When thinking about everything that comes with your upcoming wedding, think Washington DC. The nation’s capital is not just any city. and your wedding is not just any wedding. Most

Valentine’s Day 2024 on the Water in Washington DC

The nation’s capital is all about American history, politics, presidents, museums, architecture, and even romance. Yes, Washington DC has a romantic side, and you will want to make sure to

Make a Birthday Wish for Washington, DC

Another trip around the sun! No matter the age, birthdays are a reminder of the journey we’ve taken, the milestones we’ve achieved, and the need to celebrate the joys and

How to Spend Christmas 2024 in Washington DC

Our nation’s capital, Washington DC, is known for many things: beautiful blooming cherry blossoms, our capitol building, a litany of monuments, and much more! But did you know it’s also

Ring in the New Year on the Water in Washington, DC: 2024

The capital city offers plenty of options to ring in the new year. From memorable family events to the hottest parties and restaurants, The District has something for everyone on

Frequently Asked Questions

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Water & boat attractions in washington dc.

Mount Vernon from DC or Alexandria | Prix Fixe Dinner Cruise | Premier Lunch Cruise | Potomac Water Taxi | Water Taxi 2023 Pass | Water Taxi One Day Pass |   Washington D.C. Alive After Five Cruise | Signature Dinner Cruise | Premier Dinner Cruise | Premier Brunch Cruise | Signature Lunch Cruise

Things to do near Washington DC

Things to do in Alexandria | Things to do in Baltimore | Things to do in Jersey City | Things to do in Weehawken | Things to do in Niagara Falls | Things to do in Philadelphia | Things to do in Toronto | Things to do in Chicago | Things to do in Boston

Recommended for Washington DC

Washington DC: Big Bus – Classic Tour | Washington D.C. Alive After Five Cruise | Monuments Tour From The Wharf | Mount Vernon from DC | Monuments Sightseeing Tour From Alexandria and Georgetown

Trending Attractions

Sights & Sips Cruise | Gospel Lunch Cruise | Signature Lunch Cruise | Signature Dinner Cruise | Baltimore Brunch Cruise | Baltimore Harbor Tour | After Dark Dance Cruise | Chicago Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour | Toronto Sightseeing Harbour Tour | New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise |  Official NYC Downtown Experience – Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Observatory

Holiday Experiences in Washington DC

4th of July Signature Lunch Cruise | Father’s Day Signature Brunch Cruise | Fireworks Cruise from The Wharf, DC | Fireworks Cruise from Alexandria | 4th of July Premier Dinner Cruise | 4th of July Signature Dinner Cruise | Father’s Day Premier Dinner Cruise | Father’s Day Premier Afternoon Brunch Cruise | New Year’s Eve Fireworks Dinner Cruise | New Year’s Eve Premier Dinner Cruise | New Year’s Day Premier Brunch Cruise | Christmas Eve Premier Brunch Cruise | Thanksgiving Day Afternoon Lunch Cruise | Holiday Boat Parade of Lights | Labor Day Premier Lunch Cruise | Potomac Water Taxi New Year’s Eve Cruise | Lunch with Santa Cruise

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2024 CRUISING SEASON MAY 24 - OCTOBER 14

Tickets on sale now!

Experience Chicago's skyline like no other as we cruise the Chicago River & Lake Michigan. And check out our specialty cruises, including Chicago's only Canine Cruise & our 3D Fireworks Cruise!

Cruising May 24 - October 14. Tickets on sale now!

Conveniently located along the Chicago Riverwalk. Steps from Millennium Park, The Magnificent Mile and all that downtown Chicago has to offer.

Group Rates Available

Call us for group reservations at 312-332-1368 or contact us at [email protected] (group rates available Sunday - Friday). Ask about our school field trip days.

Get Social with Us!

Follow @mercurycruises on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook to see latest cruise information, special promotions and fun city happenings.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Reservations are not necessary for daytime tours, though you are welcome to purchase tickets in advance online . We also encourage advance purchase online or dockside if you desire to cruise a particular date and time and want to guarantee your seats aboard.

We do advise that you buy CHICAGO BY NIGHT! and 3D Fireworks Cruise tickets in advance – online or at the box office – as these tickets are extremely popular.

Online we accept Visa and MasterCard. At our dockside ticket office, we accept cash, Visa and MasterCard.

Beverages – including water, soda, canned cocktails, beer, and wine – are available for purchase on board. Please note, no outside alcoholic beverages are allowed.

Snacks - including small items such as chips, cookies, and nuts - are also available for purchase.

Please note that all ticket sales are final.

All of our Urban Adventure Cruise, Chicago By Night! and 3D Fireworks tours pass through the Chicago River Lock System. Our guide/narrator gives a full explanation of the operation of the lock. You’ll feel the boat rise as you enter Lake Michigan and lower as you return to the River.

Yes. Our cruises depart rain or shine. We have open and covered seating on board.

Yes, of course! There are "Heads" located on board as well as one lined with newspapers for your dog(s) during the Canine Cruises.

The safety of our guests and crew is our number one priority. After more than 80 years providing memorable cruises of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan for millions of guests, we are proud to say we have a perfect safety record.

All of our vessels are regulated, licensed and inspected by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) every year, and have undergone stability testing to ensure our guests are safe on their waterway experience. Our captains and deckhands go through an extensive training and drilling program that goes above and beyond the standards set by the USCG. Because we are committed to continuing education, we provide extra training every day to our crew.

If you have any questions about our safety training protocols or other concerns, please contact our Company Security Office Captain Tom Hacker at [email protected].

No. Luggage is not allowed aboard the Mercury vessels. Please leave your luggage at your hotel or check your bags in at a hotel near the dock (be sure to confirm in advance the ability for the hotel to accommodate you). Also, please be aware that all bags (purses, backpacks, etc.) are checked before boarding.

Yes, strollers may be brought aboard and will be folded and stored in the indoor salon for the duration of the cruise. They are not allowed on the deck. Please note, children must be removed from strollers before boarding.

In accordance with ADA guidelines, we welcome service dogs onboard. The service animal must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered while in public places unless these devices interfere with the service animal's work or the person's disability prevents use of these devices. Emotional support animals, pets and other animals not covered by the ADA are not permitted. All dogs are welcome on  Mercury's Canine Cruise ! Please visit the ADA's FAQ on service animals for further details. 

We love groups and would be happy to offer you a group discount if you would wish to reserve in advance! Please call 312-332-1368 or [email protected] for more information! 

Please note that we do not offer group discounts for our 3D Fireworks Cruise, but are happy to make a group reservation for full price! 

Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure time. Choose any seat - all offer a great view!

Children under 5 are always welcome free of charge, but do still require a ticket. Folded strollers may be brought on board. Children’s rates available for kids 5-15 years old.

At this time the Riverwalk does not offer any elevators. For those who need ADA ramps, you may access the Riverwalk via the ADA ramp at State Street and Wacker Drive within the Vietnam Memorial Park. Then just follow the Riverwalk to the East under the Michigan Avenue Bridge. Our Ticket Office is marked with a blue awning. Our stairway offers handrails, and shade from the sun. For guests needing special vehicle drop-off assistance, click here for Mobility Assistance directions.

For safety reasons, motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated aboard the ship. Guests who can transfer may use the company's manual wheelchair, based upon availability. Please note guests using manual wheelchairs must be accompanied by individuals who are capable of assisting/lifting the wheelchair over the boat’s threshold. Under Federal law and due to special marine safety construction guidelines, USCG-regulated small vessels are not subject to land-based architectural configuration requirements. Although we do our best to accommodate passengers with limited mobility consistent with our vessel capabilities, staffing and the docking space which is publicly owned and controlled, we can do a better job with advance notice .

LAZ Parking Garage at 111 E. Wacker Drive. This garage is across the street from our street-level dock entrance. Make a self-parking reservation online .

Discount rates available for Mercury customers with validation: $14 for 1-3 hours or $15 for 3-4 hours of parking. After 4 hours, standard rates apply. IMPORTANT: You must have your parking ticket stamped at our ticket window or on your boat in order to receive the discounted rate. Stamped tickets must be further validated at the parking garage office before departing the garage. Note: LAZ Parking Services at 111 E. Wacker is not owned or affiliated with Chicago’s First Lady Cruises. The parking information posted here is merely for the convenience of our guests and is not to be construed as a recommendation or endorsement.

We are located on Michigan Avenue just 3 blocks north of Millennium Park. Visit TheMagnificentMile.com or MillenniumPark.org for activities, events and special offers.

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Unforgettable views. Unparalleled experiences.

Cruises & Tours

Explore chicago by land, water or air.

Whether you’re in town for just one day or are a life-long resident, cruises and tours of Chicago are a great way to see the sights, discover something new, or treat yourself to an unforgettable experience.

From laid-back sightseeing cruises and elegant dining cruises to heart-pumping thrill rides to upscale private charters, Lake Michigan and Chicago River cruises departing from Navy Pier offer a memorable experience for all.

Our Cruises & Tours

Architecture & Sightseeing Cruises

Take in Chicago’s iconic skyline and the scenic Chicago River with sightseeing cruises at Navy Pier! These fun experiences offer guests panoramic city views along with entertaining and enlightening commentary about Chicago’s architecture and history.

Brunch, Lunch and Dinner Cruises

When you dine on Like Michigan, every table is the best in the house. Navy Pier’s brunch, lunch and dinner cruises pair world-class cuisine with panoramic views of the city and lakefront.

Speedboat Tours and Thrill Rides

This isn’t your parents’ leisure cruise! On these 30-minute speed boat rides, you’ll tear across Lake Michigan at up to 45 miles per hour while getting entertaining and informative commentary on Chicago.

Specialty and Holiday Cruises

There’s always something worth celebrating with cruises on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Our partners offer themed cruises for major holidays, as well as a wide variety of special events that are sure to get you in the party mood.

Groups And Private Charters

Perfect for corporate outings and special occasions, group cruises and private charters offer unforgettable experiences for up to 800 guests.

Bicycle Tours

Bike & Roll Chicago allows guests to rent bicycles for a fun experience on the lakefront.

Cruise & Tour Types

Shoreline Architecture River Tours

Take Shoreline’s award-winning 75-minute Architecture River Tour to discover Chicago’s renowned landmarks as presented by our expert and entertaining guides. You’ll learn how Chicago rose...

City Cruises – Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan dinner cruises are the perfect setting for celebrating with friends, connecting with colleagues, or a romantic evening. Odyssey Lake Michigan dinner cruises are...

City Cruises – Premier Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

A two-hour Lake Michigan lunch cruise is the perfect way to enjoy time with family or the company of great friends. Retreat from a busy...

City Cruises – Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

Celebrate a special occasion, host a group event or share a romantic evening aboard Spirit of Chicago. Great for parties of all sizes, a Spirit...

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Dinner Cruise

Catch the Chicago skyline at sunset during the most beautiful time of the year, and join us for a fun, laid-back, 2-hour cruise. Spirit's Lakefront...

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Dinner Cruises

Odyssey Lake Michigan presents special prix fixe dinner cruises, offering guests the opportunity to try one of Chicago’s most unique dining experiences at an incredible...

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Brunch Cruises

Whether you’re a native Chicagoan, newcomer, or just visiting, a Spirit of Chicago brunch cruise is the perfect weekend outing. See well-known Chicago attractions from...

City Cruises – Signature Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

With the sunshine reflecting off the lakefront, there’s no better place to enjoy an afternoon in Chicago than aboard a lunch cruise. Departing from Navy...

City Cruises – Seadog River and Lake Architecture Tour

Enjoy Chicago’s iconic skyline with an exciting architecture cruise on the Chicago River. Departing from Navy Pier, this 75-minute narrated cruise is the best way...

City Cruises – Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour

Our Lakefront Speedboat Tour is the best way to view Chicago from the lake, combining an exciting speedboat ride along the shoreline with informative and...

City Cruises – Seadog Extreme Thrill Rides

With exhilarating high speeds and full 360° spins, this jet-propelled ride blasts off to start and splashes down to stop. Experience full throttle slalom runs,...

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise

This two-hour brunch cruise on Odyssey Lake Michigan, departing from Navy Pier, is ideal for capping off an incredible weekend. Enjoy a delicious menu stocked...

City Cruises – Odyssey Lake Michigan Groups

Host a truly unforgettable event on Lake Michigan. Book your group aboard one of Odyssey's regularly scheduled lunch or dinner cruises, or have an event...

Shoreline Sightseeing Group Tours

Adventures are meant to be shared. Turn your next family gathering or corporate outing into an awesome adventure by booking with Shoreline. We offer special...

City Cruises – Chicago Elite Private Events

It's your yacht. Let our professional event planners create a custom event just for your group aboard the Chicago Elite. With two fully enClosed ,...

City Cruises – Seadog Groups

Planning a special outing for your group? Charter Seadog for an event everyone will enjoy! With the ability to travel both the lake and river,...

Shoreline Sightseeing Water Taxis

Shoreline Sightseeing’s water taxis are a great way to get around town. Starting in May and running through September, our water taxi service offers fast...

City Cruises – Spirit of Chicago Group Cruises

Host an event unlike any other in the city! Book your group aboard one of Spirit’s regularly scheduled lunch, brunch, cocktail or dinner cruises, or...

City Cruises – Premier Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

Experience the city’s most unique floating event venue! City Cruises offers all-inclusive packages, chef-prepared menus, full bar options, and entertainment customized to fit your needs—all...

City Cruises – Signature Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

Shoreline Skyline Lake Tours

Shoreline’s 40-minute Skyline Lake Tour offers a relaxing way to experience the panoramic of the city’s famed skyline as seen from majestic Lake Michigan. The...

Tall Ship Windy Chicago Skyline Sail

Tall Ship Windy is closed for the season and will reopen in May 2024. Visit the Tall Ship Windy website to stay up to date...

Tall Ship Windy Private Charters & Weddings in Chicago

A Beautiful Stage for Your Event Set sail on Windy for weddings, parties, corporate functions, reunions, church outings, tour groups, team building and more! Windy...

Patriot Harbor Lines

Next public cruises on june 2nd, choose your favorite philadelphia river to cruise from, delaware river cruises.

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Schuylkill River Cruises

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Delaware River Harbor Cruise

This is Philadelphia’s ultimate harbor cruise! This one hour narrated cruise gives you a great overview of the Delaware River and an awesome view of the city skyline.

• Clock 1 Hour

Our Mission

Patriot Harbor Lines showcases Philadelphia’s two great rivers – the Delaware and Schuylkill. We strive to leave each and every customer with a lasting, positive impression of Patriot Harbor Lines and the waterfront communities where we work. Our ultimate goal is to share our love of boating.

We provide daily sightseeing tours and charter services in Philadelphia. Our unique boat tours are perfect for locals who want to get out on the water or out of town guests who would enjoy some sightseeing from a different perspective with an educational river or harbor tour.

Patriot Harbor Lines aims to showcase the rivers where we live and work. We want to share our love for boating and our love for beautiful scenic rivers. We also try to highlight our concern for the environment and provide a unique Philadelphia perspective. We strive to leave each and every customer with a lasting, positive impression of Patriot Harbor Lines and the waterfront community where we work.

We provide daily sightseeing tours and charter services on the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers. Our unique boat tours are perfect for locals who want to get out on the water or out of town guests who would enjoy some sightseeing from a different perspective with an educational river or harbor tour.

My wife and I enjoyed the Schuylkill excursion very much. The guide, Bob Swayne, did a great job pointing out and commenting on spots of interest as we went along. The seats were comfortable, and we were well protected from a passing rain shower.

We had a group of 15 older adults on the Walnut-to-Walnut River Cruise - hands down, everyone enjoyed it and now want to make it an annual event!

The afternoon cruise was excellent value for money and the guide was extremely informative. Drinks sold on board were reasonably priced.

We celebrated my besties 40th on the Patriot. We had 25 girls and had the best experience from start to finish. Booking was easy! Day of event was seamless.

The Secrets of the Schuylkill tour is roughly an hour, spent on the quiet waters of the river in the golden sunlight being cooled by afternoon breezes, cruising by such iconic landmarks as Bartram's Garden and the Fairmount Water Works. Sublime!

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Help us win Best Boat Tour in USA Today's Best of 2024 poll! Vote every day here !

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady

Architecture Adventure Awaits!

Explore Chicago’s iconic architecture aboard TripAdvisor’s #1 rated boat tour of the city. The only Chicago River cruise partnered with the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC), Chicago’s First Lady Cruises offers visitors the city’s most engaging 90-minute architectural tour experience.

Highly trained and enthusiastic volunteer CAC docents (guides) provide visitors with a compelling and detailed narrative of Chicago's numerous architectural styles and the stories of the legendary figures who designed and built our city.

Enjoy cruising in comfort and style aboard Chicago’s Finest Fleet, featuring unobstructed sightlines and guaranteed seating on our open-air upper decks and full-service cocktail and snack bars in our climate-controlled interior salons. You’ll see why visitors and locals alike consistently name our tour the best way to see Chicago.

Experience More!

Complete your architecture experience with a visit to the Chicago Architecture Center, just $5 with a General Boarding Ticket and valid for up to 7 days after your cruise.

Or, treat yourself to a Priority Boarding Ticket, which includes exclusive early boarding period, skip-the-queue during general boarding, and CAC admission.

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General Boarding Tickets Start At

Ticket details.

• Priority Boarding tickets start at $69 and include exclusive early boarding period, skip-the-queue during general boarding, and Chicago Architecture Center admission.
• General Boarding tickets start at $54. Include a visit to the Chicago Architecture Center for just $5 more!
• Tickets can be purchased online , in-person at our dock during regular season hours or at the Chicago Architecture Center.
• Avoid the box office by choosing "eTickets" or "Print at Home" as your delivery method.
• Tour departures frequently sell out. Reserve your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Select "Will Call" to pick up your tickets at our dockside ticket office; bring your confirmation number.
• Each person must have a ticket including infants and children.
• Prices are subject to change.

Full Schedule

Early Spring March 17 - April 25

• Mon 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
• Tues 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
• Wed 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
• Thu 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm
• Fri 10:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm

Late Spring April 26 - May 23

• Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
• Tues 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Wed 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
• Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm
• Sun 9:30 am 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm

Summer May 24 - October 14

• Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
• Tues 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm
• Wed 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 6:00 pm
• Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm
• Fri 9:30 am 10:00 am 10:30 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm
• Sun 9:30 am 10:00 am 10:30 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm

Early Fall October 15 - November 3

• Mon 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Thu 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm
• Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm

Late Fall November 4 - November 24

• Fri 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm
• Sun 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm

2024 cruising season begins March 17th and extends through November 24th. Tickets on sale now!

We are located at Michigan Ave and Wacker Drive, Chicago IL

Tour Details & Tips

• Tour Duration 90 minutes
• Arrival Time Make sure your entire party arrives 30 minutes prior to departure.
• Priority Boarding Tickets  include exclusive early boarding period, skip-the-queue during general boarding, and Chicago Architecture Center admission.
• General Boarding Tickets begin boarding approximately 15 minutes before departure.
• Seating Open outdoor seating is guaranteed for all guests. The number on your ticket does not represent a seat number.
• Tour Route The tour travels all three branches of the Chicago River. View tour route map.  Route subject to change without notice.
• Cruises depart rain or shine. Tickets may not be refunded or exchanged if you miss your boat - allow extra time.
• What to Bring Your sunglasses, cap or visor, as the sun can interfere with your view of the buildings.
• Parking Discounted parking available at 111 E. Wacker Drive with proper validation from ticket office. Visit our  Location page  for more.
• Did you know? A portion of your ticket fee supports the educational work of the Chicago Architecture Center!
• Food & Drink  A full-service bar and snack bar are available on every vessel
• Outdoor Seating Each vessel features an open-air upper deck which allows guests to safely enjoy the outdoors
• Restrooms  Well-appointed restrooms are available on each vessel
• Free Stroller Storage  Strollers will be folded and stored in the interior salon during the cruise. Children must be removed from strollers before boarding.
• Limited Mobility Services Available  See our Location page for river-level drop-off directions for guests with accessibility needs. Our staff is also available to provide early boarding services for those with limited mobility.

“I learned so much and left with a vastly greater appreciation of Chicago's stunning skyline.” - Jennifer S. TripAdvisor, IL

Photo Gallery

• What sets your tours apart from the others?

We are the only tour that partners with the Chicago Architecture Center to offer the official Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady. All of our tours are given by experienced, volunteer docents who receive hundreds of hours of training from the Chicago Architecture Center before guiding the river cruise tour.

• How long is the tour?
• Each tour is 90 minutes.
• Is there food/drink available onboard?

Yes. All boats have a full service bar and small snacks onboard. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

• Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Advance reservations are recommended as many tours sell out during the busy summer season and on weekends.

• Is there assigned seating?

All seating is general admission. There is enough seating for all guests to sit on our open air upper decks safely and with proper distancing measures in place. While seat numbers are printed on the tickets, you can ignore these as they are not valid.

• Are tours offered in any languages other than English?

We are happy to offer free foreign language audio guides in Spanish, French, Japanese and Korean. Scan the QR code onboard for instructions. Mobile data for app download required.

• Do I have to print my tickets?
• You do not have to print your tickets. You can show your mobile ticket to our dock attendant with your smartphone, or you can have your tickets printed at the dockside will call window (be sure to bring a photo ID and your confirmation number).
• Does the boat go on the lake?

No, the tour is only on the Chicago River. If you’d like to take a lake tour, please check out our sister cruise line Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline .

• Are there restrooms onboard?

Yes, all the boats have restrooms onboard. There are also wheelchair accessible bathrooms on the Classic Lady, Leading Lady, and Emerald Lady. Please note: the restrooms close 15 minutes before the end of the tour for safety reasons.

• Can I bring luggage onboard?
• Due to security reasons, luggage cannot be brought onboard. There is not an area to store your luggage dockside either. We recommend having your hotel hold your luggage.
• Can I bring a stroller onboard?
• Yes, you can bring a stroller onboard. Children must be removed from strollers before boarding. Strollers will be folded and stored in the salon during the cruise.
• Are there changing tables onboard?

The Classic Lady, Leading Lady, and Emerald Lady have changing tables onboard in the family restroom. The Little Lady, Fair Lady, and First Lady do not have changing tables onboard.

• Are dogs allowed onboard?

Only service dogs are allowed onboard. Our sister company, Mercury , offers the popular Canine Cruise on summer weekends.

• How can I get to your dock without using stairs?

There are two ways to reach our dock along Chicago’s Riverwalk without using stairs: 1. On foot via the ramp located on Wacker Drive at State Street. 2. Vehicle drop-off area on Lower Wacker Drive. Visit our location page for more information.

• Can I trade my tickets for a different date/time?
• No, all tickets are nonrefundable and nonexchangeable.
• Do you cruise rain or shine?
• Yes, we cruise rain or shine. All the boats have two levels – the top deck is open-air, and the lower deck is an enclosed, climate-controlled salon. Each salon is surrounded by large windows so you can stay comfortable while still taking in the magnificent views. Tour commentary is broadcast over speakers on both levels.
• Are the boats wheelchair accessible?

Chicago's Leading Lady, Chicago’s Classic Lady, and Chicago's Emerald Lady are wheelchair-accessible. These vessels cruise at the 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 5pm departure times. When boarding, guests cross two ramps and enter through a 36-inch-wide opening (doorway). Crew members will assist in guiding the wheelchair across the gangway. Please present yourself to our staff if you prefer to board before general boarding starts. Guests unable to climb stairs to the upper deck may choose to sit in the open-air bow or the enclosed, climate-controlled salon with large windows. For safety reasons, motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Guests who are able to transfer may use the company's manual wheelchair based on availability. Visit our accessibility page for more information.

(414) 276-7447

[email protected]

Our 2024 season starts NOW!

Edelweiss Cruises & Boat Tours

Milwaukee's premier boat tour & cruise provider.

Edelweiss Cruises is Milwaukee's premier cruise company featuring the largest fleet variety in the area. Find your sea legs, enjoy high-end food and beverages, and take in incredible views as you cruise through downtown Milwaukee and enjoy the sights of the Inner Harbor of Lake Michigan.

All Public Cruises

Edelweiss offers a variety of fun and entertaining public cruises. Each boasts their own unique set of offerings. Check out our options below and book your tour today!

Rock the Boat Cruise

Grab your friends and join DJ ZSmoov as we get your night started on the river!

New fiesta fun now available for all-ages!

Sunday Funday

Cruise along the Milwaukee River and inner harbor of Lake Michigan while enjoying mimosa drink specials on this FUNDAY Cruise!

Wisconsin Brat Cruise

A genuine Wisconsin experience with Usinger brats and specials on taps of Spotted Cow on a fun cruise of downtown Milwaukee and the shoreline of Lake Michigan.

See all Cruises

Check out all our Public Cruise options

Book a Private Cruise with Edelweiss

An Edelweiss cruise offers a unique venue for any occasion—whether it be a corporate outing, wedding, anniversary, or birthday. 

This 19 passenger pontoon boat comes with a captain and deckhand to take you around the Milwaukee River and into the breakwater of Lake Michigan.

Cruise Q & A

You might have questions and we've got answers! Read our FAQs for info about our cruises, group ordering, gift certificates, and more.

Our Vessels

Our Vessels make the whole experience. Read more about the water crafts Edelweiss uses to cruise through Milwaukee.

They're here! New egift cards make giving the gift of cruise that much easier. Order for your yourself or your favorite people today!

Keep Connected with Edelweiss

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on cruise schedules, special events, and promotions throughout the year.

Come join our team

Sail through summer as a part of our crew. Now hiring all positions for the 2024 season - don't miss the boat!

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CHICAGO'S ORIGINAL ARCHITECTURE TOUR®

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

Choose your adventure, chicago river architecture tour (90 minutes).

Take in the world-renowned architecture as our expert guides tell the story of 130 years of architectural innovation.

We like our drinks stiff, not our tour guides.

Chicago River Architecture Tour (45 minutes)

This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours.

The Ultimate Chicago experience.

We're In the People Business

This was one tour that I can honestly say was worth doing & probably should be a must do/ see on your visit to Chicago.

Ginette, 2023

We were recommended the architecture boat tour by a few locals and it was absolutely amazing!! Beautiful views from anywhere you sat and an extremely knowledgeable and funny tour guide led the trip. Great value for money and so so worth it. Thank you!!

Jessica W, 2024

The skyline was beautiful and the buildings all shined differently. Pictures come out amazing!

Christina, 2023

SEE FOR YOURSELF

Book your experience now.

Apostle Islands Cruises on the National Lakeshore

Tour the apostle islands of lake superior.

The best way to see Wisconsin’s “Crown Jewels” , the 21 island archipelago, is on the water — on an Apostle Islands Cruise out of Bayfield, WI. Unleash your sense of wonder with the adventures, stories, and awe-inspiring beauty that await you on Apostle Island National Lakeshore.

Today's Status

Trips: 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:15 p.m.

6/6 Forecast: Overcast. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 59F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph.

Tomorrow's Status

Trips: 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:15 p.m. 

6/7 Forecast: Sunshine and clouds mixed. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 69F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph.

713 reviews

Apostle Islands Cruises | 4.5

Apostle Islands Cruises | 4.4

Explore Apostle Islands Cruises’ Tours, Shuttles, And More

Most Popular

The Grand Tour

Narrated scenic island cruise.

The complete, must-do Apostle Islands experience with entertaining and insightful narration from the captain. Over the course of 2.5 hours and 55-miles, you’ll see all the most iconic sights , from historic lighthouses to intricate sea caves.

All Day Adventures

Lighthouse Tours

Hop-on, hop-off to nps guided tours.

Our Michigan Island Lighthouse Tour transports you to see twin beacons that saved countless lives. Our Raspberry Island Lighthouse Tour takes you back in time to see the beautifully restored lighthouse and island.

Outdoor Lover’s Favorite

Camping & Hiking Shuttles

Round-trip & drop-off, pick-up options.

Our Stockton Island Day Hiking shuttle brings enthusiasts to gorgeous routes and breathtaking views. Our Stockton Island and Oak Island overnight camping shuttles allow campers to spend amazing nights in nature.

Why Should You Visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?

Stunning natural scenery, windswept beaches, eight historic lighthouses , nature-carved rock formations, marine wildlife, and intricate sea caves – this is Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Along the g orgeous Lake Superior shoreline is an array of natural animal habitats and old-growth remnants forests that make Apostle Islands one of the most beautiful outdoor spaces to explore. From 100-year-old lighthouses to extensive sea cave formations, there’s endless beauty when exploring the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

About Apostle Islands Cruises

Welcome to Apostle Islands Cruises, where adventure meets tranquility. With a rich history spanning decades, our mission is to provide unparalleled experiences amidst the untamed beauty of Apostle Islands. Embark on our cruises and immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes, rugged sandstone cliffs, and gorgeous Lake Superior waters. We have the perfect voyage tailored just for you. Discover the wonders of the Apostle Islands and create memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to set sail and let your journey begin!

11 Stunning Photos of the Apostle Islands

From mesmering rock formations to the startling beauty of Lake Superior, these gorgeous images demonstrate why so many love the archipelago.

5 Best Hikes in the Apostle Islands

From lagoons & “singing sands” to historic lighthouse & abandoned towns, the Apostle Islands have 50+ miles of maintained trails to explore.

What People Are Saying About Apostle Islands

Took the cruise in late June in near perfect weather so we were able to fully enjoy the sea caves and lighthouse cruise on the catamaran. The captain provided a lot of narration that was informative and fun. Lots of Dad-worthy jokes. The scenery was beautiful and it was nice to learn about the various islands as we passed by. Saw two lighthouses and the captain was good to turn the boat around so people on both sides could get good views and picture. The sea caves were fascinating to see.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ , TripAdvisor

See the Wonders of Apostle Islands

Taking a photo of Devils Island Lighthouse

The Two Lighthouses of Michigan Island

The Blue and Red Layers of Sandstone on Devils Island

Waves Crashing into Intricate Apostle Islands Sea Caves

The Lone Rock Formation off Stockton Island

A ranger at the top of Michigan Island Lighthouse during a Guided Tour

Flowers surround the entrance of Raspberry Island Lighthouse

A Grand Tour next to the Cliffs of Devils Island

Welcome to apostle islands national lakeshore.

Nestled on the stunning shores of Lake Superior, Apostle Islands is a hidden gem that awaits your exploration. Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of these 21 breathtaking islands, each boasting its own unique charm and allure.

Explore infinite splendor at the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Gaze at the multicolored layers of sandstone on Devils Island that weave a geological tapestry . Walk in the sands of Julian Bay, that “ sing ” when stepped on with bare feet — due to a special quirk of nature. See gray foxes prowling , white fish wandering , and bald eagles roosting .

Discover the magic, embrace the adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime with Apostle Islands Cruises.

• Buy Tickets
• Architecture Boat Tours
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Chicago Line Cruises

Architecture.

Cruise down the Chicago River with Chicago Line Cruises and listen to our expert guides discuss the architecture, history, and legacy of the skyscrapers overhead.

See the Wrigley Building, Merchandise Mart, Willis Tower and more!

Whether this is your first trip to Chicago, or you’ve lived here your whole life - this boat tour is a phenomenal way to see the city from its most memorable vantage point.

Engaging Docents

At Chicago Line Cruises our team of docents are committed to providing an informative, engaging, and enjoyable tour for all our guests.

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just excited to take a boat ride - our docents are here to make your tour unforgettable!

Bar Service & Merchandise

Complimentary

Starbucks Coffee, Twinings Tea, Coca-Cola soft drinks and lemonade are all complimentary.

BEER, WINE & COCKTAILS

Beer, wine and cocktails are available for purchase at any time.

MERCHANDISE

Never forget your onboard experience on your Chicago Line cruise. Be sure to purchase one of our stylish souvenirs today!

This is my 8th time on a Chicago architectural river cruise and this was by far the most informative and biggest bang for your buck. Operagolf / LaHabra

The best guide on our whole USA trip. We took the Architecture tour where the boat meandered in between all of the incredible buildings of the city with the guide knowing EVERYTHING about each building; its style, age, height, architect, cost, purpose, owner ….. Quite brilliant! DrCumbrian / TripAdvisor

I've done several of the architecture cruises since my family moved to Chicago, and this is the best one yet! Allie K / TripAdvisor

If you only have time for one sight-seeing event while in Chicago, do this. We really have no great interest in architecture, but this tour came highly recommended and we did not regret it. Allice I / Oklahoma

My wife and I very much enjoyed the Chicago Line Cruise jazz cruise... My spouse said this was one of the favorite things she has done in Chicago since moving here in the past year, and I agree. I am a jazz snob, and ... I was very pleased with the music offered by the Geordie Kelly group. He's a fine jazz guitarist, and his band was great. Augie R / Yelp

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Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours

Come cruise aboard our 149 passenger, double decker tour boat docked in downtown Sister Bay.  We offer daily narrated tours to Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, Death’s Door and the many islands, bluffs and beaches surrounding Door County. Enjoy the sun on our upper level sun deck or find shade and refreshment on our lower bar deck.  Don’t miss our Sunset Live Music cruises (Monday thru Saturday) and special fireworks trips scheduled throughout the season.  On board we offer refreshments and snacks.

• Please arrive 20 minutes before departure • Enjoy one of our cruises and get 10% off any additional trip of your choice • Pet friendly & wheelchair accessible

The following tours are currently available:

> Daily Tours

> specialty tours, > private charters.

• Annual Passes
• Buy Gift Certificate
• Photo Gallery
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• Door County Fun Packages
• Segway Tours
• Sail Door County
• Sister Bay Visitor Info
• Destination Door County
• Bayview Resort
• AppleCreek Resort
• The Landmark Resort
• Alpine Resort
• Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant

Parking Directions

Park in the lot directly across the street or @ 2272 Sunset Rd. in the city lot.

Remember Me

• Ottawa Tours App
• FAQ’s – Ottawa River Cruise
• FAQ’s – Rideau Canal Cruise
• FAQ’s – Private Charters

Ottawa River Cruise

• Combo – Ottawa River Cruise and Ekeau Canal Cruise
• Ekeau Canal Cruise
• Combo – Ekeau Canal Cruise and Ottawa River Cruise
• Combo – Ottawa River Cruise and Gray Line – 1 Day
• Combo – Ottawa River Cruise and Gray Line – 2 Day
• Combo – Ottawa River Cruise and InterZip Rogers
• Combo – Ottawa River Cruise and Escape Bicycle Tours
• Combo – Ekeau Canal Cruise and Gray Line – 1 Day
• Combo – Ekeau Canal Cruise and Gray Line – 2 Day
• Combo – Ekeau Canal Cruise and Ritz restaurant
• Combo – Ekeau Canal Cruise and InterZip Rogers
• Combo – Ekeau Canal Cruise and Escape Bicycle Tours

Ekeau Tulip Festival Water Taxi

• Itineraries
• Corporate Event
• Student Boat Party
• Private Boat Party
• Wedding Event
• Sports events and Social Club Parties
• Event Calendar 2024
• Dueling Pianos Cruise
• Firework Cruise
• Jazz Date Night With Shawn Marino
• Murder Mystery Cruise
• Pride Boat Party
• Pure Country 94 | Cruise

Tour details

Experience the enchanting beauty of the National Capital Region like never before on our world famous Ottawa River Cruise. With daily departures from Ottawa and Hull (Gatineau), this unforgettable journey will take you on a breathtaking 1-hour adventure that has been the best way to explore the region since 1936. Take in over 50 focal points from Parliament Hill to the Canadian Museum of History, 24 Sussex Drive to the stunning Rideau Falls! Feel the cool breeze on your face as you relax on our spacious upper deck, sipping a refreshing beverage and gazing at the magnificent view of the city. Get ready to be mesmerised by the enchanting scenery as we sail along the sparkling waters of the Ottawa River.

Discover beauty at every turn.

Views of landmarks, wonders & architecture..

Cruise Timings & Prices

From $40.50.

Scenic Locations

• National Gallery of Canada
• Canadian Museum of History
• Supreme court of Canada
• Parliament Buildings
• Chateau Laurier Hotel
• Royal Canadian Mint
• Rideau Falls
• Macdonald Cartier Bridge
• 24 Sussex Drive
• Rockcliffe Parks

+ More. Discover 55 Breathtaking sights on the Paula D.

Parking map.

Information

• Please note that tickets for our cruises are non-refundable and valid only for the date and time selected. 
• Rescheduling is not permitted.
• Ottawa River Cruise (Gatineau Departure) : Paid parking is available at the Ottawa River Cruise Hull Marina.  
• Ottawa River Cruise (Ottawa Departure) : No parking is available at the Ottawa Locks. 
• Rideau Canal Cruise (Ottawa Departure) : For the Canal tour, paid parking is available at the National Arts Centre. 

Book your cruise today

Related tours.

*** Please contact our office team, at (819) 246 3855 , for further information concerning tickets for attendants for special needs individuals. Someone will be more than pleased to provide you will the information you may need regarding our policy ***

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Unlock some of the most incredible travel destinations . Get on island time and unwind on some of the best beaches in the world, venture deep into the rainforests, and snorkel the most vibrant reefs on a Caribbean or Bahamas cruise getaway with the whole family.

Earn your wilderness badge as you cruise between the Alaska glaciers, pan for gold in prospecting towns, and trek across the rugged tundra on an Alaska vacation . And savor a burst of flavors throughout culture-rich ports in the Mediterranean , the British Isles, Scandinavia and beyond on an unforgettable cruise through Europe . No matter where in the world you choose to wander, cruises can take you deep into top-rated cruise ports and off-the-beaten-path gems, so you can experience each one like a local.

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Cruise Through Charleston’s Historic Timeline

Sightseeing boat tours, luxury dinner cruises and private dining events on the Charleston Harbor

Charleston Dinner Cruises

Enjoy the sights, sounds and flavors of Charleston aboard our luxury dining yachts.

Waterfront Dining

Enjoy a three- or four-course dinner made from fresh, local ingredients.

Sunset Views

Take in incredible views of the Charleston skyline and harbor on your evening cruise.

Full-Service Bar

Celebrate with a cocktail or drink of your choice while dining and relaxing.

Book a Dinner Cruise

• Charleston Harbor Tours

Learn about Charleston’s fascinating history while cruising the gentle waves of the Charleston Harbor.

Experience more than 75 landmarks and historic points of interest.

Sightseeing

Watch for playful dolphins and other marine life often visible in the harbor.

Certified City Guides

The Official Charleston Harbor Tours includes live narration by a certified city guide.

Book Your Charleston Harbor Tour

Combo Tours

Bundle and save! See and do more in Charleston at a discounted cost when you book a combo tour today.

Charleston Harbor Tour & Carriage Tour

Tour the harbor and then get a Palmetto Carriage Tour of Historic Charleston.

Charleston Harbor Tour & Ghost and Graveyard Tour

Tour the harbor and take in spooky and chill-inspiring facts of Charleston’s ghostly happenings in the Historic District

Charleston Harbor Tour & Historic Charleston City Tour

Take a journey through Charleston’s 300 years of living history!

Charleston Harbor Tour & USS Yorktown

Tour the Harbor and walk in the footsteps of heroes.

See All Combo Tours

Private Charter Events

Whether you’re planning a corporate function, reunion, rehearsal dinner, wedding reception, brunch function or a holiday party, depend on SpiritLine Cruises to turn any occasion into an unforgettable event.

No other venue in Charleston can offer such a unique space plus incredible scenery. As you cruise the harbor, you’ll see the historic Charleston Battery, Patriots Point, Fort Sumter and the majestic Cooper River Bridge. Historic landmarks, colorful sunsets and water views are just what you need for a memorable event!

Book Your Special Event

Frequently Asked Questions

Departure Times?

Cancellation Policy?

How Long Does the Tour Last?

What Are The Departure Points?

Where Can I Buy a Ticket?

Do you allow Pets?

The departure times vary by tour & event. Please view their individual pages for more details:

• Dinner Cruises

Public Dinner Cruises:

• Cancellations are accepted with 24 hours notice.

Charleston Harbor Tours:

• Tickets are 100% refundable if cancelled 2 hours in advance of the departure time. If tickets are cancelled less than 2 hours from departure time they are non-refundable.

Group Events (Public or Private):

• Please contact group sales for cancellation policies.

Please view their individual pages for more details:

• Charleston Harbor Tours  – a relaxing 90 minute cruise
• Dinner Cruises  – an enjoyable 2 and half hours

Downtown Charleston for Harbor Tours

Aquarium Wharf 360 Concord St. Charleston, SC 29401

Mt. Pleasant –  Harbor Tour  &  Dinner Cruises

Patriots Point 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Call 1-800-789-3678 or 843-722-BOAT (2628).

Online at SpiritlineCruises.com (this site) or simply walk-up to either departure point 30 prior to departure time (subject to availability).

Dinner Cruise tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be available after 4:00pm on the day of the cruise.

Please note, pets are not allowed. ONLY service animals (under the ADA guidelines) are allowed on the vessels.

Still Have Questions?

This is a charleston tour to talk about.

We had a great time on our mini cruise. The boat was so relaxing, we had our own personal guide who explained a lot about the area and what we were seeing as we went by different sites. Well worth the money

Joe LaMartina

Beautiful surroundings and sunset. Food was great, entertainment very good, service excellent.

Samuel Turner

We had a great time and the staff was very helpful. Such a beautiful ride. The food was great, music was great, staff is very attentive. Overall wonderful experience and I would love to return.

Shanean Brown

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Check out our new combo tour with Palmetto Carriage Works !

Tour the Windy City from the water

See the skyscrapers, hear the history, and take a tour of the incredible city of chicago with shoreline sightseeing., take a tour.

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Architecture River Tour

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Skyline Lake Tour

Save 48% at 5 top attractions

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Michigan Avenue

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Get ready to set sail and experience the wonder of the  Thousand Islands  aboard  City Cruises Gananoque  with ports in Gananoque and Ivy Lea. Visit the magnificent  Boldt Castle  on Heart Island, discover and learn about the 1000 islands region, its history, and stories of those who have called it home. Or enjoy a cruise at sunset with breathtaking views of majestic estates and small cottage islands.  With many cruise options to choose from, your visit to the Thousand Islands is sure to be an amazing experience! 1-Hour to Half-Day Cruises available including an officially curated 3-Hour Cruise with views of Boldt Castle, a  Canadian Signature Experience .

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Find the best cruise for you

Featured cruise deals, cruising guide, why take a cruise vacation.

If you have a place on your bucket list, chances are, a cruise will get you there – provided the destination is along a coastline or inland waterway. Cruises cover the world, taking millions of passengers each year to regions such as the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean and even Antarctica. Cruising offers a tremendous value, with trips that include your lodging, meals and entertainment – all rolled into one. Some luxury cruise lines even offer fully inclusive vacations, which cover drinks and tours ashore. And best of all, cruising means seeing the world conveniently after unpacking only once.

Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids, tweens and teens. While most are free, nursery programs can cost extra. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship (and line) for your travel style. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with land vacations at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- every extra.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their stateroom location but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors – that is staterooms over suites.

Cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes even lower.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

While being flexible date wise will always get you the best last-minute cruise deals, it's particularly helpful if you live near a cruise port and can quickly drive there. That way you'll probably be able to jump on those deals that might pop up just a week or two before the ship is scheduled to sail.

Or if you don't have flexibility with either departure dates or embarkation locations, be willing to compromise on exact destinations. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or so-called shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise is and costs on average, so both are already on your radar. When you see it drop, pounce! (Many cruise lines update pricing several times per day, so preparation is crucial.)

Best cruises in 2024

There's truly a cruise style and ship for everyone, and that has never been more the case than in 2024, as vessels continue to come in an array of sizes – from riverboats and expedition vessels to the largest-ever mega ships. And it's not an exaggeration to say some are loaded with so many activities that you couldn't possibly enjoy them all in a single sailing.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations themselves. The Caribbean is always a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, is also a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and even Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line for a great multi-generational voyage.

Or on the smaller side, by comparison, river cruising remains a hot ticket item this year, with exciting routes that send eager guests down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to lesser-frequented locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam, or soon the Magdalena River in Colombia. Popular river cruises embark in timeless cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. River cruise lines to consider encompass Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruises, Tauck, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Riverside Luxury Cruises, as well as American Cruise Lines for a domestic alternative.

If you're an adventurer at heart, an expedition cruise might be best for you. These voyages, often onboard small ships (only a few hundred passengers tops), offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world – from pole to pole – including the Arctic, Alaska, Australia, Greenland, the Galapagos and, of course, Antarctica. Passengers will spend their time zodiacing, kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), Ponant and Quark Expeditions, as well as an ever-expanding list that now even extends to Seabourn and Viking.

But for the most decadent form of travel, luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard small to median-sized ships (usually under a thousand passengers) with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service, not to mention the finest dining at sea. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be on the smaller size, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships simply cannot access -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Explora Journeys, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and upcoming Four Seasons Yachts.

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Cruise Etiquette: How To Get the Most Out of Shore Excursions

By Scott Laird

Cruising is an efficient means of travel, allowing you to tick off multiple bucket-list destinations in one fell swoop. However, that means you might only spend about 8 hours in each port (although more and more cruises are staying in ports overnight .)

To make the most of their limited time on the ground, many passengers book cruise shore excursions : multi-hour tours and activities organized specifically for cruise passengers at the port of call. Typical cruise line excursions have long featured bus tours—with stops for shopping and photo opps—but have recently grown to include a diverse range of activities for all types of travelers.

Active passengers can go on a fishing excursion in Alaska (and some cruise lines, like Princess and Holland America , cook and serve the fish they catch), while the culinary-minded might learn how to grind cacao beans into chocolate and pair it with wine in Cozumel. Relaxation seekers might choose a day trip to an all-inclusive resort in Roatán, Honduras where they can lay on the beach, sipping drinks from the open bar–that is, if they’d rather not go ziplining or play a round of golf, also excursions offered in Roatán.

Of course, passengers can always go off on their own–but new-to-cruisers should note that not all ports are convenient for self-exploration, particularly if the cruise terminal is far from local attractions.

There are two ways cruise passengers can book shore excursions: directly through the cruise line or with independent tour operators based at the port. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each option, when paying for a shore excursion makes sense, plus other expert tips on how cruise-goers can best organize their time on shore.

When to book your shore excursions through the cruise line

Cruise lines have entire teams dedicated to selecting a diverse array of high-quality shore excursions vetted to ensure they meet the line’s defined standards. But cruise lines are also known to add markups to their excursions—many of which tour operators also sell directly to travelers at a lower cost.

The main benefit of booking a shore excursion directly through the cruise line is convenience. Cruise line-offered excursions are charged directly to shipboard accounts, can typically be changed or canceled up to a day prior to the excursion, and offer a seamless experience: passengers are escorted off the ship when the excursion is ready to depart, and tour leaders on shore maintain contact with the shore excursion team onboard the ship to communicate any changes or delays.

Anxious travelers have good reason to fear delays on shore; passengers on private excursions who don’t board by the ship by the “all aboard” time can be left behind at the pier. But when the cruise line arranges the excursion, the ship won’t depart until the group returns. Earlier this year, staff on a NCL ship refused to board late-returning passengers, stranding them on a remote island in West Africa. The group of ten passengers who missed their ship were on a private excursion, a fact that NCL pointed to as a reason for initially refusing to reimburse any of the expenses they incurred to rejoin the ship at a later port.

Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist Tom Baker , president of CruiseCenter, says that cruise lines play on passengers’ fear of missing the ship to sell their own excursions at higher costs. Approximately 40% of Baker’s clients elect to book private excursions instead of cruise line offered excursions, he says, adding that he’s never had a passenger on those tours miss the ship.

But in some ports, booking a group excursion through the cruise line is the best option. Many big-ship cruises, especially in the Mediterranean , dock in ports that are located several hours away from popular tourist sites.For example, passengers on ships docking in Civitavecchia (for Rome ) or Le Havre (for Paris ) will find themselves a 1.5 to 3 hour drive away from their respective cities—meaning if you try to make the lengthy trip on your own, there's a higher chance of missing the cruise ship’s departure time. Even some coastal cities, like Barcelona and Marseille, have sprawling industrial ports that may appear close to the main attractions, but in reality, they are not quite walkable or easily accessible from the ship.

On a recent cruise aboard the new Sun Princess , an excursion to Florence proved to be an all-day affair. The ship was docked 2 hours away from Florence in the port town of La Spezia; our tour bus greeted us immediately upon disembarking, ready to whisk us off to Pisa and Florence . It was a fulfilling, jam-packed day, with several hours spent in the bus watching the Tuscan countryside. But, pulling off this carefully planed itinerary required precision—we arrived back to the port just before the lines were cast off for departure. Any delay would have compromised a timely return to the ship, and knowing that the ship would have waited certainly provided me with peace of mind.

However, most cruise ports don’t require such lengthy transit times. For example, port calls on smaller Caribbean islands where the excursion lengths are just a fraction of the ship’s overall time in port, the need for precision arrivals and departures is simply less necessary.

First time cruisers who are still getting adjusted to the rhythm of cruise travel may benefit from booking a shore excursion through the cruise line at the first port in order to get accustomed to the process. A trusted travel advisor can be invaluable in figuring out which ports are better for structured tours, and which walkable ports are best for exploring on foot.

How to plan a personalized shore excursion

A main complaint surrounding cruise line shore excursions is that, due to their size (the average excursion group on a large ship is around 30-50 people), the tours don’t feel personalized and can often be held up by stragglers. On larger ships, there’s a definite “mass travel” experience: passengers are given color coded stickers to wear before being herded into a public area, where they’re escorted off the ship to rows of waiting buses. For independent-minded travelers, this alone can be off-putting.

By Matt Ortile

By Todd Plummer

By Lauren Dana Ellman

By Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

However, the size—and type—of shore excursions vary by cruise line. Just as expedition cruises , river cruises , and luxury small ship lines offer different experiences at sea compared to large ship brands, the same goes for the shoreside experience. Before booking, you can check to see the specific excursions that will be offered on your voyage on the cruise line’s website.

While you can expect intimate excursion groups on small ships, some larger cruise lines also offer more personalized alternatives. Celebrity Cruise passengers can book tailored excursions through the line’s Private Journeys program; and Oceania Cruises also offers Oceania Exclusive excursions, which limits groups to 16 passengers.

For those seeking a highly-personalized experience on shore, another option is to book a private excursion with a tour operator or through a travel specialist. Top cruise specialists like Mary Jean Tully can tap a network of trusted guides in each port to tailor shore excursions to her guests’ preferences.

“We always encourage people to do something privately whenever possible,” Tully says, adding that she recommends booking a private car instead of a bus tour if flexibility is what you're after, as they can stop on a moment’s notice if travelers see something of interest.

Regardless of the type of shore excursion booked, don’t forget to take identification, cash, and most importantly, contact information for the cruise line’s port agent—they’re the local contact who can alert the ship if any emergencies or delays arise on shore. Cruise lines typically publish the port agent’s contact details in the daily program; some even hand out cards with the information or display it on monitors so passengers can take pictures with their smartphones.

In any case, the most important thing to ensure a successful shore excursion is to make it back to the ship on time, to look forward to enjoying the next day in the next port.

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Princess Cruise Line

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24305 Town Center Dr

Santa Clarita, CA 91355

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My wife and I recently took our first ever Princess cruise on the Caribbean Princess out of Ft. Lauderdale. It was a 7 day cruise. We lived the ship. The ship had a classic, yet elegant cruise ship vibe. We had an absolute blast, and enjoyed everything on the cruise. We had previously cruised with a competitor, but Princess is definitely a step above! All of the staff from the dining room to stateroom stewards to art auction staff went above and beyond and were very nice and friendly. The food at Sabatini's and the main dining room and room service was great! The taste was wonderful and the service was just the right pace! We enjoyed all of our shore excursions as well and met some wonderful people in the process. I highly recommend Princess Cruises!

See all photos from Victoria H. for Princess Cruise Line

Before the end of the year, I thought I should do a review of my food experience on Princess Cruise line in July. My husband and I booked a short trip to Mexico and San Francisco from LA on Princess Emerald boat. We have not been on Princess Cruise line since before the pandemic. In this trip, we noticed some major differences in our cruise experience from before the pandemic. The service, food, quality and attention to details have all diminished in quality. Let's talk about food first . Princess is not the cheapest cruise line, but not the most expensive cruise line out of Los Angeles. With that said, we expect average to above average food at non-paid restaurants. From our dining room experience, the food was horrible at the sit down restaurants. We had to return our food multiple times. The food was overcooked, salty, and in some cases just un edible. We also experience poor service on our first day in the dining room. We waited so long for food that we gave up after the waiter gave the next table, our food, and then back to us. Gross! Also, due to slow service we never got all of our items ordered. In the buffet area, you limited to just water, tea and coffee without paying. You now have to order lemonade. When we got water, it was highly salinated, so much that I had to spit it out. I tried another fountain, and the water was disappointment as well. I reported this to staff and nothing was done for a while. Later I notice a sign on the water machine. The sign stayed up the whole cruise! Why was nobody testing the water. In my opinion, the water was toxic and princess should've been providing bottled water to customers for free. Princess just started a new system to deliver food so we decide to test it out. Late at night we ordered cake and it took so long to deliver that we fell asleep to only be woken by the door hours later after ordered. As for pizza and ice cream stand by the pool? The pizza was pretty good: a bit salty. The ice cream has gone down hill too! The ice cream lacked flavor. The only good food experience was at the Italian paid restaurant. Finally we had great food and service. If I was to based my decision on food alone, I would never take a Princess Cruise again!

Boat docked in San Fran

Emerald boat

Terrible customer service! Ordered a gift for my boss for their cruise and couldn't get a straightforward answer if it had been delivered. Customer service reps wouldn't provide me with the information "per policy" even when I ordered and paid for it! No confirmation that it and got hung up on twice by the reps even the supposed supervisor! Unprofessional and will never setting sails with this cruise line!

I will never trust Princess again. Platinum cruiser here- booked on the Sun Princess for 2/18. BEGGED for updates on status- continually- after the 2/8 was cancelled. Ended up cancelling for a medical emergency FOUR days before Princess cancelled the cruise 5 days before sailing. I would have held off to get the refund had I known there was a chance of cancelling- the cancelled folk all have their money. Now I have a serious health issue to deal with AND I'm in AON insurance hell. Thanks a bunch Princess. I will never sail with you again. I am so unhappy with this experience- as well as losing money and time and being frustrated as hell. They don't give a crap about their customers- book with them at your own risk.

I would say I'm a seasoned cruiser and I've been on a ton with Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival cruises these last couple years. This was my first Princess Cruise (11 night Barcelona to Rome on the Enchanted Princess) and it was wonderful!! As good as the best ship I've been on (RCCL Ovation of the Seas) but the food was considerably better than RCCL. Like mindblowing - we would have lunches at the buffet where there were seafood days with unlimited crab legs, lobster claws, large shrimps. Amazing desserts every day too. Our balcony room was nice and modern (tho I didn't like the light on the way to the bathroom being on motion sensor - nothing like being blinded by light in the middle of the night. Also I found the entertainment lacking compared to RCCL. The shows were meh and casino was small. Also I find that most of the people on the ship were senior citizens. Might be a seasonal thing but I didn't find this on other cruise lines. The WiFi was much more user friendly than other cruise lines by far - superior easy to switch between devices. Also embarkation and debarkation were soooo smooth. And LOVE the Medallion - the door unlocking before I even reach for the handle has spoiled me.

Lobster night!

View from the balcony on Deck 10

Just got off Diamond Princess on a 9 day Japan cruise (Apr 2 - Apr 11, 2022). I was lucky enough to bump into Constantin in the dining room again. He is now in charge of the entire dining room at Pacific Moon. Well deserved. Same excellent service. I am glad Princess Cruise recognizes his value and promoted him. While the services in Pacific Moon is exemplary, it is light years ahead of other dining rooms. I would have to say room attendant did a stellar job maintaining our room as well. These two aspects are both 5 star rating worthy. Due to weather, the captain diverted one of the port of calls from Je Ju-do S. Korea to Busan S Korea. That was also a bonus because Busan is S Korea's second largest city versus a tiny island between the Korea peninsula and Japan. My beef with this trip was the food. Food quality definitely took a huge hit compared to the Halifax trip last year. I can appreciate the challenges of feeding thousands onboard and food is a production line. But I have also seen what is possible from multiple other trips. I can only say that the food preparation team brought down the ratings of the entire trip. All the mousse are like lard across the entire trip and was to be avoided at all cost. So dessert is really limited to ice cream or sorbet and fresh fruits. The Pad Thai is also a joke. Hence, despite the stellar service I cannot give them a 5 star rating. The other beef I have is their Medallion App. It is junk and they are limping along with a half broken system, pissing off guests along the way. Finally, Diamond Princess is an aged ship well past its prime. I can see crew members frantically suck up leaks and backed up plumbing here and there using shop vacs and carpet dryers. I can blame the careless guests for the ones outside guest rooms but the ones where they open up conduit closets to suck up water is a bit more concerning. Flooring at various parts of international dining room is so rotten that every time someone walks by, the floor sinks an inch or so and bounces back after. There is an indoor pool in addition to an outdoor pool mid ship. A large piece of paint peeled off and some guest left it on the side. That prompted the pool to be closed in the middle of the voyage and the entire pool resurfaced. I must say the crew did a great job refinishing the indoor pool. The captain also called off all shore leaves for the entire ship company at the Busan port of call. I can only imagine what problems they were fighting behind the scene to keep the ship sailing. Time for a major overhaul or retirement for Diamond Princess! I would highly recommend all who consider the Diamond Princess to hold off until after a major overhaul.

Princess Cruise Line's sorry version of "Pad Thai"

Wow! I am so surprised by the lack luster ratings! I just got off the Enchanted Princess on a cruise from NYC to Halifax and back. (Oct 22-29, 2022). I have been on a few cruises with Princess and Celebrity. I must say, this was the best service I experienced so far. We went to formal dining in Amalfi dining room every evening. The manager, Costantin, treated us with a surprise dish to try each night! The two waiters, Iketut and Natalia, provided really great service as well. I just can't recall a better experience on a cruise than this trip. Room service was also top notch. The shower curtain started to smell a bit towards the end of the trip. I mentioned it to my room attendant, Milton, and went to visit another guest. I was away for no more than five minutes and then returned to my room. The shower curtain had already been changed! Simply outstanding service!

In short, Princess Cruises messed everything up; their computer had a system error which cancelled our trip, they said they restored everything. They forgot to do the air tickets. So we arrive at the airport and we are told your friends have tickets but Princess canceled your air tickets. We had to leave our friends and we returned home. We go home, my wife crying the whole way home and then the nightmare continued... Three long calls and waits and many "Were so sorry CRM manual apologies they book on a flight the next day to Juneau. I had to book a room because the flight would arrive a day before the ship docking. Non- refundable. Our friends send me a letter given to all the ship passengers, "Due to possible bad weather we will not land in Juneau." I was transferred multiple times till I was talking to someone state side. It took them 5 hours to confirm that yes indeed the ship wasn't going to Juneau. It was at 4:58pm when they called to say yes the ship would not be at Juneau. So graciously they offered to fly us to the last stop of the trip. They made it sound like it was my choice not to take up the offer. Monday I called the insurance company and was told what happened would not be covered. I was told to go back to Princess and fight it out with them. I did and three hours later I was told in 4 to 6 weeks I might get a resolution. The day after that I received a pittance of 761 dollars on my credit card. That 761 dollars did not cover the airfare nor the fees, taxes, deposits, shore to ship costs I had paid for. Ok, here's the thing. They couldn't care less. The underpaid people in the Philippines are limited in what they can do, there are few if any workers in the US. The company makes every trip stop at a foreign port to bypass US laws. DO NOT TAKE A PRINCESS CRUISE

We have traveled on Princess since 1989 and are Elite level passengers. over the past 2 years we have seen and experienced the level of quality and customer service continue to degrade and devolve. We were booked on the Feb 8 inaugural Sun Princess cruise that was canceled. We received letters from our travel agent as well as directly from Princess, offering us 50% off a future cruise $1000 onboard credit and up to $200 per person for the inconvenience of having to rebook our flights, which didn't even come close to what we had to spend to get ourselves over to Rome where the cruise was ending so we could take our flights home. British Airways wouldn't work with us to move our flights to another date for us to take a later Sun Princess sailing. they wanted another $3k to change our flights. We were stuck taking our original flights to and from London but had to change our original flight to Barcelona where the cruise was to begin and work our way to Rome to our hotel because they wouldn't work with us either. Bottom line is we are now almost 3 months from when our trip was canceled and we're still having to fight with Princess to get them to follow through with what they have offered us in writing. we were even asked to produce proof that we were booked on that cruise and proof of the cancellation! This information is in their own system. We know we are not the only passengers experiencing issues like this. Princess should be ashamed of themselves! None of their passengers should be treated like this especially their loyal Elite passengers. there is such a thing as karma and they deserve everything negative that is coming their way, including a Class Action lawsuit!

Recently cruised on the Emerald Princess in June 2023. Upon arrival home, found an error on a custom photo template. Tried to contact princess, first attempt by phone- waiting 90 min with no success. 2nd attempt by phone, waited 60 min and talked to service rep and was given an email address for their photo support. Have sent 4 emails asking for resolution, with no return response. Very Frustrated

The customer service has been the worst. We (7 passengers) booked the Alaska Cruise before pandemic. Princess kept extending the credit without communicating. Calling to see what options we have and didn't want to talk to me without my "agent". My agent has not been too much help either... I also contacted the customer service manager and nothing back of course. Worst customer service and experience ever.

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• Dining & Activities
• Sails From:

Long Beach is fun, but it isn't known as a hotspot of Italian culture… yet! In spring 2024, Carnival Firenze will debut, setting sail from this homeport towards south-of-the-border fun along Mexico's Pacific coast! So, Long Beach, you're wondering what to expect from Fun Italian Style ™ ? Grab your movie star sunglasses and throw on a scarf — just for style — as you make your entrance at Piazza Duomo , named for Florence's iconic domed cathedral. To get a taste for onboard flavor and flair, check out spots like the elegant three-course Michelangelo and Medici Restaurants , traditional Italian foods, cocktails and more at Il Viaggio , plus Italian street food spot La Strada Grill ™ . You're even going to find an Italian market, Il Mercato , featuring faves like sauced-up meatballs, sandwiches with inspiration from Italy and beyond, plus sausages and salads. And since we're always authentic… most of the time, you can enjoy the fusion-y goodness of Mexican-Italian Tomodoro ™ plus Guy's Burger Joint , which now features classics and burgers with Italian twists. For refreshment served up in a glass, look to cocktail bar Amari ™ , frozen drinks with a bit of attitude at Rococó ™ , Frizzante ™ with its three specialties (bubbly drinks, snacks and coffee!), plus classic Italian cocktails and martinis with surprising and fashionable twists (and live music too!) at Moda Bar and Lounge ™ . Even more spots for entertainment include the classic-theater vibe of Teatro Rosso featuring Playlist Productions shows, and Tuscan Lounge paying tribute to Florence's iconic home region. Let's not forget Terrazza staterooms — we could never! — which give you a stylish, comfy place to unwind from all the fun… near a private deck featuring exclusive amenities like all-day lounging at Terrazza Moda home to great views, drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more. While we're excited about the Italian side of this ship, it's not the whole story. Carnival has some true fan-favorites we knew folks would be asking for. ( ) That's why Carnival Firenze also includes familiar flavors like Bonsai Teppanyaki ™ and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse ™ . Places to celebrate absolutely anything (or just nothing!) include Piano Bar 88 and Serenity Bar , while you can seriously kick back at Cloud 9 Spa ™ and Serenity Adult-Only Retreat ™ . Kids are going to love Camp Ocean ™ , Circle “C” ® and Club O2 ® — each one is perfectly designed for a different age group. And if active/splashy fun is your thing, that's honestly a great thing and we can tell you're going to be spending time at WaterWorks ™ and SportSquare ™ , home to a ropes course, jogging track, mini golf course and outdoor fitness center. Long Beach! Carnival Firenze is sailing now from your sweet shores. Andiamo!

• 135,156 Gross Tonnage
• 4,126 Guest Capacity
• 1,061 Length In Feet
• 1,425 Onboard Crew

INSIDE THIS SHIP

Just like a delicious cake, your ship is made of layers. Find out which fun ingredients — staterooms, dining, activities — go into each deck.

YOUR STATEROOM

Terrazza interior.

A cozy, classic stateroom decked out with Italian flair… plus amenities like exclusive access to a private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more.  (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Amenities exclusive to Terrazza staterooms:

• Access to private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools, and more
• Daily continental breakfast at the nearby lounge
• Sailaway event featuring live music
• Comfy Terrazza-branded robes and towels for your use

Plus, every room includes:

• Dedicated stateroom attendant
• Soft, cozy linens
• Plenty of closet and drawer space
• In-room safe for valuables
• Stateroom climate control

Interior with Picture Window (Walkway View)

Every room includes:

Interior with Portholes

Interior upper/lower with portholes, interior upper/lower, deluxe ocean view.

Deluxe Ocean View staterooms are a great choice for families who want to let the sun shine in as they sail. Rooms of this type feature great views, a full bathroom — plus a separate washroom.

Deluxe Ocean View (Obstructed View)

Terrazza premium vista balcony.

If you’re all about living the Terrazza life while you cruise… we like your style, and have just the room for you. There’s tons of Italian flair on the inside, but what’s outside counts too! And in this case it’s an incredible wraparound balcony for luxurious private lounging with a sea breeze. But don’t spend all your time here: you also have exclusive access to a private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more.  (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

• Access to private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more

Terrazza Premium Balcony

When you want the most sea breeze and the amazing views — but you also want Italian style to match — a Terrazza Premium Balcony might be just the thing. An extra-wide balcony is just one of the perks… but don’t forget exclusive access to a private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more.  (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Terrazza Aft-View Extended Balcony

A balcony made for watching the ship’s calm wake as we sail along, plus an interior with Italian style on the inside. That’s your Terrazza Aft-View Extended Balcony! Well, that and exclusive access to a private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more.  (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Terrazza Cabana

A Terrazza Cabana stateroom gets you real estate on one of the most desirable addresses on the ship: your very own lounging patio complete with deck chairs. Plus, you'll have easy access to the exclusive private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more.  (All Terrazza stateroom guests must be 12 or older.)

Premium Balcony

We designed balcony staterooms for maximum sea breeze and the most stunning views, and this stateroom features a balcony that's even wider than our standard balcony for extra outdoor space.

Aft-View Extended Balcony

Aft-View Extended Balcony staterooms feature a larger balcony for more lounge-around room, more kick-back space... not to even mention some of the best views. Get ready to relax as you gaze upon the ship's gentle wake from your spacious balcony.

Cove Balcony

Cove Balcony staterooms get you close to the waterline, and feature balconies that let you make the most of your location, for one amazing up-close view of the wake and sea foam as the ship cruises along.

Ocean Suite

An Ocean Suite lets you experience a private, spacious relaxation... more space for stretching out indoors, including a walk-in closet and bathroom with whirlpool tub, plus a large balcony for kicking back outdoors.

Amenities exclusive to suites:

• Priority check-in and boarding
• Priority Main Dining Room time assignment
• Priority debarkation at homeport, and ports of call requiring a water shuttle or with arrival times later than 9:30 AM
• Access to private deck featuring all-day lounging with great drinks, entertainment, whirlpools and more (guests 12 or older only)
• Two large bottles of water
• Pillow-top mattress

Ocean Suite (Obstructed View)

Onboard activities, onboard dining, which way to mexico.

Carnival Firenze gives you options for exploring Mexico’s beautiful Pacific coast, sailing from Long Beach.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

More From Forbes

Thinking about trying a river cruise start in the u.s..

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American Cruise Lines operates small ship sailing on various waterways around the U.S.

It’s been argued that the U.S. is so diverse and offers so many varying vistas that you could spend a lifetime traveling from coast to coast and still not see it all. From the Rockies to the Smokies, from the desert to the tropics, from skiing to scuba diving, America really does deliver.

And that’s exactly what American Cruise Lines celebrates as it explores the history, heritage, and places behind all that makes America beautiful. The line offers over 50 itineraries ranging from six to 60 days and visits 35 states from Alaska to Florida. It is the only cruise line in the world with a 100 percent American-made fleet—that fleet consists of small ships that hold between 90 and 180 guests, classic paddlewheelers, and a brand new line of coastal catamarans.

American Cruise Lines’ 19 riverboats and small cruise ships make up the largest domestic cruise line in the country, and travelers are flocking to its upscale, all-inclusive experiences.

River Boat Itineraries Keep It Interesting

The popular jet boat ride into Hell's Canyon is one of many excursions available on the Columbia & ... [+] Snake River cruise.

Itineraries within the continental U.S. highlight the Mississippi River, including the Ohio, Cumberland, and Tennessee Rivers; the Columbia and Snake Rivers; the Hudson River; and Florida Rivers (St. John’s and Tolomato). For Americans, ports of call are usually just a short flight away. For those traveling farther, it’s a fully-planned and coordinated way to visit some of the most beautiful parts of the country. And everything is taken care of for you from start to finish.

You might find yourself on a quaint city walking tour, kayaking with a guide who points out the wildlife, touring a fort, flightseeing over majestic landscapes, or exploring a museum.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, american cruise lines’ small ships are all-inclusive.

The all-inclusive experience here is a huge selling point. One of the reasons American Cruise Lines is booked out well in advance is because it makes traveling so easy. Everything, including food, beverages (yes, even the alcoholic kind), entertainment and educational presentations, most excursions, Wi-Fi, port taxes, and even gratuities is included. In fact, domestic flights, pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, and ground transportation are part of your package as well. In other words, you won’t be nickel-and-dimed with this line. Make a phone call to book, answer another call to arrange your flight, and that’s the extent of your effort.

The staterooms on American Cruise Lines' small ships are the largest in the industry, and all new ... [+] ships sport private balconies.

Once you arrive, you’ll be thrilled to see your stateroom. While cruise ships are known for making the most of tiny spaces, American Cruise Lines boasts the largest cabins in the industry and more space per passenger for moving around, securing a lounge chair, or selecting your seat at dinner. One hundred percent of cabins face outward, and all new ships have floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to private balconies. Views are unobstructed in rooms as well as dining areas, so these ships are especially appealing to those who have avoided cruises out of fear of claustrophobia. With so much space and light, those fears will be laid to rest.

Perhaps one of the most impressive selling points is that American Cruise Lines’ ships meet the highest emissions standards and have tiny carbon footprints. The line incorporates the latest technology, including a bow that opens like a drawbridge from which a powered passenger gangway emerges. This allows for bow landings and ensures the ship can navigate into areas most ships could never traverse.

Small Ship Dining Is Relaxed, Not Hurried Or Crowded

The dinner experience on a small ship in the American Cruise Line is intimate and tailored to your ... [+] dietary restrictions.

While small ships don’t offer casinos and grand productions, what they do have are talented musicians, a cocktail hour with a beautiful array of hors d'oeuvres, and educational speakers. Some of American Cruise Lines’ offerings include Mark Twain and literary experts on the Mississippi River cruise, biologists and ecologists on Florida cruises, and Lewis and Clark experts on the Columbia and Snake River cruises – sometimes the experts even accompany cruisers on excursions to further enhance those experiences. And you can expect dining to be more intimate, more gourmet-leaning, and adaptable for vegans, vegetarians, and so on. This attention to individual needs is one of the many benefits of the small ship experience.

American Cruise Lines is the only line in the U.S. that offers both river and coastal cruises, and the new addition of coastal cats provides adventure opportunities for cruisers who love the idea of getting some wave action. If you’ve only done ocean cruising, it may be a great way to dip your toes into river cruising. But if you’re brave enough to jump all the way in, river cruising can provide a totally different – and totally blissful – experience.

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Celebrity ascent: the best dining, amenities and more on celebrity cruises' newest ship.

Top-notch eateries, adults-only areas and entertainment options stand out.

Celebrity Ascent Review

Megan duBois

Key Takeaways

• There are 32 different dining and drinking venues on board, from Le Voyage by celebrity chef Daniel Boulud to the line's iconic Martini Bar.
• The onboard entertainment is incredible. The "Awaken" show combines popular music with acrobatics and lasers, while Ascent After Dark: Shine the Night invites cruisers to don metallic or sequin outfits for a deck party under the stars. 
• The Solarium adults-only pool area is a relaxing spot with comfortable lounge chairs, a pool and hot tubs; head to Eden for delightful cocktails and optimal sunset views.

You can think of Celebrity Cruises as the more adult cousin of Royal Caribbean International – which makes sense, considering both cruise lines are owned by Royal Caribbean Group. With all of the recent buzz around both brands, I was excited to sail on Celebrity Cruises' newest ship, Celebrity Ascent, in its debut month. I embarked out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in December 2023.

The 17-deck, 141,420-ton ship has 1,646 staterooms and can carry 3,260 guests at double occupancy. At 1,073 feet long and 128 feet wide, the ship has plenty of space for upscale amenities, edgy entertainment and incredible dining venues. The Edge Series ship also has more than 1,400 crew members who hail from 60 different countries around the world.

As an avid cruiser who has taken more than 50 ocean and river voyages on almost a dozen cruise lines, I found Celebrity Ascent lived up to the hype. The ship itself is stunning, and each area has a distinct vibe. I loved the ample amount of food and drink opportunities – there are 32 different venues – and the standout onboard entertainment was like nothing I had seen before on a cruise ship.

Find your perfect cruise

Celebrity Ascent itineraries

Celebrity Ascent sails around the Mediterranean and the Caribbean over the next few years. Summer 2024 brings Ascent to Mediterranean ports of call in Greece, Turkey, Italy, France, Spain and Portugal. The Mediterranean season ends in October 2024, with a 13-night transatlantic sailing departing from Barcelona, Spain.

Late fall and winter sailings depart from Fort Lauderdale. The Caribbean season runs between November 2024 and April 2025. It includes seven- to nine-night voyages calling on ports like Aruba , Bonaire and Curacao ; Bimini, Bahamas ; Labadee, Haiti; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands ; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic ; and St. Maarten and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

In late April 2025, it's back to the Mediterranean for the 2025 season between May and October. Ascent then returns to the Caribbean for sailings in late 2025; destinations include southern Caribbean locales, plus the Panama Canal and Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Similar Caribbean sailings are also on sale for early 2026.

Who should sail on Celebrity Ascent?

Celebrity Ascent, like its Edge Series sister ships, caters to adults traveling together. The overall vibe of the ship is upscale and modern, with plenty of places to grab a drink, enjoy a meal and watch a show. Couples can enjoy an elevated date night in Le Grand Bistro, while the aptly named Sunset Bar – which overlooks the rear of the ship – is the spot to be with a cocktail in hand as the sun sets into the horizon. This bar was easily my favorite spot on board; I spent most afternoons here enjoying a cocktail.

The deck parties, of which Ascent After Dark: Shine the Night is the premier event, are a fun time – but they aren't so loud that guests can hear the bass thumping in the staterooms below. Shows at The Theatre are fully immersive, with incredible technology and great music that had me dancing in my seat.

If you are traveling with children, know that there aren't many places on board for kids to just hang out and be kids. The Camp at Sea kids club is crammed into a small area on Deck 3, away from the main Grand Plaza and The Martini Bar.

Cruises on Ascent can be expensive, but Celebrity often runs deals on sailings. Without any promotions, sailings around the Mediterranean in 2024 and 2025 may run between about $1,000 and $5,600 per person. In comparison, 2024 and 2025 Caribbean voyages may cost between about $2,000 and $4,400 per person before discounts. (Note: Cruise rates can change frequently, based on demand and availability.)

The stateroom

There are over two dozen different stateroom styles on Celebrity Ascent. The smallest (and usually cheapest) rooms are the Inside Staterooms, which offer between 181 and 202 square feet of space. For solo travelers, the Single Inside Staterooms offer the same amenities as a double occupancy room, but with a smaller 103-square-foot layout and no single supplement fee at booking.

Ocean View Staterooms are slightly larger, at 200 to 242 square feet. There are three different room styles; the main difference among them is the size of the window. Options range from small windows in the middle of the wall to large, floor-to-ceiling picture windows.

Ascent's balcony cabins are quite varied, but the majority are Infinite Veranda Staterooms, where the balcony is actually a uniquely designed window that can be opened to let the ocean breeze in. There is a set of glass doors that can be drawn to make this space more private, as well.

Concierge Staterooms allow guests access to a dedicated concierge staff and exclusive onboard events. AquaClass cabins all feature the infinite balcony design, plus unlimited access to the SEA Thermal Suite, complimentary dining at Blu restaurant, fitness classes and a spa concierge.

Celebrity Ascent's suites are all part of The Retreat, the line's ship-within-a-ship concept where cruisers have access to an exclusive restaurant, a sun deck with a pool, a lounge and a dedicated crew. Suites range in size and style, from smaller 319-square-foot studios to massive two-bedroom suites offering more than 2,500 square feet of indoor and outdoor space.

When I sailed on Celebrity Ascent, I stayed in an AquaClass stateroom. The main living space had a king-size bed, which was cozy after long days of exploring the ship and nights spent on the dance floor. I found the cabin's couch a bit uncomfortable, but there was plenty of storage space in the large closet and drawers. Conveniently, the bed was high enough to fit my suitcases under.

Because this was my first time in an Infinite Veranda room, I was interested to see how the balcony actually worked. After pressing a button for the window to roll down, my room instantly filled with humid air – not the sea breeze I was expecting. The air conditioner also turns off when the window is down, so it takes a long time for the room to cool off again. I only opened the window once because of this. For me, the extra veranda space served as more of a sitting area to take in the views than a spot to enjoy the ocean breeze.

My stateroom's bathroom was spacious, with a larger-than-usual standup rain shower. I also loved the eco-friendly bath amenities, which smelled divine. I used the in-room bathrobes and slippers every day of the cruise.

I loved that my AquaClass stateroom came with some amenities that are not included in other Infinite Veranda rooms. There were two yoga mats, two bottles of water that were refreshed daily, a welcome bottle of sparkling wine, an umbrella, binoculars, complimentary shoeshine service and a pillow menu. AquaClass guests also have unlimited access to the spa's thermal suite, complimentary fitness classes and a dedicated spa concierge. I went to the thermal suite daily to enjoy the heated loungers and steam rooms.

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Best amenities on Celebrity Ascent

On Celebrity Ascent, you'll never be bored. Over just a few days, I was able to participate in game shows and dance parties, sit back and enjoy live music, and spend some time by the pool. While I don't gamble, the casino always seemed to be full when I walked by, and someone was always cheering about hitting the jackpot.

For live entertainment, be sure to catch Flash Flair Fusion, the nightly bartending performance at the Martini Bar. Meanwhile, the Theatre hosted three main shows during my sailing: "Residency," "Awaken" and "Bridges." (Based on my experience, "Awaken" is the production to prioritize.)

Additionally, The Club hosts most of the ship's game shows and some smaller live music events. I loved hanging out at this venue; it was never overly packed with people, and the games were pure fun. I even got called up on stage to participate in one of the games and ended up winning a Celebrity Cruises-branded hat.

For some outdoor fun, hit the onboard pickleball court. Or, head to the Rooftop Garden, where float pools face the ocean and plenty of comfy seating awaits. I loved how lush this space felt, thanks to all of the live plants surrounding the seating areas. This is also the spot to catch movies at night.

If you're looking for an even more unique place to hang out, head to The Magic Carpet. This bright orange, glass-encased bar hangs out over the side of the ship and is the perfect spot for an after-dinner drink. The Magic Carpet can move up and down the side of the ship, docking at select decks for a set amount of time. I loved hanging here at night as the ship was pulling out of port to see the islands light up and watch other ships pass by.

When planning out your evenings, keep in mind that it can be a trek to get from one onboard activity to the next – especially when there is very little time between many of the major scheduled events. One night, I started in The Club to watch a game show, then immediately had to get to the Theatre. After the theater performance, I had to walk the entire length of the ship and take the stairs to get to the night show in Eden. Then, after Eden, it was time for the Shine the Night deck party. By the time I got back to my stateroom, I was exhausted.

Best dining venues on Celebrity Ascent

There are 32 different spots for food and drinks on Celebrity Ascent, including four main dining rooms; four casual complimentary eateries; eight specialty restaurants; 14 cafes, lounges and bars; and two exclusive venues.

Included with the base fare are meals at the four main dining rooms, all of which serve the same menus every day, plus a small exclusive menu that's tailored to the theme of each restaurant. (For example, if you're dining in Cyprus, there is a small list of Cyprus-exclusive dishes that highlight Mediterranean cuisine, while the Normandie restaurant serves up French favorites.)

Other restaurants included in the cruise rate are Eden Cafe & Bar, which serves light bites and sweets; Mast Grill, offering burgers and salads; and Oceanview Cafe, a buffet open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

For an additional cost, head to specialty dining venues like the stunning Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, which is great for date night; Le Grand Bistro, a fun take on a classic French Bistro; or Eden Restaurant, which features an entirely plant-based menu.

My favorite specialty dining option – and overall favorite restaurant on the ship – was Raw on 5. It features stunning chilled seafood towers, fresh sashimi and hot dishes like fresh lobster and shrimp wontons. Each dish was prepared beautifully, the service was top-notch and our table next to the window offered great views.

However, one restaurant I would skip is Fine Cut Steakhouse. It is a pretty standard steakhouse, and nothing on the menu really stood out to me. The upscale ambiance was also diminished by music floating in from the nearby Grand Plaza and Martini Bar (think: everything from One Direction to Cher). While both artists are great to hear while sipping a martini in a public space, I don't want to hear them while dining at an expensive restaurant.

Best excursions on Celebrity Ascent

Travelers cruising to the Caribbean should book a beach outing. There are abundant excursion options in St. Maarten and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands . If you're into local brews, try the Small Group: Brewery & Beach Tour Philipsburg, St. Maarten .

On a past Mediterranean cruise, I explored both Florence and Pisa, Italy, while docked in the Italian city of Livorno. Celebrity offers a similar excursion aboard the Ascent. The day trip includes a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside; exploring Florence and seeing the Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo; and a trip to Pisa to see the iconic learning tower. In Rome , consider doing an all-day tour where you can see the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and St. Peter's Square.

Regardless of where your cruise is headed, you may choose to explore ports on your own instead. If that's the case, be sure to give yourself enough time to get back to the ship. I always try to return at least an hour before the scheduled sail away time.

Overall impressions of Celebrity Ascent

When it comes to ships that cater to a mostly adult audience, Celebrity Ascent really has it all. From stunning common areas to incredible dining and entertainment, I was never bored on this ship. What I loved most was the wide range of entertainment, from pop-up music around the ship to full-blown experiences that need to be seen to be believed. The food on the ship is a step above most other major cruise lines, and the number of dining options is great, especially for longer sailings.

While I loved my room's location and amenities as a whole, I found the Infinite Veranda design to be a bit of a waste. When I did use it, my room got hot quickly and took a while to cool back down. I would consider booking a traditional veranda cabin next time, or a stateroom with a large picture window to save some money without sacrificing the ocean views.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Megan duBois has been covering travel, cruising and theme parks for over five years. She has taken more than 50 cruises, has traveled to four continents and more than 25 countries, and has visited a dozen theme parks around the world. Her work appears online and in print in major publications like U.S. News & World Report, Travel + Leisure, The Points Guy, Conde Nast Traveler, Forbes and more.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines for the Money
• The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean
• The Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean
• The Best Solo Cruises
• Cruise Packing List: The Essentials Chosen by Experts

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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Wanna see a big boat on Lake Michigan? Viking Cruises ship stops in Algoma on May 29

The stopovers are part of viking's great lakes collection cruise, and boat fans are welcome to watch the ship and its passenger ferries arrive and depart..

ALGOMA - For those interested in watching big boats on Lake Michigan, the first of eight Viking Cruises to stop over in Algoma in 2024 drops anchor in the waters off the shore at about 8 a.m. Wednesday.

The ship will moor in the lake off the Algoma Pierhead Lighthouse, with passengers disembarking via ferry about a half-hour later. Boating fans are invited by the Algoma Area Chamber of Commerce to head to Heritage Park and the city marina to watch the ships and their passenger ferries arrive and depart, and the chamber will set up a mobile visitor center near the park to provide information to passengers and crew members.

It's the second straight year Viking's Great Lakes Collection cruise includes a stop in Algoma, which offers optional passenger excursions not only in Kewaunee County but also Door County and Lambeau Field in Green Bay. The Swiss-based cruise line also featured Algoma as a destination eight times in 2023, the first year the city and Door County were part of the cruise.

The specific ship stopping in Algoma on Wednesday is the 665-foot-long Viking Octanis, on its way from Toronto. Built in 2022 and with a capacity of 378 guests and 256 crew members, the Octanis is scheduled to return to Algoma at about 7 a.m. June 11, on its way from Duluth, with future stops at 8 a.m. Aug. 7, 7 a.m. Aug. 20, 8 a.m. Sept. 18 and 7 a.m. Oct. 1.

Another Viking cruise ship making the Great Lakes run, the Viking Polaris, is scheduled to stop in Algoma at 8 a.m. July 12 and 7 a.m. July 25. The Polaris has the same dimensions and capacity as the Octanis.

The cruises arriving in Algoma at 8 a.m. are scheduled to depart at about 6 p.m., while the 7 a.m. arrivals depart at about 3 p.m. All times depend on weather and the captain's prerogative.

The Great Lakes Collection cruises run from Toronto to Duluth, Minnesota, or the other way around. The cruise takes 15 days and stops at 10 destinations along the way, including Niagara Falls; Cleveland; Detroit; Mackinac Island; Alpena, Michigan (home of the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center); Thunder Bay and other scenic natural locations in Ontario. A passage through the Soo Locks in the twin cities of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan and Ontario, also is part of the itinerary.

Passengers who disembark in Algoma can choose from a variety of guided excursions offered by the cruise. Along with the tour of Lambeau Field and the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, there also are a kayaking and hiking adventure at Door County's Moonlight Bay and Cana Island Lighthouse, a hike along the Niagara Escarpment, charter fishing on Lake Michigan, wine and scenic tours by motor coach of Door County and a wine/beer/cheese tour of Algoma. Passengers also can do a self-guided tour of the city and its art galleries, Crescent Beach, Ahnapee Trail and dining and beverage establishments.

For more, visit the chamber website at visitalgomawi.com .

C ontact Christopher Clough at 920-562-8900 or  [email protected].

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A new agreement would limit cruise passengers in Alaska’s capital. A critic says it falls short

FILE - Cruise ships are docked on June 9, 2023, in downtown Juneau, Alaska. A new agreement between Alaska’s capital city and major cruise lines seeks to cap the daily number of cruise ship passengers arriving in Juneau starting in 2026, but a critic of the cruise industry says the planned limits don’t go far enough. (AP Photo/Becky Bohrer, File)

FILE - Passengers stream off the Norwegian Bliss after the vessel arrived in Juneau, Alaska, April 25, 2022. A new agreement between Alaska’s capital city and major cruise lines seeks to cap the daily number of cruise ship passengers arriving in Juneau starting in 2026, but a critic of the cruise industry says the planned limits don’t go far enough. (AP Photo/Becky Bohrer, File)

FILE - A cruise ship sits docked near downtown Juneau, Alaska, Sunday, June 4, 2017. A new agreement between Alaska’s capital city and major cruise lines seeks to cap the daily number of cruise ship passengers arriving in Juneau starting in 2026, but a critic of the cruise industry says the planned limits don’t go far enough. (AP Photo/Becky Bohrer, File)

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JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — A new agreement between Alaska’s capital city and major cruise lines seeks to cap the daily number of cruise ship passengers arriving in Juneau starting in 2026, though a prominent critic of the cruise industry said Tuesday the planned limits do not do enough.

The agreement, finalized late last week, seeks a daily limit of 16,000 cruise passengers Sundays through Fridays and 12,000 on Saturdays. However, officials said that doesn’t necessarily mean there will be that many people every day.

Cruise passengers numbers ramped up rapidly after two pandemic-stunted years, hitting a record of more than 1.6 million passengers in Juneau last year. That’s caused tension between businesses that rely on tourism and residents who are fed up with increased traffic, busy trails and the hum of helicopters ferrying visitors to glaciers.

Cruise seasons also have gotten longer, with the first boat this year arriving in Juneau in early April and the last set to arrive in late October. On peak days in the past, passenger numbers have totaled about two-thirds of Juneau’s population of roughly 32,000 people.

A daily limit of five large ships took effect with the current season, as part of a separate agreement signed last year.

Alexandra Pierce, Juneau’s visitor industry director, said Tuesday that the aim with the current agreement is to hold cruise passenger numbers roughly steady, in the 1.6 million range.

“The idea is that the agreement buys everybody time not only to see if it is sustainable but also to build the infrastructure that will help it feel more sustainable,” she said.

Pierce said she expects a number of projects will be completed in the next five years “that will help our current numbers feel less impactful.” She cited plans for a gondola at the city-owned ski area, updates to the downtown sea walk and increased visitor capacity at the popular Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area .

The agreement, which was signed by the city manager and major cruise line executives, also calls for yearly meetings to “review lessons learned, to review and optimize the subsequent season’s operations, and align on community and industry parameters, goals, and opportunities.”

Pierce said city leaders are “trying to balance the needs of our residents, the needs of our economy, the needs of future opportunities for people to stay in our community.”

Karla Hart, a longtime critic of the industry, is skeptical of the new agreement, saying it doesn’t do enough to address concerns many residents have that current tourism levels are unsustainable.

“It feels like we’re just getting led along again, and expansion will continue and more time will pass” and impacts will continue, she said.

Hart is helping push a proposed local ballot initiative that would institute “ship free Saturdays,” with no cruise ships with a capacity of at least 250 passengers allowed to stop in Juneau on Saturdays or on July 4. The signature-review process for the proposed measure is underway. If the measure is certified, it could appear on the October ballot.

Renée Limoge Reeve, vice president of government and community relations for Cruise Lines International Association Alaska, a trade group, said initiatives “remove the opportunity for collaboration and discussion, and I think that that leaves a lot to be desired.”

She said the agreements with Juneau are the first such agreements the industry has signed in Alaska and underscore the cruise lines’ commitment “to being good partners in the communities that we visit.” Juneau and other southeast Alaska communities are popular stops on cruises that leave from Seattle or Vancouver. The much-smaller community of Sitka also has been grappling with the debate over tourism numbers.

Reeve and Pierce also participated Tuesday in a Greater Juneau Chamber of Commerce news conference to discuss the agreement.