9 Best Boat Tours in Rhode Island
The Ocean State (unsurprisingly) is home to some of the most breathtaking boat tours in the country. Hop on a sail boat and get a picture-perfect view of the Newport mansions. Stop by Narragansett for a chartered deep-sea fishing excursion. Whatever it is you’re seeking, you’ll find it in the 9 best boat tours in Rhode Island.
La Gondola Providence, Inc., Providence, RI
Every harbor town needs a gondola service, right? Just like a taxi or a bus provide transport on a road, a gondola turns the waterways of a harbor town into an efficient, beautiful, and relaxing mode of travel. Plus, gondolas can go where boat do not, and, established in 2006, La Gondola seeks to recreate that Venetian experience right here in the Ocean State, where there are few sites from the water more beautiful.
Sailing Excursions, Newport, RI
Whether you board the schooner named Adirondack II or the sloop named Eleanor, there is perhaps no better way to see Newport Harbor than by sailboat. Dramatic cliffs meet ocean waves and the opulent mansions of times passed overlook the sea as if awaiting their return to dominance. Moreover, private charters allow you to embark on romantic sunset sails, lighthouse tours, or entire days out in the bay.
Classic Cruises of Newport, Newport, RI
Whether you are into sipping champagne at sunset or cruising around the bay, the classic 72-foot schooner named Madeline will get you to where you are going, safe and sound. Or if history is your thing, hop aboard the 1929 classic motor yacht named the Rum Runner, built during the height of Prohibition this historic vessel has received accolades from both Rhode Island Monthly and Yankee Magazine.
Sightsailing of Newport, Newport, RI
The oldest locally-owned sailing company in town offers authentic sailing vessels inspected year by the Coast Guard and idyllic maritime views of Narragansett Bay and Newport Harbor. From water crashing over the rocky shorelines to dramatic cliff, stately mansions, and the splendid lights of Newport’s distantly twinkling as evening sets, there is perhaps a no better way to see the city on an engineless boat.
Gansett Cruises, Newport, RI
This classic motorboat cruise outfit comes complete with a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence and offers sunset cruises, bay tours, and something called Air and Sea Excursions, which it offers by teaming up with Bird’s Eye View Helicopters to, to provide a multi-dimensional touring experience.
Blount Small Ship Adventures, Multiple locations
Smaller ships with smaller ramps, adjustable captain’s quarters, and shallow drafts mean Blount Small Ships can go where others cannot. From waterways and canals to rivers and ocean islands, Blount is sure to have an adventure that suits you and your family. Plus their ships include private bedrooms and bathrooms, lounge areas, and more, so extended ocean trip can also be booked.
Snappa Fishing & Diving Charters, Inc., Narragansett, RI
Snappa Fishing and Diving Charters has been touring and charter fishing for over 25 years. In annual operation from April until December, popular fishing expeditions including targeting sharks, tuna, cod, bluefin, bass, blackfish, and stripers. But is not always about fishing and the outfit also specializes in lighthouse tours, sunset cruises, and whale and bird watching.
Rhode Island Bay Cruises, North Kingstown, RI
This family-owned business was established in 2003 ferrying folks to Martha’s Vineyard and back. RIBC still boasts high-speed ferries to that islands but also offers popular tours like the lighthouse tour, ports of Rhode Island, sunset cruises, and more. Popular sites include ocean cliffs, the mansions of Newport, and the famous “House on a Rock.”
Frances Fleet, Narragansett, RI
Founded in 1978 by Frank Blount, this boat company offers day trips, deep-sea fishing, whale watching tours, and private charters. Book half days, full days, or overnight adventures and novice and experienced anglers are welcome aboard at any time, no reservations necessary. Plus, there are rods for rent and bait is supplied for free.
