Boston is not only one of the most historical destinations in the US, it’s also surrounded by water (Charles River to the north and Boston Harbor to the east and south) which comes with enviable perks like beautiful beaches, fresh, local seafood, great views, and, of course, a plethora of exciting water activities.
In this week’s blog we’re sharing some of our favorite water attractions. All of these activities are also social-distancing-friendly, either by default or due to restrictions put in place by the operators.
1. Hop on a Boston Duck Tour
Boston Duck Tours is the city’s most popular tour and the only operator that can travel both by land and water letting you see Boston like never before. The tour has three departure locations (the Museum of Science, Prudential Center and New England Aquarium), conveniently located near public transportation and fully walkable if you’re in the city.
Tour sites include Old State House, Pubic Gardens, Boston Common, Charles River, Newbury Street, and more.
Rates: Adult $45.99 | Senior (62 and up) & Military $36.99 | Child (ages 3-11) $30.99 | Kids Under 3 (including infants) $10.99”
Group discounts are also available.
*Boston Duck Tours have increased safety and cleaning measures to address concerns and provide reassurance in the current environment.
2. Go Whale WatchingThe New England Aquarium Whale Watch will take you on an exciting journey to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds and other marine creatures. This area is home to several kinds of large whales, including acrobatic humpback whales, finback whales, minke whales, as well as pilot whales and the critically endangered right whales.
Seeing whales is fully guaranteed, but if you don’t, you will receive a free ticket for a future whale watch.
Rates: Adults $55 | Seniors (65+) $47 | Children (3-11 years) $35 | Under 3 years $18
3. Take A Day Trip to Cape Cod
Provincetown, the northern tip of Cape Cod and the peninsula’s most popular destination, is easily accessible by ferry from Boston and makes for the perfect day trip! Whether you enjoy lounging on the beach, exploring historic locations, shopping and dining, or all of the above, Provincetown has something for everyone.
Ferry rate: Adult One Way $62, Round Trip $94.
Group discounts are also available.
4. Embrace Your Wild Side on Codzilla
As Boston Harbor Cruises puts it: "Codzilla is 70 feet of marine aluminum and bad attitude, prowling the ocean with two turbo-charged diesel engines, state-of-the-art water jets and 2,800 horsepower. Its unique hull design makes it capable of thrilling 360-degree turns and spinning on a dime. So be sure to secure all hats, scarves, eyewear and bad hairpieces." Need we say more?
Rates: Adult $34 | Seniors (65+) $32 | Child $26
5. Explore Boston Harbor IslandsSpectacle Island
True to its name, Spectacle Island is a wonder to behold. It’s one of the greenest of the Harbor Islands, home to wildflowers, sea grasses and a sandy beach for swimming. Come out for a day by the water, a picnic lunch, or a hike to the summit of the area’s tallest hill.
Georges Island
Georges Island is a Civil War monument unto itself making it the ideal destination for history buffs. The walls and ramparts of Fort Warren encompass almost the entire island—they’re also a frequent haunt of a reputed ghost known as the Lady in Black. The well-manicured grassy parade grounds are great for a walk; take in the new museum dedicated to the island’s history; or just admire the views of Boston Light and the city skyline.
Peddocks Island
One of the largest Harbor Islands, Peddock’s has a rich and diverse history. It’s been home to native Americans, militiamen and prisoners of war. Today, campers visit to sleep under the stars, while day trippers explore the island’s historic structures and unique geological features.
Lovells Island
Situated at the entrance to Boston Harbor, Lovells Island is a favorite of the camping set, offering remote beaches, tide pools and the ancient gun batteries, bunkers and foundations of Fort Standish. It’s also the nearest island to sites of legendary shipwrecks.
Ferry to Spectacle Island (Round Trip): Adults $24.95 | Seniors $22.95 | Children over 3 $17.95
6. Kayak or Paddleboard Down the Charles RiverIf you’d rather be active while enjoying breathtaking views of Boston, renting a kayak or a paddleboard is the right move for you.
Community Boating is the oldest public sailing organization in the United States. They offer sailing and other water sports along the Charles River to people of all ages, abilities, and means. For a fee of $30 you can rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board and enjoy a 2-hour trip on the river. Double kayaks are also available for members of the same family unit.
Visit the Community Boating website for more information and COVID-19 specific restrictions.
Check out our guide of What To Do for shopping, dining, arts & music, historic landmark, and sports & entertainment suggestions. To give you a better idea of Boston’s make-up, also check out our guide to all the neighborhoods of Boston.
Boston is open for future bookings. If you need to change the dates of an event that hasn’t been accommodated by another city or are simply looking for a date in the future, don’t hesitate to reach out at sales@SignatureBoston.com.
For regular updates on the MCCA’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak, please go to https://sb.signatureboston.com/mcca-covid-19