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I Explored Upstate New York on a Canal Boat — and It Was the Perfect Way to Slow Down

On a narrow-boat journey down New York’s Erie Canal, one writer finds a waterway steeped in history — one that offers a welcome escape from modern-day worries.

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

"The Erie Canal used to be all about speed, but today it's about slowing down," said Marye Lobb, a singer-songwriter I met one evening in Spencerport, New York. Lobb had been playing in the village's canal-side gazebo while my wife, Jetty-Jane, and I watched from the top deck of our boat, a bottle of Finger Lakes Riesling between us.

"There's just something calming about being by the water," Lobb said. In the 19th century, she explained, this storied waterway was an artery of commerce, but these days it's a place for wildlife spotting and unplugging from whatever worries you left onshore — just what Jetty-Jane and I were looking for in the summer of 2020.

Our vessel was the Seneca, a 42-foot liveaboard that we chartered — with the help of quirky travel website Atlas Obscura — from Erie Canal Adventures , a family-run outfitter with a fleet of canal boats purpose-built for touring the waterways between Syracuse and Buffalo. The plan was to take one of those vessels and spend a few days exploring the canal. Niche? Absolutely. The perfect escape from the strangest year of our lives? Definitely.

Soon enough, we were in a marina-side classroom in Macedon, getting a tutorial on propane heaters, diesel engines, and marine toilets — all the parts that make a liveaboard tick. After a few educational videos, we were aboard the Seneca with Erie Canal Adventures owner Brian Keenan, who had come to give us some hands-on training. He watched as we took our boat — sporting the company's signature red and green color scheme — through the gates of Lock 30, practiced our knots, fiddled with our radio, and spun around with a whoosh of our bow thrusters.

An hour later, Keenan stepped back onto the dock and wished us a good trip. With just my wife and me on board — and the $100,000 insurance policy stashed belowdecks — I had a moment of panic. We'd been socially distancing for months, but suddenly felt very alone.

Before Zoom calls, before jets, even before Model Ts and railroads, travel was all about boats. They were the fastest, easiest, and most comfortable way to get anywhere, which is why the founding fathers spent considerable time — not to mention money — trying to gin up canal systems in America to rival those transforming Europe. As Peter L. Bernstein writes in Wedding of the Waters, a history of the Erie Canal, the waterway would "knit the sinews of the Industrial Revolution, propel globalization…and revolutionize the production and supply of food for the entire world."

Today, the canal is almost exclusively used for recreation, but it's no exaggeration to say that the 363-mile-long link between the Atlantic and the Great Lakes cemented the country's economic primacy and crowned New York City its financial capital. (That many of these gains were extracted, directly or indirectly, from land stolen or swindled from Indigenous peoples, particularly those of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, often goes unmentioned.)

Yet for all its economic benefit, the canal provided something far more valuable: it gave rise to a network for ideas. Among the freethinkers living and working along the canal was Joseph Smith, who published the Book of Mormon in 1830 in Palmyra. In 1848, Frederick Douglass moved to Rochester, where he founded his abolitionist newspaper. That same year, Elizabeth Cady Stanton helped organize the Women's Rights Convention held in Seneca Falls, now home to the Women's Rights National Historical Park.

All of which is to say that a trip on the canal takes you through not only western New York but also hundreds of years of American history. Not that you're thinking about any of that when you're waking up in Pittsford in the middle of a chilly thunderstorm. Canal trivia takes a back seat when everything's wet, a cold wind is blowing, and the only person around to untie the lines is you. Whose idea was this anyway?

We chugged west toward Rochester, where we tied up at Corn Hill Landing, in the heart of the city. Despite the heavy rain, we made the short walk to Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, which lives up to the hype with pit-smoked wings and decadent mac and cheese. We walked through Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Park, painted with messages of protest against police violence in Rochester and across the United States. By late afternoon, the sun had returned, and we celebrated with pilsners and onion rings at Roc Brewing Co. before heading back to the boat and pressing on toward Spencerport to catch Lobb's gazebo concert, one of several such experiences Atlas Obscura had arranged along our route.

After a couple of days aboard, we were getting the hang of the Seneca . The hardest part was passing through the locks, which involved gingerly maneuvering our 30,000-pound boat into a narrow space and grabbing onto fixed cables or ropes covered in gunk. We started to feel a tiny bit like boat people. Could we live on the Seneca ? I wondered aloud one morning. Not likely, my wife deadpanned.

On our third morning, we turned back east to Fairport, a quintessential canal town we'd skipped on our way out. We grabbed a sunny spot on the patio of Lulu Taqueria & Bar for a Pacifico and a margarita as kayakers paddled past. We rummaged through gift shops like Main Street Mercantile and marveled at the imported pastas, olives, meats, and cheeses at Lombardi's Gourmet Imports & Specialties. After months of not doing much at all, we relished the simple pleasure of walking down some new streets and seeing some new things.

That evening, we approached another red-and-green boat docked at a bend in the channel called Bushnell's Basin. We were tying our lines when a stranger bounded over and, through her mask, started telling us about the great hard cider selection in the dockside store.

Diane Baker and her husband, Mark, had, like us, been on the canal for a few days, she said. They, too, figured the trip would be the perfect antidote to months cooped up at home in New York City. For them, it was less about boating than about exploring a stretch of the state they'd never considered vacation-worthy.

A few days later, back on land, we bumped into Diane and Mark at the Cascadilla Gorge trailhead in Ithaca. Though we'd met only briefly, it felt like a reunion with old friends. Amazing what can happen when you take a moment and just slow down.

How to Plan a Canal Trip

Erie Canal Adventures (trips from $1,950) offers three-, four-, and seven-day charters out of Macedon. Boats come fully fueled and equipped with linens, kitchen gear, and water. There's a learning curve for piloting the vessels, but even landlubbers can quickly get the hang of it.

Book through Atlas Obscura for more perks, plus a concierge who can make restaurant reservations and provide hyper-specific sightseeing tips. Charters start around noon and end early on the final day, so it's best to bookend a cruise with hotel stays.

About 30 minutes from Macedon, the new Lake House on Canandaigua (doubles from $265) is a resort-style property with soothing, nautically inspired interiors by Studio Tack. An hour away, the Inns of Aurora (doubles from $440) is a collection of historic buildings, all beautifully restored and filled with quirky yet tasteful décor. A new 15,000-square-foot spa opened in June.

A version of this story first appeared in the June 2021 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline At Your Own Pace . Atlas Obscura and Erie Canal Adventures provided support for the reporting of this story.

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Canal Boat Rentals

Canal Boat / House Boat Rental

The ultimate Erie Canal Adventure.  Our excursions include piloting a self-chartered Lockmaster Canal Boat for 3, 4, or 7 nights.

Our boats are fully equipped for a comfortable liveaboard adventure.

Use the links below to learn more and book your trip.

ERIE CANAL SIGHTSEEING CRUISES

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ERIE CANAL SIGHTSEEING CRUISE

Our sight seeing cruises depart daily! Enjoy the scenery of the Mohawk Valley as you cruise the calm waters of the Erie Canal, learning about the history of the area and locks.

Award-winning narration along with spectacular scenery and a ride in a Lock, also known as a “liquid elevator” await you on our daily Erie Canal sightseeing cruises. We cruise through Lock 18 on the Erie Canal, lifting and lowering vessels over 20 feet! Browse our cruise schedule and reserve your tickets online.

Tickets on sale NOW for Mothers Day Weekend! A beverage for Mom included with ticket purchase

Corn Hill Waterfront and Navigation Foundation

Erie canal boat tours in pittsford, ny and genesee river boat tours in rochester, ny, come and hop on board, sam patch cruises in pittsford, ny, give the gift of an experience.

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Mother's Day Weekend Cruises!

Join Us Mothers Day weekend for complimentary Mimosa’s for Moms on our 10am morning cruise.

• Hour Glass 1.25-2 hours
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Sam Patch – Erie Canal Lock 32 Cruise

Join us on Sam Patch to experience the historic Eric Canal & lock system

• Users Up to 36 People
• Hour Glass 1.5 Hours

Riverie – River and Canal Cruise

Explore the Genesee River as it winds its way from High Falls to Genesee Valley Park, and experience the region’s rich history and stunning scenery along the way.

• Hour Glass 2.5 Hours

Riverie – Lunch & Lock 33 Cruise

Travel from the picturesque Genesee River to Lock 33 on the Erie Canal while enjoying breathtaking views and learning about the history of the area. Book now!

• Users Up to 30 People
• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Sam Patch - Live Music Sunset Cruise

Join us aboard the Sam Patch as we cruise along the canal taking in the sunset while listening to some live music, enjoying a refreshing drink. Come get your feet tapping with us.

Riverie – Live Music Sunset Cruise

Enjoy live music from local artists while you cruise around Genesee River, and take in stunning views of Rochester’s skyline as the sun sets.

Riverie Arts & Culture Series

Join us for our new Arts & Culture Series! Throughout the operating season, we will have special guests come on board to give in depth presentations and teach art classes.

Sam Patch Arts & Culture Series

• Users Up to 35 People

July 4th Downtown Fireworks Cruise

Celebrate the 4th of July by watching the fireworks from the best seats in the house!

• Hour Glass 75 min to 2hrs

Erie Canal Lock 32 Cruise on Riverie

Travel the routes of America’s early settlers and enjoy an authentic canal cruising experience!

Riverie Cruises in Rochester, NY

Corn hill navigation's boat tours.

Corn Hill Navigation is the 501(c)3 nonprofit operator of the Sam Patch and Riverie Tour Boats. Public cruises and chartered events help to underwrite our efforts to provide field studies on the Erie Canal to thousands of students annually. Our vision is to improve and sustain the Erie Canal and adjoining Genesee River for current and future generations through awareness, education, conservation, and enjoyment.

Our cruises provide unparalleled opportunities to experience history and enjoy a relaxing getaway that showcases the beauty and ingenuity of America’s celebrated Erie Canal.

The Sam Patch & Riverie offer public and student cruises, and private charters tailored to family, friends, and co-workers daily throughout the season. Consider chartering a boat for your private corporate meeting, employee incentive, retreat, or celebration.

In continuous operation for more than 30 years, hundreds of thousands of people of all ages, from all 50 states and dozens of foreign countries, have experienced the Canal from our decks. Join us for an authentic Canal experience shared by people from all over the world.

A boatful of excitement awaits!

The Erie Canal is a true engineering marvel, and a trip on this little replica packet boat is a great way to see it in action. But Evan, our guide, made this a top-notch experience. He cheerfully helped everyone settle in, setting us up with drinks and snacks, as we cruised quietly toward Lock 32 -- then took the mic for a fascinating and funny narration of the canal's mechanisms, history, construction, and impact. We even had time to double back and check out the famous Great Embankment, where Evan busted out a ukulele and led us in singing the Erie Canal Song. Low bridge, everybody down!

We were in town visiting family. As the weather was very nice, we decided to visit the Erie Canal on the Sam Patch tour. We effortlessly booked our tickets online with a couple of days' notice. No issue. We did notice the other tours that they provide, namely the wine tasting tour and the sunset tour. Both of those appealed to us but they were booked or only ran on the weekend when we would not be available.

We had a really lovely time on the Sam Patch Tour Boat! The crew was really nice, accommodating and knowledgeable. The boat was small but spacious (I’d recommend sitting up near the bow so you can easily see some of the fun) and the snacks and drink options were good (loved the local beer selections). By far, the best part was going through the Lock! This is something that I never though I’d do, or want to do, but so awesome to be a part of! For the money this tour is totally worth it! I also recommend saving room for gelato after the tour at the spot right where you dock 😎

If you’re looking for the perfect experience for a family trip, this is it. 90 minute cruise that I and my 8 and 10 year old grandchildren loved. The crew directed everyone to the front/bow and to the rear/stern at appropriate times so that they did not miss any of the action on the trip-especially in the lock itself which, they said, was the highlight.

Erie Canal Tour Boat

Daily Cruise Schedule

Themed Cruise Schedule

NEW! Photo Gallery The Colonial Belle has been providing Erie Canal tour boat cruises from mid-May through October since 1989. Come aboard in Fairport, NY, just 20 minutes from Rochester, NY.

What's New?

Our 2024 season will begin in mid-May and will continue until October 27th. We are currently booking private charters, school field trip cruises, themed/event cruises & groups of 25+.

To purchase a Gift Certificate: please call us at (585) 223-9470 or buy online with paypal here.

NOTE: Purchasing a Gift Certificate IS NOT a reservation... Your gift certificate will be mailed via US mail. Please have the recipient of the Gift Certificate contact us at  (585) 223-9470  to make a reservation for one of our cruises. We look forward to serving you!

From a happy cruiser...

Great cruise! We did the 3-hour lock tour starting at 2:30 and ending punctually at 5:30pm. We sat on the upper deck near the front of the boat. The captain was a young woman who was informative on the history of the Erie Canal, the towns that we passed through and the fascinating history of the Colonial Belle herself! She was also quite entertaining and funny! The bathroom facilities were clean and accessible. The lower deck had a full bar and the staff was very accommodating with a frozen Pina Colada for me and an Oreo ice cream shake for my son. Snacks there too. Overall, it was a very comfortable, pleasant and informative cruise. We had a gorgeous day of it. I would definitely do again and I highly recommend! I'm thinking of trying the murder/mystery or dinner cruise next time :)

5-star Yelp review by Ginny M. Pittsford, NY

Office Hours May - October 10:00am–2:00pm daily (excluding holidays) November - April Phone calls are answered as frequently as possible. Please leave us a voicemail message if we cannot answer. We have limited staff during our non-operating season. Our business email is checked multiple times a day year round as well.

Why choose the Colonial Belle? • 2 to 3 hour Erie Canal cruises (14–16 mile tour) • Historic Narration by our Captain • Great food & fun entertainment • Many Themed Cruises • Coast Guard certified Captain and Crew

Cruises with availability can be booked online. Online booking may be unavailable less than 24 hours prior to cruise departure. Cruises can also be booked by calling our office at (585) 223-9470 for the best up to date information.

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Erie Canal Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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The Complete Canal Boat Getaway to Experience New York State

You've not seen New York until you've seen it from a  canal boat getaway . Fishing, paddling, dining, wine tours, history and so much more ... the New York State Canals System offers a truly unique and memorable way to experience the Empire State.

Take a trip along an NY canal, and you'll return time and again to explore all there is to offer. Let me entice you to pack up and toss a dock line along a NY canal.

Miles and Miles to Enjoy!

The New York State Canal System is a marvel of 19th Century engineering and a designated National Historic Landmark . In centuries past, these canals served a vital economic role as a commercial lifeline for tens of thousands of Americans.

The state boasts more than 525 miles of connected canals that begin near Buffalo, NY and connect Lake Erie in the west to cities such as Rochester, Syracuse, Utica and Albany to the Hudson River all the way down to New York City.

Prized for scenery, recreation and easy water access to everything from quaint river towns to major metropolitan cities, the canals offer more than just a commercial throughway these days.

The Eight-Year Construction of the New York Canal System

Carving out the Erie Canal in 1817 commenced construction of what would become New York's canal system . It took  eight years to complete the 363-mile long project. But in the end, the new waterway opened up access to the interior of the young American nation practically overnight.

The Erie canal connected the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean, making the transport of goods and passengers easier and more efficient. Not only did more settlers, traders and pioneers begin packing up and heading west along the canal, but the volume of commerce flowing through New York City skyrocketed.

Over time, three more canals were added - the Oswego Canal, the Cayuga-Seneca Canal and the Champlain Canal - and the combined waterways became the commercial heart of northeastern America for decades. 

Only when railroads crisscrossed the nation were canals eclipsed in economic importance. Today, much commercial traffic still travels along the New York State Canal System, but they're primarily appreciated for their history and recreational opportunities. There are lots of historical sites and recreational activities to enjoy as well.

Getting Around on a New York Canal

The New York State Canal System features dozens of locks operated by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. Each lock allows the connection of waterways located at varying altitudes. This also allows boaters a throughway and access.

The trick, however, is to plan accordingly. Most locks operate 7 AM to 5 PM, although selected locks and lift bridges operate later.

Check the specific locks and bridges that lie ahead in your journey to make sure you're never stuck for the night.

Where Can You Go Via NY Canal?

The 525-mile system connects Buffalo in the east to the Vermont border in the west. Thanks to the access created by the Great Lakes, via the Hudson River, the Atlantic Ocean. There's no shortage of water to navigate.

Notable towns and cities along the way include Syracuse, Utica, Rochester, Schenectady, Albany and Troy, to name but a few. And of course NYC via the Hudson River.

Stopping Along the Way

You won't complete the 500-plus mile canal trip in a single day. So it's wise to identify a few marinas along the course of your journey to plan a good time to stop for the day.

The Erie Canal has dozens of marinas with few spaced more than 10 miles apart. The other legs of the system are equally well- equipped to harbor boats overnight  and for shorter stops during the day if you need to tie up for a while.

Just note: Only about half of the marinas along the New York State Canal System offer fuel, but almost all of them have electrical and water hookups.

What Kinds of Boats Use the NY State Canal System?

On a trip along New York's canals, you'll see a wide array of different watercraft plying the storied system. Paddlers in kayaks and canoes are common in warm summer months. Pontoon boats  and deck boats are ubiquitous as their steady pace and easy-to-control qualities are ideally suited for narrow channels.

But larger pleasure craft - such as 50-foot cruisers or 60-foot  houseboats  - are also often spotted at anchor , sail and motor, as are smaller sailing vessels and fishing boats.

Gone, however, are the horse-drawn boats of yesteryear , although a few spots in America still offer rides in replica boats. Note that "horse-drawn" is a misnomer. Mules did the work in almost all cases. Gotta give credit where credit's due. 

New York Canal Boat Rentals

So you don't own a boat (or don't want to use it), but still want to enjoy the canals of New York State? No problem! Dozens of boat rental outlets are available along the canals and offer everything from kayaks and canoes to row boats and  fishing boats .

You can get a bit more adventurous and rent a jet ski or a hydro bike. And if you're bringing the whole family along, consider renting a larger pontoon boat, cruiser or even an English-style narrowboat .

Cruising on the New York State Canal System

If you want to enjoy a historic, scenic New York canal trip but don't want to paddle, row, sail or steer your own vessel, you can book a cruise!

Some canal boat cruises are half-day outings with meals, music, drinks and dancing. Others can be relaxing and memorable multi-day vacations.

You can book a history-themed cruise, take a sightseeing outing or join a fishing expedition. Many companies offer private charter boats. Don't forget about winery canal tours  complete with plenty of wine-tasting opportunities.  

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How to Make the Most of Your New York Canal Boat Trip

Much of a New York canal trip's fun comes from being on the water. You can paddle SUPs and kayaks, go fishing and simply watch the scenery slide by. The slow pace and lovely landscapes along the canals can help anyone unwind.

But there are also countless activities along the canal's banks. Bikers love using the old mule trails that run along the canals, as do hikers. Many campsites along the Canal way Trail offer a dry night off the water.

Along the many miles of canals, you'll find wineries, museums , shopping, dining and plenty more opportunities to explore the long history of the region , much of which predates the canals and America itself. Throw out a dock line and enjoy the sites!

During peak summer months, there are regular performances,  events and festivals that take place near the water. From live music to food-themed celebrations to wine and beer-centric events, there's always something exciting along the water.

New York Canals: Past, Present, and Future

In the days of massive ocean-going container ships, heavy rail transport and four-engine cargo jets, canals have lost much of their relevance as commercial engines.

But in our ever faster-paced and frenzied global world, the inherently slow pace of canal travel is ever more attractive to those people looking for recreation and relaxation. 

In the past, the New York State Canal System was expanded multiple times, with miles of waterway added and extant stretches widened. Today, the key is preservation. 200 years after work on the NY canals began, the canals are there for all to enjoy. With a bit of luck, they'll endure for many generations into the future.

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City cruises york - self-drive boat hire.

Fancy being the skipper of your very own boat? Of course you do!

• Max. 1-Hour Self-Drive Boat Hire
• Holds Max. 7 Passengers
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Pre-Booking Advised! We advise pre-booking your cruise on our website - it's a great way to plan your visit to York!

Take the (very Instagram-able!) opportunity to captain your very own self-drive motor boat...

Accommodating up to eight people, the self-drive boats provide plenty of room for you and your best mates, your family or even just you and that special someone to head out on your own adventure, navigating the same river that brought the Vikings to our beautiful city!

We have fourteen Self-Drive Boats: Alice-May, Angie, Ellen, Emma, Heather, Josephine, Kathryn, Leonie, Lucy, Penny, Rebecca, Sarah, Tina, and Yvette - and our 'girls' are waiting for you! You'll receive full instructions on how to operate your motor boat along with our safety and river rules, whilst life jackets will be provided for children.

Walk-Ups Welcome! We reserve tickets for walk-ups... Visit us at the far end of King's Staith Landing !

Our Self-Drive Boats are available to hire from 10:00. There isn't a set closing time - it is dependant on weather and light conditions and often much later during school holidays and busy periods.

A returnable security bond of Min. £40 is required for all hires and must be paid by card or cash upon arrival at the landing. Failure to comply with T&Cs and the rules of the river could result in the loss of the security bond.

Also from City Cruises York... Watch the professionals! Let one of our Captain's take you Sightseeing down the river! Or, whet your appetite on one of our Dining Cruises !

We WON York Press Tourism & Leisure Business Award (2022) We were SHORTLISTED York Press Large Business Award (2022) We WON TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award (2022) We WON Little Vikings Best Tour of York (2022) We WON Visit York’s Visitor Attraction of the Year (2019)

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We create amazing experiences and will take great care of you from boarding to disembarking!

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Sailing between 12th February and 20th November.

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Boat trips New Horizons boat trips restarted at Easter.  Bring the family for a short trip next Sunday or book a longer trip for a group on another day.

SHORT TRIPS

Bring the family for a 30 minute trip on the canal.  Children are welcome to steer the boat under supervision.

Our trips run every Sunday and Bank Holidays from Easter until the end of October.  See below for more details.

There is no booking for short  trips.

GROUP TRIPS

Trips can be arranged for groups on any day of the week except Sundays and Bank Holidays.  Please get in touch to explore the different trips we can offer.

Many of our trips are birthday parties, and some are a surprise.  We can run group trips for school parties, Guides and Brownies.  See below for more details

Find the Melbourne Arms pub in Melbourne.  Typing YO42 4QJ into your SatNav or phone will take you there.  See below for more details.

Please park carefully in the village and walk down the footpath next to the pub to find the boat. 

SHORT TRIPS These trips take about 30 minutes run from Melbourne Arm on Sundays and Bank Holidays, from Good Friday until the end of October. Trips start at 12 noon and the last trip is around 4.15 pm. There is no timetable for our short trips and unlike group trips, they cannot be booked. .

The maximum number of passengers we carry is 12 at a time (including children and babies), but we can run lots of short trips on a Sunday.

Children can take turns to steer the boat, under supervision of course. It's easy - just push the tiller to the left and the boat goes to the right! 

We will carry up to two well controlled dogs on short trips, provided that no-one already on the boat objects.

How much does it cost?

We do not have fixed charges for short trips but encourage generous donations to cover the costs of licensing, insuring and maintaining our trip boat and help support the restoration of the canal.  There is a donations bucket on the boat and we have a card reader that takes card or phone payments.  

LONGER BOOKED TRIPS FOR GROUPS Trips lasting from 1 – 7 hours can be arranged for parties with a maximum of twelve passengers including children and babies. We will provide tea and coffee during the trip and you are welcome to bring food and drink. 

These longer trips can be arranged for any day of the week except Sundays and Bank Holidays. Our most popular trip is to Gardham Lock, where there are picnic tables, or you could eat on the boat. This takes approximately three hours.  There are various other options, depending on how long you would like to spend on the canal. For example, your party could explore the canal, from Melbourne Arm to East Cottingwith or head in the other direction towards Bielby and pass through two recently restored locks.  

Every year, we have groups celebrating birthdays with a trip on New Horizons and you are welcome to decorate the boat with balloons etc. There are family events, office outings and many other reasons for booking a boat trip. Or you might be interested in having a meal at the Melbourne Arms (which you pass on the way to the boat) or one of the other local pubs at the end of your trip. Passengers are welcome to steer the boat.

This information sheet is sent to those who contact our Booking Manager.

How much does it cost? 

PCAS is a charity and we welcome donations towards our work and running of the boat, but we have no fixed charges. Our Bookings Manager, Steve Ashby, will give you an indication of how much we have received from other groups for a similar trip.

Contact Steve if you would like more information or to make a booking. Please book early because it takes time to arrange a crew for your trip.

HOW TO FIND NEW HORIZONS

Find the Melbourne Arms pub in Melbourne. Typing YO42 4QJ into your SatNav will take you there and the OS Grid Reference is SE 752 443. If you use What3words,  score.racing.poetry  will take you to the landing stage where our boat trips start from.  There are maps of the canal on this website. 

Please park considerately in the village and walk down the lane beside the pub to Melbourne Arm. On Sunday afternoons and Bank Holidays the boat may be moored alongside the footpath or away on a trip and will be back soon. Our sign shows where to wait for the next trip. Normally we start at noon and the last trip is around 4.15. Please remember that we only run short trips on Sunday and Bank Holiday afternoons and that all other trips must be booked in advance.  If you have booked a trip, the boat should be moored alongside the footpath shortly before the arranged starting time.

Further information

1. We do not take bookings for Sundays or Bank Holidays because these days are reserved for short trips.

2. Our licence and insurance do not allow us to carry more than 12 passengers including children and babies. Larger groups can be accommodated by running two consecutive trips or having some passengers walking and some on the boat, swapping over during the journey. Our Bookings Manager will be happy to discuss the possibilities.

3. We do not offer boat hire, since our insurance covers only crewed boat trips.

4. We are not a commercial service and may have to cancel a trip if one of our volunteer crew is unavailable (because of illness or other good reason), mechanical failure, very poor weather conditions, flooding, or any reason that would make it difficult to operate the boat safely. This does not happen very often!  On Sundays and Bank Holidays we usually start short trips at noon and the last trip will be around 4:15 pm.  We might stop earlier if there is no-one waiting for a trip, particularly if it is raining.

5. Our skippers in charge of trips have had appropriate training including first aid. Our trip boat has a current Canal & River Trust licence, insurance and a Boat Safety Certificate. Copies of these and other relevant documents are kept on board and you are welcome to inspect them. We can supply details of insurance in advance if your organisation needs this, for example if you are planning a school outing.

6. New Horizons  is a small boat and has no access for passengers in wheelchairs, though a small folding wheelchair can be stored in the cabin if the user can safely use the steps.  People with mobility issues should be aware that normal access is down four steps at the front of the boat, but there are handrails to help.  Alternatively, passengers can use the three steps into the galley by arrangement with the crew.  The crew can help but not with lifting passengers.   

2024 season is now open. Book your tickets now!

Buffalo Boat Tours

History tours • sailing adventures • tiki cruises.

TAKE A CRUISE ON BUFFALO'S BEST BOAT TOURS

Buffalo river history tours.

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SPIRIT OF BUFFALO

Big kahuna tiki tours, evening entertainment.

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Buffalo Boat Tours, a vibrant family-owned venture, stands at the forefront of Canalside following Buffalo’s spectacular waterfront metamorphosis.

Discover convenient parking options on Lloyd Street, Hanover Street, and Prime Street in Canalside. Explore lots under the Skyway along Pearl Street, Commercial Street, and Marine Drive, or utilize the LECOM Harborcenter parking ramp (parking fees may apply).

Energize your experience with our onboard full bar accepting cash and credit. Indulge in refreshing water, soda, beer, wine, and enticing mixed drinks. Don’t forget to treat yourself to snacks available for purchase. Please note that outside beverages, including coolers, and food are not permitted onboard.

Embark on our vessels, Spirit of Buffalo, Harbor Queen, and Big Kahuna, all equipped with convenient restrooms for your comfort.

There is a full bar on board all of our boats, cash/credit, that serves water, soda, beer, wine and mixed drinks.  There are also snacks available for purchase.  NO outside beverages, including coolers, or food are allowed on board.

Spirit of Buffalo, Harbor Queen and Big Kahuna are equipped with restrooms.

TOP-RATED BOAT TOURS IN BUFFALO, NY

"From beginning to the end of the tour Rich and his crew were awesome. The crew was courteous, friendly and willing to do anything to create a great experience for our family. The next time we are back in Buffalo we will most definitely return to Buffalo River History Tours for another experience."

"Eye-opening and informational insight to a piece of Buffalo History. Very relaxing as well as surprising "hidden" areas you normally would not see. Must do if visiting as well as people who have never experienced this part of history."

"What a wonderful sailboat ride my husband and I had! The captain and the crew were fabulous! I will recommend this sail ride to my family and friends! Great experience!"

"We had such a great time! Can't wait to do it again! It was perfect weather, the staff was friendly and was able to answer all our questions!"

"We didn't know what to expect...and were so pleasantly surprised to experience a wonderful Buffalo river cruise. Great guide and local insights! Boat was perfect for the 1.5 hour cruise. Friendly staff!"

New York Erie Canal East

Explore the eastern side of the erie canal, from port byron to albany.

Get ready to pedal your way through an unforgettable journey from scenic Central New York to the captivating foothills of the Adirondacks! Our newest bike tour takes you on an incredible five-day tour from Port Byron to Albany, New York, traversing the eastern half of the renowned Erie Canalway trail. Prepare to immerse yourself in a blend of natural splendor and cultural heritage as we follow the mostly flat towpath.

The Erie Canalway holds a special place in American history, serving as the backbone of commercial transport and playing a pivotal role in shaping the nation. Throughout the tour, you’ll witness firsthand the enduring legacy and significant contributions of this historic canalway. Our carefully designed itinerary ensures a delightful mix of cycling, sightseeing, and exploration. Along the way, we’ll encounter charming towns and villages that have been forever influenced by the canal’s presence. Take time to discover the fascinating stories, vibrant culture, and welcoming communities that make this region so unique.

Request a  Tour Itinerary for more detailed information and logistics. Custom bike tour departures available for groups of 6 or more.

Erie Canalway Bike Tours

Experience the Erie Canalway Trail like never before with our two exceptional bike tours: Erie Canal East and Erie Canal West. These tours highlight different halves of the trail, offering distinct yet complementary experiences. Together, they cover the entire trail, allowing you to explore each section to it’s fullest while enjoying diverse and captivating adventures. Learn more about our New York Erie Canal West bike tour.

Tour Highlights

Visit Erie Canal Park

Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum

Canal boat cruise

Fort Stanwix

Mohawk Valley Gateway Pedestrian Bridge

Transportation back to starting point

Lodging Options

Hotel Skyler

Oneida Community Mansion House

The Inn at Stonemill

Courtyard by Marriott Schenectady

Day 1:   The tour starts in Syracuse, New York, known for its remarkable transformation from secluded town to a bustling hub thanks to the Erie Canal. After a tour introduction, we’ll take you to Port Byron Heritage Park. From there, you’ll embark on a picturesque ride back to Syracuse. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to experience a boat cruise on the second generation canal, accompanied by engaging historical commentary. A standout feature of this trip is navigating the remarkable Nine Mile Creek Aqueduct, displaying impressive waterway engineering.

Day 2: After a guided walking tour of downtown Syracuse and a visit to the Erie Canal Museum, your journey continues along the scenic Erie Canal Trail from Syracuse to Oneida. Along the way, you’ll pass through Green Lakes State Park, renowned for its two glacial lakes. Our next stop is the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum. The museum features an excavated three-bay drydock, preserved canal boat remnants, model canal boats, and various reconstructed shops including woodworking, blacksmith, and sawmill areas. If the water is clear, you may even catch a glimpse of a sunken canal boat.

Day 3: We’ll begin our day by taking a quick shuttle to Fort Stanwix in Rome, New York. Take your time to explore the fort and immerse yourself in its rich history before continuing our ride along the Erie Canal.  Our final destination for the day is the charming Inn at Stonemill in Little Falls. This historic inn is housed on the third floor of a mill built in 1839, beautifully located along the banks of the Mohawk River at Canal Place. The surrounding area, the city’s historic core, showcases a fascinating blend of commercial and industrial buildings. You can also witness the modern Modern Erie Canal, including the impressive Lock 17, known for its guillotine gates and a dramatic 40-foot drop, making it one of the most remarkable locks in the state.

Day 4: After a short shuttle to Canajoharie, you’ll embark on a 40-mile ride to Schenectady. One of today’s highlights is the Mohawk Valley Gateway Overlook Pedestrian Bridge. This remarkable bridge serves as a park spanning the river, connecting the North and South sides of Amsterdam seamlessly. After lunch, we’ll visit Schoharie Crossing, which boasts historic aqueduct ruins and offers a rare opportunity to witness all three versions of the Erie Canal in one location.

Day 5: We will conclude our bike tour along the eastern Erie Canal with a scenic 29-mile ride on paved bike paths into Albany. This day is filled with breathtaking views! We’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the Mohawk River, witness the renowned Lock 7, admire the majestic Cohoes Falls, and visit Troy, New York, the birthplace of Uncle Sam. Additionally, we’ll pass by Corning Preserve, a beautiful riverside park, and have the pleasure of cycling along the Hudson River.

As we near the end of our tour, we’ll cross the Albany Skywalk Park, adding a memorable experience to our adventure. After a lunch at a local brewing company, we’ll take a shuttle back to Syracuse, where our journey began and back to guests’ cars.

“It was so wonderful that on the ride back to our cars at the end of the trip, we started looking at the Wilderness Voyageurs brochures to choose our next trip!”

~Mary O., TripAdvisor

Trip Information

Trip Length - Days

Tour Rating

E-Bikes Allowed

Required Specifications

• 50 pounds or less weight limit
• Pedal assist only
• Removable battery
• 5+ hour battery capacity

Daily Mileage

Check In Location

Syracuse, ny.

Support & Gear Vehicle

Minimum Age

4 Breakfasts | 5 Lunches | 3 Dinners

2024 Pricing

PP Double Occupancy

Single Supplement*

Standard Bike Rental

*This is required if you are traveling solo or if you are traveling with someone but require separate beds.

RESERVE ONLINE BY DATE

Select your departure date and click to reserve your bike tour!

• June 9, 2024 Sold Out
•  July 7, 2024 Sold Out
• July 14, 2024 Sold Out
• July 29, 2024 Sold Out
• Sept. 29, 2024 Sold Out

Call 800-272-4141

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