City Cruises York Tickets
See York from the River Ouse
York, North Yorkshire
Official Ticket SellerWhat to Expect...
Swap the city-centre rush for a relaxed sightseeing cruise on the River Ouse. City Cruises York gives you a different view of York, with live commentary, riverside landmarks and indoor or outdoor seating depending on the weather.
Daytime sightseeing cruises depart from King's Staith and Lendal Bridge, making this an easy option to slot into a family day out in the city. Cruise length is either 45 minutes or 1 hour, depending on the service operating on the day.
You can sit back, enjoy the views and listen as the skipper shares stories about York's history, river life and famous sights along the route. Looking for more family-friendly water-based days out? See our tours and river cruises.
Suitable for Ages 4-12
Book Tickets from £16.50
- Jul 2026
- Clear
- Cruises run hourly; last sailing 16:30
- Departures run from both locations throughout the day
- Live commentary with beautiful riverside views
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What's Included in your ticket
Daytime Sightseeing Cruise tickets include one sightseeing cruise on the River Ouse with live commentary from the skipper. Cruises depart from King's Staith and Lendal Bridge, with frequent sailings through the day.
The cruise duration is either 45 minutes or 1 hour, depending on the weather and demand on the day. Official guaranteed sailings start from 10:30am at King's Staith and 10:40am at Lendal Bridge.
Your ticket covers the cruise itself and onboard facilities, but drinks and snacks from the bar are extra. If you need a wheelchair-accessible boat or a free carer ticket, arrange this in line with the operator's policy before you travel.
Includes:
One daytime sightseeing cruise on the River Ouse- Live onboard commentary during the cruise
- Boarding from King's Staith or Lendal Bridge
- Indoor and outdoor seating on board
- Onboard restroom facilities
- Access to the onboard bar for extra purchases
Excludes:
Drinks and snacks from the onboard bar
What's On - Events and Activities
This is a simple way to see York without adding another long walk to your day. You board in the city centre, settle into your seat and cruise along the River Ouse while the skipper shares live commentary about York's history and riverside landmarks.
Along the way, you may spot York Minster, Clifford's Tower, the city walls and local wildlife beside the water. Seeing the city from the river gives you a different perspective than you get on foot.
The cruise works well for mixed-age family groups, especially if younger children need a break from walking. Boats have indoor and outdoor seating, so you can choose what suits the weather on the day.
Because departures run from both King's Staith and Lendal Bridge, it is easy to fit this into a wider day out in York. Browse more things to do in York before you book.
Daytime cruises depart from two central landing stages, King's Staith and Lendal Bridge. That gives you flexibility if you are arriving from York Station, the city centre or nearby attractions.
Each cruise includes live commentary from the skipper. It adds useful context about York's bridges, riverside buildings and local history without feeling like a formal guided tour.
You can choose covered seating in the saloon or head out on deck for open-air views. Restroom facilities and a bar are available on all daytime sightseeing boats.
Daylight Sightseeing
January
Saturday to Sunday 10:30 - 17:00
February - November
Monday to Sunday 10:30 - 17:00
- One sightseeing cruise on the River Ouse is included.
- Cruise duration is either 45 minutes or 1 hour on the day.
- Children under 5 travel free.
- One carer can travel free with a full-paying guest, with accepted proof.
- Cash and card are accepted at the quayside and onboard bar.
Booking FAQs
Most asked questions relating to City Cruises York.
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Last Updated: 12:40 30/04/2026