When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
Charles River Boat Company
Why Charles River Boat Company is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Charles River Boat Company offers a unique and memorable way to explore the scenic waters of the Charles River and Boston Harbor, making it an excellent destination for friends and groups to gather and enjoy time together. Their fleet of beautiful boats provides a variety of cruise options including sightseeing tours, architecture cruises, sunset and cocktail cruises, and private events such as weddings and corporate celebrations. Located at Lechmere Canal Park behind CambridgeSide Galleria, the company allows guests to see breathtaking views of both Boston and Cambridge landmarks like Beacon Hill, Back Bay, Harvard, MIT, and the Museum of Science from the water. The boat rides create a fun and intimate atmosphere perfect for socializing while surrounded by stunning cityscapes and natural beauty. With seasonal operations from late May through mid-October, guests can revel in pleasant weather while enjoying expertly narrated tours or relaxing sunset vistas. The Charles River Boat Company also offers customizable experiences tailored to various occasions, enhancing the appeal for groups looking to celebrate milestones or simply enjoy a day out. The combination of friendly, professional staff and well-maintained vessels ensures a comfortable and enjoyable outing for everyone.
Here's what people think of Charles River Boat Company
As of recent, Charles River Boat Company holds a 4.7-star rating based on 534 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Charles River Boat Company for delivering outstanding experiences on their cruises, reflected in a strong 4.7-star rating across over 500 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the company’s attentive and professional staff, who are accommodating and helpful from initial planning stages through execution. Many reviewers emphasize the picturesque views of Boston Harbor and the Charles River’s surrounding landmarks as a standout feature that elevates their outings. Notably, guests appreciate the company’s management of event details, including food and beverage quality, timelines, and onboard ambiance, contributing to memorable wedding receptions, corporate events, and private parties. Users frequently commend individual staff members, such as Dayna, Melissa, and Emily, for their dedication and exceptional customer service, enhancing the overall experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as weather-dependent scheduling challenges or minor communication delays, though these appear relatively infrequent and do not overshadow the overall high praise. The boat conditions and atmosphere are described as very welcoming and comfortable, which helps mitigate any minor concerns. In conclusion, the reviews collectively portray Charles River Boat Company as a trusted and beloved provider of scenic boat cruises and event hosting in the Boston and Cambridge area, with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and quality service.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mark Henderson
Fantastic views, nice clean window, rain or shine Go. Our narrator was Fantastic and amazing. We took the 200pm boat ride and getting a chaser ticket to reduce parking to $4.00 is a great discount, look for the CS parking. I now understand why this tiur is sold out in the evenings. Highly recommended No disappointments. Skyline Boston great, music great.
Millie Arambasic
I organized a private event on the Lexington vessel – a Sunset Cruise for 100 people – two years in a row, and both experiences were absolutely fantastic. Georgina was incredibly helpful from start to finish: helping us plan the event, finalize menus, and offering creative ideas for activities to do on board. On the day of the cruise, the crew was professional, friendly, and attentive, and the food and drinks were delicious. We had a great time and are already looking forward to planning more amazing events with Charles River Boat Company in the future!
Ariane Casey
The boat trip itself was great, super way to see the city of Boston. Some interesting facts were shared. But overall there’s a major concern with the maturity level of the tour guide and her competence as a public speaker. Her commentary was long and drawn out, rife with boring personal details and generally took up too much of the boat ride. There were a few brief moments of reprieve where we enjoyed the views in silence. It would be valuable for the tour guide to keep the audience in mind; which is largely international and out of State. The price-value quotient was greatly reduced thanks to the guide’s lack of charisma.
Rachael Doremus
We recently booked a private dinner event onboard Henry Longfellow following our wedding ceremony and brunch reception at Encore Boston. This was was such an incredible way to celebrate in a much more relaxed way with our closest friends and family. Our group onboard consisted of about 25 guests. We had the Lighthouse Dinner Buffet catered by Johnny Burke (CRB's partnered caterer). The food was fantastic and they were absolutely incredible about accommodating allergies. I worked directly with Dayna Linehan at CRB and she handled everything! We are beyond grateful she was our event coordinator - she was so extremely pleasant to work with! She was able to help us work within budget and completely customize our event for us. She responded promptly to all concerns and questions, gave excellent guidance, and checked in with us regularly during the planning process and event. Our captain Rich and bartender Shelby were also so lovely and incredible with our two kids (7yo and 4yo). Captain Rich let the kids take turns at the wheel driving the boat and Shelby took our 7yo daughter under her wing to help make some of the nonalcoholic drinks for our guests! Our daughter absolutely loved it and had a blast "bartending!" My husband and I are already discussing booking another event with the Charles River Boat Company for future anniversaries and family gatherings. We only have the most positive things to say about the company! Thank you to Dayna and the crew that made our day so memorable! We look forward to seeing you again soon!!
Dan Doherty
We charted the Lexington for a Teacher retirement party! Our guests were so thrilled at the experience of cruising the Boston Harbor . Our Captain Ben and his team did a great job ! Highly recommend you plan your party with this business!!
Mark Henderson
Fantastic views, nice clean window, rain or shine Go. Our narrator was Fantastic and amazing. We took the 200pm boat ride and getting a chaser ticket to reduce parking to $4.00 is a great discount, look for the CS parking. I now understand why this tiur is sold out in the evenings. Highly recommended No disappointments. Skyline Boston great, music great.
Millie Arambasic
I organized a private event on the Lexington vessel – a Sunset Cruise for 100 people – two years in a row, and both experiences were absolutely fantastic. Georgina was incredibly helpful from start to finish: helping us plan the event, finalize menus, and offering creative ideas for activities to do on board. On the day of the cruise, the crew was professional, friendly, and attentive, and the food and drinks were delicious. We had a great time and are already looking forward to planning more amazing events with Charles River Boat Company in the future!
Ariane Casey
The boat trip itself was great, super way to see the city of Boston. Some interesting facts were shared. But overall there’s a major concern with the maturity level of the tour guide and her competence as a public speaker. Her commentary was long and drawn out, rife with boring personal details and generally took up too much of the boat ride. There were a few brief moments of reprieve where we enjoyed the views in silence. It would be valuable for the tour guide to keep the audience in mind; which is largely international and out of State. The price-value quotient was greatly reduced thanks to the guide’s lack of charisma.
Rachael Doremus
We recently booked a private dinner event onboard Henry Longfellow following our wedding ceremony and brunch reception at Encore Boston. This was was such an incredible way to celebrate in a much more relaxed way with our closest friends and family. Our group onboard consisted of about 25 guests. We had the Lighthouse Dinner Buffet catered by Johnny Burke (CRB's partnered caterer). The food was fantastic and they were absolutely incredible about accommodating allergies. I worked directly with Dayna Linehan at CRB and she handled everything! We are beyond grateful she was our event coordinator - she was so extremely pleasant to work with! She was able to help us work within budget and completely customize our event for us. She responded promptly to all concerns and questions, gave excellent guidance, and checked in with us regularly during the planning process and event. Our captain Rich and bartender Shelby were also so lovely and incredible with our two kids (7yo and 4yo). Captain Rich let the kids take turns at the wheel driving the boat and Shelby took our 7yo daughter under her wing to help make some of the nonalcoholic drinks for our guests! Our daughter absolutely loved it and had a blast "bartending!" My husband and I are already discussing booking another event with the Charles River Boat Company for future anniversaries and family gatherings. We only have the most positive things to say about the company! Thank you to Dayna and the crew that made our day so memorable! We look forward to seeing you again soon!!
Dan Doherty
We charted the Lexington for a Teacher retirement party! Our guests were so thrilled at the experience of cruising the Boston Harbor . Our Captain Ben and his team did a great job ! Highly recommend you plan your party with this business!!
How to reach Charles River Boat Company
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Why Charles River Boat Company may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Charles River Boat Company with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a special outing calls for a destination that offers something unique, memorable, and enjoyable for everyone. Charles River Boat Company perfectly fits this bill. With a remarkable 4.7-star rating from over 500 reviews, it has become a beloved spot for hosting gatherings, whether casual meetups or more formal celebrations. Imagine boarding an elegant boat, escaping the city bustle, and gliding along the Charles River and Boston Harbor while surrounded by your closest friends. The atmosphere is naturally festive but also relaxed, inviting everyone to mingle, chat, and take in some of the best views of Boston’s skyline and iconic landmarks. The boats are spacious and comfortable, affording freedom to move around and find the perfect spot—inside the roomy cabin or out on the open deck. Friends can enjoy a lively party vibe or a quiet moment of reflection by the water, making it flexible for any group mood. Add to that the attentive, professional service and customizable menus with great food and drinks, and you have an unbeatable recipe for a celebration that will linger in everyone’s memories.
What activities are offered at Charles River Boat Company for a group meetup?
Charles River Boat Company specializes in offering private boat charters and sightseeing cruises that cater well to group events. These cruises typically last around 70 minutes, providing plenty of time for socializing, sightseeing, and enjoying some refreshments. Onboard, guests can participate in guided tours that highlight the rich history and architecture visible along the Charles River and Boston Harbor. For groups interested in music and celebration, the company can arrange for DJs or curated playlists to keep the energy up. Dining options add another enjoyable activity, from casual cocktail hours to full sit-down dinners featuring delicious menus that can be tailored to any dietary preference or event theme. Many groups have praised the crew’s flexibility in adding special touches such as craft beers or expanded bar service, making each event feel personalized. Beyond simply cruising, the boats offer ample space for guests to move freely, mingle, dance, and take advantage of panoramic views from indoor and outdoor seating areas. All these activities combine to deliver an immersive on-water experience that’s both entertaining and social.
Why is Charles River Boat Company ideal for hosting group meetups?
The company’s combination of excellent customer service, elegant boats, and stunning views makes it a prime venue for group gatherings. Reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, from planning and booking to the event day itself, ensuring smooth and stress-free experiences. This reliability is vital for organizers looking to impress friends or family without worrying about logistics. The boats themselves are noted for their cleanliness, comfort, and spacious layout, with multiple seating options and indoor/outdoor areas to accommodate different group sizes and preferences. The 360-degree views from the water offer a continuously changing backdrop that enhances every moment, enabling fantastic photo opportunities and natural conversation starters. Moreover, the company’s responsiveness and adaptability—such as adjusting for weather or event length changes—help groups craft exactly the vibe and timing they want. Whether celebrating a birthday, reunion, wedding rehearsal dinner, or casual get-together, Charles River Boat Company’s environment encourages connection, celebration, and relaxation all at once.
How do guests describe their experiences with the Charles River Boat Company?
Feedback from guests consistently emphasizes the positive atmosphere created aboard the boats and the attentive service that accompanies it. Many reviewers recount how the event felt seamless and enjoyable from start to finish, noting the courteous, communicative staff who help customize the experience to the group’s wishes. The food and drink services receive highlighted praise for quality and variety, with options including craft beer, appetizers, or full meals. Several testimonials mention how guests were impressed by both the elegance and comfort of the boats, with clean facilities and open layouts that let everyone feel welcome. The scenic routes taken—covering the Charles River, Boston Harbor, and some of the city’s famous landmarks—are described as gorgeous and exciting, with visibility and photography opportunities adding to the enjoyment. Special mentions often go to individual staff members, such as bartenders and event coordinators, who bring warmth and professionalism to the entire experience. These personal touches contribute greatly to making group events feel special and memorable.
What makes the boat’s design and layout well-suited for group events?
The Charles River Boat Company’s vessels are designed with functionality and guest comfort in mind, a feature that appeals to groups large and small. The boats have stable, spacious decks that provide enough room for guests to move about freely without feeling crowded. Seating arrangements are varied, including covered indoor spaces with large windows offering shelter and panoramic views, alongside open-air decks perfect for enjoying fresh air and sunshine. This variety allows guests to select their preferred environment, whether they want to mingle in the social areas or relax in quieter corners. Onboard amenities like clean, easily accessible restrooms add to the convenience, while the presence of a well-stocked bar encourages casual conversations and festive toastings. The layout works well for diverse event types—from casual meetups with friends to more structured celebrations such as rehearsal dinners or corporate gatherings—because it supports mixing, mingling, dining, and entertainment all in one spot. This versatility helps make every outing feel special and tailored to the guests' dynamic.
How does Charles River Boat Company accommodate special events and customized requests?
The company excels in its flexibility and attention to detail when it comes to personalizing events. Customers frequently mention how the staff readily accommodated special menus, beverage selections, timing changes, and unique requests that helped tailor the experience exactly to the group’s needs. For example, clients have been able to add craft beers, extend cruise times, or organize private rehearsals on board. The event coordinators work closely with planners during the booking process to ensure every detail—from food to music to itinerary—is addressed. This high level of customization is particularly valuable for occasions like weddings, graduations, or milestone celebrations where the group’s specific tastes and expectations are paramount. This approach transforms what might be a simple boat ride into an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experience that feels thoughtfully crafted to create joy and connection. The company’s flexibility also makes it well suited to responding to unpredictable factors like weather changes, ensuring the event can proceed smoothly regardless of circumstances.
Why do people recommend Charles River Boat Company for social and celebratory gatherings?
The overwhelmingly positive reviews reflect a strong consensus: Charles River Boat Company is one of the best choices for group outings in the Boston area. Users praise the combination of spectacular scenery, excellent service, and a lively yet comfortable atmosphere, all of which foster great times and lasting memories. Many guests emphasize how the experience shines as a unique way to celebrate with a group — whether it’s a family reunion, work event, or special occasion like a graduation or wedding rehearsal. The setting on the water adds a magical element that traditional venues can’t match, making celebrations feel elevated and extraordinary. Furthermore, the professionalism, ease of booking, and level of care provided by the staff means event organizers can relax and enjoy the day just as much as their guests. This seamless experience, combined with beautiful boats and stunning routes, motivates many to return for repeat events and enthusiastically recommend the company to others.
How can groups maximize their experience aboard the Charles River Boat Company vessels?
To make the most out of a meetup aboard these boats, groups should plan a mix of activities to keep everyone engaged. Starting with a scenic cruise along the Charles River and through Boston Harbor ensures that guests can take in the historic and modern sights of the city from a rare vantage point. Incorporating dining or appetizers paired with drinks encourages social interaction and gives folks a chance to relax and linger. Adding music—whether a curated playlist or live DJ—sets the tone for either a chill or celebratory vibe. It’s beneficial to plan some time for guests to move about the boat, snap photos, and explore various seating areas. Communicating your group’s preferences clearly with the coordinators beforehand will ensure that timing, food, and event details go smoothly. By blending sightseeing, dining, entertainment, and social time, groups can create a dynamic yet laid-back experience that feels special and personalized for all involved.
What sights and landmarks can visitors enjoy on a Charles River Boat Company cruise?
The boat’s unique routes offer guests breathtaking views of Boston’s most iconic sights from the water. Passengers can enjoy close-up perspectives of the Charles River’s lush shorelines, elegant university campuses, and historic bridges. Cruising into Boston Harbor exposes guests to the city’s stunning skyline, bustling waterfront, and famous maritime landmarks. Depending on the chosen itinerary, you might see the Zakim Bridge, TD Garden, the Boston Tea Party Ships, and the Boston Harbor Islands in the distance. The ever-changing views provide a rich backdrop that combines natural beauty with urban architecture, giving groups plenty to admire and photograph during the cruise. This scenic element is a major highlight for guests, who often express appreciation for experiencing Boston in a fresh and exciting way. The opportunity to witness these landmarks from the boat, away from crowded streets, makes for a relaxing yet captivating journey.
How does the Charles River Boat Company stand out compared to other venues in Boston?
Unlike traditional land-based venues, Charles River Boat Company offers an extraordinary setting on the water that few other event spaces can match. The combination of stable, clean, and spacious boats with attentive service and customizable options creates an environment that balances elegance with approachability. The ability to explore Boston’s harbor and river during the gathering adds a distinct element of adventure and novelty, turning a group meetup into a memorable excursion. The flexibility to accommodate both casual and formal events, with personalized menus and entertainment, also distinguishes it. Additionally, guests consistently cite the team’s professionalism, responsiveness, and care, which together produce a seamless experience that alleviates event-planning stress. This blend of features explains why groups return year after year to celebrate milestones and socialize aboard these cruises, setting Charles River Boat Company apart as a premier choice in the region.
What practical tips should groups consider before booking with Charles River Boat Company?
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable event, groups should begin by contacting the company well in advance to discuss options and availability, especially during peak seasons. It helps to clarify the size of the group and any special requests early to tailor the booking accordingly. Considering weather conditions is also important, as although the boats have covered areas, outdoor decks are a popular feature. Reviewing menu options and drink policies beforehand can help accommodate all guests’ tastes and dietary needs. Planning transportation to and from the docking area and coordinating arrival times will ease boarding. Lastly, groups should communicate any mobility or accessibility requirements to the staff to ensure full comfort. By preparing these details ahead of time and collaborating with the Charles River Boat Company’s experienced team, groups can set the stage for a flawless and memorable gathering on the water.