Rochester NY Cruises: Top 5 Boat Tours & Sail Trips

Looking for a cool way to check out what Rochester, NY, has to offer? You know, going out on the water is that cool choice, especially if you want to see another side of the Flower City. Rochester cruises and sail trips offer a rather special view of the area, highlighting sights you almost certainly wouldn’t catch from land. From comfy boat tours to exciting sailing adventures, there’s something for just about anyone hoping to float about on the water. So, here is a look at the top five Rochester cruises and sailing tours that show off some real upstate splendor. You can see some cool Rochester scenery on a boat.

1. Corn Hill Navigation: The Riverie Sightseeing Tours

Yep, first up is Corn Hill Navigation, where that local history meets leisure in what could be called a beautiful setting. Their main attraction? Those Riverie sightseeing tours. Imagine gently coasting along the Genesee River, is that something you’d be into? As you glide, the local guide, probably super friendly and loaded with interesting stories, tells tales of Rochester’s past and also present. Think old canal stories, maybe even tales of flour mills. It’s not just looking; it’s kind of soaking up history while chilling on a boat. It tends to be super relaxing, maybe educational, and certainly a refreshing way to glimpse the city. Plus, if you’re into supporting the locals, Corn Hill Navigation has that vibe written all over it.

2. Erie Canal Boat Company: Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises

Now, a short drive from Rochester, the Erie Canal Boat Company has something that’s, well, something else: the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises. The Erie Canal is that legendary waterway which once helped make New York a very big deal. These cruises take you by eight of the original locks, still doing their thing, it’s almost like stepping back into history, except you know, with way more comfy seating. Seriously, the lock system is pretty genius, lifting and lowering boats; it feels like real engineering marvel right in front of you. These tours give you more than nice views, I mean they give you this neat look into how waterways shaped the state and continue to chug right along today. Check out these very neat cruises of Erie Canal.

3. Lake Ontario Breeze Sailing Charters: Private Sailing Adventure

For folks really wanting to feel some wind in their hair, there’s Lake Ontario Breeze Sailing Charters. Just picture your very own sailboat, okay, maybe your very own small private group, out on the vast Lake Ontario. They offer private sailing adventures, giving you the kind of peace and freedom that the open water often offers. Their captain lets you relax or helps you try your hand at sailing, whatever floats your boat. Seeing Rochester’s coastline from the lake is very unique and quite striking; it puts things in a new light. So, if you’re after something that’s, well, maybe a bit special, where you can feel a little posh on a yacht, this is maybe your kind of adventure.

4. Harbor Town Belle: Dinner Cruises on the Genesee

Want a dinner and a view? Harbor Town Belle offers exactly those dinner cruises on the Genesee. This isn’t only any old dinner. Picture tucking into a meal as the city lights begin to twinkle, reflecting off the water. The Harbor Town Belle adds that relaxed dining setting with some really gorgeous waterfront scenery. This option works for date night, could be family outings, it even functions pretty well as a solo relaxation session. This tour has the city sights, that soothing movement of the boat, and some passable food all rolled into one, maybe enjoyable package. Relax and unwind at dinner time on this enjoyable cruise on Genesee.

5. Colloca Estate Winery: Sloop Tours on Lake Ontario

Now, for a mix of wine tasting and some lovely water scenery, head just east of Rochester to Fair Haven, where the Colloca Estate Winery does Sloop Tours on Lake Ontario. Yes, you read that correctly. Picture sailing across Lake Ontario on a classic Sloop, maybe sipping some local wines. Their tours usually bring you past the charming shoreline. What could be better? This choice is perfect if you are, in a way, wanting something very relaxed. The experience brings wine, gentle sailing, plus fresh air, for what amounts to a unique experience that’s quite, quite unforgettable. Combine wine with sailing.