Cape Cod Sightseeing Boat Tours
So, you’ve made it to the Cape for a summer getaway- now what? Between beach hopping, taste-testing lobster rolls, and day-tripping to the islands, there’s still plenty of time to add something truly memorable to your vacation. Hy-Line offers a fresh take on sightseeing, with a variety of unique tours departing from both Hyannis Harbor and Onset Bay. Whether you’re in the mood for a sunset cocktail cruise or a night of live entertainment on the water, these excursions offer more than just a scenic ride, they provide a deeper connection to the Cape’s rich history and coastal charm.
Hyannis Harbor Cruise:
Picture this: sparkling water dotted with white sailboats, stunning oceanfront properties peeking out from behind weathered shingles, and the salty air breezing gently by. You’re on a Hyannis Harbor Sightseeing Cruise and the tour guide gives a live narration highlighting the iconic landmarks of Lewis Bay. You glide by the Kennedy summer homes, the mansion briefly owned by the one-and-only Taylor Swift, and a pocket-sized replica of the 2nd oldest lighthouse in America (the original located at Brant Point on Nantucket). There is a snack bar downstairs with refreshments and beverages, as well as a restroom. With just an hour out on the water, it’s the perfect way to experience the quintessential Cape Cod landscape, without giving up your entire day’s itinerary.
The North End of Ocean Street Dock, where the Harbor Cruise departs from, is just a short walk to Main Street which is lined with local shops, restaurants, and museums. Don’t feel like going far? Spanky’s Clam Shack is right next door, a great spot for all things seafood!
Looking to spice things up? Specialty cruises offer fun for everyone! The kids will love the Ice Cream Float with an ice cream bar stocked with Cape Cod Creamery’s famous homemade ice cream. What’s better than building your own sundae? Or boogie to Musical Bingo where you could win a gift card to a local business every round! There are also Back 2 School Trivia nights and Sunset Cocktail Cruises, which make a great addition to a downtown Hyannis dinner date.
Cape Cod Canal Cruise:
Driving into Onset you are greeted by small town charm, historic buildings, and crowded beaches. Give yourself ample time to get a parking spot, as this is a popular location for the beach-goers, strolling downtown, or going to restaurants. Cape Cod Canal Cruises depart from the town parking lot on the pier, you can spot the Monhegan from the shore.
Cape Cod Canal Cruises offer an experience all its own. While Hyannis may have more glamorous seaside properties, the Canal Cruise allows you to get up close and personal to the man-made wonders of Cape Cod – the Bourne Bridge, the Sagamore Bridge, the Railroad Bridge, and the Canal itself. You’ll learn why Buzzards Bay doesn’t even have any buzzards, fun facts about the Canal and its creation, as well as the small-town charm of Onset Bay (where there is an island with a cat mayor… yes, an actual cat). When passing under the bridges, make sure to stand out on the deck to see the bridge towering overhead!
Maybe you’re thinking that sightseeing and history aren’t your vacation speed – say no more. The 21+ Live Music Cruises are a great night out with lots of energy! Go down to the bar to order a cocktail and dance the night away. With an 8:00pm departure time on Friday and Saturday nights, you’ll be able to catch the tail end of the sunset as well. In addition, there’s a leisurely Friends & Family Live Music Cruise on Sunday afternoons, Musical Bingo, Trivia, Sunset Cocktail, and Yacht Rock.
Whether your trip is dictated by a jam-packed itinerary, or you’re a go-with-the-flow vacationer, there are plenty of cruise options to round out your Cape Cod experience. Even the locals find enjoyment in seeing their familiar landscapes from a new perspective.
