Summer Sightseeing is Back! Whether you’re visiting Cape Cod for a day trip, here on vacation for a few days, or just a local looking for something fun to do, our sightseeing options are enjoyable for all! There are so many fun things to do around here, but if you’re looking for a leisurely excursion on the water this summer, we’ve got you covered in Hyannis and Onset. Our Harbor and Canal cruises offer a laid-back atmosphere and a peaceful cruise around the beautiful waters of Lewis Bay or the Cape Cod Canal.
Amidst all the excitement, noise, and fun you can have on Cape Cod, sometimes it’s nice to just sit back and relax, isn’t it? If you said yes, then these trips are for you!
Hyannis Harbor Cruise
Hyannis Harbor Tours, Inc. was founded in 1962 by Richard and Robert Scudder along with E. Raymond Taylor, operating Hyannis Harbor Cruises from the “north end” of the Ocean Street Dock in Hyannis. The concept of the Harbor Cruise came about as Richard and Robert ran the gas station at the corner of South and Ocean Streets and noticed an increase in demand to view the homes of the Kennedy Compound in Hyannisport.
This excursion represents the very beginning of what was to become what you all know now as Hy-Line Cruises…59 years ago, holy smokes!
The Hyannis Harbor Cruise currently operates daily, with its first trip at 10:00 am and the last at 6:00 pm. Specialty cruises include kids ride free trips at 10:00 am and 11:15 am, as well as a 90-minute cocktail cruise at 6:00 pm.
Learn about the history of Hyannis and local area landmarks including Great Island, the Kennedy Memorial, St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, Squaw Island, Point Gammon Light, and the historic Kennedy Compound in Hyannisport. We invite you to join us for this 1-hour sightseeing cruise, with live commentary.
Looking to make a day of it? We’ve got some terrific ideas on what to do on your Hyannis day trip!
Cape Cod Canal Cruise
The Cape Cod Canal’s only sightseeing cruise, since 1979! It really is a sight to see – this man-made canal, a National Historic Civil Engineering landmark, is the widest sea-level canal (without locks) in the world. It was built to create more efficient nautical trade routes, opening in July 1914. Passage through the Canal is safer than having to maneuver around the dangerous shoals and unpredictable currents surrounding the Outer Cape, and also saves ships more than 160 miles of travel, instead of having to navigate around the tip of Cape Cod.
Cape Cod Canal Cruises is currently operating daily, with two-hour sightseeing trips only. There is a morning trip is at 10:30 am, and an afternoon trip at 1:00 pm. Specialty cruises include a kids ride free trip at 3:30 pm Tuesday through Saturday and a Sunset Cocktail Cruise at 6:00 pm on Friday and Saturday.
All but the cocktail cruise feature live narration about the fascinating history and points of interest along the Canal. Points of interest include the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Bourne Bridge, Vertical Lift Railroad Bridge, Gray Gables, and the Aptucxet Trading Post.
Hey – don’t just take our word for it!
“Fabulous interpretive history cruise I recommend as a starting point for all visitors to Cape Cod!!”
“I loved the experience. The narrative of the history was fascinating. I learned so much on this tour. The crew brought a lot of energy and enthusiasm to the adventure. And I have a greater respect for the tide in that canal.”
We can’t wait to see you this summer, and show you around our beautiful neck of the woods!
We encourage cooperation with guidelines in place for face coverings and physical distancing, for the safety and well-being of everyone!
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