In a recent study on the UK’s best boat tours, Cambridge has sailed to the top spot, with an impressive 90.9% of Cambridge boat tours receiving stellar reviews. Whether you’re looking for a serene glide along the River Cam or a historical journey through centuries-old university grounds, Cambridge boat tours offer an unforgettable experience that’s hard to beat.
The research, conducted by ferry travel experts GetByFerry, used TripAdvisor data to rank boat tours across the UK. Cities and towns offering more than ten boat tours were assessed, with the results revealing Cambridge as the undisputed leader. According to the study, nearly all of Cambridge’s boat tours achieved a rating of four stars or higher, highlighting its combination of scenic beauty, expert guides, and rich historical background.
Famed for its tranquil River Cam, Cambridge has become synonymous with peaceful boat trips. The city’s punting tours are a particular draw, offering visitors a unique way to explore the ancient university buildings, leafy riverbanks, and hidden gems that define the area. With knowledgeable guides sharing captivating stories about the city’s history, it’s no surprise Cambridge’s boat tours have garnered such widespread praise.
Coming in second place is Falmouth, where 88.6% of boat tours boast similarly high ratings. Situated on the stunning Cornish coastline, Falmouth offers 39 different boat tours, more than any other location in the top ten. With its sprawling natural harbour—the third-largest in the world—Falmouth provides an ideal setting for visitors to explore picturesque coastal waters, sheltered harbours, and charming maritime culture.
Windsor ranks third, with 85.7% of boat tours scoring four stars or higher. These tours offer unparalleled views of iconic landmarks such as Windsor Castle and Eton College, along the serene River Thames. Unsurprisingly, Windsor’s boat tours are a major attraction, especially among tourists eager to soak in the royal sights.
Meanwhile, Reading was found to be the worst UK location for boat tours, with only 45.5% of its offerings achieving four-star ratings or higher. Despite being located along the River Thames, Reading’s tours appear to struggle in comparison to the well-established competition in places like Cambridge and Windsor.
GetByFerry’s CEO, Ante Dagelić, commented on the findings: “The UK boasts an exceptional array of boat tours, but those in Cambridge, Falmouth, and Windsor stand far above the rest. These top-rated experiences seamlessly blend breathtaking scenery, rich history, and expert commentary, ensuring an unforgettable journey for every passenger.”
Other notable locations in the top ten include Bournemouth in fourth place, offering breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast, and Windermere, England’s largest lake, ranking fifth. Rounding out the top ten were Poole, Norwich, Cardiff, Bristol, and Oxford, each offering their own unique take on the UK’s rich maritime and historical heritage.
For those looking to experience the best boat tours the UK has to offer, Cambridge stands as the clear destination of choice, with its combination of stunning views, fascinating history, and expert-guided experiences setting it apart from the rest. Whether you’re punting along the River Cam or embarking on a coastal adventure in Falmouth, these boat tours promise to be the perfect way to explore Britain from the water.
