Guest Review by Local Mumbler, Dawn
Dawn and her family spent a morning in York on the River Ouse on a self-drive boat from City Cruises. Find out what they thought about it in Dawn’s review for Mumbler.
My partner, two daughters (aged 10 & 8 years) and I had a lovely morning sailing on one of the self-drive boats on the River Ouse. We boarded the boat at Kings Staith, beside Tower Gardens. Our boat was pre-booked, but walk-ins are also available, subject to availability.
We went on a 1-hour cruise, firstly heading under Ouse Bridge, Lendal Bridge, Scarborough Bridge & on towards Clifton Bridge where we then turned around and sailed to Skeldergate Bridge, then lastly Millenium Bridge before heading back to the landing. We passed many points of interest such as historic buildings, apartments, bars and restaurants as well as seeing ducks, geese, seagulls and other boats on the river. We also passed the ice cream boat, where you can purchase an ice cream as you pass!
We all took a turn steering the boat using the steering wheel, after this had been demonstrated to us after boarding. There was seating for 2 people at the front of the boat, plus comfortable additional seating at the rear of the boat for passengers to relax and see the sights. Each boat can seat up to 7 passengers*. Boats need to stay towards the right-hand side of the river when sailing & in the centre of the river when travelling under the bridges.
Whether you are a local or a tourist, a boat trip along the river Ouse is not to be missed!
* This blog has been amended February 2024 to reflect the change to the passenger capacity of the boats to 7 passengers.
⏰ Boats are available to hire daily between 12th February and 20th November from 10am. Closing time varies depending on the weather & daylight, as well as staying open later during school holidays/busy times.
🎟 Weekdays – £30 for half an hour or £40 for an hour.
📍You board the boats at The Self-Drive Hire Point at King’s Staith, York YO1 9RZ
ℹ️ Find out more about York Self Drive Boat Hire on City Cruises website.
ℹ️ Find out about the brand new adults only Gin Cruise here
💜 For more Mumbler reviews of the shows and attractions in and around York visit the Mumbler Review section here.
Disclaimer: York Mumbler was given a complimentary self-drive boat from City Cruises in exchange for an honest review.
