The 7 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Sacramento
Sacramento’s riverfront is more than just a scenic backdrop; it’s a lively hub for boat tours that reveal the city’s charm from a different perspective. Whether you want to sip cocktails on a sunset cruise, dance with friends on a yacht, or ring in the New Year on the water, Sacramento’s boat tours offer something for every taste. From relaxed sightseeing to party-filled evenings, the options are surprisingly varied considering the size of the city.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the top seven cruises and boat tours in Sacramento. You’ll learn about lively happy hour cruises, family-friendly sightseeing trips, energetic yacht parties, and special New Year’s Eve celebrations. We’ll help you decide which experience matches your mood, budget, and schedule — so you can make the most of Sacramento’s scenic riverfront.
1. Sacramento: Alive After Five Cocktail River Cruise
This $43 per person, 1.5-hour cruise (check availability for times) offers a lively way to unwind after work or explore Sacramento’s skyline in a relaxed setting. The cruise departs from 1206 Front St and features a live DJ playing top hits, all while you sip on crafted cocktails and enjoy the river scenery. It’s a perfect option for those craving a fun, upbeat happy hour experience.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of scenic views and lively music. As you glide under the iconic Tower Bridge, you’ll feel the wind and see the city lights reflecting on the water. The reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere and good value: “The music was great and reasonably priced drinks,” says a happy guest. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a casual, fun evening without a hefty price tag.
The cruise isn’t crowded, offering plenty of space to relax or dance. Note that drinks are purchased onboard, so come prepared for cash bar options. Bottom line: a relaxed, energetic way to enjoy Sacramento’s riverfront with friends, and a memorable happy hour.
2. Sacramento: City Cruises Rock The Yacht River Cruise
For a party atmosphere, this $49 per person, 1.5-hour cruise is a hit. Starting from City Cruises Sacramento, it’s designed for those looking to dance and mingle while cruising the Sacramento River. The focus is on a fun, friendly vibe with lively music and plenty of space to socialize.
This tour features a casual yacht party with delicious drinks and a DJ spinning hits. The reviews rave about the “great vibes” and the “amazing staff,” with guests feeling like they’re celebrating with friends. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a vibrant, energetic scene with friends or even a pre-game for an evening out downtown.
What makes this tour stand out is its social atmosphere and scenic route. You’ll see Sacramento from the water, and the friendly crowd makes for a memorable night. The cruise is best suited for those who want a lively experience without a formal setup. The price includes a lot of fun for a reasonable cost, making it a great choice for young adults or groups of friends.
3. Sacramento: City Cruises Sights and Sips Cruise
At $38 per person, this family-friendly 1.5-hour cruise offers a relaxed way to see Sacramento’s landmarks from the water. Starting at 1206 Front St, it combines scenic sightseeing, cocktails, small bites, and live music, making it ideal for a casual day out or a special family occasion.
What makes this cruise distinct is its focus on iconic landmarks and a laid-back atmosphere. As you cruise along, you’ll enjoy views of the Sacramento skyline while listening to the DJ spinning Top 40 hits. The onboard experience is lively but not overwhelming, making it suitable for families or those wanting a more relaxed vibe.
Reviews emphasize the enjoyable music and friendly crew, with one guest noting, “Enjoyed a lot with family and relatives,” highlighting its appeal for multiple generations. The tour balances sightseeing with entertainment, offering good value with included drinks and bites. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, fun experience that combines city views with a lively soundtrack.
4. Sacramento: New Year’s Eve Rock the Yacht Cruise
Ringing in $122 per person, this special event cruise is the ultimate way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. The 2-hour cruise departs from Sacramento and offers stunning views of the city’s illuminated skyline. It’s designed for those wanting a more formal, festive celebration on the water, with plenty of opportunities to toast midnight.
The highlight is the midnight countdown combined with fireworks and live DJ entertainment. Guests can purchase cocktails, wine, or beer onboard, making it a full-fledged party at sea. The reviews, though limited, praise the festive atmosphere, with a guest noting the cruise “really got started after the countdown,” emphasizing the lively vibe.
This cruise is best suited for adults celebrating a special occasion and those wanting a unique, scenic backdrop for ringing in the new year. It offers a luxurious experience with elegant views and a celebratory mood. The main potential drawback is the higher price and the limited review base, but for a memorable New Year’s, it hits the mark.
5. Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise Sacramento 21+
At $48.79 per person, this 1.5-hour cruise is designed for adults over 21 looking to enjoy Sacramento’s nightlife from the water. The tour departs from Old Sacramento and features a DJ spinning popular music plus a cash bar for alcoholic beverages.
What makes this cruise appealing is the chance to see Sacramento’s sights from the river, including the famous Tower Bridge, while dancing and enjoying drinks. The short duration makes it easy to combine with other evening plans, perfect for a quick, energetic outing. The reviews commend the friendly crew and the good music, with many recommending it for first dates or casual nights out.
This cruise is ideal for visitors wanting a quick splash of nightlife with scenic views. The downside might be the cash bar and short duration, but it’s a solid option for those who want a lively, social experience without committing to a longer event.
6. Sacramento New Year’s Eve Sights and Sips Cruise
Priced at $86, this New Year’s Eve cruise offers a 1.5-hour scenic celebration on the Sacramento River. Though reviews are scarce, the focus is on enjoying Sacramento’s illuminated skyline and counting down to midnight in style, with a festive atmosphere onboard.
This cruise is tailored for travelers seeking a quieter, more elegant way to mark the new year. It’s less about party vibes and more about appreciating the city’s beauty at night. While it might lack the wild energy of other options, it’s perfect for those who prefer a classy, low-key celebration. Expect scenic views, a relaxed atmosphere, and a memorable midnight countdown.
Best suited for couples or those who want to enjoy Sacramento’s skyline in peace. Because reviews are limited, it’s wise to check availability early, especially around year-end.
7. Sacramento New Year’s Eve Rock the Yacht Cruise
This $96, 2-hour cruise promises a festive New Year’s celebration on the Sacramento River. Starting from Sacramento, it offers scenic views, a lively atmosphere, and the countdown to midnight. It’s similar to the earlier NYE cruise but slightly longer and possibly more energetic.
Guests can expect a celebratory environment, with a live DJ and great vantage points for fireworks if available. Although reviews are not available, the experience caters to those wanting a classic New Year’s Eve at sea, with a focus on fun and scenic splendor.
Ideal for travelers who want to ring in the new year with a memorable, scenic party on the water. Booking early is recommended given the popularity of New Year’s Eve events.
How to Choose the Right Sacramento River Tour
When picking the best boat tour in Sacramento, consider your priorities: budget, time, interests, and company. If you’re after a lively party with dancing, the Rock the Yacht Cruise or Yacht Party is perfect. For a casual, family-friendly experience, the Sights and Sips Cruise offers a relaxed but engaging outing. Planning to celebrate New Year’s? The special NYE cruises provide a memorable backdrop for ringing in the year.
Booking early is wise, especially for holiday events, and check times carefully—they vary throughout the year. Think about whether you want a scenic sightseeing experience, a party atmosphere, or an elegant celebration. Prices range from about $38 to over $120, reflecting the experience level and occasion.
Final Thoughts
Sacramento’s river cruises serve up a diverse menu of options from relaxing sightseeing to lively parties. For a laid-back afternoon, the Sights and Sips Cruise hits the right note with great city views and family fun. Young adults and party lovers will appreciate the energetic Rock the Yacht experiences, especially if dancing and socializing are your priorities.
For special occasions like New Year’s, Sacramento’s festive cruises deliver a memorable night on the water. No matter your style or budget, booking early and choosing the right cruise will make your Sacramento river adventure one to remember.