Ithaca is famous for its stunning Finger Lakes scenery, and exploring the area from the water offers a unique perspective. While many visitors focus on waterfalls, hiking, or wineries, boat tours and cruises give you a relaxed way to soak in the views, enjoy local scenery, and sometimes even add a little activity into your day. The Seneca Lake area in Watkins Glen, just a short drive from Ithaca, is especially popular for its lively boat tour options with a fun, active twist. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable way to see the lake, these tours stand out for their uniqueness.
In this guide, you’ll find two top-rated Cycle Boat Tours in Watkins Glen, both rated 5 stars and designed to combine sightseeing with some exercise. These tours cater to different schedules and preferences, so whether you want a longer, leisurely experience or a quick, energetic ride, there’s a good match for your plans.
1. NEW Cycle Boat Tour of Seneca Lake Embarking from Watkins Glen
This custom Cycle-boat is perfect for active travelers who want to combine fun with scenery. Powered by 10 bicycle stations linked to a single drive train, the boat operates a large paddle wheel at the rear, allowing guests to pedal their way across the lake or relax with the onboard motor. Check out this experience here. The boat features front seating for sightseeing, a dance floor, a bar with cup holders, coolers, and Bluetooth speakers, making it great for parties or casual get-togethers.
What makes this tour special is the ability to pedal into the canal or around the southern tip of Seneca Lake, offering a lively way to enjoy the scenic Finger Lakes sunset. The Captain and crew are Coast Guard certified and friendly, and the boat’s canopy shields you from the sun or light rain. The 1 hour 50-minute ride is ideal for celebrating special occasions like bachelor/bachelorette parties, family reunions, or wedding parties.
Reviews highlight how enjoyable and relaxing the experience is, with one saying, “Captain Mia and Sam took my daughter and me on such a serene sunset ride… it was incredible with the fall colors changing.” The value at $45 per person makes it a fun, affordable outing.
Bottom line: If you like the idea of pedaling your way across the lake and enjoying a social, scenic experience, this Cycle Boat Tour offers a memorable afternoon with plenty of room for food and drinks.
2. NEW 80 Minute Cycle Boat Tour of Seneca Lake in Watkins Glen
This slightly shorter tour emphasizes active fun in a compact time frame with a 1 hour 20-minute experience. Also rated 5 stars, this Cycle-boat offers the same engaging setup with 10 bicycle stations, a small dance floor, and a Bluetooth sound system. Price-wise, it comes in at $39 per person, making it an affordable choice for a quick adventure. Visit the tour here.
The itinerary mirrors its longer sister tour: guests pedal or relax while enjoying views of Seneca Lake’s southern tip and canal, perfect for catching a Finger Lakes sunset or just unwinding with friends. The boat’s amenities include coolers, cup holders, and a canopy, so you can bring snacks or drinks and stay comfortable regardless of the weather.
Reviewers mention bringing snacks and beverages, with one saying, “Bring your own snacks and beverages for the ride. Crew was very nice. I would do it again.” The shorter duration makes it suitable for travelers who are tight on time but still want a lively, active experience on the water.
Bottom line: For a quick, energetic outing that combines pedal-powered fun with scenic views, this 80-minute tour is a flexible choice, especially if you prefer a shorter window to enjoy the lake.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these Cycle Boat Tours, consider your schedule and what kind of experience you prefer. If you’re looking for a longer, more relaxed cruise with ample time to socialize and enjoy the sunset, the 1 hour 50-minute tour offers great value and a more laid-back pace. On the other hand, if your time is limited but you still want a fun, active experience, the 80-minute option delivers the same core activity in a shorter period.
Both tours are excellent choices for celebrations like bachelorette parties, family reunions, or casual outings with friends. Remember that bringing your own beverages and snacks is encouraged, so plan accordingly. To ensure availability, especially during peak summer months, booking early is recommended.
In summary, these Cycle Boat Tours in Watkins Glen provide an engaging way to enjoy the scenic Finger Lakes while staying active. Whether you opt for the longer, more leisurely ride or the quick, energetic outing, both tours offer a unique experience that combines scenery, fun, and socializing. For a memorable day on Seneca Lake, these tours are hard to beat—just be sure to reserve your spot ahead of time.