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Boat and Ferry Tours

Bristol Ferry Boat Tours
Choose from a range of themed cruises and tours along the Avon Gorge, including Afternoon Cream Teas, Daytime Gorge Trip, Champagne Balloon Fiesta, Wildlife Experience specials or take an evening cruise to see the Clifton Suspension Bridge illuminations.

River trips last between 2-4 hours. Regular ferries operate around the harbour throughout the day.

The Bristol Packet Boat Trips
Take a guided cruise around Bristol Harbour, along the river to Bath or along the Avon Gorge under Clifton Suspension Bridge on one of 4 boats, ranging from glass covered boats to traditional river steamers.

Trips include Bees Tea Gardens for tea, lunch at Chequers, and Lock and Weir. Boats depart from the SS Great Britain, City Centre, Watershed and Welsh Back (Bristol Bridge).

The Matthew
Enjoy a gentle cruise on the Matthew around Bristol's historic harbour. The Matthew is a modern recreation of the square rigged caravel that John Cabot sailed from Bristol to Newfoundland in 1497.

Trips last one hour and leave at various times throughout the day. Booking is essential.

Avon River Cruises offer a luxury cruiser ride from Bristol Harbour in Winter and from Bath to Bristol in summer. A great venue for any occasion - parties, private charters, business meetings, family celebrations, weddings and other special events. Excellent hot or cold food can be prepared by the on-board chef. Travel in comfort and style all year round.



Tangaroa is an 82ft long wooden sailing ship offering harbour tours and trips down the Avon Gorge to Portishead, Cardiff, Cornwall, Devon and France. Tangaroa sails direct from the centre of Bristol. Come and try your hand at sailing or just sit back and enjoy the atmosphere of a classic tall ship.

Trips last from two hours to several weeks, with both public trips and private charter,and tailored trips for corporate events and groups.

Waverley and Balmoral
Cruise in style aboard the paddle steamer Waverley and motor vessel Balmoral, the last remaining ships of their type. Both ships are part of the National Core Collection of Historic Ships, and at over 200ft long you'll love strolling along the promenade sun decks, seeing the gleaming engine rooms, or relaxing with refreshments in the dining saloons and bars.

Day, afternoon and evening cruises are available around the rivers and estuary of the Bristol Channel. The Balmoral will be sailing from ports and piers on the Bristol Channel from 23 July until 16 September 2008. Click here for Day Cruises aboard the Balmoral.

(Please note - The Waverley will not be operating in the Bristol Channel throughout 2008 - all cruises will be provided on the Balmoral)