All paws aboard the canine express! That’s right, there are a number of cruising tours and ferry boat rides across the United States that are happy to welcome furry sailors! Now you can enjoy a relaxing day on the water with your four-legged kid by your side. Here are some of the pet-friendly stand-outs.
1. Mercury Canine Cruises, Chicago IL
If Chicago is your kind of town, it’s likely your pets’ too! So many pet-friendly things to do including this fabulous cruise along the Chicago River which tours the windy city’s downtown waterway. Historical landmarks line this scenic river -- from the House of Blues to the famous Riverwalk. Pups rule on Mercury’s Canine Cruise. They can enjoy a 90 minute cruise from the comfort of their own seat...or, if they prefer, sprawl out on the deck.
2. Potomac Riverboat Company Canine Cruises, Alexandria VA
This Alexandria based tour company offers a dog-friendly sightseeing cruise around Alexandria’s stunning seaport. This is a popular local favorite but the crew just loves meeting pups and their people from outside the area. Potomac Riverboat's short cruise lasts about 45 minutes as it explores the fascinating history of the ever-charming seaways of Alexandria . And not only are all dogs welcome, they ride for free!
3. Casco Bay Lines, Portland ME
Casco Bay Lines is Portland's iconic ferry servicing the islands of Casco Bay. Whether you are and your pet are visiting for a day, staying for an extended vacation, or enjoying one of their scenic or music cruises – Casco Bay Lines is your fun, safe, reliable and convenient connection to the glorious islands off the coast of southern Maine. If you choose to deBARK at one of the islands, be sure to visit a dog-friendly beach or an outdoor cafe with your pooch.
4. Bavarian Belle Riverboat, Frankenmuth MI
Located just outside of Saginaw, Bavarian Belle Riverboat takes you and your four-legged sailor on a fascinating narrated one-hour tour of the historical and picturesque Frankenmuth area. Learn about the German influenced history as you take in the key landmarks of Michigan’s “Little Bavaria”.
Dogs and their people are in for a real TREAT as they journey down the Cass River in their authentic Stern Driven Paddlewheel. To ensure an enjoyable voyage along this historic region, Bavarian Belle Riverboat provides a canopied upper deck as well as a fully enclosed lower deck.
5. Seattle Water Tours, Seattle WA
Hop on board with Seattle Water Tours Ice Cream Cruise! Every hour on the hour they set out on a 45-minute trip around Seattle’s Lake Union, for a narrated tour of this unique and vibrant waterway. Eat ice cream, enjoy the views and learn about some of the fascinating history of Seattle’s waterway. Like the birthplace of Boeing, a working 100+ year old shipyard, and the busiest drawbridge in the world - just to name a few. This cruise is informal, fun, and of course dog friendly. Ice cream is optional, but highly encouraged!
6. Dells Boat Tours, Wisconsin Dells WI
Grab your furry first mate and experience the natural beauty, wonder and mystery of Wisconsin Dells. At every turn, you’ll experience amazing sights as Dell Boat Tours takes you on a cruising adventure past towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations that will leave you in awe of nature’s majesty. Two shore landings will give you the opportunity to explore hidden passages and witness breathtaking sites -- including Stand Rock, site of the world famous dog leap
7. Vagabond Cruise, Hilton Head Island SC
Vagabond Cruise in Hilton Head Island is located under the world-famous Lighthouse in Harbour Town Yacht Basin. As true pioneers in eco-tourism, their focus has always been sharing the beauty of Hilton Head Island and its amazing coastal waters with others.
They strive to make each and every experience a long lasting memory. They offer dinner cruises, sunset sails, shrimp trawls, and more! However, no matter what cruise you choose, you and your pup will enjoy the spectacular sights, sounds and sniffs of Hilton Head Islands’ waterways. Wild dolphins and osprey are aplenty, so be sure your furry traveler is secured.
8. St. Augustine Scenic Cruise, St. Augustine FL
The coastal city of St. Augustine is incredibly rich in history and no better way to explore it than by sea! Whether you’re a local taking the day off or vacationing in St. Augustine, be sure to carve out some time (approx an hour and 15 minutes to be exact!) to treat your pup to a St. Augustine Scenic Cruise. This truly authentic Florida cruise gives you a unique view of the city and a way to enjoy St. Augustine’s historic landmarks and natural beauty. What makes this experience that much more enjoyable is having your furkid with you!