Best Boat Tour Operators: Top Picks For Your Next Voyage

Boat tours are a great way to explore a new place, offering a unique perspective of a city or island and its surrounding waters. When it comes to choosing a boat tour operator, there are several factors to consider, such as the purpose of the tour, the amenities provided, and the safety standards adhered to. Reading reviews from past customers can also provide valuable insights into the quality of the tour and the overall experience.

Some notable boat tour operators around the world include Auntie Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd in Langkawi, which offers island-hopping boat tours; The Smiling Seahorse in Myanmar, which provides scuba diving cruises; and SailnExplore in Greece, which helps travellers explore the hidden treasures of the Greek islands. In Chicago, popular boat tour operators include See It All Chicago Tours, Chicago's First Lady Cruises, and Shoreline Sightseeing, which offer a range of architectural and historical tours of the city.

Scuba diving cruises in Myanmar

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a lesser-known dive destination, but its untouched and pristine condition makes it a rewarding scuba diving experience. With a rich and diverse marine ecosystem, divers can explore reefs, walls, drift dives, seamounts, caves, cavern zones, and monumental drop-offs.

The best scuba diving in Myanmar is found in the archipelagic islands, including the Burma Banks and the Mergui Archipelago, which spans an area of 36,000 km2 with 800 pristine islands made of granite and limestone. The Mergui Archipelago is particularly notable for its lack of mass tourism, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more exclusive and intimate diving experience.

The scuba diving season in Myanmar typically runs from October to May, with the best conditions in the Mergui Archipelago from December to April. The water temperature during the diving season ranges from 27°C to 30°C.

There are a variety of liveaboards available for scuba diving cruises in Myanmar, such as the "Smiling Seahorse," which offers cruises in the Mergui Archipelago and Thailand. The "Bunmee IV," operated by Andaman Scuba, is another option, providing diving cruises tailored to accommodate divers of all skill levels.

Myanmar scuba diving is characterised by its remoteness, and strong currents are prevalent around most dive sites. As such, it is recommended that only intermediate to advanced divers embark on these trips.

Island hopping tours in Langkawi

Island hopping is one of the most popular boat tours in Langkawi, Malaysia. There are countless islands off the coast of Langkawi, making island hopping a must-do activity when visiting.

The tour typically starts at 9 am and lasts for 3.5 to 4 hours, including hotel transfers. It covers visits to two scenic islands south of the main island of Langkawi and eagle feeding near another island, where you can watch eagles swoop down to catch their prey. The two islands offer plenty of activities, including swimming in a freshwater lake, paddle boating, snorkelling, lounging, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the stunning scenery.

The boat tours usually depart from Teluk Baru Jetty, located near Resorts World or Star Cruise Jetty. The tour operators choose the boats based on demand, with larger boats accommodating 20 people and smaller ones holding 8-10.

Pulau Dayang Bunting

The first island you will visit is about a 20-minute boat ride from Teluk Baru jetty. You will have about an hour to explore, including a 10-12 minute walk up to the Lake of the Pregnant Woman, surrounded by mountains and dense forests. The lake is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Geopark, and here you can swim, solar paddle boat, experience a natural catfish spa, or simply relax and take in the views.

Pulau Singa Besar

The next stop is the "Island of Big Lions," where you will witness a spectacular natural show of eagle feeding. You will remain on the boat while watching approximately 300-350 golden brown eagles swoop down to feed on fish.

Pulau Beras Basah

The final stop on the tour is the "Island of Wet Rice," known for its picturesque views of the sea and soft white sands. It is an excellent spot for beachgoers and swimmers, with various water sports activities available during the high season. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the shade under the trees.

The rate for the Island Hopping tour ranges from RM45 to RM55 per person, depending on the season and tour operator. It is usually a shared group tour, and you can book online or through travel stalls in Pantai Cenang.

If you are looking for a more comfortable and private tour, with an English-speaking guide and refreshments, you can book through operators like Moondance Cruises (operated by Bill and Angelika). Their package includes hotel transfers, food, beverages, and other amenities, with a duration of 5 hours at a cost of RM180 per person.

So, whether you opt for a shared or private tour, island hopping in Langkawi is a fantastic way to explore the surrounding islands and experience the natural beauty and diverse activities that each has to offer.

Wildlife spotting in Central America

Central America is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with its diverse landscapes and abundance of protected national parks. Here are some of the best boat tour operators for wildlife spotting in this captivating region:

TruTravels:

Specialising in Costa Rica, TruTravels offers an "Adventure" tour that allows you to explore the country's natural wonders. Their knowledgeable guides will lead you through activities such as wildlife spotting, with the opportunity to see monkeys, sloths, toucans, and parrots. They also offer additional activities like parasailing and white-water rafting.

Explore!:

Explore! is another tour operator that provides an immersive experience in Costa Rica. Their "Highlights of Costa Rica" tour takes you to destinations like the Arenal Volcano National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park. While the focus isn't solely on wildlife, you'll have the chance to spot monkeys, insects, and a variety of birds during your journey.

Green World Adventures:

For those eager to explore the wildlife of Costa Rica, Green World Adventures presents the "Costa Rica Wildlife Exploration" tour. Their professional guides will lead you through locations such as the Arenal Volcano National Park and Corcovado National Park, where you can observe a plethora of animals, including monkeys, sloths, and various bird species.

Exodus Travels:

Exodus Travels offers a unique experience with their "Costa Rica's Coastal Secrets" tour. While the tour received mixed reviews due to issues with accommodation and activity details, it provides a glimpse into Costa Rica's coastal secrets. You'll have the chance to visit destinations like the Tortuguero National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park, encountering wildlife along the way.

Destination Services Costa Rica:

Destination Services Costa Rica presents the "Exotic Costa Rica, Self-drive" tour, which allows you to explore the country at your own pace. They provide a well-organised itinerary and excellent service, ensuring you have a smooth and informative journey. You'll have the freedom to discover wildlife hotspots and observe the rich biodiversity that Costa Rica has to offer.

Intrepid Travel:

Intrepid Travel offers a "Christmas & New Year" tour in Costa Rica, providing a well-organised itinerary. While the focus isn't exclusively on wildlife, you'll have the opportunity to spot monkeys, sloths, and insects during your travels. They also offer optional activities like parasailing and white-water rafting for a more adventurous experience.

Boat Tours in Other Central American Countries:

While Costa Rica seems to be a hotspot for wildlife tours, other Central American countries also offer boat tours that include wildlife spotting. Here are some options:

• Mexico – Adventure Life offers boat tours in Mexico, including whale-watching excursions in Baja California. You can get up close to grey whales during their migration season and even spot humpback and blue whales.
• Belize – Snorkelling and diving tours in Ambergris Caye, Belize, allow you to explore the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Here, you can witness a diverse range of marine life, including corals, sponges, fish, and possibly even loggerhead turtles.
• Nicaragua – A boat journey down the San Juan River in Nicaragua will take you to the town of El Castillo, where you can explore the pristine ecosystems of the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve. This area boasts a plethora of wildlife, including sloths, wild boars, ocelots, and various species of monkeys.

These tour operators provide a range of options for wildlife spotting in Central America, allowing you to explore the rich biodiversity of the region and create unforgettable memories.

Boat tours in Chicago

One of the best ways to see Chicago is from its waterways. The city is home to two stunning waterfronts — the Chicago River and Lake Michigan — and each offers plenty of cruise options. From admiring the skyline on a lakefront cruise to learning about the city's iconic architecture on a river cruise, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the best boat tour operators in Chicago:

Shoreline Sightseeing

Shoreline Sightseeing is one of Chicago's classic cruise operators. Their popular Architecture River Tour takes you on all three branches of the historic Chicago River, passing by dozens of landmark buildings. They also offer skyline lake tours, specialty cruises, and holiday events. You can hop on a boat at Navy Pier or on Michigan Avenue.

City Experiences

City Experiences offers dining cruises, with delicious cuisine, cocktails, and entertainment. Their glass-enclosed river vessel provides panoramic views of the city's iconic buildings as you glide along the Chicago River. They also offer lakefront brunch and dinner cruise options departing from Navy Pier.

Wendella Boats

Wendella Boats has been cruising the Chicago waterways for three generations. With a variety of tour options, cruise times, and lengths, as well as a heated, enclosed cabin, Wendella is a great choice for families. They offer lake and river architecture tours, sunset cruises, and more. Their tours depart from the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at the foot of the Wrigley Building.

Chicago's First Lady

Chicago is known for its outstanding architecture, and Chicago's First Lady offers comprehensive tours of the skyline in partnership with the Chicago Architecture Center. Their docents must train for 100 hours before leading tours. You can also upgrade your ticket to include entry to the Chicago Architecture Center itself. Their tours depart from the Chicago First Lady Cruises dock and last around 90 minutes.

Seadog Boat Tours

For a thrilling experience, try Seadog Boat Tours. Race across Lake Michigan on a 30-minute speedboat ride, featuring high speeds and exhilarating twists and turns. They also offer lakefront speedboat tours and a river/lake architecture tour, showcasing Chicago's iconic Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, and more.

Tall Ship Windy

For a unique and informative sailing trip, step aboard the Tall Ship Windy, a four-masted, 148-foot topsail schooner. Their 75-minute cruise brings guests along the Lake Michigan shoreline, offering stunning skyline vistas and glimpses of the sunset. They also offer nighttime cruises corresponding with Navy Pier's seasonal fireworks show.

With so many options, you're sure to find the perfect boat tour to suit your interests and create unforgettable memories of Chicago.

Whale watching in Tenerife

Whale Watch Tenerife

Whale Watch Tenerife is a company that specializes in whale-watching excursions. They offer a respectful and informative 2-hour whale and dolphin-watching tour with a biologist team. Their tours include an underwater microphone, free tour photos of the wildlife, and a maximum of 11 guests. They are a Tenerife Blue Flag Certified Whale Watching Organisation and their tours have a 99.9% probability of sightings.

Tenerife: Whale & Dolphin Watching with Drinks and Snacks

This 3-hour cruise offers unlimited drinks, snacks, and sonar equipment for listening to the dolphins and whales. You will sail along the coastline of Southern Tenerife with a maximum of 11 other passengers, providing plenty of space onboard a luxury yacht.

Tenerife: Whale Watching Catamaran Tour

This 2-hour boat excursion departs from Puerto Colon and takes you 2-3 miles from the coast, where pilot whales are often found. The catamaran tour includes free onboard drinks and a snorkeling set if you choose the 3-hour option.

Tenerife: Whale and Dolphin Tour with Underwater Views

This tour includes underwater views of the cetaceans from below the boat's deck. You will sail along the coastline past Adeje, Guia de Isora, and Santiago del Teide, where dolphins and pilot whales are commonly sighted. The 3-hour option includes lunch, beer, or sangria, and a swimming stop.

Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat with Pick-Up

This intimate group tour of no more than 9 people offers complimentary drinks and fresh fruit onboard the boat. There is also time for swimming and snorkelling in a small cove, followed by freshly made sandwiches. This tour offers stunning views of the cliffs along the way.

Luxury Opera 60 Whale & Dolphin Watching Experience

This 3-hour tour takes place on a luxury yacht with a maximum capacity of 15 passengers. It includes snacks, drinks, and a snorkeling session with turtles. The yacht has a cutting-edge sonar system that allows you to listen to the whales and dolphins.

Royal Delfin - 2Hour Sustainable Dolphin & Whale Watching Mini Cruise

The Royal Delfin is a catamaran with 16 panoramic underwater windows, providing optimal viewing opportunities. This 2-hour mini-cruise departs from Puerto Colon and includes drinks onboard.

SEA SAFARI. to Masca, Dolphins, Whales, 3h speedboat

This dynamic and fast-paced 3-hour speedboat tour takes you to Masca, where you can see dolphins and whales. It includes drinks and snacks, as well as time for snorkelling.

Whale Watching Eco-Adventure from Costa Adeje

Join a biologist staff on this 2-hour thrilling eco-adventure to respectfully observe the whales and dolphins. This tour has a 99% recommendation rating from travellers.

Small Group Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise with Transfer, Food & Snorkeling

This small-group tour provides plenty of space and an exclusive experience. It includes food, drinks, and snorkelling equipment. This tour has excellent reviews, with a 96% recommendation rating.

Small Group Excursion Whales and Dolphin Watching Los Gigantes

This unique sailing experience on a sailboat takes you along the west coast of the island. The tour includes drinks and a swimming stop. It has a 95% recommendation rating from travellers.

Whale and Dolphin Watching Yacht Trip in Puerto Colon

This 2-hour tour takes you on a yacht to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. It includes drinks and snacks, as well as a swimming stop.

Whale and Dolphin Watching Catamaran with Transfer and Buffet

This small-group tour welcomes you with an experienced crew. It includes a transfer and a buffet, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This tour is recommended by 96% of travellers.

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