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York

York Lunch Cruises

Discover practical details and visitor insights about York's river cruises.

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Rating 4.4out of 5
Reviews 2,113on Google
What it is

York Lunch Cruises offers river tours with optional fish and chips meals.

York Lunch Cruises provides a unique perspective of the historic city from the waters of the River Ouse. Departing from King's Staith, these cruises offer an opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery while listening to live commentary. Suitable for those who appreciate a leisurely pace, the cruises include options like a fish and chips meal, making it an enjoyable outing for both locals and tourists.

The lunch cruises are an appealing choice for individuals and families looking to combine sightseeing with a meal. The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable guides who offer insights into York's landmarks. However, some visitors have noted that the view can be limited due to natural obstructions along the riverbanks.

Travelers should be aware that the cruises may not provide comprehensive views of York's most famous sights. For those with limited time in the city, it might be worth considering other forms of sightseeing. Nonetheless, the cruises remain a pleasant way to spend time on the river, especially on sunny days.

York Lunch Cruises See tickets from £29
York Lunch Cruises
York Lunch Cruises
York Lunch Cruises
York Lunch Cruises

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Tickets

Ways to get in.

A man and a woman sit on a boat, eating food from take-out containers. A bridge, buildings, and another boat are in the background.
A blue and white riverboat named "Witheycombe" docked beside a brick building near lush green trees and a stone structure.
A river scene with a boat carrying passengers, a bridge in the background, and trees lining the riverbanks under a partly cloudy sky.
A sightseeing boat labeled "River Prince of York" with many passengers travels on a river, surrounded by trees.
A styrofoam container with fried fish and chips, held by a person in outdoor seating.

York: Fish & Chips Cruise

Enjoy the finest and freshest fish and chips as you sail through York

Enjoy the finest and freshest fish and chips as you sail through York and into the surrounding countryside. Taste the great British traditional fish and chips, relax, and see the beautiful riverside of the Minster City on a York fish and chips cruise. Departing from the city centre, you'll be handed your fish and chips freshly wrap

Duration: 1 hora Free cancellation Guided in en Mobile ticket
Included* 45-minute to 1-hour cruise * Live commentary * Fish and chips meal * Music onboard * Open bar
from£29 See tickets

Sold by Tiqets. Prices checked on 3/09/2026.

The story

How it got here.

York Lunch Cruises operate from the heart of the city, offering a vantage point to explore the River Ouse. While the historical details of the cruises themselves are limited, they provide a modern way to engage with the city's past. The tours are a part of City Cruises, known for their boat tours in various locations.

The River Ouse has been a significant waterway for York, historically serving as a route for trade and transport. Today, it offers a tranquil setting for visitors to experience the city from a different angle. The cruises add a layer of modern tourism to the river's long-standing role in the city's history.

In recent years, these cruises have become a popular attraction, with options like the fish and chips cruise adding to their appeal. The combination of dining and sightseeing reflects a contemporary twist on traditional river exploration.

The visit

What you actually do.

York Lunch Cruises offer several options, including a fish and chips cruise lasting between 45 minutes to an hour. This particular cruise includes live commentary, a meal, music, and access to an open bar, providing a comprehensive experience on the water. The tours are well-received for their informative guides, although some guests have noted the commentary can occasionally lack depth.

The cruises run daily, with opening hours from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, making it easy to fit into most itineraries. Visitors should note that views of York's landmarks may be partially obscured by vegetation along the riverbank, which has been a point of criticism for some.

The seating on the boats can be close, which might be uncomfortable during busier times. However, umbrellas are provided for sunny days, and the presence of a bar and restrooms enhances the convenience of the trip. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for the more popular lunch cruises.

Those interested in a more extended experience can opt to stay on the boat until the Lendal Bridge stop, extending the cruise to a full hour. Overall, the cruises are a relaxed way to see York, especially for those who enjoy being on the water and appreciate a laid-back sightseeing approach.

Before you go

Practical notes.

Book tickets in advance, especially for lunch cruises.
Arrive early to secure good seating.
Umbrellas are available for sunny days.
Expect limited views due to riverside vegetation.
The cruise is suitable for children.
The boats are wheelchair accessible.
Nearby food options include cafes and restaurants.
Consider combining with other York attractions.

Opening hours

Monday8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Where it is

King's Staith, York YO1 9SN, UK

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Questions people ask

Before you visit.

How do I get to York Lunch Cruises?

The cruises depart from King's Staith, accessible by bus with nearby stops at Clifford Street and Piccadilly.

How long does the cruise last?

The fish and chips cruise lasts between 45 minutes to an hour, with the option to extend to an hour if continuing to Lendal Bridge.

Should I book tickets ahead?

Yes, booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular lunch cruises.

What is included in the lunch cruise?

The lunch cruise includes a fish and chips meal, live commentary, music, and access to an open bar.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, the cruise offers wheelchair accessible parking, entrance, restrooms, and seating.

Is the cruise suitable for children?

Yes, the cruise is good for children and provides a family-friendly atmosphere.

Can I take photos on the cruise?

Yes, photography is allowed, though some views may be limited by riverside greenery.

Are there places to eat nearby?

Yes, nearby options include Cooplands Bakery, Oasis Café, and The Marrakesh York.

Where to stay

Hotels in York

Radisson Hotel York ★★★ 4.1 · 2,694 reviews

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More to see

Other places nearby

York Dungeon York York's Chocolate Story York · 0.3 km North York Moors National Park York · 0.5 km Yorkshire Dales National Park Leyburn · 0.5 km York Minster York · 0.5 km York Bus Tours York · 0.6 km

Tours & tickets → Everything to do in York →

Flights and hotels

Getting to York

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