Boston Duck Tours is an amphibious sightseeing experience in Boston, Massachusetts, United States, using restored World War II-style DUKW vehicles that drive through the streets and then splash into the Charles River. Tours depart from the Prudential Center at 800 Boylston Street in Back Bay and last about 80 minutes. The land portion passes landmarks such as the Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House, Beacon Hill, Faneuil Hall and the Boston Public Garden, with a costumed conductor providing humor-laden commentary on local history. The vehicle then enters the Charles River for a short cruise offering views of the Boston and Cambridge skylines. The activity requires no fitness, skill or prior experience and suits families, older travellers and groups. Children are welcome, and young ones may need to sit with an adult; the operator publishes rules on age and seating that should be checked when booking. No equipment is needed, as seating and the vehicle are provided; visitors may want a jacket, sunscreen or rain layer because the vehicles are open-sided and exposed to weather. Photography is permitted from the seats, and phones or cameras should be kept secure during the water portion. Each vehicle carries life jackets and is operated by a licensed driver and crew, and the operator follows US Coast Guard and Massachusetts requirements; a safety briefing is delivered at the start of the tour, and crew can coordinate rescue or evacuation if needed. The tour season generally runs April to November, with the warmest weather in summer. Tours may be altered or canceled for severe weather or river conditions, and visitors should ask about refund terms at booking. Adult tickets cost about $50, with reduced prices for children, seniors and students. Summer and holiday weekends sell out, so advance reservations are advisable, and the Prudential Center location is reachable by the MBTA Green and Orange Lines. Current schedules and fares should be confirmed with the operator.
| Price | About $50 per adult (about $50 USD) |
|---|---|
| Duration | 80 minutes |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | April-November |
| Address | Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199 |
Activity facts
- Where
- Back Bay, Boston
Location
Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199
42.3469, -71.0820 View on map
Highlights
- Ride a restored amphibious DUKW vehicle through Boston streets and into the Charles River
- Pass Beacon Hill, the Massachusetts State House, the Common and Faneuil Hall
- Costumed conductor narration of Boston history
- 80-minute tour departing from the Prudential Center in Back Bay
Tips for visiting
- Reserve in advance for summer and holiday weekends, when tours often sell out.
- Bring a light jacket or rain layer, as the vehicles are open-sided.
- Arrive early to check in at the Prudential Center departure point.
- Keep phones and cameras secure during the river portion of the tour.
- Ask about the weather cancellation and refund policy when booking.
When to visit
Late spring through early autumn offers the best weather, and weekday mornings tend to be less crowded.
Accessibility
Some vehicles may be accessible to wheelchair users, but the number is limited and advance notice is typically required. Visitors with mobility needs should contact the operator before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a Boston Duck Tour take?
The tour lasts about 80 minutes, combining a city drive with a cruise on the Charles River.
Where does the tour depart from?
Tours depart from the Prudential Center at 800 Boylston Street in Back Bay. Boarding instructions are given at booking.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families commonly take it. Age and seating rules apply, so they should be confirmed with the operator.
Do the tours run in winter?
The season generally runs from April to November. Visitors should check the operator's current calendar.