- Cambridge is the UK area with the best tours, with 90.9% of boat tours receiving a score of four or higher
- Falmouth ranks second and Windsor places third, with 88.6% and 85.7%, respectively
- Reading is the worst UK area for boat tours, with only 45.5% of tours receiving a score of four or higher
New research has identified the best UK areas for boat tours, with Cambridge taking the top spot.
Ferry travel experts GetByFerry gathered data from TripAdvisor to find the number of boat tours in each major UK city or town rated four stars or higher (out of five). Results were then ranked in relation to the overall percentage of reviews with a score of four or more for all UK areas offering more than ten different boat tours.
Placing first on the list is Cambridge, with 90.9% of boat tours receiving a score of 4 or higher. The combination of beauty, history, and high-quality service contributes to the consistently high ratings for these tours. The tranquil River Cam provides a relaxing setting, while knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into Cambridge, which is steeped in history and culture.
Ranking second is Falmouth, with 88.6% of boat tours receiving a score of four or higher. Falmouth offers more boat tours than any location in the top ten, with 39 in total –the abundance of boat tours stems from its prime location on the picturesque Cornish coast, where the town’s natural harbour, the third largest in the world, offers sheltered waters ideal for boat trips.
Windsor places third, with 85.7% of boat tours receiving a score of four or higher. These boat tours offer picturesque views of Windsor Castle, Eton College, and the scenic River Thames, which always prove popular, especially with tourists.
In fourth is Bournemouth, with 83.3% of boat tours receiving a score of four or higher. These tours offer stunning views of the Jurassic Coast, where passengers can enjoy refreshing sea breezes, spot diverse marine wildlife, and even see the iconic Durdle Door.
Placing fifth is Windermere, with 81.3% of boat tours receiving a score of four or higher. These tours offer breathtaking views of England’s largest lake, Lake Windermere, surrounded by picturesque mountains and charming villages.
Poole places sixth, with 81.1% of boat tours receiving a score of four or higher. Poole offers stunning views of Europe’s largest natural harbour and allows passengers to see the iconic Brownsea Island while encountering some unique wildlife.
Norwich ranks seventh, with 80.8% of boat tours receiving a score of four or higher. Norwich boat tours offer a unique perspective of the city’s historic landmarks, including its magnificent cathedral and medieval castle, from the tranquil River Wensum.
Placing eighth is Cardiff, with 78.6% of boat tours receiving a score of four or higher. Cardiff boat tours received more reviews than any other UK area on the list, with the Cardiff International White Water Tour alone receiving 1,307 reviews. This is likely because the tour offers unique adrenaline-pumping activities such as white-water rafting and indoor surfing.
In ninth place is Bristol, with 75% of boat tours receiving a score of four or higher. On Bristol boat tours, passengers enjoy a front-row seat to the city’s evolving landscape, where centuries-old maritime heritage meets modern creativity, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Rounding off the top ten is Oxford, with 69.2% of boat tours receiving a score of four or higher. These tours offer passengers the chance to glide along the historic waterways that have inspired generations of scholars and poets, all while being regaled with tales of Oxford’s rich history and vibrant culture.
|
Rank |
Town or city |
Total reviews |
Percentage of reviews scoring four or higher |
|
1 |
Cambridge |
3,617 |
90.9% |
|
2 |
Falmouth |
2,678 |
88.6% |
|
3 |
Windsor |
3,215 |
85.7% |
|
4 |
Bournemouth |
176 |
83.3% |
|
5 |
Windermere |
629 |
81.3% |
|
6 |
Poole |
2,162 |
81.1% |
|
7 |
Norwich |
2,661 |
80.8% |
|
8 |
Cardiff |
4,000 |
78.6% |
|
9 |
Bristol |
1,677 |
75.0% |
|
10 |
Oxford |
1,137 |
69.2% |
Ante Dagelić, CEO of GetByFerry, commented on the findings:
“The UK boasts an exceptional array of boat tours, but those in Cambridge, Falmouth, and Windsor stand far above the rest. These top-rated experiences seamlessly blend breathtaking scenery, rich history, and expert commentary, ensuring an unforgettable journey for every passenger.
“Whether you’re captivated by the grandeur of Windsor Castle, the vibrant maritime culture of Falmouth, or the timeless beauty of Cambridge’s colleges, these tours certainly exemplify the absolute best of British boat tours.“