Toronto Tall Ship Boat Cruise

If you’re considering a different way to see Toronto, a Tall Ship Boat Cruise might just be the answer. It’s not your typical harbor tour — instead, you get to hop aboard a beautifully maintained vintage schooner, help out with the sails if you want, and enjoy some classic seafaring entertainment. With a strong reputation, a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews, and a price of just around $32, it’s a reasonably priced experience that offers a surprisingly immersive look at Toronto from the water.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the chance to see Toronto’s cityscape from a historic vessel adds a special touch — few other tours give you that blend of scenic views and maritime charm. Second, sailing on a three-masted schooner from the 1930s is a rare opportunity that feels authentic and engaging. You’re not just watching the city go by; you’re actively participating in the sailing process, which many find fun and memorable.

However, one point to keep in mind is the limited narration about Toronto’s sights during the cruise. If you’re hoping for an in-depth guided tour of the city’s landmarks or detailed history, this might not be the right fit. It’s more about the experience of sailing itself and enjoying the beautiful vistas.

This cruise tends to suit those who enjoy hands-on experiences, scenic views, and a bit of maritime history. It’s great for couples, friends, or anyone looking for a relaxing, visually stunning outing on Lake Ontario.

Key Points

• Unique perspective of Toronto from the water with stunning skyline views
• Authentic vintage vessel with character, helping connect you to maritime history
• Flexible departure times make it easy to fit into your schedule
• Opportunity for hands-on sailing with crew assistance, adds a fun element
• Additional expenses include drinks, food, and souvenirs, so budget accordingly
• Weather conditions affect the experience, so dress appropriately
• Limited group size (max 15) creates a more intimate atmosphere
• No hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation

What to Expect on the Tall Ship Kajama

Your journey begins at 235 Queens Quay West in downtown Toronto, a convenient location near public transit. Once onboard, you’ll be introduced to a schooner that has seen nearly a century of maritime history. The cruise lasts about 2 hours, including 30 minutes for boarding and getting settled.

The Sailing Experience

The highlight for many is helping the crew raise the sails on the three-masted vessel. If you’re curious, you can lend a hand with the ropes, but if you prefer to relax, just sitting back with a drink and soaking in the views is perfectly fine. Several reviews mention how much fun it is to participate — “I helped with the sails. A nice and fun experience,” says one guest. Just keep in mind that raising the sails is physically demanding, so bring comfortable clothes if you plan to get involved.

Scenic Highlights and Views

Once the sails are up, the ship glides through either the east or west gap of Toronto’s harbor, offering fantastic vantage points of the Toronto Islands and the downtown skyline. Expect to snap some pictures of iconic sights like the CN Tower, especially if you’re on the evening cruise. As one reviewer put it, “The return to Toronto Harbor is absolutely beautiful with the CN Tower light-up and the landscape of the City of Toronto illuminated.”

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The crew adds entertainment value by singing sea shanties and coiling ropes, which gives a lively, nautical vibe. Some reviews mention that the crew is friendly and knowledgeable, eager to answer questions about the vessel or the surrounding sights. They also fire off the ship’s cannon, a hit among guests and an authentic maritime tradition.

Food, Drinks, and Souvenirs

While the cruise price doesn’t include food or drinks, there is a fully licensed bar onboard where you can purchase beverages, and you can also order typical pub fare from the restaurant. For many, the drinks add a relaxed, social element to the cruise — just be mindful of the alcohol consumption if you’re planning to help with the sails.

After the cruise, you can purchase a souvenir photo to commemorate your trip. Some reviews suggest this is a nice keepsake, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion.

The Itinerary in Detail

The cruise typically comprises two main parts: the initial boarding and sail raising, followed by enjoying the scenery and entertainment. The boarding process takes about half an hour, giving you time to explore the vessel and get a feel for its historic charm.

Once underway, the crew often invites guests to get involved in raising the sails. This part is not just a photo op — it’s an active participation that many find rewarding, especially when they get to see the ship come alive with billowing sails. If you’d rather sit back, the crew is more than happy for you to relax with a drink or chat with fellow travelers.

The sail through Toronto’s harbor provides excellent views of the Islands and the skyline — especially stunning at sunset or during the evening cruise when the city lights up. During this time, the crew might sing sea shanties or share stories, making the sail feel like stepping into a maritime adventure.

Midway Highlights

Around the halfway point, the crew fires the ship’s cannon, which is a fun moment that captures the spirit of sailing days gone by. Afterward, you’ll continue sailing under full sail, and it’s common to ask questions about the vessel, its history, or the surrounding area.

End of the Cruise

As you return to the dock, there’s ample time to take photos of the Toronto skyline from the water. The cruise concludes back at the starting point, where you can purchase your souvenir photo or just reflect on the experience.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Dress appropriately: The cruise runs in all weather, so bring layers. If it’s raining, expect to get wet, so waterproof clothing is advisable.
• Arrive early: The meeting point is centrally located, but arriving early ensures you get your preferred spot and can explore the vessel beforehand.
• Comfortable footwear: If you help with the sails, you’ll be on deck and ropes — sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Bring a camera: The views are spectacular, especially during sunset or evening cruises.
• Consider your group size: With a max of 15 travelers, the atmosphere is more intimate, but it can get crowded if you arrive late or try to find a seat at the last minute.
• No hotel pickup: Plan your transportation to the dock accordingly.

The Value of a Tall Ship Cruise

At about $31.83 per person, this cruise offers good value for the unique experience of sailing on a historic vessel in the heart of Toronto. Unlike larger, narrated harbor tours, this is more about the hands-on maritime adventure and spectacular views. Many reviews call it a “fun and beautiful” experience, especially appreciated by those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and activity.

The opportunity to help raise the sails, listen to crew singing, and see Toronto from a different perspective makes it stand out. For the price, you’re also getting an experience that’s both visually memorable and culturally engaging, with the added charm of a vintage vessel that has character and history.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and scenic vistas. It appeals to those interested in maritime history, or anyone wanting a break from traditional city sightseeing. The intimate group size and relaxed pace make it a good choice for couples or small groups, but it’s also suitable for solo travelers looking to meet others.

If you’re after a guided narrative or cultural commentary, you might find this cruise a bit light in that regard. It’s more about the sailing experience and the views, so if that sounds appealing, you’ll likely love it. Be aware that it’s not specifically tailored to families or children — older kids might enjoy the active participation and the cannon fire, but younger kids should be prepared for the outdoor, nautical environment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable in bad weather? Yes, it operates in all weather conditions. However, if it’s raining heavily or the weather is unsafe, the cruise might be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the cruise last? The cruise is approximately 2 hours, including 30 minutes for boarding and getting underway.

Can I help with sailing? Yes, you can choose to help raise the sails, which is a fun and active part of the experience. It can be physically demanding but very rewarding.

Are drinks and food included? No, they are available for purchase onboard at the licensed bar and restaurant. The cruise price covers the vessel and crew only.

Can I buy souvenirs? Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase after the cruise, providing a nice keepsake of your time on the tall ship.

Is this tour family-friendly? While suitable for most travelers, it’s mainly geared toward those interested in maritime activities and scenic views. It might be best for older children comfortable outdoors and active participation.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, especially during peak times, to secure your spot. The cruise is popular, with many booked multiple times on the same day.

Where do I meet the cruise? At 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto. It’s a central location close to public transportation.

What is the maximum group size? Up to 15 travelers, creating a cozy, personal atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a unique way to see Toronto and enjoy a bit of maritime history, this Tall Ship Boat Cruise offers a memorable experience. The blend of scenic water views, the chance to participate in sailing, and the character of the vintage schooner make it stand out from more conventional harbor tours. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate authentic experiences and aren’t expecting a fully narrated city tour.

The moderate price point makes it accessible, and the reviews suggest that most guests walk away with a sense of adventure and beautiful photos. Just remember to dress for the weather and arrive early to get the best spot.

For anyone craving a relaxing yet engaging outing on Lake Ontario, this cruise is likely to deliver. It’s a chance to connect with Toronto’s maritime side and enjoy the city skyline from a whole new perspective.

Happy sailing!