Windermere stands out as one of England’s most iconic lake destinations, and it’s no surprise that boat tours and cruises here are among the most popular ways to experience the Lake District. Whether you want a comprehensive day-long tour taking in multiple lakes and scenic highlights, or an intimate private sail on Windermere itself, there’s something to suit every taste. We especially like the Ultimate Full-Day Lake District Tour for its extensive itinerary and the Private Sail and Dine Experience for those seeking a luxurious escape. Both offer a chance to see the lakes from the water, surrounded by stunning landscapes and with options for storytelling, fine dining, or just relaxing with incredible views.
What makes Windermere a prime location for boat trips is its dramatic scenery—rocky inlets, wooded shores, and views of volcanic peaks. Plus, the area’s literary and cultural connections, like Beatrix Potter’s home and Wordsworth’s haunts, add extra charm. Many tours include engaging guides, scenic cruises, and stops at key villages; some even combine boat rides with visits to historic sites. Whether you’re after a quick afternoon cruise or a full-day exploration of 10 lakes, Windermere’s boat tours deliver memorable experiences.
Below, you’ll find a selection of the best boat tours and cruises in Windermere. Each offers a different way to enjoy the lakes—some focus on scenic experiences, others on cultural storytelling, and a few on private luxury. Keep reading for the details on each, and find the perfect match for your Lake District adventure.
1. Ultimate Full-Day Lake District Tour: 10 Lakes, Amazing Scenery & Lake Cruise
This full-day adventure is designed for those who want to see as much as possible in one go. The tour covers 10 of the Lake District’s most famous lakes, combined with scenic drives through valleys and dales, visits to historic landmarks like the stone circle at Askrigg, and plenty of opportunities for stellar photography. The highlight is a Ullswater boat cruise, offering an hour on the water amid breathtaking scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive nature—visiting Windermere, Ullswater, and more, all in one day. The guide shares stories about the area’s geological past, literary connections, and local folklore. You’ll get to see wildlife at Whinlatter Forest, view Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, and learn how the lakes were formed, including details about Roman activity and volcanic peaks. The cruise on Ullswater is especially popular, providing a peaceful moment amid the drama of the landscape.
Reviews praise this tour for its fascinating scenery, engaging storytelling, and expert guiding. One visitor raves, “Fascinating scenery and a great guide, with historical stories to tell.” At around 8 hours, it’s a full day but packed with value for those eager to get a complete picture of the Lake District. It’s perfect if you want a mix of driving, walking, and boat time, all in one trip.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a rich, full immersion into the Lakes, ideal for travelers who want to see many lakes and enjoy the storytelling along the way. It’s great for active visitors who don’t mind a full day.
2. Beatrix Potter’s Half Day Lake District Tour Including Lake Cruise
At number 2 on our list the Beatrix Potter’s Half Day Lake District Tour Including Lake Cruise combines literary nostalgia with scenic beauty in a compact four-and-a-half-hour package. This tour is ideal for those short on time but still eager to explore Beatrix Potter’s world. It includes a scenic cruise on Lake Windermere, combined with visits to Hill Top, her beloved home, and the village of Hawkshead, where Wordsworth studied.
The highlight of this tour is the visit to Hill Top, where Beatrix’s personal touches still adorn the rooms, giving a real sense of her life and inspiration. You’ll also enjoy a boat cruise across Windermere, giving you the chance to see the lake from the water, with views of the surrounding hills. The tour also stops at Tarn Hows, a famous beauty spot purchased by Potter and preserved by the National Trust, offering iconic vistas.
Reviews emphasize how well-organized and informative this tour is, with one saying, “The tour was excellent and the driver was kind, considerate, and very informative.” It’s suited for families, literature enthusiasts, and travelers who want a taste of the Lake District’s charm without a lengthy commitment. The combination of history, scenery, and small-group intimacy makes it stand out.
Bottom Line: This half-day tour is perfect if you want a deep dive into Beatrix Potter’s world with scenic lake views, especially if your schedule is tight.
3. Beatrix Potter Afternoon Half Day – includes Hill Top and Cruise
For those who want a shorter, more focused experience, the Beatrix Potter Afternoon Half Day offers a quick but rich taste of her life and landscapes. This tour lasts about four hours and combines a Lake Windermere cruise with a visit to Hill Top, her former home.
What makes this tour special is its emphasis on Beatrix Potter’s personal connection with the Lake District. You’ll explore her house, see the rooms and gardens where she drew inspiration, and learn about her conservation efforts. The boat ride on Windermere is a relaxing way to enjoy the lake’s scenery, with onboard commentary adding insight into the area’s natural beauty and literary history.
Guests appreciate how intimate and well-paced this tour is. One review notes, “Very interesting story and facts told by our guide. Very knowledgeable.” It’s ideal for travelers short on time, families, or those who want a relaxed afternoon filled with literary and scenic highlights.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a concise, engaging experience focused on Beatrix Potter and Windermere’s scenic lake views, this tour is a smart choice.
4. Private Sail and Dine Experience on Lake Windermere
For a truly special experience, the Private Sail and Dine Experience offers the chance to charter a 10-metre Oceanis Clipper sailing yacht. Up to two people can enjoy this three-hour private cruise, with the option to participate actively or simply relax and soak in the views.
This tour is all about exclusivity. You’ll sail across Windermere, enjoying stunning panoramic scenery and Cumbrian air. The highlight is the locally sourced ploughman’s lunch, served aboard or on deck if weather permits, with homemade touches that make it feel like a special occasion. The boat is equipped with a well-stocked bar, private bathroom, and central heating, making it a comfortable luxury.
Guests rave about the “fantastic weather and wind,” and the ability to personalize the experience—whether you want to learn about sailing or just unwind. The guide shares stories about Windermere and the surrounding area, making it an intimate, memorable outing. It’s suited for couples or small groups seeking privacy and a touch of luxury.
Bottom Line: This experience is perfect for romantics or anyone celebrating a special occasion who wants a private, tailored sailing trip with fine food and stunning views.
5. Private Sailing Experience on Lake Windermere
At number 5 is the Private Sailing Experience on Lake Windermere, a two-hour adventure for groups of up to eight. Like the sail and dine, this offers the chance to charter a 10-metre Oceanis Clipper, with a focus on relaxed sailing and enjoying Windermere’s scenery.
This tour is led by a seasoned skipper who has sailed the lake for 20 years. Guests can participate actively or simply enjoy the ride, with plenty of stories and insights about the lake’s geography and history. The well-stocked bar is available at reasonable prices, making it an ideal way to unwind with friends or family. It’s particularly appealing if you want a flexible, personalized experience without the formality of a larger tour.
Reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guide, with one noting, “My wife and I had a fantastic time sailing thanks to John’s expertise.” The boat is equipped with a private bathroom and central heating, adding comfort for an enjoyable outing.
Bottom Line: For a shorter, flexible private sailing trip that emphasizes comfort and personal interaction, this tour hits the mark.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour or Cruise in Windermere
When deciding among these options, consider your priorities. For a full-day immersion into the lakes’ scenery and culture, the Ultimate Full-Day Lake District Tour is a top pick. If your time is limited but you still want to explore Beatrix Potter’s world, the Half-Day Lake District Tour provides a well-rounded experience.
For a more intimate, personalized day, the private sailing options offer flexibility and luxury—ideal for special occasions or couples, especially the Sail and Dine experience. Budget-wise, the half-day tours are more affordable, while private experiences provide exclusivity at a higher price point.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability. Be sure to match your tour to your interests—whether it’s literary history, scenic cruising, or private sailing—so your Windermere adventure hits all the right notes.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a full day exploring the lakes’ grandeur, a quick literary jaunt, or a private sailing escape, Windermere offers plenty of fantastic boat trips. For broad coverage, the Ultimate Full-Day Lake District Tour is hard to beat, while the private sailing experiences provide a luxurious, personalized touch. Shorter options like the half-day tours are perfect for those with limited time but still eager to see and learn.
To truly enjoy the lakes, consider what type of experience suits your style—active, relaxed, or indulgent—and book early to avoid missing out. Windermere’s waters await, ready to show you the beauty of the Lake District from a boat.
