Windermere is a top spot for boat trips in England — not just because it’s the largest lake in the country, but because of the variety of ways you can experience its stunning scenery. Whether you’re after a leisurely cruise with plenty of commentary, or a quick hop between charming towns, Windermere offers options that suit different tastes and schedules. We especially like the Windermere Yellow Cruise for its relaxed pace and the chance to explore Lakeside’s attractions, plus the Windermere Red Cruise for its short, scenic, hop-on-hop-off journey along the northern half of the lake. Both are great ways to see the Lake District from the water and learn a bit about its landscape.
In this guide, we’ll compare these two popular boat tours, highlighting what makes each one special, and help you pick the best fit for your trip. Whether you prefer a longer cruise with detailed commentary or a quick, flexible ride that lets you explore at your own pace, there’s a Windermere boat tour for you.
First, here’s a quick rundown of the options we’ve chosen — each offers a different way to enjoy the lake:
- Windermere Yellow Cruise: A scenic, 1.5-hour journey connecting Bowness and Lakeside, with stops to explore local attractions.
- Windermere Red Cruise: A 70-minute, hop-on-hop-off cruise that circles the northern part of the lake, ideal for quick sightseeing.
Now, let’s dive into the details of each.
1. Windermere Yellow Cruise: Sail between Bowness and Lakeside
This scenic cruise covers the southern half of Windermere, connecting the bustling town of Bowness with the tranquil Lakeside. It’s a relaxed 1.5-hour journey, perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the Lake District scenery without feeling rushed. The cruise features both inner and outer viewing decks, so you can soak up the views whether you’re sitting inside or outside. The boat makes stops at Lakeside, home to attractions like the steam railway and aquarium, and at Bowness, where you can explore shops, cafes, and the lakeside promenade.
This cruise stands out for its informative commentary—a natural addition that enriches your experience with stories about the lakes and surrounding villages. Passengers love being able to hop off at Lakeside or Bowness and catch a later boat, making it flexible. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with a 4.6/5 rating based on 43 reviews. Travelers particularly appreciate the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to visit Lakeside’s attractions.
This trip is ideal for those wanting a leisurely, educational experience with plenty of time to explore at stops. It’s suited for families, couples, or anyone interested in a relaxed cruise with good commentary. Keep in mind, the price isn’t listed here, but check availability to see starting times.
Bottom Line: The Yellow Cruise offers a leisurely, scenic trip with the flexibility to explore Lakeside and Bowness at your own pace, making it a top choice for relaxed sightseeing.
2. Windermere Red Cruise: Sail between Bowness and Ambleside
For those who prefer a shorter, more flexible water experience, the Windermere Red Cruise is a great pick. At around 70 minutes, this hop-on-hop-off journey covers the northern part of Windermere, connecting Bowness, Ambleside, and Brockhole. The cruise runs regularly, allowing you to hop off at each stop to explore local shops, cafes, or outdoor activities, then catch a later boat to continue your journey.
This cruise is well-equipped, with heated indoor cabins, outdoor viewing decks, toilets, and a cafe, making it comfortable in any weather. The commentary offers insights into the sights, adding context to your scenic ride. With a 4.4/5 rating from 33 reviews, visitors praise the professional service and the short, scenic route as a good alternative to longer trips.
This option is perfect for travelers who want to combine water travel with sightseeing at multiple stops, especially if time is tight. It’s suitable for families, small groups, or anyone looking for a convenient yet scenic way to experience Windermere without committing to a long cruise.
Bottom Line: The Red Cruise offers a quick, scenic, hop-on-hop-off experience, ideal for exploring Windermere’s northern sights without a full-day commitment.
How To Choose Between These Tours
When deciding which boat tour best fits your trip, consider your priorities. If you’re after a more in-depth, scenic experience with time to explore Lakeside, the Yellow Cruise is the way to go. It’s perfect for a relaxed day with plenty of commentary and optional stops.
If your schedule is tight or you want to maximize sightseeing with minimal time on the water, the Red Cruise offers a shorter, flexible route that lets you hop on and off at key spots like Ambleside and Brockhole. It’s excellent for quick visits or if you prefer a more active, on-the-go day.
In general, plan your trip based on whether you prefer a leisurely, narrated cruise or a shorter, flexible shuttle. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred times.
In summary, Windermere offers a variety of boat trips to match different interests and schedules. The Yellow Cruise is best for those wanting a longer, narrated journey with the chance to explore Lakeside’s attractions, while the Red Cruise suits travelers looking for a quick, flexible ride along the northern part of the lake. Both provide memorable views of the Lake District and are a great way to see the area from the water.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance will ensure you get the most out of your Windermere experience. Be sure to check schedules and availability, especially during busy seasons, and enjoy your time on this beautiful lake.