10 Unforgettable Boat Experiences for Your Travel Bucket List

If you’re a travel who truly wants to experience the wonders of our planet, hop on a boat. Water covers more than 70 percent of Earth’s surface, so aquatic adventures are a must for curious explorers.

But boating isn’t just about getting from point A to B; it’s a journey that offers its own unique travel experiences. Whether it’s paddling through glow worm-lit sea caves in New Zealand, soaking in a hot tub with Manhattan’s skyline as your backdrop, or cruising the Nile like ancient royalty, boat trips promise unforgettable memories.

Here are 10 incredible boating experiences from around the world to add to your travel bucket list.

Sweden: Join the Crew of a Working Icebreaker Ship

On this boat trip in Swedish Lapland, you can experience what it’s like to work as a member of the crew of the Arctic Explorer, a 60-year-old icebreaker that helps keep shipping routes open on the sea during the frigid winter months. The two-hour cruise includes opportunities to meet the captain and crew members, climb down into the engine rooms, and chill out in the cozy saloon. You can also slip into a dry survival suit for a laid-back float on the Arctic Sea and walk on the ice to take selfies with the icebreaker in the background.

Egypt: Cruise the Nile Like a Pharaoh

In the 18th and 19th centuries, wealthy travelers eager to explore the ancient wonders of the Nile did so aboard dahabiyas—luxurious sailboats unique to Egypt. These elegant vessels, which date back to the time of the Pharaohs, largely disappeared from the river about 100 years ago as railways became more popular. However, the tradition has been revived by Nour El Nil, which has partnered with a veteran sailor to revive these vessels and bring them back to the Nile. Their multi-day boat trips offer an unforgettable journey to lesser-known tombs, temples, and local villages along the Nile.

Croatia: Take a Boat Trip to a Secret Cave Wine Cellar

Move over, Napa—Croatia’s got a wine experience that will make all your vino-loving friends green (or in this case, red!) with jealousy. With the Cave Wine Tasting boat trip from Riva Marina in Hvar, you’ll take a speedboat to a hidden wine cellar nestled in an ancient limestone chasm, accessible only from the water. Indulge in a tasting of the local red, “Plavac Mali,” paired with cheese, bread, and olive oil in this sublime subterranean setting. And don’t forget to take a refreshing dip in the Adriatic’s crystal-clear waters before heading back to dry land.

New Zealand: Paddle in an Aquatic Cave Lit by Glow Worms

New Zealand’s Lake Rotomahana boasts breathtaking steaming cliffs that captures travelers’ attention during the day. However, nearby Lake Ōkāreka offers its own enchanting show you can only see by boat at night. As darkness falls, the lake transforms into a glowing wonderland, with glow worms lighting up the small caves along the shore. Paddle Board Rotorua offers tours by paddleboard or kayak, letting you experience this bioluminescent spectacle, along with mesmerizing views of the Milky Way.

Hong Kong: Set Sail on a Classic “Junk Boat”

Next time you’re in Hong Kong, look out for the tall wooden ships with three red sails in the Victoria Harbour. Dubbed “junk boats,” these distinctive vessels are a quintessential symbol of Hong Kong—and you can experience one firsthand with Aqua Luna. The tour boat company offers a range of junk boat tours, from dim sum cruises to evening harbor tours and floating afternoon tea. There’s even a cruise that shows off Hong Kong’s famous laser show, accompanied by an multicourse dinner. It’s an incredible way to see the destination and experience a piece of Hong Kong history.

New York: Host a Hot Tub Party on the Hudson River

If you’re seeking out a VIP experience on a trip to New York City (who isn’t?), forget the nightclub queues and head to the Hudson River instead. Through the peer-to-peer boat rental company Boatsetter, you can host a hot tub party on a 39-foot boat and soak up the city’s dazzling skyline. This is an aquatic twist on your usual party scene.

Botswana & Namibia: Take an African Safari by Houseboat

Safaris aren’t just on option for landlubbers. The Zambezi Queen by Mantis offers an opulent houseboat safari experience on Chobe River, renowned for its impressive elephant herds. Guests can enjoy close-up encounters with these majestic giants and spot other wildlife like leopards, lions, and antelope. After a day of spotting wildlife, relax in the houseboat’s plunge pool or retreat to your luxurious suite, where you can unwind with stunning, unobstructed views of the river and surrounding landscape from your private balcony.

Finland: Cruise Finland’s Largest Lake on a Luxury Steamship

Imagine gliding across Finland’s largest like on a floating masterpiece that marries history with luxury. The S/S Paul Wahl, a majestic century-old steamship, has been elegantly renovated to offer an extraordinary cruising experience on Lake Saimaa. Brimming with classic charm with modern comfort, this steamship features handcrafted furnishings, a glistening champagne bar, and lavish suites illuminated by antique sconces that once graced the exterior of the vessel. With cruises ranging from two to six days, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the untouched splendor of Lake Saimaa and perhaps spot the lake’s elusive seal.

England: Relax Aboard a Floating Spa

England’s Monkey Island Estate blends the tranquility of boating with the luxury of wellness on its unique Floating Spa in the heart of the River Thames. Inspired by the historic Apothecaries’ Barge from the 17th century, which once dispensed therapeutic remedies from Chelsea Physic Garden, this spa brings a historic wellness tradition into the present. While honoring its roots, the Floating Spa now offers contemporary treatments like massages and facials, enhanced by the soothing sway of the barge on the river.

California: Explore Giant Sea Caves by Kayak

Did you know that you can find some of the world’s largest sea caves off the coast of California? Channel Islands Expeditions offers a thrilling way to experience them up close with their kayaking tours around the Channel Islands. Departing from Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, CA, you’ll board a custom-built expedition vessel and cruise to Channel Islands National Park (one of the country’s least-crowded National Parks), potentially spotting dolphins and whales along the way. Once at the islands, switch to kayaks to explore volcanic sea caves, tunnels, and arches, including the renowned Painted Cave with its shimmering lichen and moss. Finish your adventure with a refreshing snorkeling session in vibrant kelp forests.

Joni Sweet is a seasoned travel writer who covers adventure and wellness experiences around the world.