The launch of the Windermere Lake Cruises was marked during the Victorian era. More than 1.35 million visitors travel on Windermere steamers and launches every year. The steamers are well-equipped with various facilities such as bars and open-topped seating.
A number of boats connect the main towns and tourist attractions. The main 45-minute islands cruise from Bowness passes through the scheduled bays and wooded islands. A popular outing is a 40-minute trip from Ambleside offering free entry to the Lake District Visitor Centre including its playgrounds, restaurants, exhibitions and playgrounds.
A choice of Windermere spa hotels are available to book in Bowness.
Visit the popular attractions including museums, breath-taking towns, villages and various hot spots by hopping on a 3-hour main cruise operating between Ambleside, Bowness and Lakeside. You can get on and off the vessel at places of interest. Parking is not a concern as ample space is available at or near the main piers. If luxury is on your mind, book a private charter cruise.
Why not combine a Windermere Lake Cruise with a stay in a Windermere spa hotel with hot tub suites?
Many other categories are also available such as wine and lunch cruises, buffet cruises, charter, education and group cruises and many more on request. Printed information is available in many popular languages including Hindi, Punjabi, Gujrati, Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, French and German. These lovely cruises offer more than just a ferry service. The events can be customized according to your requirements. Irrespective of from where you start your journey, the stunning views of mountain scenery, wooded islands and scheduled bays will make it your perfect starting point. Some of the most famous cruises are:
Yellow Cruise
This lovely 90-minute non landing cruise will show you the best attractions and points of interest accompanied by a fascinating commentary on the history of Windermere. This cruise embarks from Bowness and you may disembark at either Lakeside or Bowness Pier. You are always free to return on a later boat. Book a ticket in advance to avoid any disappointment later.
Red Cruise
This beautiful 70-minute non-landing cruise includes famous tourist spots, points of interest surrounding Windermere and an impressive commentary on the same. This cruise starts from Bowness and you may disembark at either Brockhole or Bowness Piers and Ambleside.
Island Cruise
This 45-minute circular cruise from Bowness offer picturesque scenery, lovely tranquil bays and wooded shorelines. Prices and timetables can be found online. Pre-booking will always help you to avoid any hassle later.
Green Cruise
If you are travelling with family, there is no better choice than opting for the green cruise. It is a traditional wooden launch from Ambleside for an unforgettable journey around the northern end of Windermere. It does not only cover great family attractions but you always have the option of hopping off at any stop and catching the later boat back.
Buffet Cruise
Nothing can be more enjoyable than delicious food accompanied with live music on the cruise. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and spend a summer evening in the most elegant way possible. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
There are many options available that offer great value for money and are perfect for a family day out in Windermere.