Boat Header

Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images

Best Boat Tour 2026

By Readers' Choice On 2/18/26 at 11:59 AM EST

From the neon-flecked harbor of Chicago to the primordial, moss-draped bayous of Louisiana, America's true character is best revealed from the water's edge. Boat tours offer a sophisticated pivot from the standard tourist trail, providing a front-row seat to the nation's most dramatic maritime transitions. Whether it's the salt-spray adrenaline of a Pacific whale-watching expedition, a silent electric glide across an alpine lake, or an architectural odyssey through a canyon of skyscrapers, these aquatic journeys redefine the American landscape. For the discerning traveler, taking to the water isn't just a mode of transport—it is a visceral, high-definition immersion into the coastlines, rivers, and lakes that carved a continent.

Newsweek is proud to recognize this year's 10 standout boat tours—selected by our expert panelists and contributors and voted on by readers for their exceptional quality and distinctive excellence. Each has been officially recognized by Newsweek as one of the Best Boat Tours of 2026.

1. Captain Brian on the Water

Captain Brian on the Water

Photo courtesy of Captain Brian on the Water Photo courtesy of Captain Brian on the Water

Deep in the tangled mangroves of Pine Island Sound, Captain Brian Holaway—a master naturalist—orchestrates a private, low-impact dance with the Gulf's wilder side. These bespoke shelling and birding expeditions bypass the crowded beaches for the secluded shores of Cayo Costa and Cabbage Key. It is a high-brow, eco-conscious retreat for travelers who value rare bird sightings and ancient Calusa history over standard tourist traps, delivered with 30 years of seasoned nautical wisdom.

2. Sea Quest Hawai'i

Sea Quest Hawai'i

Photo courtesy of Sea Quest Hawai'i Photo courtesy of Sea Quest Hawai'i

Along the volcanic spine of the Kona Coast, Sea Quest Hawai'i turns the Pacific into an intimate underwater amphitheater. Family‑owned and rooted in local heritage, the outfitter runs small‑group adventures aboard custom rigid‑hull rafts that slip into sea caves, lava tubes, and remote snorkeling sites larger vessels can't reach. Their signature manta‑ray night snorkel becomes even more meaningful knowing the company supports local families through living‑wage jobs and community service. Despite tsunamis and pandemic setbacks, Sea Quest rebuilt through sheer grit. Today, their mission is clear: connect travelers to Hawai'i's rare marine places and inspire lifelong stewards of its waters.

3. Napali Coast Boat Tour

Napali coast

Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images

Stretching along Kauai's roadless northern shore, the Napali Coast is a cathedral of 4,000-foot emerald sea cliffs and hidden waterfalls. These high-speed catamaran tours offer the only way to witness the sheer scale of this prehistoric landscape from the water. Whether snorkeling in secluded coves or navigating sea caves, travelers are treated to a cinematic adventure that feels like a journey to the very edge of the earth.

4. Allen Marine Tours

allen marine

Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images

As a Tlingit-operated powerhouse with half a century of pedigree, Allen Marine is the standard-bearer for indigenous-led Alaskan exploration. Their custom-built expedition vessels navigate the granite cathedrals of Misty Fjords with a precision that massive cruise ships can't replicate. Blending cultural storytelling with sightings of whales and black bears, they offer a polished, high-definition look at the maritime traditions and natural wonders of the Inside Passage, all while maintaining deep roots in the local community.

5. Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching

Juneau Wildlife

Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images

In the frigid, nutrient-rich waters of Alaska's Inside Passage, Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching offers a front-row seat to nature's most magnificent spectacle. Utilizing nimble, custom-built vessels, this outfitter provides an intimate alternative to crowded cruise ship tenders. With a near-total guarantee of humpback sightings and expert-led narration on marine biology, it is a high-stakes wildlife encounter that serves as the crown jewel of any Pacific Northwest itinerary.

6. Captain Mike's Dolphin Tours

dolphin

Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images

Operating from the serene docks of Tybee Island, Captain Mike's remains the soul of Georgia's coastal heritage. This locally-owned institution offers more than just a sunset cruise; it's an expert-led pursuit of the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin in its natural habitat. With a casual, "Tybee-time" atmosphere and a crew that knows every marshy inlet, it provides families with an authentic, high-probability wildlife encounter that feels like a backyard adventure with the region's best sailors.

7. Beamer's Hells Canyon Tours

Beamers

Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images

Cutting through North America's deepest river gorge, Beamer's jet boat expeditions are a high-octane lesson in geological drama. Guests navigate the churning Snake River rapids, tracing the border of three states while scouting for bighorn sheep and ancient petroglyphs. Whether opting for a day-trip thrill or an overnight stay at their remote Copper Creek Lodge, this is the definitive frontier experience for those seeking the raw, vertical grandeur of the Pacific Northwest's most rugged interior.

8. Cajun Encounters Swamp Tour

Cajun Encounters

Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images

In the emerald twilight of the Honey Island Swamp, Cajun Encounters delivers a raw, high-definition look at Louisiana's untamed bayou. Far from a standard boat ride, these expert-led excursions navigate narrow sloughs to reveal sun-drenched alligators and ancient cypress groves. By blending authentic French-Acadian storytelling with a deep commitment to wetland preservation, they offer travelers a visceral, 5-star immersion into the mysterious heart of the American South.

9. Clear Kayaking Tour of Shell Key Preserve

Clear Kayak

Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images

In the turquoise shallows of the Florida Gulf Coast, the Clear Kayaking Tour offers a literal window into a hidden marine world. Navigating the mangroves of Shell Key Preserve in transparent vessels, paddlers enjoy unobstructed views of manatees, dolphins, and rays gliding beneath their seats. It is a serene, eco-conscious adventure that replaces the traditional kayak floor with a living aquarium, perfect.

10. Salty Sirens Tours

salty

Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of iStock by Getty Images

Ditching the crowded decks of massive charters, Salty Sirens Tours offers an intimate, boutique escape into Florida's crystalline Gulf waters. Specializing in high-end, women-led boat excursions, this outfitter pairs coastal elegance with raw exploration. Whether snorkeling hidden sandbars or tracking wild dolphins at sunset, guests enjoy a curated, "locals-only" perspective. It is the definitive choice for travelers seeking a sophisticated, small-group maritime adventure away from the mainland's tourist bustle.

FINALISTS Bellevue Lake Cruises Big Blue Dive Boat Emerald Coast Sailing Excursions Gondola Getaway Inc. Ketchikan AdventureVue

About Newsweek Readers' Choice™ Awards

Our nominees are editorially driven with contributions from a panel of travel experts. The final list is determined by Newsweek editors. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions, please see our FAQs or email us at readers.choice@newsweek.com.

Our Featured Panelists

Linnea Bailey

Linnea Bailey is an award-winning journalist specializing in travel and tourism. Her freelance work can be found in Southern Living, The Palm Beach Post, Florida Weekly, Modern Luxury, art&culture magazine, The Palm Beaches Blog and more. A former newspaper reporter, she now owns a communications company in West Palm Beach. Linnea is an active member of The Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), the North American Travel Journalists Association, the International Travel Writers Alliance, The Family Travel Association and The Adventure Travel Trade Association. She is a graduate of the University of Central Florida's journalism school. Learn more about her travels at www.linneabailey.com.

Pamela and Gary Baker

Pam & Gary Baker

Pam and Gary Baker are freelance food, wine, and travel writers living in Northern California. They have written for local, national, and international publications including WineTraveler, BBC Travel, LuxeBeat, Best Wineries, Wander with Wonder, and more. Pam is also the former editor of Sacramento Lifestyle Magazine. They love train travel, small ship sailing, and exploring wine regions throughout the world. Follow their adventures at pamandgarybaker.com.

Teresa Bergen

Teresa Bergen is a Portland, Oregon-based travel writer who specializes in the outdoors, eco, vegan and sober travel. She's the author of Easy Portland Outdoors and the Sober Travel Handbook. Learn more about her at teresabergen.com.

Gavin Booth

Gavin Booth of coupleinthekitchen.com specializes in recipe development, all things grilling, food- and wine-based travel and romantic destinations of the world. He has extensive travel experience, visiting all 50 U.S. states and over 40 countries. He's a full-time recipe developer, photographer, videographer and writer.

Chez Chesak headshot

Chez Chesak

Chez Chesak is an award-winning adventure travel writer, 29-year veteran of the outdoor industry, Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America and President of The Society of American Travel Writers' Central States Chapter. Learn more about him at www.chezconnects.com.

Marla Cimini

Marla Cimini is an award-winning writer and content creator who is passionate about travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures. An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), European getaways and incredible domestic and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Residing in New Jersey (Philadelphia area), Marla is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California and covers those destinations often. Follow her adventures at marlacimini.com.

Peggy Cleveland

Marguerite "Peggy" Cleveland is a travel and food writer focusing on cultural experiences, food and wine for travelers over 50. She runs the website Peggy, Where Should I Go? and contributes to Business Insider, SheBuysTravel, TravelAwaits, Northwest Travel and Life, and Food, Wine & Travel. Peggy is the author of 100 Things to Do in Tacoma Before You Die with Reedy Press. Her writing highlights unique destinations and local cuisine, offering practical insights and inspiration for her readers. She is a NATJA and IFWTWA member. Follow her on Instagram.

Cynthia Drake

Cynthia J. Drake is an Austin-based travel writer for Cruise Critic, Travel + Leisure, Southern Living, Texas Monthly, and others. See her adventures at http://cynthiadrake.com.

Laurie Jo Miller Farr headshot

Laurie Jo Miller Farr

An award-winning contributor to luxury lifestyle and travel magazines, Laurie Jo Miller Farr specializes in deluxe hotels and destination marketing. Based in New York City, she is a dual U.S./U.K. citizen, having spent half a lifetime in London. Formerly serving as the tourism promotion director for the city's official tourism boards in both NYC and Boston, she recently relocated from San Francisco, where she edited a weekly travel newsletter and co-hosted a podcast. Follow her @lauriejmfarr.

Melissa Garcia

Melissa Garcia, known as the ConsumerQueen, is a full-time content creator with over 20 years of experience helping people save money and make savvy decisions. Her mission is to teach others to save where they can so they can spend on what they love. Melissa shares the best products to make life easier and also owns RoamingMyPlanet and The Oklahoma Homesteader, where she continues to inspire and educate her audience.

Misty headshot

Misty Milioto

Misty Milioto is a freelance writer and editor with 22 years of experience working with publications across the country. Publications have included Sunset; U.S. News & World Report; and Modern Luxury's suite of 80+ regional publications, such as Aspen Magazine, San Francisco Magazine and Scottsdale Magazine. She also oversees a luxury lifestyle blog at girlwilltravel.com. She loves everything from exotic destinations and outdoor recreation to exploring the bounty of foodie goodness in New Orleans, where she is currently based. You can connect with her on Instagram.

Catherine Parker headshot

Catherine Parker

Catherine Parker has a passion for travel that's driven her across North America, visiting all 50 states, seven Canadian provinces and seven Mexican states as well as top destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. After graduating from the University of Houston, Catherine started her career in travel and tourism as a flight attendant. A writer for over 10 years, she maintains an active roster of national publications. Catherine also publishes a travel website, CarfulOfKids.com. Her favorite places are national parks, museums and sidewalk cafés. She's torn between a weekend in the mountains or the beach.

Amy Piper

Amy Piper is a freelance travel writer, blogger, photographer and author specializing in luxury and multigenerational travel. She is a native Michigander who travels through the lens of a food lover and has been to 45 states and 41 countries around the world. From getting chased by bomb-sniffing dogs in the middle of the night in Bogotá to being boarding on her plane from Buenos Aires to Paraguay due to the wrong visa, Amy always has an exciting adventure to tell her readers and community of travel enthusiasts. Learn more at followthepiper.com.

Jacky Runice

When Jacky took her first flight at age 17 to Spain, she hadn't stepped a foot outside of Chicago. As a broadcast journalist for 20 years, she always managed to bring her travels back to her Chicago audience with radio documentaries about the culture and characters of places she visited. She transitioned to print journalism (syndicated travel column via Tribune Media Services and Travel Columnist for the Daily Herald Chicago) and then to the web where she has written for numerous outlets such as CBS, LuxuryHotels.com, Examiner.com, AOL, USA Today and others. Follow her on Facebook.

Mike Shubic headshot

Mike Shubic

Mike Shubic is a seasoned road trip travel video blogger, traversing the byways of the world looking for those hidden gems of the road. From unique destinations, unexpected discoveries, creative cuisine, intriguing inns to exciting attractions...the road is his page. The experiences are his ink. And every 300 miles, a new chapter begins. Whether you live vicariously or by example, Mike will do the exploring so you can have an adventure. Learn more at MikesRoadTrip.com.

Jamie Davis Smith - headshot-Newsweek Fans Choice

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie Davis Smith is a writer and attorney from Philadelphia who now calls Washington, D.C. home. She's traveled to more than 90 countries, often bringing her children along on her adventures. Her work can be found in The Washington Post, National Geographic, Travel + Leisure, Afar, The Huffington Post, USA Today and many other publications. Jamie can be contacted at byjamiesmith@gmail.com, and posts about her travels on Instagram.

Mira Temkin headshot

Mira Temkin

Mira Temkin has been an intrepid travel writer for more than 25 years. Her adventures have taken her all over the world, both in the US and globally. From destinations to tours to cruises and luxury resorts, her stories cover North America, the Caribbean, Europe, Central and South America and the Middle East. Her stories can be found in SheBuysTravel, Travel Awaits, UrbanMatter, Orbitz, Travelocity and Splash Magazines Worldwide. Her work has also appeared in Experience First Tours Chicago, Boomer Magazine, Highland Park Landmark, Travel Ticket and more. Listen to her podcasts on "We Travel There." Learn more at miratemkintravel.com or follow her on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

Aly Walansky

Aly Walansky writes regularly about food news and trends. She has been a food journalist for over twenty years and has covered everything from budget shopping to recipes to culinary travel content for national publications that include the Food Network, Southern Living, Food & Wine, Travel & Leisure, The Kitchn and more. She was ranked among top 10 journalists of 2023 and top 10 freelance journalists in 2024, as well as #1 food journalist of 2022, by Muck Rack. Follow her at alywalansky.substack.com.

Kathleen Walls

Kathleen Walls is publisher/writer for American Roads and Global Highways. She's authored eight travel books and several online tour guides. Publications she's written for include Roadtrippers, Travel Awaits, World Footprints, Snowbirds and RVers, Family RVing, Deep South, Florida Country, Rovology and more. She's a proud member of International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers (IFWTA), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), and North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA).

Nancy Zaffaro headshot

Nancy Zaffaro

Nancy Zaffaro is a writer, editor and photographer. She covers arts, culture, travel and the outdoors and also writes fiction. She is the Editor of ConfettiTravelCafe.com, and her work has appeared in print and online for numerous publications and media outlets. She travels locally throughout the Pacific Northwest, nationally and to far-flung international locales. When not traveling, she's active in her community and enjoys hiking, kayaking, yoga and spending time with friends and family. Originally from Chicago, she's also lived in Vancouver, British Columbia and Bellingham, Washington. She's currently based in Portland, Oregon.