Questions before you board
Buffalo Boat Tours FAQs
Find direct answers about arrival, parking, weather, children, accessibility, food and drinks, cancellations, and private charters.
Browse cruisesWhat does a private charter include?
Private charter rates are based on cruise length. The charter includes the boat and crew, including the captain, deckhands, and bartenders. Catering and bar packages are available for an additional fee, and crew gratuities are not included.
Are children allowed?
Children are allowed unless a cruise is labeled adults-only or has an age restriction. Buffalo Boat Tours carries child and adult life vests, but infant-specific life vests are not available.
Do I have to buy a ticket for my infant?
Children under 3 can attend free but still require an infant ticket at checkout.
How should I dress?
Dress for outdoor conditions because the water may feel about 10 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than land. Bring a layer even on a warm day.
What if it rains?
Buffalo Boat Tours cruises operate rain or shine unless the captain cancels for safety. Covered areas are available. Storm-related cancellations can be rescheduled or refunded; guests who choose not to attend an operating cruise are not eligible for a refund.
When should I arrive?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure, check in at the Canalside booth, and be ready to board 15 minutes before departure. Cruises leave on time.
Can I get married onboard?
Yes. Weddings are allowed onboard, although captains cannot legally officiate the ceremony.
Are there bathrooms onboard?
Yes. Every Buffalo Boat Tours vessel has a restroom. Harbor Queen has two restrooms; Spirit of Buffalo's restroom is below deck.
Are your vessels accessible?
Harbor Queen and Big Kahuna are described as wheelchair friendly with an accessible gangway and ramps, although the marine bathrooms are not wheelchair accessible. Spirit of Buffalo is not wheelchair accessible because of its sloped top deck and narrow stairway to the bathroom. A wheelchair is available at the booth for extra assistance.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
No. Outside food, beverages, and coolers are not allowed. Each vessel has a bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and bagged snacks for purchase.
Are dogs allowed onboard?
Service animals are allowed. Pets and emotional-support animals are not allowed.
Where do we park?
Street parking may be available on Lloyd Street, Hanover Street, or Prime Street. Paid lots are available under the Skyway along Pearl Street, Commercial Street, and Marine Drive. Parking is also available at the LECOM Harborcenter ramp at 100 Washington Street. Parking fees may apply.
Where are the boats docked?
The boats are docked at Central Wharf at Canalside, 44 Prime Street, Buffalo, NY 14202, near the brown wooden Longshed building.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Public-cruise reservations are non-refundable, but may be rebooked when notice is given at least 24 hours before departure. Cancellations within 24 hours and no-shows are not eligible for rebooking or credit. Private charters may be canceled without charge up to 30 days before the event; cancellations within 30 days are non-refundable but may be rescheduled.
What payment methods do you accept?
The source FAQ says Buffalo Boat Tours accepts cash, checks, and major credit cards. The live booking flow is the current source for payment options on each public cruise.
Is tax included?
The source FAQ states there is no tax on transportation. Review the current booking flow for the complete checkout total.