Milwaukee Boat Line Photos
You might also consider
More like Milwaukee Boat Line
Recommended Reviews - Milwaukee Boat Line
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
We've been on two cruises with Milwaukee boat Line and thoroughly enjoyed both!! We sailed up the river to get to Lake Michigan and learned how to correctly use the phrases 'port' and 'starboard'. We learned about the different types of bridges used, and what Native American tribes lived in the area. Both tours were very relaxing and we even had a Lake Front beer and a seltzer! You can't go wrong there!
I've been to Milwaukee many times and I haven't been able to enjoy a river cruise. This past time, was finally able to enjoy a cruise with family members. The Milwaukee Boat Line offers great cruising options for visitors. We had originally reserved for the 4pm cruise, however, the system had moved it to the next day... maybe I had selected the wrong date. I had called the company right away. The representative stated since the cruise was cancelled due to the weather, the system had moved it to the next day for the same time. Since we weren't able to make that one, the company refunded me without any problems. The next morning, we realized there was a 10am cruise, so we booked it. We had arrived about 30 minutes before hand as they suggest. We checked in, and shown to the boat. The staff was very friendly. The boat has two levels, the 1st level is enclosed while the 2nd level is more exposed to the outdoors, but still has some covering. Before we went to the 2nd level, we had stopped to the refreshment counter for a beverage. When we arrived, only two other passengers, so needless to say, there were plenty of seating available. By the time, we were set to sail, there were only eight of us on the 10am sailing.... SWEET! Of course, before we left the dock, the crew went over the emergency drills then three loud horn blasts. The guide, was very knowledgeable about the history and the current state of the city. Of course, the guide would point out significate buildings, like any other tours.. About 90 minutes, later, we were docking. Overall, an incredible tour and I would highly recommend this tour. I'll probably back with other friends
Last minute reservation that we made, unfortunately missed our original time but I'm actually glad we did! The staff was accommodating and assured us we could make another time slot. Make sure to show up 15 minutes before! They ship off right on time. We rode on the happy hour tour, which comes with two free drinks with purchase of a ticket. The captain was fun, the crew was kind and energetic and the music was awesome! It was a slow ride but eventful. It's a nice way to get to see some of the lake and the beautiful skyline. We had so much fun and we would definitely go again if and when we return to Milwaukee. Make sure to bring some warm clothing!
I always enjoy boat tours, and this was a fantastic tour. I took the historical downtown cruise. It lasted 90 minutes. It's a great way to sightsee and explore Milwaukee. It takes you through downtown. The tour guide narrates the history of the city. It's fun and informative. It also takes you through Lake Michigan where you can see the lakefront park and the city's museums. I recommend sitting on the deck, if it's not too cold. There's a bar downstairs. Patrons were enjoying the bloody mary. 5 stars! Definitely something to consider.
My out of town relatives had an outstanding time on the Vista King and so did I. This has now become my top thing to do with out of town visitors and I have decided to begin a new list. The on board tour guide was friendly, knowledgeable and funny. The price was very affordable at $15 per adult and an outstanding value in my opinion. My only difficulty was navigating to the parking area as I am not real familiar with the downtown streets. I was trying to go around the block to approach the parking lot from the east side and inadvertently ended back up on the Interstate at which point I had to circle back around to the McKinley avenue exit and come back into town. Consequently we were late for our 12:00 scheduled departure. Fortunately, we were able to jump on board at the last minute. The deck hand was very nice to hold the boat a few minutes while my elderly mother made her way to the gangplank. I really appreciated their kindness! Over halfway through the cruise, the rain started pouring down (which we welcomed since we've been so dry!). The folks in the front of the boat moved inside and passengers began closing the large windows to block the rain from coming in. I was disappointed, but it was necessary since many passengers were getting quite wet. The windows did not fog up, so it was still possible to see a little bit. All passengers handled the crowded conditions quite well and we still had a great cruise! I definitely recommend the Milwaukee Boat Line as a fun thing to do with your visitors!
We enjoyed an afternoon on the Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan today. It was breezy but beautiful. We had relatives visiting from FL so they "bundled up" but we sat out on the front of the boat in the sun the whole time. Areas in the shade up top and more protected below were also available. Had bar with snacks and drinks, etc. As long time MKE-area residents we still learned new things and really enjoyed seeing the third ward, the breakwater and beyond, McKinley Marina, the Dennis Sullivan and museums, etc. Nick was the guide, and had a nice balance of information including some history and humor. Would definitely do it again.
We had a groupon and did the happy hour cruise in June. I'd highly recommend reserving on line and doing so early in the week. We tried 2 get on again later in summer without reservations and were out of luck. It's a nice cruise tho. Appropriate time wise (90min) The boat isn't that new but has 2 levels - great photo opps! They had (big) $2 don q rum mixers while we were on. Yes, the line was a little long but moved quickly. However, I gotta ditto another yelper on one of the bartenders hating her job and giving an exasperated look when I was happy and there to buy a drink. The other bartender was nice which kinda/sorta made up for it. But we'd do it again.
This was a fun way to be a tourist in Milwaukee. Get there as early as possible to order a drink and reserve your seat on the boat. I enjoyed the history talk and the views.
I like boat tours but I've only been on the one here in Milwaukee and compared to Chicago this is smaller, less expensive, more fun. We took a bunch of college student organizations and they worked with us on price, let us bring our own DJs and equipment, our own catering, and they made sure none of our students got into their booze. We all had fun and I will do it again, probably next time without college students.
We saw many of parts of the city, that we could only do if we walked for miles. Highly recommend!! We took the 4pm Tour on a Saturday & it was perfect. They practiced social distancing, required masks when boarding, in lower cabin & disembarking. Beverages, both non & alcoholic, plus snacks available for purchase in lower cabin.
We took the 90 min sightseeing tour. It was the perfect length. Got to see the architecture downtown and then headed down the river to Lake Michigan and cruised along the shore for great views of the downtown skyline. The tour narrator did a great job. Plenty of places to sit...both inside and out. In sun or under shade. They offered a bar with drinks and snacks (brats, hotdogs, chips). Everything was reasonably priced and would be affordable even with a whole family along. We purchased our tickets online. There are several parking structures within 1-2 blocks of the boat dock. Enjoyed it very much. Might have to come back sometime to try a sunset cruise.
Took the History & Architecture Cruise. Not a bad way to spend 90 minutes before a ball game. You cruise down the Milwaukee River into Lake Michigan and back. And they have locally brewed adult beverages on board for purchase. Woo Hoo !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Although the boats aren't huge or extremely modern, this company provides very affordable cruises ($15 for the one I took that was a little over 90 minutes) that pass by a lot of the important attractions you'll want to take a look at in Milwaukee. It's completely worth it since you'll be able to get great shots from the viewpoint of the water looking in to the city rather than from somewhere within the city. The boat I took had 2 levels providing many great angles from which to take shots and the captain was very knowledgeable about the city.
This was our favorite thing we did the weekend we visited Milwaukee. It was super easy to book two tickets online which cost about $64 including fees and taxes. We booked a Saturday at 12pm 90 minute tour and were told to arrive at about 11:30am. They let us board at that time - you need to present your online ticket / print out at the ticket booth and then they give you tickets to the boat. The boat itself has a downstairs area with port side with one women's bathroom and starboard side with one women's and one men's bathroom. You'll learn what port/starboard means during the tour. The bar with alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks and snacks is on the first level. The second level has an area with a covered space in the back and seats open to the air on the front. Since it was a hotter day, my husband and I chose to sit on the bottom of the boat. We thought the best view there was at the front where you get a nice 180 degree view through the windows. We enjoyed the information on the tour and all the great views! read more
3 months ago
1 year ago
We've been on two cruises with Milwaukee boat Line and thoroughly enjoyed both!! We sailed up the river to get to Lake Michigan and learned how to correctly use the phrases 'port' and 'starboard'. We learned about the different types of bridges used, and what Native American tribes lived in the area. Both tours were very relaxing and we even had a Lake Front beer and a seltzer! You can't go wrong there! read more
10 months ago
I've been to Milwaukee many times and I haven't been able to enjoy a river cruise. This past time, was finally able to enjoy a cruise with family members. The Milwaukee Boat Line offers great cruising options for visitors. We had originally reserved for the 4pm cruise, however, the system had moved it to the next day... maybe I had selected the wrong date. I had called the company right away. The representative stated since the cruise was cancelled due to the weather, the system had moved it to the next day for the same time. Since we weren't able to make that one, the company refunded me without any problems. The next morning, we realized there was a 10am cruise, so we booked it. We had arrived about 30 minutes before hand as they suggest. We checked in, and shown to the boat. The staff was very friendly. The boat has two levels, the 1st level is enclosed while the 2nd level is more exposed to the outdoors, but still has some covering. Before we went to the 2nd level, we had stopped to the refreshment counter for a beverage. When we arrived, only two other passengers, so needless to say, there were plenty of seating available. By the time, we were set to sail, there were only eight of us on the 10am sailing.... SWEET! Of course, before we left the dock, the crew went over the emergency drills then three loud horn blasts. The guide, was very knowledgeable about the history and the current state of the city. Of course, the guide would point out significate buildings, like any other tours.. About 90 minutes, later, we were docking. Overall, an incredible tour and I would highly recommend this tour. I'll probably back with other friends read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
Last minute reservation that we made, unfortunately missed our original time but I'm actually glad we did! The staff was accommodating and assured us we could make another time slot. Make sure to show up 15 minutes before! They ship off right on time. We rode on the happy hour tour, which comes with two free drinks with purchase of a ticket. The captain was fun, the crew was kind and energetic and the music was awesome! It was a slow ride but eventful. It's a nice way to get to see some of the lake and the beautiful skyline. We had so much fun and we would definitely go again if and when we return to Milwaukee. Make sure to bring some warm clothing! read more
2 years ago
9 years ago
I always enjoy boat tours, and this was a fantastic tour. I took the historical downtown cruise. It lasted 90 minutes. It's a great way to sightsee and explore Milwaukee. It takes you through downtown. The tour guide narrates the history of the city. It's fun and informative. It also takes you through Lake Michigan where you can see the lakefront park and the city's museums. I recommend sitting on the deck, if it's not too cold. There's a bar downstairs. Patrons were enjoying the bloody mary. 5 stars! Definitely something to consider. read more
My out of town relatives had an outstanding time on the Vista King and so did I. This has now become my top thing to do with out of town visitors and I have decided to begin a new list. The on board tour guide was friendly, knowledgeable and funny. The price was very affordable at $15 per adult and an outstanding value in my opinion. My only difficulty was navigating to the parking area as I am not real familiar with the downtown streets. I was trying to go around the block to approach the parking lot from the east side and inadvertently ended back up on the Interstate at which point I had to circle back around to the McKinley avenue exit and come back into town. Consequently we were late for our 12:00 scheduled departure. Fortunately, we were able to jump on board at the last minute. The deck hand was very nice to hold the boat a few minutes while my elderly mother made her way to the gangplank. I really appreciated their kindness! Over halfway through the cruise, the rain started pouring down (which we welcomed since we've been so dry!). The folks in the front of the boat moved inside and passengers began closing the large windows to block the rain from coming in. I was disappointed, but it was necessary since many passengers were getting quite wet. The windows did not fog up, so it was still possible to see a little bit. All passengers handled the crowded conditions quite well and we still had a great cruise! I definitely recommend the Milwaukee Boat Line as a fun thing to do with your visitors! read more
We enjoyed an afternoon on the Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan today. It was breezy but beautiful. We had relatives visiting from FL so they "bundled up" but we sat out on the front of the boat in the sun the whole time. Areas in the shade up top and more protected below were also available. Had bar with snacks and drinks, etc. As long time MKE-area residents we still learned new things and really enjoyed seeing the third ward, the breakwater and beyond, McKinley Marina, the Dennis Sullivan and museums, etc. Nick was the guide, and had a nice balance of information including some history and humor. Would definitely do it again. read more
We had a groupon and did the happy hour cruise in June. I'd highly recommend reserving on line and doing so early in the week. We tried 2 get on again later in summer without reservations and were out of luck. It's a nice cruise tho. Appropriate time wise (90min) The boat isn't that new but has 2 levels - great photo opps! They had (big) $2 don q rum mixers while we were on. Yes, the line was a little long but moved quickly. However, I gotta ditto another yelper on one of the bartenders hating her job and giving an exasperated look when I was happy and there to buy a drink. The other bartender was nice which kinda/sorta made up for it. But we'd do it again. read more
2 years ago
I like boat tours but I've only been on the one here in Milwaukee and compared to Chicago this is smaller, less expensive, more fun. We took a bunch of college student organizations and they worked with us on price, let us bring our own DJs and equipment, our own catering, and they made sure none of our students got into their booze. We all had fun and I will do it again, probably next time without college students. read more
6 years ago
We saw many of parts of the city, that we could only do if we walked for miles. Highly recommend!! We took the 4pm Tour on a Saturday & it was perfect. They practiced social distancing, required masks when boarding, in lower cabin & disembarking. Beverages, both non & alcoholic, plus snacks available for purchase in lower cabin. read more
9 years ago
We took the 90 min sightseeing tour. It was the perfect length. Got to see the architecture downtown and then headed down the river to Lake Michigan and cruised along the shore for great views of the downtown skyline. The tour narrator did a great job. Plenty of places to sit...both inside and out. In sun or under shade. They offered a bar with drinks and snacks (brats, hotdogs, chips). Everything was reasonably priced and would be affordable even with a whole family along. We purchased our tickets online. There are several parking structures within 1-2 blocks of the boat dock. Enjoyed it very much. Might have to come back sometime to try a sunset cruise. read more
11 years ago
Took the History & Architecture Cruise. Not a bad way to spend 90 minutes before a ball game. You cruise down the Milwaukee River into Lake Michigan and back. And they have locally brewed adult beverages on board for purchase. Woo Hoo !!!!!!!!!!!!!! read more
15 years ago
Although the boats aren't huge or extremely modern, this company provides very affordable cruises ($15 for the one I took that was a little over 90 minutes) that pass by a lot of the important attractions you'll want to take a look at in Milwaukee. It's completely worth it since you'll be able to get great shots from the viewpoint of the water looking in to the city rather than from somewhere within the city. The boat I took had 2 levels providing many great angles from which to take shots and the captain was very knowledgeable about the city. read more
13 years ago
The Happy Hour Cruise at 6PM is so nice and relaxing. We had the Groupon where we got a free drink. Drinks are average priced $4-6 and they are now offering Brats and hot dogs. A camera is a must on the cruise. I love to take tons of scenic and sunset pictures. You even get close to the Dennis Sullivan which is really beautiful to see. This is also a great family event which takes about a hour and a half. It's a nice way to spend a hour or two. You also have to take one "king or queen of the world" picture. read more
11 years ago
7 years ago
Absolutely a wonderful time, very beautiful and relaxing!! Also pet friendly...A must do when In the area! read more
8 years ago
Best part of our whole trip to MKE! The 90 minute tour was very informative and offered beautiful views of the city and Lake Michigan. We also loved that they had a bar on board so we were able to have an afternoon cocktail while sailing on Lake Michigan. We started on the top of the boat, however it started to get chilly and it was nice that they had an area beneath the boat that was covered, warm, and still offered views. For $20 a person this tour is a deal. Highly recommend! read more
9 years ago
Wonderful tour & we got to enjoy the scenery with our pups! The staff was so friendly & the tour guide was very knowledgeable about the city! Fun interesting facts along with some hilarious commentary! read more
9 years ago
Everything about this boat cruise was perfect. We purchased our tickets online before we arrived, and boarded with ease at the time of sailing. There is a covering over the main part of the boat, so you are protected from the sun's rays. At the front of the boat, you can get some sun without a roof. The boat sailed into Lake Michigan and turned around. Throughout the tour, the guides give interesting tidbits of information about the things we saw along the way. There is a snack bar on the bottom level of the boat in case you are hungry or thirsty. It was the perfect length cruise and we had a wonderful time. Highly recommend this cruise! read more
7 years ago
5 years ago
Page 1 of 2
