Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide in Burlington
Burlington, United States

Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide

Outty Ranking 512 hoursFrom $80

Pick your date

Highlighted days have spots open. Grey days are sold out or not running.

September 2026

SMTWTFS

Loading live availability

Who is going?

Adults

Age 13 and over

2

Children

Age 12 and under

0

Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.

From, per person$80
View availability on Viator

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.

Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

51/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

Not yet rated

No traveler reviews have been published for this experience yet.

Quick answer

Is Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide worth booking?

Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide is a 2-hour experience in Burlington, United States, from $80 per person. It scores 51 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
51 / 100
Rating
Not yet rated
Duration
2 hours
From
$80 per person

Set sail on Lake Champlain aboard the Friend Ship, a classic 31’ Friendship sloop, and uncover the intriguing history of this beautiful lake. Led by Captain Matt Harrison, a Champlain historian, this 2-hour cruise explor

What you get

    About this experience

    Set sail on Lake Champlain aboard the Friend Ship, a classic 31’ Friendship sloop, and uncover the intriguing history of this beautiful lake. Led by Captain Matt Harrison, a Champlain historian, this 2-hour cruise explores iconic shipwreck sites like the General Butler and the Burlington Horse Ferry. Enjoy captivating tales of naval battles, prohibition smugglers, and modern archaeological discoveries while soaking in the stunning views. This small group experience—limited to just 10 guests—offers an intimate atmosphere perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike. Plus, a portion of your ticket supports the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum's mission. - Expert-led tour by historian Captain Matt Harrison - 2-hour sailing experience on a classic Friendship sloop - Explore famous shipwreck sites and learn about their history - Small group size of up to 10 guests for a personalized experience

    What's included

    Included

    • Use of onboard amenities including serveware, glassware, and ice storage
    • Expert narration by Captain Matt Harrison or trained crew
    • Access to water and onboard blankets/fleeces (as needed)
    • 2-hour guided sailing cruise on Lake Champlain

    Not included

    • Food and beverages (guests may bring their own)
    • Transportation to/from departure point
    • Gratuities

    What you'll see and do

    1. Board the Friend Ship at 1 College Street, where you’ll meet your captain and Maritime Museum historian and receive an introduction to the vessel and the historical significance of Lake Champlain. As you set sail into Burlington Bay, relax and take in scenic harbor views while learning about the lake’s geography and its important role in regional history.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Cruise through historically active waters once used for trade and travel, where you’ll hear engaging stories about early settlers, commerce, and naval movement. As you sail, learn how Lake Champlain played a strategic role in shaping the region’s history while enjoying panoramic views of the shoreline and surrounding mountains.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Lake Champlain Islands

      Visit key shipwreck locations, including the General Butler, OJ Walker, and the Burlington “Horse Ferry” wreck. Along the way, listen to detailed accounts of how these vessels sank, discover what cargo they carried, and understand their significance in maritime history. Your guide will help you visualize what lies beneath the surface while explaining ongoing archaeological discoveries and how these historic wrecks are preserved and studied today.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Lake Champlain

      Continue sailing through areas tied to hidden stories beneath the lake, where you’ll hear fascinating tales of prohibition-era smuggling routes. Gain insight into modern underwater archaeology and excavation techniques, and engage in open discussions with your guide—questions and shared insights are encouraged throughout.

      Pass by without stopping

    5. Enjoy a relaxing sail back to the dock as you take in the beauty of Lake Champlain and its surrounding landscapes. Reflect on the rich history, stories, and discoveries shared during your journey, rounding out a memorable and enriching experience on the water.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Burlington

    In front of the ECHO Center building, you will see a lakeside pavilion overlooking the marina. Directly in front of the ECHO's pavilion, you will see a ramp leading down to the docks. There is signage pointing toward ‘A-Dock’. Our ships are the first two that you'll see walking down this ramp.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    In front of the ECHO Center building, you will see a lakeside pavilion overlooking the marina. Directly in front of the ECHO's pavilion, you will see a ramp leading down to the docks. There is signage pointing toward ‘A-Dock’. Our ships are the first two that you'll see walking down this ramp.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Mon
    Group size
    Up to 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Whistling Man Schooner Co.

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide in Burlington, photo 2Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide in Burlington, photo 3Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide in Burlington, photo 4Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide in Burlington, photo 5Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide in Burlington, photo 6Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide in Burlington, photo 7

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    0
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Why this scores 51

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)74
    Review evidence (18% weight)0
    Booking momentum (14% weight)0
    Value for money (12% weight)63
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)50
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Burlington.

    How much does Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide cost?

    +

    Prices start at $80 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Burlington usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide take?

    +

    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Burlington is not rushed.

    Is Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 51 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (0/5 across 0 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Burlington, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide?

    +

    Around 0 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Burlington can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Burlington and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Burlington within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Burlington?

    +

    Burlington, VT packs its best experiences into walkable neighborhoods, local food, and day trips nearby. Outty ranks every bookable tour and activity in Burlington by rating quality, review depth, booking demand and value, so you can see the standouts before you book. On Outty we rank every Burlington experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Burlington Signature Guided Brewery Tour, Public Daytime Sailing Cruise, Small Group 5-Day Tour Vacation Package in Vermont. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Burlington?

    +

    Spring and fall bring the best weather and lighter crowds in Burlington, while summer has the widest choice of tours and evening activities. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Burlington?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Lake Champlain History Cruise with Maritime Museum Guide.

    Pick your date