A festive river cruise with Santa, elves and decorations on the River Ouse, suitable for families and children.
York's Santa Cruise Experience returns to The Boatyard from 21 November, running every weekend from 22 November and then daily from 19 to 23 December. It's a festive river journey tailored for families and children, set on the River Ouse.
The cruise runs in heated enclosed saloons, so it works in all weathers. If high river levels make sailing impossible, the experience is held at the dock and passengers get a complimentary sightseeing voucher instead. On board, cheerful elves, sparkling decorations and a soundtrack of Christmas carols and music set the scene as the boat floats along the Ouse. Santa himself makes an appearance in a North Pole Grotto to hand each child a personalised present, a gift bag, a fruit drink and a chocolate bar. The adults get a complimentary tea or coffee and a mince pie.
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It's a family-focused outing, with the treats and the Santa visit aimed at the kids, and the warm drinks and mince pies for the grown-ups. The cruise won a 'Best of York Award 2025' at the Visit York Tourism Awards. It runs from 21 November to 31 December, with sailings every weekend from 22 November and daily from 19 to 23 December, departing from The Boatyard, York, YO1 7DP.
