Evening Punting Tour

A romantic 75-minute guided punt departing in late afternoon as the sun sets, with college buildings illuminated and the light softening across the water. The slower pace and smaller groups compared to daytime tours create an intimate atmosphere. An optional champagne upgrade transforms the experience into a proper celebration. Best for romantic occasions and special celebrations. This is a easy activity lasting 75 minutes. Group size: 2-8. You meet at Silver Street Bridge. Key highlights: Golden-hour light on historic college buildings, Smaller, more intimate groups than daytime tours, Quieter river with fewer commercial boats.

Price: £35

Duration: 75 minutes

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-8

Minimum age: all ages (champagne upgrade 18+ only)

Best for: romantic occasions and special celebrations

Best time: May to September when sunset is between 6pm and 9pm. June has the latest sunsets (around 9:15pm). Avoid overcast days when the sunset impact is minimal.

Meeting point: Silver Street Bridge

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

4:00-4:30pm (approximate) Gather at Silver Street Bridge and board the punt - Groups are deliberately kept small for intimacy. Your guide briefs you and checks for any requirements.

4:30-5:00pm Punt slowly through the central college section - The light is warm and golden. Your guide explains college history and points out architectural details.

5:00-5:30pm Move toward quieter, downstream sections - Fewer other punts and boats. The sky begins to change color as the sun descends.

5:30-6:15pm Watch the sunset and evening light display - College buildings take on dramatic lighting from the setting sun. This is the peak photography moment.

6:15-6:45pm Return toward Silver Street Bridge - The light has turned softer and more blue. The mood is contemplative.

The whole experience takes 75 minutes. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Silver Street Bridge.

• Golden-hour light on historic college buildings
• Smaller, more intimate groups than daytime tours
• Quieter river with fewer commercial boats
• Optional champagne service during the tour
• Perfect for proposals, anniversaries, or special occasions
• Accessibility: Same accessibility considerations as daytime tours. Evening tours may be harder to see for those with low vision due to reduced light conditions.

What is included: 75-minute guided evening punt, Professional punter, Commentary on college history, Water on the punt.

Not included: Champagne (available as paid upgrade), Food or snacks, Blankets (available on request). You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Camera or phone for sunset photography, Warm layer or jumper (evenings cool from May-September), If booking champagne: champagne flutes or use operator's glasses. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: May to September when sunset is between 6pm and 9pm. June has the latest sunsets (around 9:15pm). Avoid overcast days when the sunset impact is minimal..

Tip: Summer tours until 8pm

Tip: Book champagne upgrade for £15 extra

Accessibility: Same accessibility considerations as daytime tours. Evening tours may be harder to see for those with low vision due to reduced light conditions..

Operator: Cambridge Punt Tours | Book directly (opens in new tab)

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• King's College Chapel (3 min walk)
• St John's College and Bridge of Sighs (5 min walk)
• Fitzwilliam Museum (6 min walk)

This activity is run by Cambridge Punt Tours.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure. Champagne upgrade can be cancelled up to 24 hours before..

Accessibility: Same accessibility considerations as daytime tours. Evening tours may be harder to see for those with low vision due to reduced light conditions..

Best time to go: May to September when sunset is between 6pm and 9pm. June has the latest sunsets (around 9:15pm). Avoid overcast days when the sunset impact is minimal..

What time should I book for the best sunset?

Book the tour that departs 60-90 minutes before sunset. The operator will advise specific times based on the date. Summer offers longer evening light windows. June has the latest sunsets around 9:15pm.

Is the champagne upgrade worth it?

At £15 for a glass of prosecco or champagne, it adds a celebratory touch for special occasions. The operator serves it during the peak sunset moment. For casual dates, it's optional but popular for anniversaries and proposals.

Will it be too dark to see anything by the end of the tour?

The 75-minute duration is timed to catch sunset at peak, then return before full darkness. You'll see the transition from day to dusk, which is the most scenic period. The buildings remain visible throughout.