Ghost Stories River Cruise

A 75-minute evening cruise combining historical ghost stories with guided views of reputedly haunted riverside buildings and locations. The boat departs at dusk from King's Staith, navigating the Ouse while a storyteller recounts tales of river ghosts, medieval smugglers, and unexplained phenomena tied to York's history. This tour blends entertainment and light-hearted supernatural narrative with actual riverfront sightseeing. Best for Those wanting unique combination of boat trip and ghost stories. This is a easy activity lasting 75 minutes. Group size: max 80. You meet at King's Staith at dusk. Key highlights: Professional storyteller specializing in York's paranormal history, distinctive evening departure at dusk with darkness enhancing experience, Tales linked to specific riverside locations and actual historical events.

Price: £16

Duration: 75 minutes

Difficulty: easy

Group size: max 80

Minimum age: 6+

Best for: Those wanting unique combination of boat trip and ghost stories

Best time: April through October when dusk falls between 8:00pm-9:00pm (earlier in spring, later in summer). Friday and Saturday evenings only.

Meeting point: King's Staith at dusk

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Arrival (dusk, approximately 8:00pm-9:00pm depending on season) Assemble at King's Staith landing stage and board the boat - Staff distribute blankets and explain story themes before departure; approximately 15 minutes for boarding.

First 15 minutes Depart King's Staith and motor toward Lendal Bridge area - Storyteller introduces the first haunting: the legend of Mary the ferryman's daughter who drowned in the 1600s.

Minutes 15-35 Pass Guildhall and historic riverside properties with ghost story narration - Stories focus on smuggling operations, medieval executions, and phantom figures reportedly seen along this stretch.

Minutes 35-55 Continue downstream with distinctive commentary on haunted buildings - Darkness allows focus on the storyteller's voice and tension building; occasional pauses for viewing specific 'haunted' locations.

Minutes 55-75 Return journey with final ghost stories and building atmosphere - Concludes with the most dramatic tale as boat approaches King's Staith for landing.

The whole experience takes 75 minutes. Difficulty: easy. You meet at King's Staith at dusk.

• Professional storyteller specializing in York's paranormal history
• distinctive evening departure at dusk with darkness enhancing experience
• Tales linked to specific riverside locations and actual historical events
• Cozy blankets provided for comfort during evening boat ride
• Blend of entertainment and genuine historical narrative
• Accessibility: Wheelchair access limited; requires assistance boarding and navigating the boat. Step-free access at King's Staith; inform operators in advance of mobility needs.

What is included: 75-minute guided cruise, Professional storyteller narration, Blanket for each passenger, Views of haunted riverside locations.

Not included: Food and beverages, Entry to any attractions or buildings, Paranormal investigation equipment, Transportation to King's Staith. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Warm clothing (blanket provided but evening river is cold), Waterproof jacket (open boat exposed to spray), Camera or phone for photos, No fragrant products (confined boat space with strangers). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: April through October when dusk falls between 8:00pm-9:00pm (earlier in spring, later in summer). Friday and Saturday evenings only..

Tip: Runs Friday and Saturday evenings only

Tip: Blankets provided in cold weather

Accessibility: Wheelchair access limited; requires assistance boarding and navigating the boat. Step-free access at King's Staith; inform operators in advance of mobility needs..

Operator: Haunted York Boats | Phone: +44 1904 635040

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• York Castle Museum (7 min walk)
• The Shambles (3 min walk)
• Jorvik Viking Centre (5 min walk)

This activity is run by Haunted York Boats.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure; 50% refund 48-24 hours; non-refundable within 24 hours.

Accessibility: Wheelchair access limited; requires assistance boarding and navigating the boat. Step-free access at King's Staith; inform operators in advance of mobility needs..

Best time to go: April through October when dusk falls between 8:00pm-9:00pm (earlier in spring, later in summer). Friday and Saturday evenings only..

Are the ghost stories on the Haunted York Boat tour based on real history?

The stories blend genuine historical events - documented smuggling, medieval executions, drowning incidents - with paranormal legends and eyewitness accounts. The storyteller distinguishes between verified history and local folklore. It's entertainment rather than paranormal investigation, suitable for families and skeptics alike.

Is the Ghost Stories River Cruise suitable for young children?

Children age 6+ can attend, though the atmosphere and some stories may be intense for younger kids (under 8). Stories are spooky but not graphic or violent - more theatrical than terrifying. Parents should gauge their child's comfort with suspenseful storytelling before booking.

What happens if it rains on the evening of my Ghost Stories cruise?

Light rain proceeds as the boat has partial canopy cover and blankets are provided. Heavy rain, lightning storms, or high winds may cause cancellation with full refund or rescheduling offered. Check weather forecast 24 hours before and contact Haunted York Boats for weather-related updates.