As the summer heats up, so do the water-related activities in and around Boston!
For students at Tufts, there are several exciting adventures to explore. From whale watching to cliff diving, there’s an array of unique experiences that will surely make your summer unforgettable.
One of the stops you can’t miss is the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series held off the roof of the Institute of Contemporary Art. Located at 25 Harbor Shore Drive, this thrilling event has divers plunging from platforms set at 21 meters and 27 meters, which is over twice the height of an Olympic platform.
The competition, which usually takes place in early June, is scheduled for September 19-20 this year, making it perfectly timed for when Tufts students return to campus. To get a sneak peek into the world of cliff diving, you can also check out the new series “More Than a Dive” on the Red Bull website.
Anyone attending the event will surely be captivated, as witnessing these daring divers is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The best part? No tickets are required!
Whale watching is another quintessential New England activity that should be on your to-do list before graduating. The New England Aquarium offers fantastic tours, setting off from Long Wharf, which is conveniently adjacent to the aquarium station on the Blue Line.
These whale watch tours last about 3 to 4 hours, taking you to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, a prime location for observing humpback whales, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds. For out-of-state students, this excursion offers a unique glimpse into the marine life of the region — a treat my mom loved sharing with her international friends when they visited from abroad.
Speaking of the New England Aquarium, it’s not only an essential destination for whale watching but also for appreciating the architectural beauty and fascinating marine exhibits. With its distinctive brutalist design, it stands out among Boston’s attractions.
The aquarium features a variety of exhibits, ensuring that you won’t be overwhelmed despite its compact size. Personally, the African penguins are a highlight of my visits, reminding me of my dad’s experiences in South Africa. The playful seals visible from outside are also a delight to watch.
If a seafood craving hits after your aquarium visit, Legal Sea Foods is just across the street—an excellent spot to enjoy a delicious meal.
Here’s a tip: if you’re looking to save some money, you can score free tickets to the aquarium via the Boston Public Library, which is available to anyone who signs up for a library card, regardless of Boston residency!
As the warm weather sets in, consider sailing on the Charles River. Community Boating, established in 1937, is the oldest public sailing organization in the country, dedicated to making sailing accessible for all.
For just $99, you can rent a sailboat for up to four people and enjoy two hours on the river. Beginners need not worry, as Community Boating also offers sailing courses that are ideal for students spending their summer in Boston. I fondly remember taking lessons there myself, despite falling into the river a time or two.
Sailing offers a unique perspective of the city that you won’t get from the Red Line crossing Longfellow Bridge. You can navigate between the Longfellow and Massachusetts Avenue bridges, taking in the scenic environment.
Located at 21 David G. Mugar Way and easily accessible by bike from the Somerville Community Path, Community Boating is an excellent choice for making the most of your summer days.
Don’t forget to check out the Boston Duck Tours, another fantastic water activity that is a must-do when in the area. You’ll find these iconic amphibious vehicles taking tourists on land tours before they splash directly into the water for a leisurely ride along the Charles River.
The Duck Tours depart from the Museum of Science, Prudential Center, and the New England Aquarium. Each boat bears its own fun theme and name—my childhood favorites were “Symphony Hal” and “Miss Emma Science,” referencing local landmarks.
While ticket prices have risen to over $50, the experience is well worth it. If you can’t make it for a tour, you can still catch the Ducks in action at North Point Park, where it’s amusing to watch them enter the water.
For those with a passion for American history or just looking for breathtaking views, visiting the USS Constitution in the Charlestown Navy Yard is a fantastic option. This site is a pivotal stop on Boston’s Freedom Trail.
Starting your journey at Lechmere Station, a leisurely stroll to the Navy Yard culminates in a free tour of the USS Constitution and a visit to its museum.
Did you know the USS Constitution is still active? Many fond memories come to mind from my childhood when I watched it navigate across the Mirabella Pool.
After exploring, hop on the MBTA Ferry for a picturesque ride to Long Wharf. The ferry ride is not only a fun way to get out on the water but also an opportunity to see the Boston skyline from a different angle.
At only $3.70 one way, it offers a quick, enjoyable excursion that takes about 10 minutes. For the best views, be sure to sit outside on the upper deck.
Arriving at Long Wharf places you in downtown Boston, right near Faneuil Hall and close to some of the city’s best food venues in the North End—making it the perfect spot to explore more of what Boston has to offer.
So, whether you’re diving off the ICA, watching whales, sailing the Charles, enjoying a Duck Tour, or visiting the USS Constitution, this summer presents a plethora of fun activities to enjoy in Boston’s beautiful waterways.
image source from：https://www.tuftsdaily.com/article/2025/04/the-harbor-highlights-and-river-routes-of-boston
