Plan Your Visit
Swan Boats Hours
The Swan Boats operate on a weather permitting basis for safety. They do not operate in rain, high winds, or extreme heat.
First day of season
April 15, 2023
Season Schedule
April 15 through June 20
Open Daily: 10:00am – 4:00pm
June 21 through September 4
Open Daily: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Last day of season
September 4, 2023
Tickets
Tickets are purchased at the Swan Boat dock prior to boarding the boat. No advance reservation or ticket purchase is needed. The ride lasts between 10-15 minutes.
To book a group of 20 or more during the week, visit: Bring a Group
The Swan Boat needs a minimum of 10-12 passengers to provide enough weight to submerge the paddlewheel under the water and allow the boat operator to safely navigate the Swan Boat.
Prices
Adults $4.50
Children $3.00 (age 2-15 years)
Under 2 years rides for free
Seniors $4.00 (age 65+)
Payment
Payment may be made with cash or card.
The Swan Boats and several other attractions are included on the Go City pass.
Getting There
The Swan Boats are located in the Boston Public Garden.
The MBTA Green Line Arlington Station is the closest train stop to the Boston Public Garden. From this stop on the corner of Arlington and Boylston Streets, walk across the street and into the Public Garden. It is about a four minute walk to the Swan Boat dock.
The Boston Common Garage on Charles Street is the closest parking garage. Parking meters with a 2-hour maximum are available on the surrounding streets. On Sundays, parking meters are free. Hotel and other parking garages are also in the area.
Wheelchairs and Strollers
Transferring from a wheelchair to the Swan Boat is an option with staff assistance. Wheelchairs will be stored on the dock while passengers are riding. A non-motorized wheelchair can be placed on the front row of most Swan Boats. Staff will determine if it is safe to do so, and assist with the boarding process.
Strollers may be folded and taken on the Swan Boat or left on the patio in front of the dock. The patio is not a secured area and passengers are responsible for all belongings.
Animals and Pets
For the safety of our passengers and the wildlife in the park, we do not permit animals to ride the Swan Boats.
Service dogs are allowed for those who require their support and we ask that you identify your service dog to management upon arrival.
Park Information
Rest Rooms
The closest public restroom is located in the Boston Common. After you enter the main Charles Street gate, turn left and it is a short walk toward Beacon Street. There are also rest rooms at the Boston Common Frog Pond and at the Boston Common Visitor Information Center.
Feeding the Birds
The Boston Parks and Recreation Department restricts the feeding of all birds in the Boston Public Garden to maintain the health of the wildlife and the cleanliness of the Public Garden lagoon.
Wedding and Photography Requests
The City of Boston’s beautiful parks and gardens offer space for small weddings and photographs. These events require a permit issued by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department.