Explore Windermere
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Bowness Circular Cruise
Prices are return fares
Valid from: Saturday 28th March 2026
Valid until: Sunday 1st November 2026
Discover Windermere with this relaxing 45 minute circular cruise from Bowness Bay. The perfect way to soak up the stunning scenery.
Sailing every 30 minutes during peak season (less frequently in winter), the Blue Cruise takes you on a gentle journey past Windermere’s famous islands (known locally as holmes), with views of Lakeland fells, wooded shorelines, and tranquil bays.
Along the way, enjoy live commentary highlighting the area’s rich history, local wildlife and key landmarks around Bowness and the central lake.
Explore our full gallery for more stunning images.
Heated inner decks & large viewing windows
Stunning Lakeland scenery from on board
Islands Cruise sets out from Bowness Pier every 30 mins
Things to see: Storrs Hall and Storrs Temple of Heroes
Explore our full gallery for more stunning images.
We took the Blue Cruise—a 45-minute circular tour of the islands—and loved it. The boat was clean and spacious, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout. The commentary was informative but not overbearing, and we soaked in the stunning views of Lake Windermere’s islands—absolutely worth it! ~ Artstuffwith Durgalakshmipathy. Google Reviews.
Went for a 45 minute cruise round Lake Windermere when we visited the area back in June, starting and ending at Bowness Pier. A trip round the lake is something I would heartily recommend, and we went on the ‘Islands’ cruise which took in some breath-taking scenery, as well as on-board commentary giving a detailed insight into the area. Very enjoyable, even if my wife had a slight problem disembarking the boat once the cruise had finished! ~ AngloGerman1968. TripAdvisor.
Bowness on Windermere is a lovely town with a wide choice of amenities. The people are friendly and helpful. We booked a cruise on the lake and whilst waiting to board we bought some snacks from the cafe on the quayside. The 45 minute trip was an absolute pleasure and the tour guide gave us interesting facts about the islands, lake and buildings. I recommend a visit. ~ Steve M. TripAdvisor.
We had a lovely time onboard one of your Blue Cruises this week. So relaxing and well organised. The staff are so friendly and helpful. The boats are very clean and it was great to listen to a well-informed & interesting commentary throughout. Would definitely do this cruise again. ~ Carol. Facebook.
We took the Blue Cruise—a 45-minute circular tour of the islands—and loved it. The boat was clean and spacious, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout. The commentary was informative but not overbearing, and we soaked in the stunning views of Lake Windermere’s islands—absolutely worth it! ~ Artstuffwith Durgalakshmipathy. Google Reviews.
Went for a 45 minute cruise round Lake Windermere when we visited the area back in June, starting and ending at Bowness Pier. A trip round the lake is something I would heartily recommend, and we went on the ‘Islands’ cruise which took in some breath-taking scenery, as well as on-board commentary giving a detailed insight into the area. Very enjoyable, even if my wife had a slight problem disembarking the boat once the cruise had finished! ~ AngloGerman1968. TripAdvisor.
Bowness on Windermere is a lovely town with a wide choice of amenities. The people are friendly and helpful. We booked a cruise on the lake and whilst waiting to board we bought some snacks from the cafe on the quayside. The 45 minute trip was an absolute pleasure and the tour guide gave us interesting facts about the islands, lake and buildings. I recommend a visit. ~ Steve M. TripAdvisor.
We had a lovely time onboard one of your Blue Cruises this week. So relaxing and well organised. The staff are so friendly and helpful. The boats are very clean and it was great to listen to a well-informed & interesting commentary throughout. Would definitely do this cruise again. ~ Carol. Facebook.
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Our popular Islands Cruise takes passengers on a circular trip around the central part of Lake Windermere and departs from our Bowness pier.
Lake District events and things to do this February half term 2026.
Traditional cosy pubs near our Bowness and Ambleside piers are perfect for rounding off a winter cruise.
Five picture perfect places for your camera roll Winter brings a completely different energy to the Lake District. The light is gentler, the scenery feels more peaceful and the whole place takes on a calm, wintry glow. It is a great time to get outside, wander at your…
Make the most of your time on Windermere by upgrading your cruise. Combine your trip with a visit to a local attraction, or enjoy unlimited travel all day with Freedom of the Lake.
Ambleside (Waterhead)
Brockhole
Windermere Jetty Museum
Bowness
