San Antonio Riverwalk Boat Ride Price

As you step into downtown San Antonio, the city's iconic riverwalk is the first thing you will notice. With its vibrant and scenic urban waterway that stretches along the San Antonio River, San Antonio Riverwalk offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, historic sites, cultural attractions, and vibrant entertainment. One of the best ways to experience its magic is a boat tour.

As you cruise through the heart of the city aboard a boat, you'll be captivated by the stunning views, architectural wonders, and lively ambiance of the Riverwalk. Wondering how much this all-in-one experience would cost you? Here are the answers to your queries about the San Antonio Riverwalk boat ride price.

How much does it cost to go on the San Antonio Riverwalk boat ride?

The cost of a San Antonio Riverwalk boat ride depends on the type of cruise and ticket category. For a standard narrated boat tour, prices typically fall within this range:

Adults:

$15.50

Children (ages 1–5):

$9.50

Seniors (65+) & Military:

$12.50

Local Residents (Bexar County):

$13.50 (with valid ID)

These cruises usually last about 35 minutes and operate daily from morning until evening. Specialty cruises like dinner rides, seasonal events, or themed experiences may cost more—ranging up to $30–$40 depending on what’s included.

How much is the San Antonio Riverwalk boat ride with tax included?

Here are the current ticket prices for the standard 35-minute narrated Riverwalk boat ride, including tax (8.25%):

Adults:

$15.50 + $1.28 tax = $16.78

Children (ages 1–5):

$9.50 + $0.78 tax = $10.28

Seniors (65+) & Military:

$12.50 + $1.03 tax = $13.53

Bexar County Residents (with valid ID):

$13.50 + $1.11 tax = $14.61

Note: Prices may vary slightly depending on the provider or time of year, but these are the standard rates you can expect to pay for walk-up or online tickets.

Is there a discount for children?

Yes, children typically receive a discounted rate for Riverwalk boat rides. For most narrated cruises, the ticket price for children ages 1 to 5 is around $9.50, compared to the standard adult fare of $15.50. Infants under 1 year old often ride for free

Where to book San Antonio Riverwalk boat ride tickets?

You can buy Riverwalk boat ride tickets in two convenient ways:

In Person at Ticket Booths

There are three main ticket booth locations along the San Antonio River Walk:

- Under the Market Street Bridge at Alamo Street (across from the Hilton Palacio del Rio)

- Rivercenter Mall (at the intersection of Commerce Street and Bowie)

- Aztec Theatre (at St. Mary’s and College Streets)

These booths are located at popular boarding docks and are easy to find while walking the River Walk.

Online

Tickets can also be purchased online through select authorized resellers and tour providers. Booking ahead is a great way to skip the lines—especially on weekends or during peak travel seasons.

Do you need to book a riverwalk boat ride in advance?

No. It is not necessary to book a riverwalk boat ride in advance. The tickets are not restricted to a specific time and boats depart from docks every 15 minutes. You can buy tickets to board the boats at any of the ticket booth locations along the River Walk.

What is the best time to go on a Riverwalk boat ride?

The best time to go on a San Antonio Riverwalk boat ride can vary depending on personal preferences and the specific experience you're seeking. During the daytime, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the river and architecture along the Riverwalk. The sunlight illuminates the surroundings, allowing you to fully appreciate the vibrant atmosphere.

In the evening, especially around sunset, the Riverwalk transforms into a magical setting with charming lights and a romantic ambiance. The illuminated bridges and buildings create a captivating atmosphere for a nighttime boat ride.

It's also worth considering the weather, as pleasant temperatures and clear skies can enhance your boat ride experience.

When is the Riverwalk boat ride most crowded?

Keep in mind that weekends and holidays tend to be busier, so if you prefer a quieter experience, weekdays or early mornings may be more suitable.

Can I get Riverwalk boat ride coupons?

Boat tours providing companies offer different coupons from time to time. To find current Riverwalk boat ride coupons, it is recommended to visit the official website of the San Antonio Riverwalk or check with the GO Rio Cruises.

What types of Riverwalk boat rides are available?

There are four main types of boat rides available along the San Antonio River Walk:

Narrated Cruises

Duration:

35 minutes

Operating Hours:

Daily, 10 AM – 10 PM

These are the classic sightseeing cruises ideal for first-time visitors. A live guide shares stories about San Antonio's culture, history, and landmarks as you cruise through the scenic downtown stretch of the River Walk.

Unique Cruises

Offered Seasonally:

These special cruises change throughout the year and may include themed events, cultural celebrations, or holiday rides. Follow the latest updates for new cruise types and limited-time experiences.

Dinner Cruises

Duration:

Minimum 2 hours

Group Size:

2–20 guests

Enjoy a private, catered dinner as you float past the twinkling lights and architecture of the River Walk. These cruises are perfect for birthdays, date nights, or group outings. Booking is usually done through participating River Walk restaurants.

Private Charters

Duration:

Around 1 hour

Capacity:

Up to 37 passengers

Customize your own River Walk experience—great for weddings, reunions, corporate events, or celebrations. These private cruises allow for personalized itineraries, decor, and onboard entertainment.

What’s the difference between the Riverwalk shuttle and the narrated cruise?

The San Antonio River Walk offers two distinct types of boat rides: the narrated cruise and the river shuttle, each serving a different purpose and style of experience.

The narrated cruise is designed for sightseeing and typically lasts around 35 minutes. It's a guided loop through the Downtown Reach of the River Walk, with a live tour guide sharing fascinating stories about San Antonio’s history, architecture, and culture.

Narrated Cruise

These cruises depart every 15–20 minutes and are perfect for first-time visitors or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing introduction to the city. Narrated cruise tickets are for a single, continuous ride and do not allow passengers to hop on or off mid-route.

Shuttle

In contrast, the river shuttle functions more like a water taxi. It's a flexible, hop-on-hop-off service that covers both the Downtown Reach (from Lexington to Nueva Street) and the quieter, more scenic Museum Reach (stretching from Lexington to The Pearl). Shuttle passes allow you to board and disembark at multiple points throughout the day, making it an ideal option for those who want to explore museums, restaurants, shops, and events at their own pace. Passes are available for 1-day and 3-day access, while Bexar County residents can purchase a monthly pass for unlimited rides.