Toronto is considered one of the most captivating cities in the world and it is easy to see why, when you climb aboard one of the cities popular boat cruises. Boat cruises in Toronto offer spectacular views of the skyline, local landmarks and the city lights.

There are several companies offering boat cruises off Toronto's waterfront. Medium and large size vessels run out of the harbour, providing one, two, three and four hour cruises. You can take part in a lunch, brunch or dinner tour. 

For those who simply want to observe, there are short, sightseeing cruises in Toronto. In some cases your captain will dock at places like Centre Island so that you can enjoy the sights and sounds on foot.

Cruising doesn't have to break the bank. It can cost as little as $21 for some sightseeing tours. Toronto's special event cruises, which include meals, drinks, dancing and other entertainment, can be up to $100 per-person. 

Many of the cruisers operate out of Queens Quay West. Most expect you to make reservations ahead of time. When you plan to take a special boat cruise in Toronto you are advised to book well in advance because spaces fill up fast. 

If you miss out on one opportunity though, don't worry, there are plenty of special events to choose from. Check out the list below for examples of special themed cruises.

• Singles Night
• Canada Day Celebrations
• Oktoberfest
• Thanksgiving
• Casino Night
• Halloween
• Christmas 
• New Year's Eve
• Fireworks
• Mother's Day
• Father's Day

Summer boat cruises in Toronto are popular. They allow passengers to bask in the sun, watch other water activity and view gorgeous sunsets. 

You can get a clear view of Toronto landmarks like the Skydome, Ontario Place, Harbourfront Centre, Rogers Centre, Sugar Beach, Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, and the Air Canada Centre.

Boat cruising in Toronto also takes place in the winter months. You can enjoy the beautiful views of snow swept tree-tops and office towers, and the many twinkling lights that both city staff and building managers put up at this time of year. 

There are companies in the city that act as private charters. For instance, it is not uncommon during the holiday season for a company to book their office Christmas party on a Toronto cruise boat. 

Private boat charters in Toronto often incorporate themes, a customized menu, games and other entertainment. 

Here is a list of other private events that take place on boat cruises in Toronto.

• Anniversaries
• Birthdays
• Baptisms
• Weddings
• Engagement parties
• Retirement parties

While some food for the trips is prepared ahead of time and delivered to the boat steaming hot, many other Toronto vessels have full kitchens and chefs right on board to prepare meals for you. 

They try to use whatever fruits and vegetables are in season to give you the best in terms of flavour. Whenever possible, they rely on locally grown produce. 

Your safety is of the utmost importance to the city of Toronto. Vessels should be Transport Canada Safety Certified, and you're on board staff extensively trained and certified. Toronto boat cruise managers should have no problem demonstrating proof of certification. 

There are limitations on the number of passengers allowed on each boat, depending on the size of the vessel; again this is strictly for your safety. 

All cruisers are equipped with life jackets, as well as other equipment to help passengers safely exit the boat if necessary. Toronto boat cruises have an excellent safety reputation.

Booking 

Whether you are interested in a quick sightseeing experience, a romantic dinner for two, a family outing or want to take part in one of the special event cruises, one of the best ways to secure a spot is online. 

Dinner cruises have always been big in Toronto. You can begin your research by browsing websites. One popular site is www.torontodinnercruises.com. 

If you're not sure what kind of boat cruise you want to take then check out some examples at www.torontotours.net.  Keep in mind that some cruise experiences are not designed for children. Certain web sites will stipulate that you have to be over the age of 16 to climb aboard the boat.

Once you book your Toronto boat cruise the only looking back you will do is on the stunning Toronto landscape as your vessel pulls away from the dock.