A few hours on the water is always time well spent, whether we're floating in a tube or paddling along in a kayak. However, very little can compare to a scenic boat tour when we're craving a low-key adventure on the water. We can sit back, breathe in the fresh bay air, and admire the quintessential New England shoreline on this bay cruise in Rhode Island.

Rediscover the beauty of the Rhode Island coast aboard a scenic boat tour with Coastal Queen Cruises in Newport. Tours sail between the beginning of May and early November annually.

If you're having out-of-town or out-of-state visitors, you won't find a more charming way to introduce them to Rhode Island.

The scenic bay cruise, one of several offered by Coastal Queen Cruises, boards at 5 Bowen's Landing on Bowen's Wharf, making it an idyllic stop if you're spending the day in Newport.

Settle into one of the cozy seats that offers a front-row view of the water. The main deck is wheelchair accessible.

If you're using a wheelchair, call 401-423-9900 before your cruise for assistance in boarding the boat. Coastal Queen Cruises also offers boat tours that leave from the East Ferry Wharf in Jamestown; that location has an ADA-accessible boat ramp.

As you watch the shoreline pass by as the boat sails from Newport Harbor to Jamestown, a seasoned tour guide will provide a lively narrative about the history of the area.

You may want to bring a jacket on chilly days; however, the boat also has heat to help warm you up.

Grab a drink from the bar (there are bathrooms onboard).

Keep an eye out for seals frolicking in the water or sunbathing on rocks as the boat meanders along the bay.

Arrive between 20 minutes and half an hour before the cruise's departure. Cruises leave on time and do not accommodate late arrivals.

Coastal Queen Cruises also hosts a variety of other cruises, including a lighthouse and mimosa tour, an evening cocktail cruise, and a seal and harbor tour.

See a full list of cruises on the official website of Coastal Queen Cruises. Or, stop by the Facebook page of this boat tour agency in Newport, Rhode Island.

Have you been on this bay cruise in Rhode Island? Did you opt for the scenic cruise or another one? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! After your cruise, stroll around Brick Market Place in Newport, where you can grab a bite to eat or explore the shops.

If you're visiting from out-of-town or feel like a staycation, turn that day trip into an overnight getaway by booking a charming Vrbo.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/rhode-island/year-round-day-trip-destination-ri/