Great Ways to Get Out on the Water in Erie, PA
Tuesday Jul 8th, 2025
There’s just something about water.
With both Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay as a backdrop, Erie offers endless ways to connect with the water, whether it’s a peaceful paddle at Presque Isle or sailing aboard a historic tall ship. Here, the lake doesn’t just set the scene; it sets the pace.
Pontoon Lagoon Tours at Presque Isle State Park
Free, one-hour interpretive pontoon boat rides through Misery Bay and Presque Isle’s lagoons are available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, Memorial Day through Labor Day, at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m., first come, first served. The quiet glide through the lagoon brings you eye to eye with turtles, water lilies, and maybe even a beaver. A park naturalist rides along, sharing insights about the wetland habitat and its residents. Photo credit: C. Ricchuiti
Watercraft Rentals
- Port Erie Sports, located on the city side of Presque Isle Bay: motorized boats, pontoons, jet skis, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks.
- Presque Isle Canoe & Boat Livery at Presque Isle State Park, just past Perry Monument: canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, row boats, motorized boats, pontoons, and a 14’ Helm fishing boat.
- Edinboro Lake Resort
- at Edinboro Lake: pontoon boats, canoes, and kayaks. An eight-kayak library is available 24/7 on Lakeside Drive near the Pat Crawford Beach area. Use the Rent.Fun app to access kayaks complete with life vests and paddles.
Lettie G. Howard Tall Ship Sails
Step aboard the historic Lettie G. Howard, a beautifully restored 1893 Fredonia-style schooner, and cruise the waters of Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie. It’s part history, part hands-on adventure. Guests can meet the crew, help set sail or just soak up the views. Day and sunset sails depart from the foot of State Street throughout summer.
Scallywags Pirate Adventures
Climb aboard the Scallywags pirate ship for a swashbuckling good time on Presque Isle Bay! Choose a family-friendly quest packed with water cannon battles, treasure hunts, and plenty of pirate flair, or set sail on the adults-only wobbly pirate happy hour cruise with drinks, DJ music, and a little mischief. Departures leave from the foot of State Street from mid-May through late September.
The Lady Kate Narrated Tours
Docked at Perry Monument inside Presque Isle State Park, the Lady Kate sets out on 90-minute narrated cruises across Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie. From mid-May through late September, the ride weaves together views of lighthouses, local landmarks, and stories of Erie’s maritime past, including the Battle of Lake Erie, the War of 1812, and the ever-changing ecosystem at Gull Point.
Charter Fishing
Fishing charters offer a fresh perspective of Erie from the open water. Whether chasing walleye, perch, or steelhead, local guides like Tight Lines Sport Fishing and GypsyLyn Fishing Charters know where to go and make room for all kinds of anglers. Gear, bait, and coolers are usually provided; Pennsylvania fishing licenses with a Lake Erie stamp are required. Catch or no catch, it’s time well spent on the lake.
Your Sailing Adventure – The Sotto Voce
Sailing aboard the Sotto Voce, a 33-foot Beneteau yacht named for the 'quiet voice', brings a sense of calm only found on open water. From sunrise to sunset, cruises glide across Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie, with options that range from sommelier pairings to sunset sessions. Romance, relaxation, or just time under sail, no two sails are the same. The Sotto Voce is moored at Wolverine Marina, just off lower State Street, sailing Memorial Day Weekend through the end of September.
The Victorian Princess
Taking a cruise aboard the Victorian Princess three-level paddlewheel boat is a seamless blend of timeless charm and modern style. The gentle rhythm of the paddlewheel sets a soothing scene as you drift across Presque Isle Bay. The Victorian Princess features sunset and moonlight cruises, sightseeing tours, lunch and early bird dinners, themed outings, and Sunday brunch throughout its sailing season. Tours run from mid-May to late October and depart from the foot of State Street.
Presque Isle Water Taxi/Aquabus
The Presque Isle Water Taxi/Aquabus offers a breezy, convenient trip across Presque Isle Bay, where the water sparkles and the ride is half the fun. The Aquabus departs from Dobbins Landing in front of Smugglers Wharf and drops off at the Waterworks Dock at Presque Isle State Park, a short walk to Waterworks Beach and The Yellow Bike Rental Company. The Aquabus operates Thursday–Sunday (including Monday holidays) from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., weather permitting.
