July 4th Fireworks Boat Rentals
July 4th, 2026
A canoe or kayak on the Charles River is by far the best seat in the house for Boston’s Fourth of July Fireworks. The event organizers welcome boaters, and the view can’t be beat! Read about the specific July 4th Boating Guidelines and “Captains Map”.
Rental Options
Launch from and return to our Boston location on Soldier’s Field Road in Allston/Brighton on the night of the fireworks. The boat must be returned by 1am on July 5. You’ll paddle about 4 miles (~1.5 hours) to the fireworks.
Launch from and return to our Cambridge location in Kendall Square on the night of the fireworks. The boat must be returned by midnight on July 4. You’ll paddle about 5 minutes to the fireworks.
We expect that security details will be the same as last year. Please download the “Captains Map” and Massachusetts State Police update for security measures. Below are some key points to note:
- There is a security zone around the fireworks barge between the Mass. Ave and the Longfellow Bridges. Boats must be inside the security zone and anchored by 8:00pm. If you arrive at the bridge after 8:00pm you will not be allowed in.
- We recommend bringing or making your own anchor. You’ll need a weight of at least 10lbs and at least 35ft of line. (A milk jug filled with sand works.)
- From Kendall Sq. you should arrive by 6:30pm to get under the Longfellow Bridge in time. Paddlers picking up from the Allston/Brighton location should arrive no later than 5:15pm.
- Many paddlers prefer to start later and stay outside of the security zone where the view is still great. From Boston, anywhere upstream of Magazine Beach is still a good view. From Kendall, heading toward the Museum of Science is a more peaceful option.
Boston: Allston/Brighton
| Boat Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Single Kayak (1 adult) | $87 |
| Double Kayak (2 adults) | $135 |
| Canoe (3 adults or 2 adults & 2 kids)* | $117 |
| XL Canoe (up to 5 adults) | $188 |
Cambridge: Kendall Sq.
| Boat Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Single Kayak (1 adult) | $117 |
| Double Kayak (2 adults) | $167 |
| Single Sit on Top Kayak (1 adult) | $117 |
| Double Sit on Top Kayak (2 adults) | $167 |
| Canoe (3 adults or 2 adults & 2 kids) | $157 |
| XL Canoe (up to 5 adults) | $219 |