Exploring history can be a fascinating journey, and what better way to do it than on a boat tour? Whether you’re a history buff or just love exploring new destinations, there are plenty of boat tours around the world that offer a glimpse into the past. Here are some of the best boat tours for history buffs:
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1. River Thames, London
The River Thames in London is not just a picturesque waterway that winds its way through the city, but it’s also steeped in history. A boat tour of the river will take you past some of London’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. You’ll also get to see some lesser-known historical sites, such as the Brunel Museum and the Thames Barrier.
One of the highlights of the River Thames boat tour is a visit to the famous Greenwich, which was the birthplace of time. The Royal Observatory, located on the top of a hill in Greenwich, is where the world’s prime meridian line is located. The boat tour will give you the opportunity to see the historic Cutty Sark, the oldest tea clipper in the world, and the National Maritime Museum.
2. Nile River, Egypt
The Nile River is not just the longest river in the world, but it’s also one of the most historically significant. A boat tour of the Nile will take you past some of Egypt’s most famous historical sites, such as the temples of Karnak and Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and the Abu Simbel temples.
One of the highlights of the Nile River boat tour is a visit to the ancient city of Aswan, which was once the gateway to the African continent. Here, you can see the Philae Temple, which was relocated to a nearby island when the Aswan High Dam was built. You can also visit the Unfinished Obelisk, which was abandoned in ancient times when it cracked during carving.
3. Seine River, Paris
A boat tour of the Seine River in Paris is not just a romantic experience, but it’s also a historical one. The river flows through the heart of Paris, and a boat tour will take you past some of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.
One of the highlights of the Seine River boat tour is a visit to the Palace of Versailles, which was once the home of French royalty. The boat tour will take you through the beautiful gardens of Versailles and past the Grand Canal. You’ll also get to see the ornate fountains and statues that dot the landscape.
4. Halong Bay, Vietnam
Halong Bay in Vietnam is not just a stunning natural wonder, but it’s also a historically significant site. The bay is dotted with over 1,600 limestone islands and islets that rise out of the emerald green waters. A boat tour of Halong Bay will take you past some of the most beautiful islands and caves in the bay, such as the Sung Sot Cave and the Trinh Nu Cave.
One of the highlights of the Halong Bay boat tour is a visit to Cat Ba Island, which was once a military stronghold during the Vietnam War. Here, you can explore the historic Cannon Fort, which was used to defend the island against enemy attacks. You can also visit the Hospital Cave, which was used as a secret hospital during the war.
