Can You Go on a Boat Tour If You Can’t Swim?

Yes, you can go on a boat tour if you can’t swim, especially if you choose a responsible operator and follow a few simple safety basics. Most sightseeing trips are built for regular people who want views and fresh air anyway, not just for strong swimmers.

In this blog post, we’ll walk through key safety basics, what to look for in a tour company, how to feel more confident on board, and when it might be better to skip a tour.

Should You Go on a Boat Tour If You Can’t Swim?

In most cases, yes, as typical sightseeing tours are meant to be calm experiences. You step on, find a spot, and let the crew do the work while you enjoy the view. You’re not expected to jump in, paddle, or prove anything about your swimming skills.

In fact, tour companies fully expect non-swimmers. They see nervous guests every day, so if you are uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to say, “I can’t swim, and I’m a bit anxious.” A good crew will help you find a comfortable seat, reassure you about safety, and quietly keep an extra eye on you so you can actually enjoy yourself.

Safety Basics Non-Swimmers Should Look For

If you aren’t a strong swimmer, here are a few simple boat tour safety tips to check before you book (or at least before you step on board):

• Clearly visible life jackets, available for every passenger

• A short safety briefing or basic instructions before departure

• Railings and stable seating in the main passenger areas

• Crew who seem attentive, calm, and easy to approach

• Clear policies for bad weather, rough water, and cancellations

If you’re wondering whether you need a life jacket on a boat tour, the answer really depends on the boat and local rules. But that said, you should always be able to get one quickly. If you feel better having one on, it’s totally fine to ask for one from the start.

How to Feel More Comfortable on the Day of Your Tour

Feeling nervous about stepping onto a boat tour is completely normal when you don’t swim. You may not be able to erase every bit of anxiety, but there are a few things you can do to keep it small enough that you can still enjoy the trip.

When you get there, it can help to give yourself extra time so you’re not sprinting to the dock. Besides, arriving a little early lets you see the boat, watch how the crew operates, and get used to the setting before you ever step aboard. That alone can lower your stress.

Then, once you’re on the boat, you may want to aim for a spot toward the middle where movement usually feels calmer. And don’t forget to wear shoes with a good grip and clothes you’re comfortable in —when your feet feel steady, and you’re not fussing with your outfit, it’s easy to feel a little more in control.

When You Might Want to Skip a Boat Tour

Sometimes the safest, sanest choice is not to go, and that’s perfectly okay.

You might want to skip a boat tour if:

• You have a panic-level fear of water, and just thinking about the boat makes your heart race

• The forecast shows storms or strong winds, and the operator still seems eager to head out

• The boat or crew feels disorganized, rushed, or dismissive when you ask simple safety questions

Choosing not to go in these situations isn’t failing or “backing out.” It’s you making a smart call about your own limits.

Ready to Book a Boat Tour (No Swimming Required)?

It’s not uncommon for non-swimmers to join boat tours every season, enjoy the views, and walk back down the dock feeling proud they did it. And with a solid operator, a stable boat, and a bit of preparation, you can easily be one of them.

At Collingwood Charters, our boat tours focus on calm, scenic sightseeing, with great views, local stories, and a relaxed pace instead of high-speed thrills, making them ideal for anyone who is a little nervous about being out on the water.

Feel free to contact us with any questions, or if you think you’re ready, go ahead and book a tour. Our goal is to help you feel comfortable from the moment you step on board, so you can enjoy the water without ever needing to be in it.