Families and friends gathering for summer activities at the Charles River and Harbor.
Boston is preparing for a vibrant summer with numerous activities along the Charles River and Boston Harbor. Significant improvements in water quality have expanded recreational opportunities, including the upcoming City Splash event. From whale watching at the New England Aquarium to cliff diving and sailing, there’s something for everyone in the city. Furthermore, the hope for a future with safe swimming opportunities continues to grow, amidst ongoing clean-up efforts for the river.
Boston is gearing up for an exciting summer filled with open-air activities along the beautiful shores of the Charles River and the stunning Boston Harbor. Thanks to significant improvements in water quality, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a range of recreational opportunities, even if swimming is still a bit tricky.
Over the past few decades, the cleanliness of the Charles River has made some serious strides. A report released last week highlighted an incredible drop in sewage discharge, from a staggering 1.7 billion gallons a year before 1988 to just 20 million gallons in 2014. While this is fantastic progress, swimming in the river remains mostly off-limits unless you have a special permit.
The annual City Splash event, hosted by the Charles River Conservancy, is the golden opportunity for public swimming, and it’s happening this year on July 13. If you’ve ever dreamed of taking a dip in the Charles, this is your chance to make that dream a reality!
If swimming isn’t your scene, why not head over to the New England Aquarium for some exciting whale watching? Their tours last between 3 to 4 hours and take you directly to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, a prime feeding ground for marine life. You might just catch a glimpse of some majestic whales during your outing!
For those who crave a bit of excitement, mark your calendars for the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series, set to take place on September 19-20. These daring divers will be leaping off the rooftop of the Institute of Contemporary Art into Boston Harbor, making for a thrilling spectacle you won’t want to miss.
Ever fancied yourself as a sailor? Well, you’re in luck! Community Boating offers sailboat rentals right near the Charles/MGH Station. You can rent a sailboat, catering to up to four people, for just $99 for two hours. Feeling unsure? No problem – they provide lessons for beginners so you can feel confident on the water.
For a fun way to see the city, hop on the legendary Boston Duck Tours. These amphibious vehicles allow you to explore both land and water, departing from popular spots like the Museum of Science and New England Aquarium. It’s a great way to see the beautiful sights of Boston while having loads of fun!
A visit to Boston wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the iconic USS Constitution at Charlestown Navy Yard. This vital part of Boston’s Freedom Trail is an active service ship that offers free tours for history enthusiasts and families alike.
Even with the advancements in water quality, there’s always room for improvement. A proposed tunnel project is on the table, aimed at managing stormwater and sewage overflow. This ambitious project is estimated to cost between $1.4 billion and $2.3 billion, and if successful, it could significantly reduce sewage discharges into the Charles River. Who knows? This might pave the way for the reopening of some former swimming beaches!
However, it’s important to note that despite the progress, a few stretches of the Charles River reported a decline in water quality between 2022 and 2023, particularly in the lower basin and lower middle watershed.
Emily Norton from the Charles River Watershed Association is advocating for a future where swimming becomes a regular and safe activity in the river. With ongoing efforts to clean up the waters, it’s looking more likely that people can enjoy a refreshing swim in the Charles on a more regular basis.
There’s so much to do and see this summer in Boston by the Charles River and Harbor. So grab your friends and family, get out there, and take advantage of everything this beautiful city has to offer!
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