Swan Boats

Gazing upon the Swan Boats of Boston, have you ever wondered about their graceful history? These unique pontoon boats have graced the Public Garden’s lagoon since 1877. They are a true Bostonian icon. Robert Paget, inspired by the opera Lohengrin, dreamed up these charming vessels. He envisioned a boat mimicking the knight’s swan-drawn carriage. The Swan Boats became a whimsical reality, blending the emerging popularity of bicycles with his creative vision. A pedal-powered paddle wheel, cleverly hidden within a majestic fiberglass swan, propels each boat. Originally crafted with two wooden benches and a single brass seat, today’s Swan Boats boast expanded seating. Five boats accommodate six rows of passengers, each comfortably holding three to four adults. The oldest boat, a venerable vessel from 1910, offers five rows for two to three adults each. These elegant boats, ranging from 30 to over 100 years old, offer a tranquil 12-15 minute journey around the lagoon. High school and college students often serve as the captains, skillfully pedaling and steering with ropes connected to a rudder. The Swan Boats, a beloved Boston tradition, have even graced the pages of children’s literature. They appear in “Make Way for Ducklings” and “The Trumpet of the Swan,” solidifying their place in the city’s cultural tapestry.