A ferry with passengers is docked, surrounded by fireworks and a city skyline at night.

Captain's Choice: Our Specialty Cruises

One-of-a-Kind Adventures Await

Picture this: you're gliding across Lake Champlain's crystal waters as the sunset paints the sky in brilliant hues. But this isn't your typical sunset cruise – this is where amazing happens.

Special Cruises That Break the Mold

Some moments deserve more than just a cruise—they deserve a full-fledged experience. From dazzling Fourth of July fireworks to rare celestial events—like our exclusive 2024 eclipse cruise—these specialty cruises bring once-in-a-lifetime experiences to the lake.

Mother's Day Brunch

Treat Mom to a spectacular celebration on the waves with our annual Mother's Day cruise, complete with breathtaking views and delicious brunch buffet.

Summer DJ Sunset Series

Dance under the stars as our DJ turns up the heat every Friday and Saturday from June 13 through August 30, 2025. Lake Champlain's most exclusive dance floor awaits!

Boat with fireworks celebrating 250 years of independence.

Independence Day Spectacular

Get ready for fireworks like you’ve never seen before—with reflections dancing across the lake and the city skyline glowing in the distance. This legendary Fourth of July cruise features three exclusive packages, a buffet dinner, and a DJ to keep the celebration going.

Date: Friday, July 3
Boarding: 1 hour before departure
Departure Time: 7:00 PM
Return Time: Around 10:00 PM (dependent on fireworks & harbor traffic)

Cancellation: All sales are final

Three VIP Packages to Choose From:

Gold Package - $79/adult | $50/child (3-11)

  • Handicap-accessible deck with panoramic windows
  • Buffet dinner
  • DJ-led dancing

Platinum Package - $89/adult | $55/child (3-11)

  • Middle deck with panoramic windows
  • Buffet dinner + our grand cheese board
  • DJ-led dancing

Diamond Package - $99/adult | $60/child (3-11)

  • Topmost deck with open-air seating and the best fireworks views
  • Buffet dinner + our grand cheese board
  • DJ-led dancing

Parking is limited! Check Burlington Parks & Rec for updates closer to the event.

Secure Your Spot Before It Sells Out!

This is one of our most popular cruises of the year, and seats fill up fast! Don't miss your chance to experience Burlington’s best Fourth of July fireworks views from the water.

Check Parking Availability for Fireworks Cruise

Don't Miss Out!

Whether you're celebrating Mom, dancing the night away, or watching fireworks from the best seat in the city, our special cruises sell out fast. Prepare to see Lake Champlain in a whole new light.

Claim Your Spot on Deck Now!

Princess Cruise event flyer with dates and princesses in front of a docked ship.
NEW IN 2026: Princess Cruise!

Join us for a magical journey where beloved fairy tale characters come to life against the stunning backdrop of the Adirondacks and Green Mountains. Enjoy a regal afternoon of meet-and-greets, royal activities, and our new Princess Cruise Menu, perfect for the whole family. 

Tickets are $79.99 each.  Book now for a truly majestic adventure that will make your little prince or princess's dreams come true!

Cruises available on June 6, July 11, & August 8

Book Your Princess Cruise

Mom Prom themes: Country Night, Wedding Dress, Tropical Paradise on Spirit of Ethan Allen.
NEW IN 2026: Mom Prom!

This one’s for the moms! Come aboard the Spirit of Ethan Allen and Cruise for a Cause!  Dress up, let loose, and dance the night away with your besties while cruising along Lake Champlain.

Our delicious Fiesta Menu gets the party started.  And our live DJ will spin all the hits to get get you up and moving.  And don't forget to stop by the bar on deck for a beverage (separate from ticket).

The price of the cruise is $69.99 and $5.00 of each ticket will be donated to a local charity:

June 12: Theme: Country-Western Night!, Charity: Spectrum Youth Services

July 10: Theme: Re-Wear Your Wedding or Prom Dress!, Charity: The Family Room

August 21: Theme: Tropical Paradise!, Charity: TBD

Four dance styles featured on a sunset cruise: line, swing, hip hop, and salsa.
NEW IN 2026: Dance Night on the Spirit!

Move, groove, and learn from professional local dance instructors while enjoying stunning sunset views. Each week features a different dance style, so wether you prefer a cowboy hat or a backwards cap, we have something for you!

Each cruise will include an hour of instruction from our list of talented dancers, followed by 90 minutes of open dance to practice your new moves!  Our fully stocked bar and Ethan Allen Cafe are available for purchase if you need munchies or a refreshing beverage.

The price of the cruise is only $59.99 per person!

Country Line Dancing: June 14, July 19, August 16

Swing Dancing: June 21, July 12, August 9

Hip Hop Dancing: June 28, July 26, August 30

Latin/Salsa Dancing: July 5, August 2, August 23


Smiling server in a striped apron holds a tray of cake slices with whipped cream and strawberries.

Important Booking Details

  • Book early – these special cruises fill up fast!
  • All Captain's Choice cruises are non-cancellable and non-refundable
  • Space is limited for each special event
Two guests enjoy a stunning fireworks show from the Spirit of Ethan Allen's cruise ship window.

People enjoying the Spirit of Ethan Allen's nighttime cruise with glowing neon lights and music.

Bright fireworks illuminate the lake, viewed through a "Spirit of Ethan Allen" lifebuoy.

People dancing and enjoying a lively party under purple lighting.

Cheesecakes topped with whipped cream and sauces, with colorful flames on skewers.