Resilient City Cruises York passes 200,000 passengers following 2025 growth

Passenger growth, product innovation and partnerships drive strong 2025 for City Cruises York despite a challenging year.

Following a successful start to 2025, including being crowned ‘Best of York’ at the Visit York Tourism Awards, City Cruises York has reported a 14.5% year-on-year increase in passengers. The operator welcomed over 200,000 passengers for only the second time in its 50-year history.

This performance was achieved despite a challenging operating environment. High river levels impacted 68 operational days, restricting sailings and city-centre landing access. The business credits its success to product development, strengthened local partnerships, and an increased operational resilience to fluctuating river levels.

2025 Performance Highlights:

14.5% year-on-year passenger growth, driven largely by Private Events with significant spikes in summer parties, weddings, and milestone celebrations.

Record Riverbus demand, bolstered by the new service from The Riverfront York in Bishopthorpe and stronger links with riverside campsites at Naburn Lock and Acaster Malbis.

The launch of two new evening cruises, with the Alive After Five Cruise delivering a 24% passenger increase over previous evening offerings.

A four-fold increase in Fish & Chips Cruise passengers, operating 476 sailings across the season, driven by enhanced partnership with local favourite Mr Chippy.

A new revenue-retention partnership with Golden Tours, ensuring customers are seamlessly redirected when river conditions impact operations.

“We’re exceptionally proud of the role we play in showcasing York from the water,” said Chris Pegg, Head of Commercial & Sales at City Cruises.

“Our operational resilience is continually tested by prolonged periods of high river levels, but 2025 has demonstrated the strength of our team, our partnerships, and our adaptability. By refreshing our product mix and working closely with local businesses, we’ve been able to protect performance and continue welcoming visitors to the city.”

Looking ahead, City Cruises is planning further investment and refinements for 2026, including enhanced evening experiences and the continued development of its Private Events offering, with a focus on both commercial performance and guest experience.

“We’re excited about the opportunities ahead, while recognising the challenging backdrop for city-centre tourism”.

“Rising costs, business rate increases and the upcoming closure of Lendal Bridge will impact business planning. Our focus for 2026 is on refining our offer, strengthening partnerships and continuing to adapt to whatever the river, and the year, brings.”

For more information on City Cruises, upcoming sailings and future developments, visit www.citycruises.com/york.