About This Tour
Step aboard for a one-of-a-kind river tour as we welcome Roger Williams back to Providence! Portrayed by historian and Roger Williams expert John McNiff, our founding father will guide you through his remarkable life, travels, and the legacy he built right here in Rhode Island. This exclusive 75-minute cruise blends scenic views, immersive storytelling, and a touch of theatrical flair. From tales of exile and religious freedom to the founding of Providence itself, Roger brings history to life in a way that’s both entertaining and enlightening. Don’t miss your chance to meet Roger… on the river. It’s history with heart, humor, and a front-row seat to our capital city. We welcome passengers ages 12+ on this tour.
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Founding Waters: A Tour with Roger Williams
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Additional Information
Meeting Point
We are located at 101 Dyer Street, Providence, RI 02903, a leisurely 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive from the Rhode Island Convention Center, Kennedy Plaza and most downtown hotels. Come inside The Landing to check-in, and explore our new gift shop and ice cream store!
Special Instructions
You do not need tickets to check in. Simply check in with the last name on your reservation. Check-in is located INSIDE The Landing Café at 101 Dyer Street, Providence. (corner of Dyer & Pine) Inside The Landing, you'll also find RI & coastal-themed gifts, ornaments, candles, magnets, jewelry, t-shirts/sweatshirts, local art, a full service coffee café & ice cream parlor. We also sell beer, wine and canned alcoholic beverages for you to bring aboard. Providence offers metered street parking and private pay lots. We also recommend taking your hotel shuttle, Uber or walking from your hotel, if possible. OUR TOURS LAUNCH EXACTLY AS SCHEDULED, SO YOU MUST ARRIVE AT LEAST 15 MINUTES AHEAD FOR CHECK-IN. The boat will not wait for late passengers. If you are late for check-in, we will offer your seats to stand-by patrons & you will miss your tour & forfeit your paid reservation. There are bathrooms inside The Landing Café where you check in. There are no bathrooms on the boats. Smoking and vaping are not permitted while aboard. Certified service dogs are allowed aboard, pets are not. For safety reasons, walkers, wheelchairs, strollers & car seats are not permitted aboard. These items may be left inside The Landing Café or on the docks (at your own risk) prior to boarding the vessel. Our vessels are uncovered, so please dress appropriately. Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and cold beverages are recommended during the warmer summer months. Sweaters and jackets are recommended for evening and late season tours. The weather in New England changes often, and quickly. Because of this, we do not postpone or cancel boat tours until shortly before the scheduled time of departure. If we are experiencing light rain or a passing shower, we will still run the tour, so please dress appropriately. Our Captains and Crew appreciate your cash or Venmo gratuities on site. Thank you, we're looking forward to welcoming you aboard!
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
Providence River Boat Co.
Official supplier for this experience. Bookings are handled directly through Viator with verified partners.
Viator Certified
Trusted local operator
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Founding Waters: A Tour with Roger Williams
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by Providence River Boat Co., a local cultural provider.
What's included?
This tour includes Local guide and All taxes, fees and handling charges. All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long is this tour?
The experience lasts approximately 1.3 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled by the operator. In such cases, you'll be offered a refund or reschedule.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. All necessary equipment is provided.
What to expect on this tour?
This cultural experience lasts approximately 1.3 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to Local guide and more.
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