Here’s What Happens to Boston’s Swan Boats During the Off-Season

It has been a really crappy winter, with a lot of snow (that's an understatement), cold temperatures, and blustery winds. There have been short days and long nights.

Brrr. Who couldn't use a burst of spring right about now?

Take heart, because the start of spring is just a few short weeks away, and with it, many of our favorite spring and summer activities return, including the historic Swan Boats in Boston Public Garden.

Swan Boats Are a 150-Year Boston Tradition

The Swan Boats have entertained visitors for almost 150 years.

READ MORE: An Amazing Fact About Boston's Swan Boats

The Boston Public Garden, founded in 1873, is in the heart of downtown Boston, across the street from Boston Common, and is surrounded by the historic Back Bay and Beacon Hill neighborhoods.

Robert Paget introduced the Swan Boats to the Public Garden in 1877.

The foot-propelled pontoon-style Swan Boats ferry visitors around the Public Garden's lagoon from spring until fall. During Swan Boat season, the boats are secured in the lagoon when not in use, but what happens to them during the off-season?

What Happens to Boston's Swan Boats in Winter?

Boston.com reported, "When the season ends, the Swan Boats aren't stored intact. Instead, they're dismantled into dozens of labelled components, all marked for a precise reassembly in the spring."

Each boat consists of roughly 25 custom-made, non-interchangeable parts, according to Boston.com. Once dismantled, the pieces are loaded onto trucks and taken to storage locations in Boston.

Named Massachusetts’ Most Romantic Spot

In case you missed it, Travel + Leisure recently named Boston Public Garden the most romantic place in Massachusetts.

READ MORE: This Boston Landmark Is Massachusetts' Most Romantic Spot

How can you go wrong if you are looking for a little romance by riding a historic Swan Boat in the lagoon in the Commonwealth's most romantic spot, Boston Public Garden?

When Do Boston's Swan Boats Open in 2026?

The Swan Boats launch for the season on April 18, 2026.