Cambridge May Ball Punting 2026
At Rutherford’s Punting, we understand the appeal of the May Balls, which is why we offer May Ball Punting Tours to see the fireworks and celebrations from the comfort of a punt.
May Balls are a tradition at the University of Cambridge, and have become a major attraction that draws in visitors from around the world.
Our tours include a view of the Trinity College May Ball Fireworks on 22nd June 2026 and the St John’s College May Ball Fireworks on 23rd June 2026, and we offer shared and private punting trips. Learn more about May Balls and how to get the best seats in the house on a Rutherford’s May Ball Punting Tour.
What Is A Cambridge May Ball?
A Cambridge May Ball is, despite the name, actually a June Event held during May Week to celebrate the end of exams.
These lavish, all-night gatherings are hosted by the colleges, and often have a black tie, or sometimes white tie dress code.
The events themselves often have themes and sometimes require fancy dress, with the themes usually revolving around luxury and extravagance.
The Benefits Of Watching The May Ball From A Punt
Seeing the Cambridge May Balls from the comfort of a punt floating along the River Cam gives you a unique opportunity to enjoy the fireworks and see the splendour in all its glory.
With tickets to the May Balls usually starting at around £100 and going up, a May Ball Punting Tour can be a cost-effective way to see the sights and join the celebrations.
From your Rutherford’s punt, which is chauffeured and comes with heated seats or umbrellas and blankets, depending on the weather, you get a comfortable place to relax and see the grandeur of the garden parties in all their glory.
Book A May Ball Punting Tour Today
With the May Balls so popular, our Fireworks Punting Tours often fill up fast, so it’s worth booking online in advance.
Our firework punting experience usually lasts up to 2 hours (depending on position and the return journey adventures). You must book in advance, as this is a sell out event. Your Fireworks Punting Tour will be waiting for your arrival with earlier departures getting the best views.
There are two options to choose between: a private experience for you and your chosen few, or jump on one of our outstanding shared fireworks tour experiences, with prices available per seat, row and section!
You can choose to add a variety of snacks, ranging from tasty champagne, prosecco or gin for a cheeky tipple, to an an artisanal cheese plate, a cream tea or a full picnic with a range of locally-sourced snacks.
These can be booked online, or you can get in touch ahead of your trip to ensure everything is ready and waiting for you when you start your May Ball Punting Tour.
On the night, check in with our team at our Jesus Green Moorings to be ready to board your tour for 9pm. Our boats can seat a maximum of 12. You’re very welcome to bring along your own picnics, nibbles and drinks on our boats, or we can arrange to have them added to your order.
Our punts will come equipped with raised seats and cushions to ensure a comfortable experience. Our employees will be dressed for the weather on the evening and your boat will be equipped with an emergency umbrellas: just in case the weather changes!
Please note, there is no access to restroom facilities on this experience and therefore please make sure you answer the call of nature before you board to ensure that you’re not caught short!
What to do if you’re running late? Please call us the moment you know of any delays to your schedule and we’ll try to organise things to accommodate you. It’s important to note that the best spots are grabbed on a first come basis and therefore lateness may affect your viewing position!
To book your punting tour, visit our online booking platform, contact us on 01223 322200 or by emailing [email protected]. When it’s time for your May Ball fireworks punting tour, you can find us at our Jesus Green moorings. See you on the river!