Who wants to remain indoors when the Hudson River beckons? Local river cruises showcase the very best of the region’s wildlife, natural wonders, and historic sites. Vessels glide past notable landmarks like Bannerman Castle, Vanderbilt Mansion, the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, and the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, to name a few. Climb aboard these river cruises for glorious sunsets, live music and dancing, and, of course, spectacular Hudson Valley views.
Bannerman Castle Cruises
Beacon, 845.831.1001
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What you’ll see: Bannerman castle ruins and gardens and the Hudson Highlands.
What’s on board: Snacks and souvenirs.
What you’ll pay: $45 per adult and $35 per child.
Bannerman Castle is one of the most recognizable sights along the Hudson line of the Metro-North train tracks. Similarly, it’s one of the best river cruise destinations. Munitions dealer and prominent businessman Francis Bannerman started construction on the simulated Scottish castle in 1901. Now, more than 120 years later, Hudson Valleyites continue to enjoy the island’s unique landscape and breathtaking views.
All it takes to transport passengers from Beacon’s riverfront to the island’s wonderous shores is a charming 30-minute cruise. Volunteers of the Bannerman Castle Trust lead walking tours once on the island, showcasing a fascinating history of ingenuity and entrepreneurship. Trips last a total of 2.5 hours and reveal the entirety of Bannerman Castle’s ruins and gardens. Follow the Bannerman Castle Trust for special events on the island, including outdoor movie screenings, live theater performances, and much more. Book tickets online and in advance to ensure entry.
Captain JP Cruise Line
Troy, 518.270.1901
What you’ll see: Scenic views of the Capital Region and, on nighttime tours, great stargazing opportunities.
What’s on board: Sit-down dinners, drinks, and music from local bands and DJs. This summer, the calendar includes comedy shows, ‘90s nights, and more.
What you’ll pay: Prices vary per event, check online for tour details; the last cruise of the year is on October 26.
In its 37th season of cruising on the Hudson, Captain JP Cruise Line has an epic lineup for this summer. From luau nights to a Halloween cruise in October, the ship is ready for anything. Three decks invite passengers to dine on delicious food, drink at the full service bar, and dance the night away to live music on spacious dance floors. Not only are the enclosed decks climate-controlled, but they afford passengers panoramic views from just about anywhere on the boat. Throughout the summer, enjoy some of the Capital District’s best bands and DJs aboard the boat while you embark on your three-hour adventure.
Dutch Apple Cruises
Albany, 518.463.0220
What you’ll see: The Albany skyline and sights along the river. (Bring binoculars for potential bald eagle spottings.)
What’s on board: Three spacious decks, each offering indoor and outdoor seating. Book tickets for the sunset cruise with live music from local musicians. Hamburgers, hot dogs, and more are available for purchase.
What you’ll pay: Ninety-minute daytime tours are conducted through October and start at $29.99. Through August, book a two-hour sunset tour for $34.99.
Relax on the Hudson River and enjoy scenic Albany sunsets aboard the Dutch Apple II. Dutch Apple River Cruises offers dazzling evenings on a triple-decker boat.
On the top level, sip cold craft beers like Wrench NEIPAs from Industrial Arts and local ciders from Nine Pin Cider Works. In addition, dine on classic snacks like jalapeno poppers, nachos, and burgers on any of the river cruises. The trip runs from Albany south to Castleton and showcases gorgeous golden hour views. Bring binoculars and try to spot bald eagles native to the region, and pay close attention to the rich narration provided by the Hudson River historian onboard. Find a full schedule of fun cruise events online, where tickets can be reserved.
Hudson Cruises Inc.
New Baltimore, 518.784.3513
What you’ll see: Historic Greene County homes and wildlife such as eagles, osprey, great blue herons, and peregrine falcons.
What’s on board: Full bar and snacks are available.
What you’ll pay: Ticket prices are available online; tours run through October.
Nestled in the Catskills of Columbia County, Hudson is the perfect port for gorgeous river cruises. On a typical sightseeing tour aboard the boat, passengers see some of the region’s most iconic landmarks from a new vantage point. Vistas of Frederic Church’s Olana, the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, and the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, to name a few, are trip highlights. In addition, Hudson Cruises showcases the serenity of local wildlife. Discover bald eagles, blue heron, ospreys, and the nesting grounds of great Peregrine falcons. Finally, every expedition is equipped with a fully stocked bar.
Hudson Ferry Co.
Hudson, 518.945.8184
What you’ll see: Different tours highlight shipwrecks and an abandoned fishing village, the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse and Rip Van Winkle Bridge, and views of the Catskills.
What’s on board: Drinks and snacks are available for purchase. There are also special theme trips such as “Ferryoke” sing-alongs and Sail & Sketch cruises led by The Olana Partnership.
What you’ll pay: One to one-and-a-half-hour cruises start at $30 per adult.
A cross-river ferry that intends to connect communities along the Hudson, Hudson Ferry Co. offers it all, from regularly scheduled ferry service to thematic tours and private charters. The flagship vessel was constructed in 1965 and still runs smoothly today. Whether you’re in the market for a romantic sunset cruise or a sightseeing tour of shipwrecks, sandbars, and shacks, climb aboard the M/V Haendel to do it all. If you’d rather voyage across the Hudson on a sailboat, inquire about the Schooner Apollonia instead.
Hudson River Cruises
Kingston, 845.253.5367
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What you’ll see: The 1837 Rondout Lighthouse and Wyndcliff Mansion, with history narrated by cruise staff, during the day or at sunset.
What’s on board: Food and drinks are available for purchase.
What you’ll pay: Tickets start at $37 per adult for a 90-minute tour; open through October.
Few experiences on Kingston’s Rondout are as unforgettable as a trip on the Rip Van Winkle II. Passengers aboard the Catskills-themed ship choose from a whole slew of cruise packages. River cruises travel up and down the Hudson showcasing some of the region’s most lauded destinations. Get an up-close look at historic structures like the Rondout Lighthouse and the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse. Marvel at the pure decadence of waterfront properties, like the Wyndcliff Mansion, The Vanderbilt Mansion, Payne Mansion, and Staatsburg’s impressive Mills estate. The sunset cruise embarks from Kingston’s Rondout, while the sightseeing tour takes off from East Strand Street. Lovebirds looking to tie the knot on the water can book the Rip Van Winkle II for rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and wedding receptions.
Hudson River Adventures
Newburgh, 845.220.2120
What you’ll see: Eight historic sites including Bannerman’s Island and Washington’s Headquarters. Don’t miss the specialty fireworks evenings and murder mystery cruises.
What’s on board: Wrap-around windows and a sundeck to relax on while sipping drinks from the fully stocked bar.
What you’ll pay: $35 per adult for a two-hour sightseeing cruise; open through October.
Board the Pride of the Hudson and glide past West Point, Storm King Mountain, and other spectacular sights. This Hudson Valley river cruise offers open-air seating on its spacious sundeck, as well as the comfort and shelter of a climate-controlled main salon. Don’t worry, indoor passengers! Massive wrap-around windows ensure that no guest of the Pride misses a single moment of the tour.
Trips depart from Pride’s Landing in Newburgh and are narrated by the ship’s captain. Marvel at the history of George Washington’s 1850 headquarters, Constitution Island’s “great chains,” and Breakneck Ridge’s quarry (which supplied granite for the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty’s base, and New York City’s streets). This Orange County tour showcases the lowest point in the Hudson River, aptly named “World’s End,” as well as the highest point between the Catskills and the Atlantic Ocean, Mount Beacon. Purchase tickets online or by phone.
Hudson River Maritime Museum
Kingston, 845.338.0071
What you’ll see: Aboard the Solaris (operated completely by solar power), you’ll take in stunning views of the historic Rondout and Esopus Meadows lighthouses, the Kingston-Rhinebeck bridge, the D&H Canal, Rondout shipwrecks, and more on a variety of tours.
What’s on board: Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and beverages.
What you’ll pay: Tickets for all tours start at $35 per adult and are offered through October.
Fully powered by the sun, the Solaris is a ship like no other. The boat was built onsite at the museum in 2018 and holds the title of being the first solar-powered boat licensed by the United State Coast Guard as a passenger vessel. Aboard, you’ll find a canopy-covered passenger deck that offers 360-degree views of the Hudson River and its surroundings. Embark on one of many different tours for sightseeing from the Rondout Lighthouse to abandoned ships. If you’re a wine lover, book the special Elements of Taste cruise led by Kingston Wine Co. and sip on a variety of local vino.
New York Boat Co.
Peekskill, 914.589.7773
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What you’ll see: As you cruise north toward the Bear Mountain Bridge, catch views of Jones Point, Iona Island, Bear Mountain, and Anthony’s Nose.
What’s on board: Locally crafted wine, beer, and spirits are offered on all tours, plus Bjorn Qorn for snacking.
What you’ll pay: $22 for a one-hour ride or $42 for a two-and-a-half-hour tour. The season ends on September 29.
Board the Evening Star to catch views of the lower Hudson Valley. Once a United States Coast Guard Buoy Tender, the ship was decommissioned and converted to a 36-passenger tour boat on the Erie Canal. Since 2010, the Evening Star has been operating on the Hudson River. If you’re a history fan, you’ll want to book the 2.5-hour sightseeing cruise to West Point, but opt for the sunset cruise if you’re sailing with two.
Nothing But Time
Poughkeepsie, 845.233.8485
What you’ll see: The Walkway Over the Hudson, the Poughkeepsie waterfront, and surrounding mountains. For extra-special views, try the Full Moon or Night Skyline cruises.
What’s on board: All Nothing But Time tours are private charters for up to six passengers. Complimentary beverages and light appetizers are provided on all sightseeing and sunset trips.
What you’ll pay: Private charters start at $255 for two passengers and are offered through September.
Grab your best group of friends or family and book a private charter on the Hudson this summer. Nothing But Time Tours offer sightseeing tours, hump day sails, and TGIF cruises to commemorate the end of the week. All events on this intimate boat rides are special, but themed events like a sunset champagne cruise and Fourth of July charters are the cherry on top. Hop aboard the Sheer Energy to experience prime sailing and first class service on the mighty Hudson River.
The original version of this article ran in our May 2016 print issue. It was updated in July 2021 and June 2024 (a version of this ran in our July 2024 print issue).
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