Venture into the enchanting realm of the 1000 Islands along the St. Lawrence River, where the charming town of Gananoque serves as the gateway to a captivating half-day cruise. Brace yourself for an immersive experience that seamlessly blends scenic vistas, architectural wonders, and historical intrigue. As you glide past the iconic mansions of Millionaire’s Row, the audio commentary in English and French transports you back in time, unveiling the captivating stories that lie within the lush gardens and intricate stonework of the legendary Boldt Castle. This leisurely journey promises to ignite your adventurous spirit and leave you yearning to uncover the hidden gems that await.
Good To Know
- The cruise offers a half-day scenic adventure through the captivating 1000 Islands region, priced from $60.94 per person.
- The experience includes admission to the renowned Boldt Castle on Heart Island and audio commentary highlighting key landmarks.
- The cruise features a limited group size of 14 participants, ensuring a personalized and immersive exploration of the area’s natural beauty.
- Valid passport or Nexus card is required for boarding, and U.S. Customs & Border Control processing may impact the schedule.
- The cruise offers diverse culinary options, including beverages and snacks, creating an intimate and enjoyable atmosphere.
Overview and Pricing
The Gananoque: 1000 Islands Cruise offers an enticing opportunity to embark on a half-day scenic adventure through the captivating waters of the 1000 Islands region.
Priced from $60.94 per person, this 5-hour cruise provides a reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With English and French audio commentary, passengers can enjoy the highlights of the journey, which include Zavikon Island, Millionaire’s Row, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the 1000 Islands Bridge.
The experience also includes admission to the enchanting Boldt Castle on Heart Island, allowing visitors to explore its grand architecture and lush gardens.
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Cruise Experience
A half-day scenic cruise through the captivating 1000 Islands awaits, transporting passengers on an enchanting journey.
Onboard, the audio commentary in English and French brings the surrounding landscape to life, highlighting iconic landmarks like Zavikon Island, Millionaire’s Row, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the majestic 1000 Islands Bridge.
The highlight of the cruise is the stopover at Boldt Castle on Heart Island, where visitors can explore the opulent castle and its lush gardens with included admission tickets.
The cruise offers a personalized experience, with a limited group size of just 14 participants, ensuring an intimate and immersive exploration of this natural wonder.
Important Documentation
Passengers must present a valid passport and/or Nexus card to board the Gananoque: 1000 Islands Cruise.
Citizens outside Canada or the U.S. require a visitor’s visa and an approved ESTA. U.S. Customs & Border Control processing time may affect time at Boldt Castle, so travelers must plan accordingly.
City Cruises Gananoque isn’t responsible for any entry refusals due to documentation issues.
The process is as follows:
- Verify passport and/or Nexus card for boarding.
- Obtain a visitor’s visa and approved ESTA, if required.
- Account for U.S. Customs & Border Control processing time.
- Be prepared for potential entry refusals due to documentation problems.
Onboard Amenities
Onboard the Gananoque: 1000 Islands Cruise, passengers can delight in a stack of culinary delights and refreshing beverages. A well-stocked snacks and drinks bar offers a tempting array of options to satisfy every palate. Whether you crave a refreshing lemonade, a crisp local craft beer, or a savory snack, the onboard selections have you covered.
Food & Drink Menu | ||
---|---|---|
Bottled Water | Soft Drinks | Local Craft Beer |
Juices | Wine | Snacks |
Hot Coffee/Tea | Cocktails | Baked Goods |
The limited group size of 14 participants ensures a more personalized and intimate experience, allowing you to truly learn about the beauty of the 1000 Islands.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
Travelers who embark on the Gananoque: 1000 Islands Cruise rave about the exceptional experience, with an impressive overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 from over 1,201 reviews.
Customers highlight the cruise’s stellar transportation with a 4.5/5 rating, as well as the incredible value for money at 4.3/5.
The positive feedback paints a picture of an extremely well-organized tour, showcasing the scenic beauty of the 1000 Islands and the majestic Boldt Castle and its gardens.
Reviewers are left in awe, captivated by the immersive and adventurous cruise through this picturesque region.
- Overall Rating: 4.4/5
- Transportation: 4.5/5
- Value for Money: 4.3/5
- Positive Feedback: Organized, Scenic Views, Boldt Castle’s Beauty
Highlights of the Cruise
On this captivating half-day cruise through the 1000 Islands, the scenery unfolds like a breathtaking panorama. Glide past Zavikon Island, where the "shortest international bridge" connects Canada and the U.S.
Marvel at the opulent mansions of Millionaire’s Row, each a testament to gilded-age grandeur. Traverse the mighty St. Lawrence Seaway, a vital shipping artery, as the impressive 1000 Islands Bridge rises into view.
The crown jewel of the tour is the enchanting Boldt Castle, a Rhineland-style castle on Heart Island. Disembark and explore the castle’s lavish gardens, intricate architecture, and captivating history – a true highlight of this immersive journey through one of Canada’s most picturesque regions.
Exploring Boldt Castle
Stepping off the cruise, visitors are immediately captivated by Boldt Castle‘s enchanting Rhineland-style architecture. The 120-room mansion, adorned with turrets and terraces, stands as a testament to the Gilded Age’s grandeur.
Visitors can explore the castle’s opulent interiors, marveling at the intricate woodcarvings, ornate fireplaces, and opulent furnishings. The grounds offer a delightful discovery, featuring:
- Lush, manicured gardens with vibrant floral displays
- Whimsical structures like the Ice House and the Power House
- Panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding islands
- The stunning Alster Tower, a replica of a German castle keep
Immersed in this captivating estate, guests are transported to a bygone era of elegance and romance.
Getting to Gananoque
As the ferry glides across the waters of the St. Lawrence River, travelers embark on a journey to the heart of Gananoque, the gateway to the stunning 1000 Islands region. This picturesque town, nestled between lush landscapes and the tranquil river, offers a perfect starting point for the 1000 Islands Cruise.
Getting to Gananoque | ||
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By Car | Approximate Travel Time | |
Toronto | 3.5 hours | |
Ottawa | 3 hours | |
Montreal | 2.5 hours |
The town’s charming streets, lined with local shops and restaurants, set the stage for an unforgettable adventure on the water, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of this enchanting destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?
The cruise offers wheelchair accessibility, with ample space for maneuverability and a helpful staff ready to assist. Guests can fully enjoy the stunning 1000 Islands scenery and the grandeur of Boldt Castle without any mobility limitations.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?
Passengers can enjoy the scenic cruise with their own snacks and beverages, though there are limited onboard amenities for purchases. The cruise encourages an immersive experience, allowing guests to savor the stunning 1000 Islands views at their own pace.
Are Pets Allowed on the Cruise?
Pets are not permitted on the cruise, as the vessel’s small size and enclosed spaces could pose safety risks for both animals and passengers. However, service animals are welcome with proper documentation.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Cruise?
The cruise offers an exhilarating journey through the 1000 Islands, but there’s no option to extend the duration. Passengers can fully enjoy the scenic splendor and historical grandeur of the region within the scheduled 5-hour timeframe.
Can I Purchase Additional Tour Packages or Activities in Gananoque?
Absolutely! Gananoque offers a variety of thrilling excursions beyond the 1000 Islands cruise, like helicopter tours, kayaking adventures, and guided nature walks. Explore the region’s diverse landscapes and activities to create an unforgettable getaway.
The Sum Up
The 1000 Islands Cruise with Boldt Castle admission is a captivating journey through the enchanting waters of Gananoque. Witness the opulent mansions of Millionaire’s Row, explore the lush gardens and intricate architecture of the stunning Boldt Castle, and learn about the region’s rich history. This adventure promises an unforgettable experience along the St. Lawrence River, leaving you with lasting memories of the 1000 Islands’ natural beauty and grandeur.
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