Aboard the historic Rip Van Winkle boat from Kingston, NY, travelers get excellent value with a 90-minute Hudson River cruise that’s informative and scenic. I love how this journey packs in mountain views, local mansions, lighthouses, and rolling vineyards – all while offering drinks and snacks on board. The boat’s narrated tour gives you the perfect mix of relaxation and local insights. For NYC visitors, combining this with a Lower Manhattan walking tour makes practical sense, hitting West Village and SoHo highlights before heading upriver. Let’s explore our favorite Catskills boat tours worth your time and money.
Good To Know
- The Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise offers a 90-minute scenic tour of the Hudson River, departing from Kingston, NY, approximately 2 hours from NYC.
- The cruise aboard the historic Rip Van Winkle vessel features various seating options, a fully stocked bar, and a snack bar for guests.
- The cruise route highlights include views of millionaire estates, historic lighthouses, vineyards, orchards, and the scenic backdrop of the Catskill Mountains.
- The New York City Shore Excursion provides a private half-day tour focusing on the highlights of Lower Manhattan, with a knowledgeable guide and luggage storage.
- The tour is subject to weather conditions and has an impressive overall rating of 5.0 based on 3 reviews, making it an ideal personalized experience for first-time visitors to New York City.
Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise From Kingston
One of the top boat tours in the Catskill region is the Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise from Kingston. This 90-minute activity offers scenic views of the Hudson River, with commentary on the various sights along the way.
The cruise departs from Kingston, New York, approximately 2 hours from New York City by car, and operates from May through October, with more frequent sailings from June to October.
Aboard the historic Rip Van Winkle vessel, visitors can choose from three seating options: a lower enclosed deck with chairs, a middle shaded deck, and an open-air upper deck with bench seating.
On-board amenities include a fully stocked bar and snack bar. While the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and service animals are allowed.
The cruise route takes passengers down the Hudson River to Hyde Park, offering views of millionaire estates, riverside hamlets, historic lighthouses, vineyards, orchards, and the Catskill Mountains.
Engaging commentary from the guides provides insights into the sights and landmarks along the way.
Read our full review: Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise From Kingston Review
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New York City Shore Excursion: Pre-Cruise Half-Day Private Tour
For travelers embarking on a cruise from the New York City area, the New York City Shore Excursion: Pre-Cruise Half-Day Private Tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s iconic sights before setting sail.
This private, personalized tour focuses on the highlights of Lower Manhattan, including the West Village, SoHo, Brooklyn Bridge, TriBeCa, South Street Seaport, Chinatown, and Little Italy. With a knowledgeable private guide, guests gain insider knowledge and recommendations on the best pizza and skyline views.
The tour includes pickup from any NYC location, luggage storage, and transportation, with drop-off at the selected cruise port. While not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for children under 2, the tour experience is suitable for most travelers and can be conducted in English or Spanish.
Guests should note that the tour is subject to weather conditions and cancellations, with rescheduling options available. With an impressive overall rating of 5.0 based on 3 reviews, this shore excursion offers tremendous value for first-time visitors seeking a comprehensive and personalized introduction to New York City.
Read our full review: New York City Shore Excursion: Pre-Cruise Half-Day Private Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Book a Private Charter for a Special Event?
To book a private charter for a special event, you’ll need to contact the tour company directly. They can provide pricing and availability for exclusive use of their vessels, allowing you to customize the experience for your event.
What Amenities Are Available on the Boats for Longer Cruises?
For longer cruises, boats often offer onboard amenities such as comfortable seating, climate-controlled cabins, restrooms, and food/beverage services. Some may even provide entertainment options like live music or guided tours to enhance the overall experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Yes, most boat tour and cruise companies allow passengers to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on board. However, they may have restrictions on outside alcohol and provide food/beverage options for purchase as well.
Is There a Dress Code for the Boat Tours and Cruises?
There’s typically no strict dress code for boat tours and cruises, but passengers should dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Some cruises may have more formal dress requirements, so it’s best to check with the operator beforehand.
Do the Tours Offer Pick-Up and Drop-Off Services From Local Hotels?
Many boat tour and cruise companies offer convenient pick-up and drop-off services from local hotels to enhance the customer experience. This added service allows guests to easily access the tour without having to arrange their own transportation.
The Sum Up
The Catskills offer a variety of scenic boat tours and cruises that let visitors explore the region’s natural beauty. From sightseeing cruises along the Hudson River to private pre-cruise tours, there are options to suit different interests and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon on the water or a more in-depth exploration of the Catskills, these boat tours and cruises provide an excellent way to experience this picturesque area.