Embark on an unforgettable journey from Montreal to the historic city of Kingston. This day trip promises to whisk you away on a scenic cruise through the enchanting 1000 Islands, where you’ll marvel at the stunning Boldt Castle and the world’s shortest international bridge. But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Explore Kingston’s iconic landmarks, like the grand City Hall and the lush Confederation Park, all while soaking in the region’s rich cultural heritage. With roundtrip transportation and a multilingual guide at your side, this experience offers a seamless and immersive way to discover the hidden gems of this captivating destination.
Good To Know
- Explore the historic charm of Kingston city, including iconic landmarks like the grand Kingston City Hall and the prestigious Queen’s University.
- Marvel at the captivating natural beauty of the 1000 Islands region during a scenic cruise along the St. Lawrence River.
- Discover the opulent Boldt Castle and witness the world’s shortest international bridge at Zavikon Island.
- Enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation from Montreal and a multilingual guide to enhance the experience.
- Benefit from flexible booking options and financial protection through the included consumer protection fund fee.
Trip Overview and Pricing
The Montreal-based Kingston City Day Trip & 1000 Island Cruise offers an opportunity to explore the historic city of Kingston and embark on a scenic cruise through the picturesque 1000 Islands region.
Priced at $125.26 per person, the day-long excursion includes roundtrip transportation, a multilingual guide, and the 1000 Islands cruise.
Travelers can conveniently book their spot without immediate payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour covers iconic sights like Boldt Castle and the world’s shortest international bridge, providing a well-rounded experience for visitors to discover the charms of Kingston and the 1000 Islands.
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Itinerary Highlights
Beginning with a pickup from central Montreal or accommodations within a 5-kilometer radius, the day trip whisks visitors away to explore the historic city of Kingston. The itinerary highlights include:
| Destination | Description |
|---|---|
| Kingston City Hall | Built in 1844, this architectural gem serves as the civic heart of the city. |
| Confederation Park | Stroll through this picturesque green space, a hub for local events and activities. |
| Royal Military College | Glimpse the prestigious halls of this renowned educational institution. |
| Queen’s University | Discover the campus of this esteemed Canadian university, founded in 1841. |
After exploring the city, the tour transitions to a scenic cruise through the breathtaking 1000 Islands region along the St. Lawrence River, showcasing iconic sights like Boldt Castle and the world’s shortest international bridge on Zavikon Island.
Transportation and Logistics
Commencing the day trip from a central pickup location at 68 Boulevard René-Lévêque O, guests are transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Attendees should be ready 15 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time and look for the vehicle with the "Concord VIP Pickup" sign.
The round-trip transportation is included in the package, ensuring a seamless and convenient journey.
Multilingual guides proficient in English, French, Chinese, and Traditional Chinese accompany the group, providing a personalized and enriching experience throughout the day.
Included Features
Included in the Kingston City Day Trip & 1000 Island Cruise package are several features that enhance the overall experience. Guests enjoy a hotel pickup and drop-off within a select area, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day. The multilingual guide, fluent in English, French, Chinese, and Traditional Chinese, provides insightful commentary throughout the tour. The highlight is the 1000 Islands cruise, offering stunning views of the iconic sights along the St. Lawrence River. Plus, the package includes the Consumer Protection Office compensation fund fee, providing an extra layer of financial protection.
| Included Features |
|---|
| Hotel pickup and drop-off |
| Multilingual guide |
| 1000 Islands cruise |
| Consumer Protection Office compensation fund fee |
| Exclusions: Food, drinks, tips, travel insurance |
Customer Feedback
Customers have generally provided positive feedback on the Kingston City Day Trip & 1000 Island Cruise, rating it an impressive 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews.
Reviewers praised the tour guide’s performance, noting their expertise and the well-organized itinerary. The scenic 1000 Islands cruise was a highlight, with travelers captivated by the iconic sights like Boldt Castle and the world’s shortest international bridge.
However, some customers raised concerns about the comfort of the transportation and the overall duration of the trip, suggesting potential areas for improvement.
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Visiting Kingston City Hall
One of the highlights of the Kingston City Day Trip is a visit to the city’s stately City Hall, a grand limestone structure built in the mid-19th century.
Towering over the historic downtown, the City Hall’s ornate clock tower and neoclassical architecture evoke a bygone era. Guests can explore the building’s interior, marveling at the intricate details and learning about its past:
- Admire the impressive stained-glass windows and ornate chandeliers
- Discover the council chambers and municipal offices
- Climb the clock tower for panoramic views of the city and the St. Lawrence River
- Stroll through the Confederation Park, a lush green space adjacent to the City Hall
- Imagine the bustling activity and civic life that has filled these halls for over 175 years.
Exploring Confederation Park
Amidst the grandeur of Kingston’s historic City Hall stands Confederation Park, a lush oasis that invites visitors to enjoy the city’s natural beauty.
Sprawling green spaces, towering trees, and meandering pathways create a serene environment for leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation. Visitors can wander past ornate fountains and sculptures, pausing to admire the vibrant flowers that dot the landscape.
The park’s central location makes it an ideal spot for a midday break, allowing travelers to recharge before continuing their exploration of Kingston’s charming downtown.
With its peaceful ambiance and picturesque scenery, Confederation Park offers a delightful respite from the bustling city streets, showcasing the natural splendor at the heart of this historic Canadian destination.
Scenic 1000 Islands Cruise
The scenic 1000 Islands cruise transports visitors on a captivating journey along the St. Lawrence River. This serene waterway is dotted with over 1,800 islands, each with its own unique charm.
The cruise allows you to:
- Admire the iconic Boldt Castle, a testament to early 20th-century opulence
- Witness the world’s shortest international bridge, connecting Zavikon Island
- Spot diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, blue herons, and seagulls
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Canadian and American shorelines
- Relax and soak in the tranquility of this picturesque natural wonder.
The 1000 Islands cruise is undoubtedly a highlight of the Kingston City Day Trip, offering a breathtaking perspective of this enchanting region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour does not appear to offer an option to extend the duration. The itinerary is fixed at 1 day, with a scenic cruise through the 1000 Islands as a highlight. Customers can’t customize the length of this day trip.
Can I Book the Tour for a Group Larger Than 10 People?
Yes, groups larger than 10 people can be accommodated on this day trip. The tour operator provides flexible booking options to cater to group sizes. Guests should inquire about group discounts and any special arrangements required for larger party sizes.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
Yes, the tour provider offers discounted rates for seniors and students. Seniors can save 10% while students receive a 5% discount on the regular ticket price. However, these discounts are subject to availability and may vary.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
You can bring your own food and drinks on the cruise, but the company doesn’t provide any catering. It’s a good idea to pack snacks and beverages to enjoy while taking in the scenic 1000 Islands views.
Is There Accessibility Assistance Available for the Tour?
The tour provider offers accessibility assistance for guests with mobility needs. They have staff available to help with boarding the boat and provide any necessary accommodations to ensure a comfortable experience.
The Sum Up
This day trip from Montreal to Kingston offers a well-rounded experience, blending the historic charm of the city with the natural splendor of the 1000 Islands. Travelers will enjoy the convenience of roundtrip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to explore iconic landmarks and scenic waterways, creating a memorable journey that showcases the best of this picturesque region.
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