1000 island boat tour ontario

Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises

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From Kingston, Ontario

Sightseeing Cruises

Explore Kingston's historic scenery on a Discovery Cruise. Or, experience the 1000 Islands on a 3-hour Heart of the Islands Cruise.

Dining Cruises

Dining in the 1000 Islands is our signature experience. Relax at a reserved table on a Sunset Dinner Cruise aboard the Island Star.

Eclipse Cruise

Visiting Kingston for the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8th, 2024? Step aboard the Island Queen to experience totality from the water!

Our theme is Food, Fun and Entertainment!

Thank you for joining us onboard in 2023. Cruises resume in Spring 2024. Gift Certificates now available.

Cruises sail from April to October. Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises is the premiere cruise line in the 1000 Islands region, consistently ranked as one of the top things to do, and as a top attraction in Kingston, Ontario.

Our Location

Kingston, ontario, canada.

Visit Kingston and the Islands

Kingston is a vibrant town in Eastern Ontario, rich in Canadian history and culture. Our close proximity to the famous 1000 Islands region, attracts tourists from all over the world to visit, stay and explore the area. As the largest city bordering the Canadian side of the 1000 Islands, Kingston offers plenty to see and do including cruises, trolley tours, and more:

Trolley Tours

Accommodations

Discover local sights along Kingston’s historic waterfront on a 1-hour Discovery Cruise or take in views of the 1000 Islands during our famous 3-hour Heart of the Islands Cruise.

Dining in the 1000 Islands is our signature experience: Relax at a reserved table and enjoy live entertainment with a delicious meal.

Great cruise. Table view was really great. Food was good, roof was great with lots of nice views. Captain and crew are very nice and professional. Entertainment was really excellent and funny. My wife and I really enjoyed it. We will definitely do it again. – Lunch Cruise Guest

We had the privilege of taking your lunch cruise. What a fantastic experience!!! I have taken other cruises, and even boated through the 1000 Islands many times on my own boat. Your cruise was tops! Good food, Great service, Very enjoyable. – Island Queen Lunch Cruise Guest

The trolley was a wonderful way to see everything! It saved finding a parking spot and getting lost. My daughter, her sons and I had a wonderful experience in Kingston. The trolley drivers were very informative and answered a variety of questions. – Kingston Trolley Tour Guest

Our cruise was extremely enjoyable and the fine dining experience was nothing short of amazing. The entertainment was also top notch with a beautiful sunset adding to our experience. Staff were very attentive. This was our second dinner cruise experience. – Sunset Dinner Cruise Guest

We had a wonderful time. Loved the entertainment and our server was amazing!!! First time any of us visited Kingston to go on the cruise. Loved every minute of it. Food was very good as well. I have already recommended the cruise to friends and will continue to. -Island Star Lunch Cruise Guest

Overall experience was fantastic, our guests were very happy. Would recommend and would rent again for future parties! – Privately Chartered Event

Thousand Islands Cruise From Kingston (Our Boat Tour Experience)

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here

Choosing A Thousand Islands Cruise From Kingston Can Be Tough!

Want to explore the famous Thousand Islands region in the Saint Lawrence River? Great idea!

This beautiful region is a piece of classic “Canadiana” and – as a simple day trip from Kingston – there’s no better way to explore it than by water on an island cruise!

As a refresher, the 1000 Islands are a geographically and historically significant area of the St. Lawrence shared between Ontario (Canada) and New York State (United States).

That said, there are a few cruises to choose from and it can be confusing to find the best island cruise for you. Some cruises offer breakfast or dinner while others vary by tour boat prices and lengths.

Being Kingston locals for several years, we did the 3 Hour Thousand Islands Riverboat Cruise from Kingston . Eric had already done the Kingston sunset cruise, but Lisa hadn’t been out on the water yet.

So, in this guide, you’ll see what we experienced and get an overview of different 1000 Island boat tours available that leave from Kingston. If you want to leave from Gananoque, you can check here for Gananoque Boat Line . You can even tour from the USA with Uncle Sam Boat Tours.

* Friendly Disclosure: We paid for the boat tour we did ourselves – this is not a sponsored post .

Table of Contents

Thousand Islands Cruise – Boat Tour Options

If you know the kind of boat tour you’re looking for, feel free to jump ahead and click through to learn more below.

Be sure to make note of the specific details, the reviews, addresses, how to book, etc. All you have to do is book the one you like and show up to the waterfront!

• For the Classic 3 Hour Thousand Islands Cruise (We Did This) – Check Out This Boat Tour
• For the 1.5-Hour Discovery Cruise – Check Out This Boat Tour
• For a Sunset Dinner Cruise – Check Out This Site

Below, you’ll find more details about the above boat cruise tours so keep reading to make the right decision for you and your group!

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Classic 3 Hour Thousand Island Riverboat Tour (Our Tour)

If you want to experience the 1000 Islands, the cruise that we did is probably the best bet.

This cruise explored an area called The Admiralty Islands (which was beautiful) and is entirely sightseeing so you don’t get off the boat. Tour times for this longer tour are 10:30 am and 2:00 pm. We did the 10:30 am.

There is also no meal included – but you get live entertainment and amazing views of the historic waterway.

This tour also comes with audio commentary (which is really interesting) in English and there are audio guides available for Spanish, Chinese, English, French, German, and Japanese!

Overall, we really liked our tour – it was well organized and enjoyable. There’s a shop on-board where you can buy alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, and even snacks/food like popcorn.

This tour can actually be done with a breakfast or brunch add-on but this is a different ticket altogether.

You can read about our sightseeing tour in more detail below – we’ve included LOTS of photos so you can get see what we saw on tour!

⇒ Check out the exact sightseeing cruise we went on here

Kingston & 1000 Islands: 1.5-Hour Discovery Cruise

If you’re short on time but want to get out on the Kingston waterfront, you can always do a 1.5 Hour Kingston Discovery Cruise. This cruise is on a smaller boat than the Island Queen (what we took) called the Island Belle.

To compare, this cruise focuses much more heavily on Kingston and not so much on seeing the Islands. The tour covers the rich history of Canada’s first capital city and the waterways that shaped our nation – which is admittedly very interesting!

Since the cruise is shorter, they offer more times throughout the day. You can book to leave at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, or 5:00 pm. The 5:00 pm wouldn’t be quite at sunset but close enough and certainly not as hot as midday!

This tour also comes with audio commentary in English and audio guides for Spanish, Chinese, English, French, German, and Japanese!

⇒ Check the times to book your 1.5 Hour Island Discovery Cruise

Sunset Dinner Cruise

If you’re keen to have a meal and experience the sunset on the water, you can book a sunset dinner cruise. These cruises make use of the long, flat, glass-domed roof boat called the Island Star.

Cruises are 3 hours long and tables by the windows book up in advance so be sure to lock in your cruise if you know you want this option!

⇒ Check the prices and times here

Our Thousand Islands Cruise Experience

Since there are quite a few options, we went on a boat tour to show you exactly what it’s like.

The tour itself is run through Kingston Destination Group – the same group that runs the Tourist Information Centre downtown in Confederation Park and handles lots of Kingston tourism tours/activities like the famous Kingston Trolley Tour .

Overall, we really liked our tour. We knew it was sightseeing which meant 3 hours of sailing around in the sunshine and learning about stuff. That worked perfectly for us – and many others on the boat also enjoyed the tour!

We booked the boat cruise through GetYourGuide (a really good travel company) because the official tour booking website used to be very outdated.

That said, you can also book in person when you get to Kingston. However, the summer months are VERY busy in Kingston so some of these tours might sell out if you wait.

Personal advice: If you know the day you want to cruise, we’d suggest booking in advance.

After having booked online, we just walked up to the Kingston ticket pavilion before the cruise, showed the email voucher we got and received our paper tour tickets. Simple.

If you want to learn more about the tour and/or booking process, you can check out our boat tour here .

What You’ll Need For This Boat Tour

If you do end up on this sightseeing cruise, here’s a shortlist of the things you might want to have with you for a great day on the water. Some of these items are weather dependent, but in general:

• A hat – with a string to stay around the neck in wind
• A windbreaker jacket (in the spring or fall)
• A water bottle
• Hair tie (if you have longer hair)
• Seasickness pills (it’s not too rough, though)

Thousand Islands Cruise Itinerary

So, to give you a better idea of exactly what we experienced on our island cruise, here’s a detailed breakdown of the day.

The boat tour was advertised as 3 hours long and it ended up being a little longer (by about 10 minutes) because the boat had to slow down in the high water around the islands.

Pick-up/Drop-off

We started our day at the Kingston waterfront. If you are unfamiliar with Kingston, head for the massive building called Kingston City Hall.

On the side that faces the water, you will see a large green park called Confederation Basin/Park. This is the park full of attractions and the Kingston Tourist Information Centre.

In the water, (that’s Lake Ontario), you’ll see many small boats at the Kingston waterfront docks. Looking at the water, look left and you will see the large tour boats (you physically cannot miss them) and the round ticket pavilion that says “BOAT TOURS” on the side.

The address for this ticket office and island cruise boat pier is: 1 Brock St, Kingston, ON K7L 2Z1, Canada

The tour boats leave from this above address and NOT where you catch the ferry to Wolfe Island – which is located at Barrack St, Kingston, ON K7K 2X9, Canada.

As expected, we went into the office, exchanged our online voucher for paper tickets, and walked to the nearby pier where a line was forming to get on the boat.

We were 30 minutes early and it’s wise to be early so you get good seats on the boat and so you aren’t running down the dock as it sails away!

We got our tickets checked, got a souvenir photo taken, and climbed aboard. We immediately went to the top deck where it’s open to the sun and the air but you can sit on the first deck (shown above) or the second deck for some shade and still have amazing views.

At the end of the day, the boat returned to this exact spot on the pier. We got off, thanked the crew, had a look at our souvenir photo (didn’t buy it but honestly ALMOST did), and walked downtown for dinner and a drink!

Heading For The Thousand Islands From Kingston

Once we pushed off from the pier, they went over safety procedures thoroughly which was really good. With that many people aboard it was good to know there was a plan in place if things went bad out on the water.

The entertainer introduced himself – he was an older gentleman who played classic tunes on both a banjo and a guitar.

He was hooked up to the loudspeaker so he could wander the decks and take requests from people. He was really good – and provided some comedic commentary.

Heading out of the Kingston waterfront, the entertainer shared time with the audio guide which was a narration over the loudspeakers.

The guide was actually really interesting and shared historical dates, locations of events, shipwrecks, famous battles, you name it! We learned a ton in the first leg of the trip.

We passed Wolfe Island and left Kingston behind as we headed up the Saint Lawrence. The cottages/homes on the shore were lovely and the whole area, in general, is just really, really pretty.

It was the perfect day weather-wise, too. We actually went inside for a bit because we didn’t want to get TOO much sun!

If you want, you can grab a snack or a drink at either “shop” they have on both the first and second interior decks. Families with kids were snacking on popcorn and some people even cracked a bottle of wine or a beer.

We didn’t buy anything so we don’t know about prices – but many people took advantage of the food and drinks for purchase.

Arriving At The Thousand Islands

After about an hour we arrived at the edge of the Thousand Islands. It does take a bit to actually get there but the ride was lovely (and lively) so we didn’t mind.

On this cruise, you learn all about the island chain – and explore a region of islands called the Admiralty Islands.

We learned that different parts of the islands were named by different people or groups and so that’s why there are different naming conventions all through the region! In any case, the Admiralty Islands were lovely.

Touring The Thousand Islands

Once “in” the islands, the boat started weaving between big ones, small ones, etc. The audio commentary started up and provided the names of the important islands and the history of it.

Usually, there was a historic cottage or building on it built by someone from “back in the day” – each with a small story attached.

The fact that basically every island had a short story attached made the experience so much richer. If they said “here’s a bunch of islands” it would have been pretty but boring.

However, learning the names and getting a sense of the history of the area was very worth the trip… and we just scratched the surface!

It was also easy to see the islands and snap photos from any of the decks so don’t feel like you have to stand at the top the whole time.

The large port windows make for excellent photo-taking spots – and these seats are closer to the bar and the snacks!

At one point, we could even see the waterfront of Gananoque in the distance. The small town – being even closer to the actual islands – is also rich with history.

We’ll write about Gananoque on this site soon because even Eric hasn’t explored the town in-depth yet!

Returning To Kingston

Once we zigzagged around the islands for a while, we left the grouping of islands to enter the big river again. And back to Kingston we went.

The entertainer started up again to play a few songs and take requests – and we enjoyed the sunshine and snapped as many photos as we could.

Eventually, you start to recognize the Martello Towers (the stone towers with red tops built by the British) and know that you are back in the waters near Kingston.

You actually learn more on the way back but not as much from the audio commentary as heading out for the day.

Once we got back – as we mentioned above – it was great to see Kingston from the water for a change and snapped lots of photos.

We docked, waited not too long to get off, had a look at our souvenir photo, and went downtown for a drink! The captain and crew were there to see us off and it was a great way to end the day.

Related Articles

If you are hanging around Kingston (or travelling to Kingston from Toronto ), check out these other posts for trip planning – we know LOTS about the historic city!

• Things to Do and See in Kingston
• Great Restaurants + Bars & Pubs in Kingston
• Awesome Kingston Breweries to Visit
• Coffee Shops in Kingston You Should Try
• Where to Stay in Kingston

And there you have it – our experience on a Thousand Islands cruise from Kingston. What do you think? Have you been on any of these boat tours before?

We honestly really liked the boat tour we went on . That said, let us know how your island cruise goes – we’re always interested in hearing about the best experiences Ontario has to offer!

As always, Keep exploring, eh? -E&L

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Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

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Experiences

Rockport cruises.

Depart from the heart of the 1000 Islands with the guarantee you’ll see castles.

• 20 Front St, Rockport, ON K0E 1V0
• 613-659-3402
• rockportcruises.com

If you want to see all the highlights in the 1000 Islands – including the majestic Boldt Castle – this is the way to do it. Each year, this company hosts thousands of tourists per year, speaking to its enormous popularity.

Watch our video trailer

What you’ll see.

• Zavikon Island
• Boldt Castle
• Millionaire’s Row
• Canadian Palisades
• 1000 Islands International Bridge

Tours/Options

Heart of the Islands Cruise

Palaces and Palisades Cruise

Sunset cruise.

Boldt Castle Cruise

View all details about this activity.

The 1000 Islands are waiting to be discovered.  

Additional Information

• Group tours are available
• Charters and private functions – including weddings, corporate events, anniversaries, and more – are available
• Rockport Cruises has been awarded a Safe Travels Stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council 
• Bring weather-appropriate clothing and sunscreen for your tour
• Don’t miss the Rockport General Store and Gift Shop
• Check the website , as some cruises and schedules will change.

“Our family took the boat tour and loved it so much that we will be back to take the tour to explore the castle next time! Friendly staff and very informative. Overall it was a wonderful experience.”

“It was a really amazing experience to 1000 Islands by Rockport boat line. Such a pleasant 1 hr trip around this island.”

“I would 100% recommend this cruise if you are planning to visit 1000 islands! I went for the 2 hour cruise and I thoroughly enjoyed it. There was a lot of sitting space and the organizers try not to make it congested. The boat we were on consisted of three levels, each providing a really nice view and I felt as though the tour was informative and detailed, which I liked! The boat enters the American borders for a little bit! The boat passes a historic castle, and some cruises stop at that location for two hours so that passengers can visit it! I would definitely go on this cruise again!”

None of the tour boat companies can show you all 1,864 islands on a single tour. Rockport Cruises has an advantage being in the Heart of the 1000 Islands, so you will be able to see all of the highlights on any of their cruises. 

Dress in weather-appropriate clothing and bring sunscreen for the tour. For the Boldt Castle tour, you’ll need to bring your valid passport for this cruise.

Only registered service dogs are allowed on the boats, and in the motel, general store, and dining establishments.

What You'll See

Tours / options, enjoy a comfortable stay.

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Howard Johnson Inn Gananoque

Ramada by Wyndham Gananoque Provincial Inn

Ramada by Wyndham

Gananoque Inn & Spa

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Visitor Information

• (613) 382-8044
• 10 King St E, Gananoque, ON K7G 1E6

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1000 Islands Tourism acknowledges that we are on traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee (Hoe-den-oh-show-nee) and Anishinabe (A-nish-in-‘a-bay) and First Peoples, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.

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Go on a cruise

Thousand islands national park.

Take in the sights and sounds of the Thousand Islands from the comfort of a tour boat. Public and private cruises are available from Kingston to Brockville. Thematic cruises highlight the cultural and natural places of interest. Routes and prices vary. Find the following Canadian operators organized by location.

1000 Islands & Seaway Cruises

Rockport Cruises Andress Boat Works

Gananoque Boat Line

Gananoque Boat Line Harmer’s Cottages

St. Lawrence Cruise Lines Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises

Related links

• Camping and overnight accommodations
• Guided nature and forest therapy walks
• Paddling in the Thousand Islands
• Shuttles and boat rentals
• Visitor centre
• Bird watching
• Snowshoeing
• Kitesurfing
• Photography
• Scuba Diving
• Wildlife Viewing
• Parks Canada Xplorers

Top Tours in Ontario's Thousand Islands, Ontario

Ontario's thousand islands tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Helicopter Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Boldt Castle and 2 Nation Tour

2. 3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque with views of Boldt Castle

3. 5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque

4. Boldt Castle and Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour

5. Toronto, Niagara Falls & Thousand Islands VIP 2–Day Trip

6. 1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea with views of Boldt Castle

7. Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour

8. 1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque

9. 1000 Islands 90-minute Sightseeing Cruise

10. Thousand Islands Two Castle Helicopter Tour

11. Half Day Breakfast Tour in 1000 Islands

12. Private 1.5 hour 1000 Islands Cruise for up to 10 people

13. 1 hour 'Singer Castle Express' Wildcat 1000 Islands Cruise

14. 2 hour 1000 Islands 'Castle Prowler' WildCat Cruise

15. Toronto, Niagara Falls & Thousand Islands 3–DAY Trip

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Orignal Haunted Walk of Kingston 75-Minute Ghost Tour

Kingston Self-Guided walking tour & scavenger hunt

Kingston Bike Tours

Guided ATV Adventure Tours in Kaladar

Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Kingston, Canada

Unique Scavenger Hunt in Kingston by Zombie Scavengers

African Gemstone Sculpture Experience

Ghost Tour of Queen's University

6 Hour Motor Sports Class in Roslin

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Belleville by Operation City Quest

Belleville City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers

Ghost Tour of Fort Henry National Historic Site

What travellers are saying.

• 3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque with views of Boldt Castle
• 5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque
• Boldt Castle and 2 Nation Tour
• Half Day Breakfast Tour in 1000 Islands
• Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour
• 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours
• Cove Dweller Boat Works
• Thousand islands
• City Cruises Gananoque
• 1000 Islands & Seaway Cruises
• Rockport Cruises
• Houseboat Holidays - Private Day Charters
• 1000 Islands Kayaking
• Big Rideau Lake Boat Rentals
• Skydive Gananoque
• Skywood Eco Adventure

Kingston, Ontario

1 hour 1000 islands cruise from ivy lea (landmarks of the islands cruise).

• 1 Hour Cruise
• Onboard audio commentary in English and French

Landmarks Of The Islands Cruise - 1 Hour 1000 Islands Cruise From Ivy Lea

The Ivy Lea port is located at 95 Ivy Lea Road, Lansdowne, Ontario, just off the 1000 Islands Parkway in the village of Ivy Lea. It's only a few minutes from Interstate 81's 1000 Islands International Bridge. Ivy Lea is also 30 minutes east of Kingston, Ontario, on Highway 2 and accessible from Highway 401!

Tour Highlights:

• During this tour in the center of the 1000 Islands, departing from the Ivy Lea harbor, view Boldt Castle, the Statue of St. Lawrence, the 1000 Islands International Bridge, and the Zavikon Islands, which contain the world's smallest International Bridge.
• Pass by the Statue of St. Lawrence, who sits peacefully overlooking the passing ships and the mighty St. Lawrence River. This statue stands far above a rock-cut and can only be seen from the water.
• 1 hour Cruise with views of the 1000 Islands International Bridge, Boldt Castle, the Zavikon Islands, and the Statue of St. Lawrence.

1 Hour 1000 Islands Cruise From Ivy Lea Schedule:

*Timed ticketing is in effect. **Schedule is subject to change without prior notice. Schedule updated on Feb 27, 2024.

Tour Itinerary

Where to meet.

95 Ivy Lea Road, Lansdowne, ON K0E 1L0

1000 Islands International Bridge

Views of the 1000 Islands International Bridge

Boldt Castle

Zavikon islands, statue of st. lawrence, get off cruise, pickup information, where to meet:.

• City Cruises Gananoque Ivy Lea Port, 95 Ivy Lea Road, Lansdowne, ON K0E 1L0
• The Ivy Lea port is situated at 95 Ivy Lea Road, Lansdowne, Ontario, in the village of Ivy Lea, and is conveniently located off the 1000 Islands Parkway. It takes only a few minutes to reach it from the 1000 Islands International Bridge via Interstate 81. Moreover, Ivy Lea can be accessed from Highway 401, located 30 minutes east of Kingston, Ontario, on Highway 2.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Once payment is received, cruises are non-refundable. We are happy to reschedule your cruise date for the amount paid within 48-hour notice before your scheduled cruise.

Cruises are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE within 48 hours of your cruise.

We do not compensate for no-shows or late arrivals. In the event your cruise was cancelled by our operator, you will receive two options sent via email and SMS text message to the number we have on file:

Option 1: You may transfer to a different cruise date. Please note that we will refund you the difference if you reschedule to a lower-priced cruise. If you are rescheduling to a higher-priced cruise, payment will be required for the difference, once the new date is selected. Please note, that prices are subject to change based on demand and peak cruise times.

Option 2: If you cannot join us on a future date, you will receive a full refund back to the original form of payment. Please allow 3-5 business days for the funds to appear in your account.

• Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I print tickets or show my boarding pass?

Tickets are not required for boarding. When boarding, please check in with your confirmation number and the last name on your reservation.

Q: What happens if it rains or snows?

We sail rain or shine. In the case of severe weather conditions or upon the direction of Transport Canada, we will remain dockside but provide the full dining service.

Q: Where can I find my boarding time?

Your boarding and cruise time are different – most cruises board 30 minutes before their departure time. Please check your confirmation email to confirm your cruise boarding & departure time.

Q: Are cameras allowed on tour?

Yes. We want you to capture all the great memories of your tour with us!

Q: What is the cancellation policy?

The cruises are non-refundable final sale, and you have up to 48 hours before the cruise to reschedule or receive a gift card. We do not compensate for any late arrivals or no-shows to a cruise.

Q: Is seating assigned onboard?

Our Captain and Marine Crew will direct you to your deck as you board. From there, the Host/Hostess will show your party to your assigned table(s). Decks are never guaranteed to non-private groups. We assign seats based on needs and capacity for each cruise.

Other Information

• Must arrive no later than 15 minutes prior to departure.
• Check-in is at the City Cruises Gananoque Ivy Lea Port located just across from the boarding area
• Must ensure they arrive at the correct port location, Gananoque or Ivy Lea, when booking the 1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruises.

Tour Exclusions

• Meals and beverages

• CA$32.95 Book This Tour
• Book This Tour CA$32.95

• ToNiagara - 10296783 Canada Inc.
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• : +1 800-653-2242

• 5 Brisdale Dr, Suite 208 Brampton, ON L7A 0S9, Canada

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IMPORTANT UPDATE

As of Apr 13, 2024, proof of COVID-19 vaccination with photo ID is required for restaurants and bars, casinos, concerts, theatres, cinemas, recreation and sporting facilities, festivals and more. Capacity limits for indoor and outdoor activities are based on maintaining a physical distance of 2m/6ft from others. Please follow all public health guidelines to stop the spread of COVID-19.

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'JEWELS OF THE ST. LAWRENCE' CRUISE

Get up close and personal, close to nature, ogle ships from around the world.

An informative and convenient introductory cruise with the most frequent departures featuring the Eastern Group of the 1000 Islands, the St. Lawrence Seaway, Millionaire’s Row and Brockville’s historic waterfront. Revel in your view of palatial waterfront mansions, quaint island cottages and the many natural wonders of the 1000 Islands as you pass in the shadows of ships plying the main shipping channel of the St. Lawrence Seaway. Relax with a beverage and snack from our licensed snack bar and get close to nature, as you glide through narrow, scenic channels not available to larger tour boats, while our bi-lingual Captain’s commentary provides an accurate account of the Islands history, its legends and its people.

1000 Islands Cruises — Gananoque

Looking for 1000 Islands cruises? Hop on with City Cruises Gananoque (formerly Gananoque Boat Line), Gananoque’s very first tour boat company. It operates five triple-decker, all-aluminum vessels with on board facilities such as restrooms, coffee shops, bars and refreshment areas. Each boat has its own open deck and two enclosed decks.

City Cruises Gananoque is located at 280 Main Street in the town of Gananoque, in southeastern Ontario. Gananoque is about a two-hour drive along the ON-401 E from Toronto, and 90 minutes from Ottawa.

To learn more information about tours, bookings, and general information about City Cruises Gananoque, we recommend that you visit their official website . For more information about what you can see around the area, keep scrolling to read Destination Ontario’s recommendations.

Accessibility Features

Assistive listening devices available, wheelchair accessible, universal washroom, support persons welcome, service animals welcome, accessible washroom, accessible seating, accessible restaurant, accessible parking, accessible entrances/exits, wheelchair and/or mobility devices available, more about 1000 islands cruises — gananoque.

City Cruises Gananoque started out with a local mailman taking passengers along on his boat as he delivered mail to residents living on the 1000 Islands. In 1951, the boat line grew to include Linda 7, a wooden tour boat that could hold 55 passengers. A few years later it was joined by four more wooden, single-decker boats: Linda 4, Miss Rockport 2, the Island Wanderer, and Pickle. In the 1960s, Miss Gananoque 1 and Miss Gananoque 2 joined the roster.

It wasn’t until the 1970s that the City Cruises Gananoque started building its current vessels, starting with the Thousand Islander. It spanned almost 34 metres, had three decks, and could carry 380 people. When it set sail, it became the first, all-aluminum tourist vessel in North America.

Today, City Cruises Gananoque offers many tours to choose from. For visitors wanting a quick introduction of the 1000 Islands, there's the Landmarks of the 1000 Islands Cruise. The tour takes visitors around 1000 Islands’ most well-known landmarks including the Statue of St. Lawrence, the 1000 Islands International Bridge (the shortest international bridge in the world), Zavikon Island and Boldt Castle.

Visitors curious about the 1000 Islands’ history will want to get on the Original Heart of the 1000 Islands Cruise. It takes passengers for a one-hour jaunt around the Admiralty and Navy group of Islands, and provides a close look at several generations-old cottages and summer homes dotting the islands.

Visit ghost ships resting underwater with the two-and-a-half hours Lost Ships of the 1000 Islands Cruise. The tour visits seven 18th to 19th century shipwrecks while using video and audio commentary, as well as side-scan sonar images to bring their stories to life. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of the famous Boldt Castle, St. Lawrence Statue, 1000 Islands International Bridge, as well as the many lavish homes that stand on Millionaire’s Row.

Chase the sunset on the Sunset Cruise, a favourite among photographers and romantics alike. It takes visitors on a one-and-a-half hour cruise around the Admiralty Group of Islands, with intimate views of UNESCO and Parks Canada-classified islands, and details their unique ecosystems and aquatic wildlife––all while surrounded by the dazzling colours of the setting sun.

Visitors who appreciate a good love story will want to hop aboard the Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise. The tour goes around all of usual 1000 Island haunts, but also makes a 2 hour stopover at Boldt Castle, allowing passengers to explore the castle and its grounds. The Boldt Castle, located on Heart Island, was built by the proprietor of world-renowned Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, George C Boldt. Originally intended to be a grandiose symbol of love for his wife, it was hastily abandoned when his wife died in 1904.

Please note, all visitors to Heart Island (Boldt Castle) will be required to have a valid passport or a valid VISA and passport since Heart Island is an American Island.

The boats undergo constant inspections and certifications by Transport Canada, so you can be sure you’re boarding a boat with high safety standards every time.

Looking for more things to do after a tour with City Cruises Gananoque? Explore the town of Gananoque by taking a walk around the many sculptures at Sculpture Park , or splash around historic Joel Heritage Park and Beach. Relax with a cold, organic beer at the Gan Brewing Company , savour their tasty brews like the Naughty Otter Lager, or Valour Rye Beer. Try your luck with any of the 500 slot machines at the Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands , or catch a show at the historic  Thousand Island Playhouse .

Last updated:  August 18, 2023

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Gananoque City Cruises

Toll Free Phone: (800) 459-8105

Get ready to set sail and experience the wonder of the  Thousand Islands  aboard  City Cruises Gananoque  with ports in Gananoque and Ivy Lea. Visit the magnificent  Boldt Castle  on Heart Island, discover and learn about the 1000 islands region, its history, and stories of those who have called it home. Or enjoy a cruise at sunset with breathtaking views of majestic estates and small cottage islands.  With many cruise options to choose from, your visit to the Thousand Islands is sure to be an amazing experience! 1-Hour to Half-Day Cruises available including an officially curated 3-Hour Cruise with views of Boldt Castle, a  Canadian Signature Experience .

2023 Boat Cruise Options:

1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea

1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque

3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque

5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque

THE 10 BEST Ontario's Thousand Islands Tours & Excursions

Ontario's thousand islands tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Helicopter Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque with views of Boldt Castle

2. 5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque

3. Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour

4. Boldt Castle and 2 Nation Tour

5. 1000 Islands 90-minute Sightseeing Cruise

6. Boldt Castle and Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour

7. 1 hour 'Singer Castle Express' Wildcat 1000 Islands Cruise

8. 1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea with views of Boldt Castle

9. 1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque

10. Thousand Islands Two Castle Helicopter Tour

11. Half Day Breakfast Tour in 1000 Islands

12. Toronto, Niagara Falls & Thousand Islands VIP 2–Day Trip

13. Private 1.5 hour 1000 Islands Cruise for up to 10 people

14. Toronto, Niagara Falls & Thousand Islands 3–DAY Trip

15. 2 hour 1000 Islands 'Castle Prowler' WildCat Cruise

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Orignal Haunted Walk of Kingston 75-Minute Ghost Tour

Kingston Self-Guided walking tour & scavenger hunt

Kingston Bike Tours

Guided ATV Adventure Tours in Kaladar

Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Kingston, Canada

Unique Scavenger Hunt in Kingston by Zombie Scavengers

African Gemstone Sculpture Experience

Ghost Tour of Queen's University

6 Hour Motor Sports Class in Roslin

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Belleville by Operation City Quest

Belleville City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers

Ghost Tour of Fort Henry National Historic Site

What travelers are saying.

• 3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque with views of Boldt Castle
• 5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque
• Boldt Castle and 2 Nation Tour
• Half Day Breakfast Tour in 1000 Islands
• Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour
• 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours
• Cove Dweller Boat Works
• Thousand islands
• City Cruises Gananoque
• 1000 Islands & Seaway Cruises
• Rockport Cruises
• Houseboat Holidays - Private Day Charters
• 1000 Islands Kayaking
• Big Rideau Lake Boat Rentals
• Skydive Gananoque
• Skywood Eco Adventure

My 7 Favorite Stops On A 1000 Islands Road Trip

S tunning views of the St. Lawrence River, Lake Ontario, and adjoining waterways beg you to sit, take a deep breath, and simply enjoy the scenery. The relaxed pace of a 1000 Islands road trip, motoring along scenic byways past snug harbors and charming villages, is a wonderful way to wind down and venture off the grid.

We anchored our trip to 1000 Islands in Clayton; it is central to the other stops along the 1000 Islands coastline, affording easy access to all the wonderful adventures along the route. From Clayton, it was easy to head south to Henderson Harbor, Sackets Harbor, and Cape Vincent. When we ventured north and east, we encountered Alexandria Bay.

My favorite stops along our 1000 Islands road trip are grouped together by town and are in no particular order.

Note: Some information in this piece was obtained during a sponsored press trip, but all recommendations are my own.

1. Antique Boat Museum

If you love boats and boating, you will be enchanted by the Antique Boat Museum . Its collection has amassed over 320 boats along with thousands of boating artifacts. You can visit multiple exhibits including the National Motor Boat Show displays. Showcasing the evolution of pleasure boating in North America, the exhibit is filled with historic runabouts, cruisers, and other beautiful boats you will want to own. You’ll be quipping “she’s yar” when you get a look at some of these antique gems.

When you are ready to hit the water, you can enjoy a sunset cruise on the famous country music star Alan Jackson’s 30-foot Chris Craft Cruiser, Flat Top . Bring a small cooler with snacks and your favorite beverage for 2 hours of on-the-water relaxation. Sit back, pretend you are the star of your New York road trip, and enjoy the ride. Other boat experiences include a 45-minute Ride The River trip in a 30-foot, triple cockpit Hacker Craft; a 20-minute ride on the Pardon Me, a 48-foot custom runabout; and assorted rowing and sailing experiences. Reservations are required to enjoy these boating adventures.

2. Thousand Islands Art Center

If you love creating, you will enjoy taking an art class at the Thousand Islands Art Center . Explore your creative side by taking a class on bookbinding, basic knitting, weaving, drawing, painting, and other hands-on crafting classes. The class on my list is Expressive Textiles: Painting and Printing on Fabric — right up my alley.

The center also has two galleries displaying stunning handwoven textiles, a variety of artisan exhibits, and curated shows.

Classes are open to non-members, so why not make your own 1000 Islands souvenir?

3. Southwick Beach State Park

Every vacation deserves a beach day and Southwick Beach State Park is ready for your blanket, picnic basket, and beach book. Like many wonderful state parks, Southwick offers a wide variety of services including campsites, cabins, pavilions, and bath facilities. In addition to swimming, you can enjoy fishing, hiking, and cross-country skiing in the winter.

4. Westcott Beach State Park

Another great stop along Lake Ontario is Westcott Beach State Park . The park has a small beach, lots of green spaces, camping sites, pavilions, and bath facilities. A small boat marina adjacent to the beach is perfect for campers and day-trippers who want to put their boat in the water to drop a line and hook a black bass or two.

5. Sackets Harbor Battlefield

Sackets harbor.

Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site is a must-stop on your 1000 Islands road trip. The rolling green gives way to harbor views and imparts a peaceful stroll in the park. However, the battlefield history is quite different than what you experience today.

During the War of 1812, Sackets Harbor was the upper St. Lawrence River Valley and Lake Ontario center for U.S. military activity. It was a bustling community of militia, sailors, and shipbuilders constructing a large fleet to patrol the waterfront and prepare for the invasion of Canada.

Self-guided tours, with the help of strategic signage, impart the military history and battlefield maneuvers of this historic sight. In-season, guided tours are led by docents dressed in period military clothing to bring the area to life.

Sackets Harbor Battlefield is a picture-perfect spot to get out and walk, enjoy the pretty scenery, and learn a little history.

6. Tibbetts Point Lighthouse

Cape vincent.

Lighthouse hunters will love the charming Tibbetts Point Lighthouse . Built in 1827, Tibbetts Point Lighthouse is at the juncture of where Lake Ontario meets the St. Lawrence River. The lighthouse features an original Fresnel lens, one of approximately 75 still in use across U.S. coastlines today. Unfortunately, the active lighthouse is not accessible to visitors. However, guests are free to enjoy the grounds and scenic views.

When you need a coffee break, pop into Cup of Joy Cafe and grab one of their house lattes. Don’t forget to order a delicious pastry to go with it. My favorite latte, the Angel Rock, is made with white chocolate and raspberry — satisfying the sweet tooth hangries.

There is a lovely little park across the street where you can enjoy your pastry and coffee with a water view.

7. Boldt Castle

Alexandria bay.

Boldt Castle is one of the major attractions along the New York State 1000 Islands road trip. The castle, only accessible by boat, is situated on Heart Island. It was built as a summer home for George and Louise Boldt. Sadly, Louise passed before the castle was completed and the magnificent home sat empty and unfinished for over 70 years. Today, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority operates the beautifully appointed castle and accompanying Boldt Yacht House.

As soon as you enter, the foyer and grand staircase set the tone for the home’s elaborate décor and opulent furnishings. The library, billiard room, and ballroom will take your breath away with the beautiful craftsmanship. I find summer homes of bygone days, built to resemble European Castles, intriguing. They represent an affluence few of us will ever achieve.

After your visit to Boldt Castle, stop by Thousand Islands Winery for a tour and a taste of their exceptional New York wines. The beautiful farm, surrounded by lush grape vines, is a perfect backdrop to enjoy a glass of your new favorite wine.

Great Lakes Seaway Trail

The Great Lakes Seaway Trail offers road trippers four different segments to explore the shores of Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River, and the Niagara River. If you have the time, explore all four sections; most of our trip was on the scenic 1000 Islands/St. Lawrence River section. Three other routes make up the entire trail: Lake Erie/Buffalo/Niagara Falls, Rochester/Central Lake Ontario, and Eastern Lake Ontario.

Boating The Thousand Islands Region

One of the main draws of 1000 Islands is boating. Whether you tow your own, rent, or hire, getting out on the water will enhance your visit.

The Antique Boat Museum offers several boat tour options. An extensive list of boat rentals and boat tours is available on the 1000 Islands website. No matter what town or village you find yourself in, there is most likely a marina, boat launch, or captain available for you to enjoy some time on the water.

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel

In the center of your 1000 Islands road trip is the town of Cayton, the perfect spot to anchor your adventures. The beautiful 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel , perched on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, offers easy access to everything you want to see and do.

We loved the balcony view while enjoying a cup of morning coffee. Every morning, on each floor, the staff sets up a coffee station with freshly brewed coffee and tea options. I appreciated not having to figure out yet another hotel room coffee maker that spits out a marginal morning beverage. Offering brewed coffee on each floor is genius! Grab one of the cozy hotel robes, pad down the hall, pour an exceptional cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy it on your deck with a view of the morning water activities. Every hotel should get on board with this trendsetting idea.

The Best 1000 Islands Road Trip

One of my favorite things about visiting 1000 Islands is the proliferation of benches. Pretty little parks pop up along the route offering beautiful views and spots to sit and take it all in.

Pro Tip: Many of the spots I’ve listed are open seasonally; be sure to check the locations’ websites for opening and closing dates.

Related Reading: 

• 7 Incredible Lake Placid Region Restaurants With A Water View
• 11 Incredible Outdoor Adventures In Stunning Saranac Lake, New York
• 22 Fantastic Things To Do On Long Island

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

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