is boldt castle open for tours

Boldt Castle: Hours, admission, tours and more information on the Alexandria Bay landmark

• Updated: Apr. 26, 2024, 3:39 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 22, 2015, 3:20 p.m.
• Mike Waters | [email protected]

Historic Boldt Castle has a story to match its beauty and grandeur.

The castle is situated on Heart Island in the middle of the St. Lawrence River's Thousand Islands region in Alexandria Bay .

George C. Boldt, a millionaire hotel magnate, began construction of the castle in 1900 as a tribute to his wife Louise. It was to be their summer home. But Mrs. Boldt passed away in 1904, just months before the completion of the castle. Her distraught husband immediately halted construction of the home.

The property remained vacant for over 70 years.

In 1977, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired Heart Island and the nearby yacht house. Boldt Castle has been and continues to be restored. Now, each year thousands of visitors stroll the grounds of Heart Island and the many rooms of Boldt Castle.

On a trip to Boldt Castle, visitors can see the grand staircase, George Boldt's bedroom, the indoor pool and more, but there is more to Boldt Castle than just the castle itself. In addition to the castle, there are five other structures on Heart Island, including Alster Tower (or The Playhouse), the Arch, the Hennery, the Gazebo and the Power House.

The grounds outside the castle are just as beautiful and impressive. Allow enough time to take it all in.

1 Heart Island, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607 Phone: (315) 482-9724

Boldt Castle: May 9th-June 26th: 10 AM - 6:30 PM June 27th-Aug 30th: 10 AM - 7:30 PM Aug 31st-Sept 27th: 10 AM - 6:30 PM Sept 28th-Oct 12th: 10 AM - 5:30 PM Oct 13th-Oct 18th: 11 AM - 5:00 PM

Special Hours: The Castle will remain open until 7:30 PM on May 23rd and 24th and September 5th and 6th. In addition the Castle will remain open until 6:30 PM on October 10th and 11th.

Boldt Castle Yacht House; May 9th - Sept 27th: 10:30 AM - 6:30 PM Sept 28th-Oct 12th: 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM Oct 13th - Oct 18th: 11:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Visitors to Boldt Castle can tour the castle and its grounds. This is the castle's grand staircase.

Visitors can purchase tickets to see Boldt Castle, the Yacht House or both. Tickets are priced accordingly and can be purchased here.

Boldt Castle and Yacht House

Adult (13 and up) $11 Child (6-12) $7 Infant (Under 5) free

Boldt Castle only

Adult (13 and up) $8.50 Child (6-12) $6 Infant (Under 5) free

Yacht House only

Adult (13 and up) $5 Child (6-12) $3 Infant (Under 5) free

Parking is available at the locations of the various tour boat operators who provide transportation to Boldt Castle. For a complete list of tour boat operators, click here.

Family Fun Day Saturday, June 20th, 2015 10 AM to 3 PM

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Touring Boldt Castle in Alexandria Bay, NY

The Thousand Island region of the St. Lawrence River is known for its many incredible private island homes, but few are as well known as Boldt Castle.

Boldt Castle is located on Heart Island just a short distance from Alexandria Bay, New York. In fact, this castle can be seen quite well from this riverfront community.

However, while this castle is incredibly impressive and looks fit for a king, it was never lived in and for many years sat abandoned. That’s because the story of Boldt Castle is one of love and heartache that makes the site significantly more remarkable.

George Boldt, manager of the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City and the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel in Philadelphia purchased Hart Island at the turn of the 20th century. For a while, Boldt, his wife Louise, and their two children lived in a home that was located on the island when they purchased it.

Soon, however, Boldt decided to build an impressive castle, similar to those found along the Rhine River in present-day Germany. The castle was to be a monument to his love for his wife, and the building incorporated many hearts in its design.

In fact, Boldt even went so far as to blast the island to give it a heart shape and changed its name from Hart Island to Heart Island.

However, in January 1904, just one month before Boldt was going to present this new home to Louise, she died in New York City. Heartbroken, George Boldt told the workers to stop, and the castle sat abandoned for many years and was never completed.

Eventually, the island was sold, and tours of the castle were offered over the years. However, without protection from the elements, the castle began to deteriorate. Fortunately, in the 1970s, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority took ownership of the castle and both preserved it and worked towards restoring its grandeur.

Today, Boldt Castle is one of the most prominent landmarks of the Thousand Islands region and a must-visit destination while in the area.

While Boldt Castle sits close to Alexandria Bay in Jefferson County, New York , it is located on an island, which means that it must be accessed by a boat. While there are facilities for private boats to dock at the island, most visitors opt to reach Heart Island via one of the boat tour operators in the region.

The closest boat tours are run by Uncle Sam Boat Tours . They offer both shuttles that run throughout the day on the short trip to the castle from Alexandria Bay, as well as more extensive tours of the region that include a stop at the island. You can also reach the island with Clayton Island Tours .

Once at the island, tickets give visitors the chance to take a self-guided tour of the grounds and a small portion of this 120-room castle.

To start my tour, I decided to head first for the castle. This may or may not be the best decision depending on the number of boats that have recently docked at the island. Despite its location in the middle of the river, hundreds (if not thousands) of tourists visit the island daily, so things can get quite crowded.

It may be best to wait a few minutes before starting your tour so you can avoid the worst of the crowds.

While tours of Boldt Castle are self-guided there are audio guides you can rent on the island or you can download the Boldt Castle app which offers great information on the site. If you are just looking for the highlights, there is signage in most rooms that both tells you a bit about the room and shows you what it looked like prior to restoration.

One definite stop on your tour should be the 15-minute video about the history of the castle that is played on a rotating basis on the second floor. On busy days, there may be a wait to see the film. However, this really is a great overview of the castle, island, and Boldt family that is worth seeing during your visit.

The two lower floors of the castle feature a series of rooms that you can walk through and look as they may have looked had the Boldt family ever stayed in the home. Each room has undergone extensive renovations, and they are beautifully decorated with period furniture.

The third and fourth floor of Boldt Castle has largely been left as it looked when the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority took possession of the island in the 1970s (Though they obviously undertook stabilization projects).

These upper floors provide a great contrast to the lower floors and give you an idea of how complete the castle was when George Boldt walked away from it after his wife’s death. In several rooms, you can also see some of the original blueprints for the castle, which is quite interesting.

A short climb up from the 4th floor, there is a balcony that you can head out onto. This provides fantastic views of both the roof of the castle, as well as the St. Lawrence River and Alexandria Bay. Definitely take a few minutes to enjoy the view from this spot.

After touring the castle, take some time to explore the grounds and outbuildings on this five-acre island.

Alster Tower, also known as the Playhouse, is located on the southern end of the island and looks more like a historic defensive castle than a modern one. Much of the building is closed due to renovations but during my visit, I was able to enter the ground floor and see a bit of the interior of this incredible building, including its historic bowling alley.

On the northeastern end of the island, the Power House was where the island’s power and water were generated. Today, it is more of a museum that highlights how this was done in the early 20th century. The exterior of the building is incredible and has a clocktower that features a carillon that was once in the Wanamaker Building in Philadelphia .

Of course, it’s not just the buildings on Heart Island that are worth seeing. The five-acre island is incredibly manicured and spots like the Italian Gardens are incredible to stroll through and think about the grand vision that Boldt had for this island.

While it’s not attached to the island, the Yacht House is a short boat ride away. A small additional charge gets you a ferry ride to and from this historic building and the chance to see the incredible boats housed inside, some of which were owned by the Boldt family.

Boldt housed his incredible two-story houseboat, La Duchesse, here until it sank while stored in the Yacht House. Today, it has been restored and is located in the Antique Boat Museum in nearby Clayton, New York.

Without a doubt, Boldt Castle is worth the trouble and crowds to see for yourself. I’ve visited many homes, and even a few castles, in New York, and this stands as one of the most remarkable places I’ve had the privilege of exploring.

So, the next time you find yourself in Alexandria Bay and the Thousand Islands region, don’t miss a tour of Boldt Castle.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind when Visiting Boldt Castle

Since it is on an island in the middle of the river and near the Canadian border, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, your ticket to tour the island does not include a boat ride to the island. Several local operators provide boat tours and shuttles that stop at Heart Island. There are also docks for private boats on the island.

Second, the castle is located on the United States side of the border. Tours from Canada do visit the island, but you will need to have your passport if you want to step foot on the island. US Immigration officers are stationed on the island to process international visitors.

Note: My visit to Boldt Castle was hosted by the site. However, the opinions expressed are my own.

Looking for more places to visit nearby? Check out the Hawkins Point Visitor Center , the Remington Art Museum , Wood Boat Brewery , and Rock Island Lighthouse State Park .

Boldt Castle

More nearby places worth exploring.

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How to Get to Bog River Falls on Tupper Lake in the Adirondacks

How to Get to Salmon River Falls in Oswego County, New York

Visiting Tibbetts Point Lighthouse on the St. Lawrence River

Find more things to do in the thousand islands.

Jim Cheney is the creator of Uncovering New York. After spending 5.5 years exploring Pennsylvania, Jim discovered a love for New York and is excited to spend time exploring this great state and uncovering the best things to do here.

5 thoughts on “Touring Boldt Castle in Alexandria Bay, NY”

Thanks for this article. It’s always amazing to me how so many of these massive estates and castles that took years to create never got to be fully appreciated by the people that built them.

I grew up in Alexandria Bay. One of our many pleasures was taking my 16 foot Glastron over to the castle and explore. This was before 1970 and the T.I. Bridge who acquired it. It was amazing as a ruin and beautiful now.

to be clear to visit the Boldt castle you do not need a passport. but if you go to the boat house you need one? also does a federal approved driver’s license work in lieu of a passport?

You only need a passport if you are entering on a boat from Canada. If you are taking a US-based boat, like the one mentioned in the article, no passport is required.

Visited here many years ago when castle ws just as he left it I m so glad to see the restoration Thank you for the pictures

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Boldt Castle and the Boldt Yacht House

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How To Spend A Perfect Day At Boldt Castle

Robin O'Neal Smith

• Activities and Interests
• Architecture
• Destinations
• History and Culture
• United States

Standing tall and soaring above the sparkling waters of the Saint Lawrence River, you will find the magnificent Boldt Castle on Heart Island near the Canadian border hidden among a thousand tiny islands dotting the area.

A tourist destination in itself, Boldt Castle is part of many Thousand Islands boat tours.

The castle’s Heart Island address is in Alexandria Bay, New York, which lies 100 miles from Syracuse and 270 miles from New York City. It is worth the drive to catch a boat to Heart Island and tour the castle.

Here’s how to spend a perfect day there, plus tips for where to take the most beautiful pictures of the castle grounds.

Getting To Boldt Castle

The only way to visit the island is by boat, and tours are available from the United States and Canada. A boat ride from Gananoque, Ontario, Canada, is just over 30 minutes. From Alexandria Bay, New York, it is about 20 minutes. Private boats are permitted, but most people take a tour boat. Boat tours take visitors through the American and Canadian parts of the river. You know which country you are in as you traverse the Saint Lawrence by the flags waving on the islands as you pass by. It is not uncommon to see the Canadian Maple Leaf on one island and Old Glory on the next.

As you travel to the castle, you will sail past many of the 1,864 islands. One of the smallest islands, Tom Thumb, has just enough room for one tree and one juniper bush, while the largest island is home to a 9-hole golf course.

Be sure you take a boat tour that includes going ashore to explore the island so you can visit the castle. If arriving from Canada, you will need to have a passport since the castle is in the U.S.

Robin O’Neal Smith

Know The History Of Boldt Castle Before You Arrive

The castle was built around 1900. Prussian immigrant George C. Boldt ran numerous hotels in New York City, including the Waldorf Astoria, which catered to the very rich and helped to make Boldt a multimillionaire. He is credited with the creation of hotel room service and the phrase “The customer is always right.”

Boldt and his wife Louise and their two children visited the Thousand Islands region during summer vacations and loved it. Mr. Boldt decided to build a castle on Heart Island as a symbol of love for his wife. Construction on the 120-room structure started in 1900 with over 300 workers.

Once the main floor of the castle was completed, the Boldts started hosting parties and entertaining in what became their summer home. Opulent festivities with guests spending entire weekends were the norm.

In 1904, tragedy struck, and Louise died suddenly before the castle was completed. The Boldts had married right before her 16th birthday and they enjoyed 26 years of wedded bliss before she died at age 42.

Just after Louise died, a heartbroken George sent a telegram to workers to halt construction. He never returned to the island.

Boldt Castle was not finished and sat empty for 73 years. Vandals, weather, and time took a toll on the structure. The Thousand Islands Bridge Authority took ownership in 1977 and began restoring the castle to its original opulence. Millions of dollars spent and 40 years later, they are still working on the restoration.

An international visitor destination, people come to admire the castle, gardens, and the hearts carved into wood, stone, and plaster scattered throughout the castle and grounds. It is like taking a step back in time to marvel at the grandeur of the marble staircase and rooms large enough to be dance halls.

Tour The First Floor

When you arrive by boat to Boldt Castle, the towers rise toward the sky and you will see the famous structure from a distance.

From the dock, your walk up to the castle is a tad steep, but most of the island is flat and easy walking. Before you get to the castle, you will get a view of the impeccable grounds and enjoy the flowers and plants growing everywhere.

Inside, you are greeted by a marble staircase leading upstairs. A wedding portrait of Louise Boldt hangs above a marble fireplace. Above you, a vast stained-glass dome ceiling gives the castle a look and feel of a cathedral as light streams into the receiving area.

The white-trimmed reception room features a white marble fireplace with a mirror above it and a sphinx.

Seating for 18 is available in the formal dining room, where a glittering gold chandelier hangs over the table.

The dining room leads to an outdoor space that includes a gigantic stone fireplace once used for barbecues and other festivities.

Adjacent to the dining room is a formal ballroom designed for dances and parties. It opens onto the balconies.

Since most Boldt Castle entertaining happened during the summer, it was designed with wide balconies where guests could dance, catch fresh air, watch boats, and enjoy nature.

George and his friends would have enjoyed shooting pool, smoking cigars, and talking business in the billiard room where his portrait still hangs.

Boldt and his wife loved books and would spend many evenings curled up with a good book. Rows and rows of books line the bookcases, and a black marble fireplace highlights the library, which has gold-framed pictures on the walls.

The butler’s closet is larger than many dining rooms. It has sinks and storage for dishes, linens, and silver.

The first floor also houses the kitchen and Mr. Boldt’s office.

Climb The Marble Staircase To The Second Floor

Currently, there is a gift shop on the castle’s second floor. It sells all kinds of Thousand Island and Heart Island treasures. You can purchase Thousand Island Salad Dressing in commemorative bottles there.

Visitors will also enjoy the small theater that continuously shows a short movie about the life of George Boldt and the history of the castle.

The Boldt family bedrooms are on the second floor. Each bedroom or chamber was a suite that included a bedroom, a sitting area, and a bathroom. Each of the bedrooms had doors out to a balcony where they could watch the sunrise and view the Saint Lawrence River and the boats sailing past.

George’s suite features dark wood and a portrait of Louise over the bed. Louise’s suite is trimmed in white with a large clawfoot tub in the bathroom.

The children’s bedrooms and several guest bedrooms are also on the second floor.

Visit The Third And Fourth Floors

The third floor is unfinished and currently features some exhibits on the history of the Gilded Age. It has the same layout as the second floor but does not have a marble staircase.

Also unfinished, the fourth floor houses construction artifacts and construction supplies and has architectural sketches on the walls. Today, it appears as though the workers dropped their tools and left.

Take Pictures From The Observation Deck

An observation deck provides visitors a view of the river and the ornate Italian gardens below. This is a great spot to snap some pictures.

Visit The Basement Area

The basement houses storage areas, a boiler room, and an indoor pool and lounge.

Explore The Grounds

Plan extra time to stroll the grounds and appreciate the gardens. You will enjoy a variety of flowers blooming, water bubbling from marble fountains, and numerous buildings on the property.

Some of the flowers are planted in the shape of hearts in honor of the island’s name and of Valentine’s Day, Louise Boldt’s birthday.

The dovecote that once housed the island water tank stands near the castle.

Alster Tower, intended for their guests’ entertainment, was better known as the Playhouse. There was a room for dancing, and the basement was home to a bowling alley. There were plans for another library, grill, kitchen, and billiard room in the Playhouse before construction stopped. Additional construction and renovations to this structure were completed last year.

The entry arch has several life-sized statues of deer on top. The powerhouse once held everything required to generate electricity for the entire island.

Enjoy A Picnic Lunch

Many people enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the island’s numerous picnic areas, or you can purchase food from the concession stand. Bathroom facilities are also available inside the castle.

Boldt Castle is open May through October. Check the website for opening times as they vary during the season.

Admission costs are based on visitor age and the package you choose ; those ages four and under are admitted free. The fee does not include the boat trip. Most boat trip operators sell tickets for the boat and the castle visit.

Tips For Your Boldt Castle Visit

• If arriving from Canada, bring your passport. This is required as the castle is in the U.S.
• Boldt Castle is child friendly, and all sidewalks and brick paths are wide enough for strollers and wheelchairs.
• Take a sweater or light jacket with a hood for the boat tour part of the trip. The river is often chilly and windy, even on warm days.
• Allow yourself several hours on Heart Island to tour the grounds, buildings, and castle. We were there for three hours, and honestly, I could have spent another hour or two.
• Wear comfortable shoes; you will do considerable walking, and there are steps. (There is an elevator inside the castle for those who need it).

Going to Boldt Castle? Here’s our advice for planning the rest of your Thousand Islands weekend getaway: where to eat, stay, and play .

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

Adventures with our little explorer

Guide to visiting Boldt Castle in the Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands Region is dotted with elaborate mansions and storybook castles along the St. Lawrence River. One in particular is Boldt Castle, which is located on Heart Island.

This Castle in the 1000 islands is absolutely beautiful, and is so worth the visit if you ever plan an Upstate New York trip.

On the blog, I will share our guide to visiting Boldt Castle in the Thousand Islands, and how to make the most of your visit.

*Read the Top things to do in the Thousand Islands New York here. I share all the best places to explore in the 1000 islands.

This post may contain affiliate links. Affiliate links are no extra charge to you, but I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase.

History of Boldt Castle 

George C. Boldt, who was the proprietor of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, built this castle for his beloved wife, Louise.

Construction began in 1900, but ended a few years later when tragedy struck the family. His wife had died unexpectedly and he commanded the workers to stop all construction.

 Heartbroken, Boldt never returned to the island, and the castle remained vacant for 73 years. Since 1977, millions of dollars have been invested in the restoration of the Castle and the Yacht House.

READ NEXT: How to spend one day at Biltmore Estate

How to get to Boldt Castle 

Uncle sam boat tours.

Boldt Castle is located on Heart Island, and is only accessible by boat. One of the best boat tours we have used is the Uncle Sam Boat Tours from Alexandria Bay. 

The Uncle Sam Boat  tour lasts about a couple of hours, which takes you on a tour of the Thousands Islands, and ends with a visit to Heart Island, where you can explore Boldt Castle for a few hours and take the boat tour back to Alexandria Bay. 

There are a few Uncle Sam Boat tour  ticket options , with the  American Narrows Tour being the most popular ticket.

This international tour takes you on a 22-mile journey through what is considered the heart of the Thousand Islands and into American and Canadian waters.

You can also book a  Thousand Islands dining cruise , where you can have an unforgettable meal as you cruise along the Thousand Islands.

Another ticket option is a  boat tour with admission to Singer Castle , which is another castle you can visit in the thousand Islands. 

*There are some refreshments for sale on board, as well as some snacks. I suggest packing some food and snacks as well, especially when visiting Boldt Castle with kids. 

Where to get tickets to Boldt Castle 

When planning your visit to Boldt Castle, you can purchase your tickets onsite, but I suggest purchasing tickets online to avoid the lines.

Boldt castles hours are usually from about 10 AM – 6:30 PM, there are days when the castle closes at a specific time, visit the website for more info. 

Boldt Castle ticket prices

Boldt Castle tickets only -Adults (13+ years)– $10.00 Children (5-12 years)– $7.00, and kids (4 years and under) are Free.

Tickets for both Boldt Castle and the Yacht House – Adult (13+ years) – $13.00, Children (5-12 years)– $7.50 , kids (4 years and under) are Free.

Capture the beauty of Boldt Castle and the Thousand Islands with these photography essentials :

How to spend the day on Boldt Castle 

On your visit to Heart Island, go on a self-guided tour of Boldt Castle. Make sure to download the Boldt Castle app for more information on the history of Boldt Castle. 

You should also spend some time exploring the grounds of Boldt Castle. There are six impressive structures to explore on Heart Island. There is also the Power House, the Alster Tower, the Hennery, the Arch, and a stone Gazebo. 

This five-acre island is fully handicapped accessible, with public restroom facilities, several picnic areas, a gift shop, and a food and beverage concession stand.

Boldt Castle tour 

As you make your way into the castle, the first thing you will see is the grand staircase. 

The first level of the Castle has been turned into a museum, filled with exhibits dedicated to the lives of the Boldt Family. 

There are 120 rooms in this mansion and was built to replicate the Rhineland castles of Germany. 

The Power House  is Boldt Castle’s most photographed structures on Heart Island. This structure used to house two generators that would supply electricity to the entire island. 

Today, you can visit the Power house where there are photos and displays depicting the lifestyle of the people in the 1000 Islands at the turn-of-the-century.

The Alster Tower  was referred to a playhouse, because this is where the family entertained guests when visiting the island. The basement housed a bowling alley and plans for the upper floors contained a billiard room, library, bedrooms, cafe, grill and kitchen.

The Hennery was the first structure built on the island. The tower once housed an elevated water tank which supplied water to the island structures. It was topped with a dove house where they collected fancy fowl. 

The Arch  was modeled after Roman monuments and was used as the formal entry for launches, delivering guests from larger yachts anchored in the deep water.

The Stone Gazebo was our little ones favorite spot on Heart Island. There is a hotdog stand nearby where you can have a picnic underneath this beautiful gazebo.

Boldt Castle Yacht House  

There are a few ticket options when visiting Boldt Castle. You can either purchase just a visit to the castle itself, or with a visit to the  Boldt Castle Yacht House  as well. 

You can take the free shuttle from Heart Island to the Yacht house, and explore where the  Boldt’s family yachts and enormous houseboat were housed.

Inside the Yacht House, you will find a collection of antique wooden boats on display.

*Boldt Yacht House Shuttle Begins running at 10:30am, and is open from 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM, May 9 – September 20.

Where to eat on Heart Island 

When visiting Heart Island, you will find food and beverage concessions on the island. They sell things like ice cream, drinks, snacks, and coffee, as well as hotdogs and sandwiches. 

You can also pack a lunch and have a picnic on the lawn overlooking the St. Lawrence River. 

Recommended Thousand Islands Hotel:

Thousand islands Hotel Options:

*Check out our Guide to New York City . I highlight the top things to do and how to make the most of your visit to the Big Apple.

Check out all our New York Blogs:

Check out our Christmas in New York City blog here

Read about our visit to the Vessel in New York City , and some tips on your visit.

Read our tips on visiting Central Park with kids here.

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Boldt Castle

• 1 Heart Island
• Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
• (315) 482-9724
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An official Path Through History Site! This 120-room Rhineland-style castle and yacht house are one of the Thousand Islands' top attractions. In 1900, millionaire George Boldt commissioned a six-story castle for his wife, Louise. When Louise passed in 1904, Boldt was too heartbroken to continue construction. In the 1970s, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority restored and completed the castle, now accessible to visitors by tour boat, water taxi, and private watercraft. Boldt Castle is located in the US, so passengers arriving by boat from Canada must provide proper identification for US Customs and Border Protection clearance.

Things To Do

Accessible amenities, blind/low vision.

• Audio Tour: Yes
• Signage: Yes
• Elevator with Braille or Raised Print Buttons: Yes

Deaf and/or Hearing Loss

• Portable Listening Device: Yes
• Closed-Captioned Films/Videos: Yes
• Accessible Car Parking Onsite: Yes
• Assistive Equipment: Yes
• Service Animal Relief: Yes

Mobility/Wheelchair Access

• Accessible Bathroom: Yes
• Accessible Entrance: Yes
• Accessible Route: Yes
• Accessible Elevator: Yes
• Seating/Bench: Yes

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Explore Boldt Castle in the Thousand Islands

In 2017, new yorkers crowned the romantic and magnificent boldt castle as their most favorite place to visit .

Alexandria bay, NY

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Tours Resume May 11th for the 2024 Season. Calendars are open, book your tour now!

• #1 Attraction on the River

Boldt Castle and Two Nation Tour

This intimate tour travels over 27 unique miles among many of the 1000 Islands through US and Canadian waters of the St. Lawrence River. We spend 75 minutes at Heart Island for a self guided tour of Boldt Castle and grounds.

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 3.5 hours
• Users Age: All Ages Welcome

This intimate tour travels over 27 unique miles among many of the 1000 Islands through US and Canadian waters of the St. Lawrence River.  We spend 7 5 minutes at Heart Island for a self guided tour of Boldt Castle and grounds. Many photo opportunities as we pass Freighters and Ocean Going Vessels traveling to and from the Great Lakes and ports around the world, millionaires row, private islands, and premier sights as your tour guide shares the history, mystery, legends and lore of the area.  Your boat, captain, and guide will be with you every nautical mile of this most popular tour in the 1000 Islands.

Explore the beauty of the 1000 Islands on our Boldt Castle Tour

Enjoy an intimate boat tour as we travel over 27 unique miles through US and Canadian waters among many of the 1000 Islands along the St. Lawrence River. Our professional local guides share rich history, legends and lore as we get closer to the islands than any other tour. View magnificent million-dollar homes, travel under American and Canadian spans of the 1000 Island Bridge System, and pass Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island.

At Heart Island guests have the option to take a self guided tour of millionaire George Boldt’s Castle, built as a testament of love for his wife Louise, before tragedy struck in 1904. Marvel at life in the “Gilded Age” for the wealthy who built magnificent castles and summer homes on islands as we travel through “Millionaire’s Row” and the St. Lawrence Seaway shipping channel with the possibility of viewing oceangoing vessels that travel from around the world to the Great Lakes of North America. Our small boats provide for a personal experience with our Captain and Crew. Each of our crew members have a unique, never recorded presentation, and a love of sharing the River with guests.

 Exclusions – Admission to Boldt Castle on Heart Island is not included in the price of boat tour tickets.  Adult’s $12.50 and Children (5-12) $9.00 / Tickets may be purchased through our website at the time of purchasing your boat tour tickets, upon check in the day of your tour, upon arrival at Boldt Castle on Heart Island, or at www.boldtcastle.com

2024 Schedule – 

Highlights of this tour include:.

• This tour circumnavigates Wellesley Island, the largest US Island through Canadian Waters in the north and us waters in the south
• Canadian Steamboat Channel
• The Lost Channel
• Tom Thumb Island
• Parks Canada
• Rockport, Ontario
• Canadian Palisades
• Whirlpool Channel
• Tom thumb Island
• Million Dollar Canadian homes
• The Statue of St. Lawrence
• St. Lawrence Seaway shipping channel
• Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island
• Travel under 2 spans of the 1000 Island Bridge System
• Twin Pine Treehouse on Cherry Island
• Millionaire’s Row
• Devil’s Oven
• Hopewell Hall
• Boldt Castle on Heart Island
• and so much more!

Meeting Location

Clayton Island Tours – 39611 Chateau Lane, Clayton, NY 13624

Frequently Asked Questions

• Chevron down Is Boldt Castle Admission Included?

No, Boldt Castle Admission is a separate fee. Adults $12.50 / Children (5-12) $9.00 / Children 4 and under Free –  Admission tickets may be purchased online with your boat tour, are available at our ticket booth upon check in, Upon arrival at Boldt Castle, or online at www.boldtcastle.com

• Chevron down Are there concessions on-board?

We do not have concessions on our boats. We do offer food and beverages from  Kay’s Kitchen  , our onsite concessions.

Picnic Lunches available to pre-order for each tour Breakfast in-season Lunch in-season Catering for group/private charters aboard our boats

You may bring your own food and beverages on-board. No Alcohol.

• Chevron down Do you travel if it is raining?

Yes, our boats are covered and have windows that roll up or down in inclement weather. We do not travel in severe storms or high winds. If the weather prevents us from departing we will let you know as soon as the decision is made.

• Chevron down Are Passports Required?

Passports are not required.

• Chevron down Where do I park?

We have ample free parking. Motorhomes are welcome.

• Chevron down Are pets allowed?

Only Service Animals are allowed. No pets, Comfort Animals or ESA’s are allowed.

• Chevron down Can I smoke on the boat?

Our boats are smoke free.

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The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour in the 1000 Islands

Designed for those who wish to see the most attractions in an afternoon from the river!  Tour the 1000 islands on the St. Lawrence River through US and Canadian Waters, visit Boldt Castle on Heart Island and Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island.  Picnic Lunch and all admissions included.

• 2 Hour Boat Tour on the St. Lawrence Seaway
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Islands, Lighthouses, and Castle Tour

Join us for 2 hour narrated tour among many of the islands on the St. Lawrence River, including Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island, Sunken Rock Lighthouse on Bush Island, and Boldt Castle on Heart Island

Private Sightseeing Tour for just your family, friends, or social group!

Take a private sightseeing tour among the 1000 Islands on the St. Lawrence River in comfort, safety, and privacy with your immediate family or social group. We provide the boat, captain, and guide for a “live” narrated sightseeing tour among the islands.

Boldt Castle: A Tale of Love, Loss, and Restoration

Nestled on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands of the Saint Lawrence River, Boldt Castle stands as a poignant testament to the enduring power of love and the tragic tale of its creation. This grandiose structure, with its fairy-tale appearance, was born from the dreams of millionaire hotel magnate George C. Boldt, only to become a monument to his heartbreak. Today, it draws visitors from around the world, captivated by its history, beauty, and the romance that inspired its construction.

About Castle

Boldt Castle was envisioned in the early 20th century by George C. Boldt as a tribute to his beloved wife, Louise. Boldt, the proprietor of the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, sought to build a castle as a summer home that would rival the grandeur of European palaces. Construction began in 1900 on Heart Island, aptly named for the love story at its core, but came to an abrupt halt in 1904 following the sudden death of Louise Boldt. Heartbroken, George Boldt never returned to the island, leaving the castle unfinished for over seven decades.

Boldt Castle History

The history of Boldt Castle is a poignant narrative that weaves together themes of ambition, love, loss, and eventual rebirth. Situated on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region of the Saint Lawrence River, the castle’s origins are deeply entwined with the personal story of its creator, George C. Boldt, and his undying love for his wife, Louise.

The Vision of George C. Boldt

George C. Boldt, a German immigrant who rose to prominence in America as a successful hotelier, owning the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, envisioned Boldt Castle as a testament to his love for his wife. Inspired by the grandeur of European castles and estates, Boldt planned to construct a summer dream home that would stand as a symbol of his affection and success. In 1900, he embarked on this ambitious project, employing the finest materials and craftsmen to realize his vision on Heart Island, which he had shaped into a heart as part of the romantic gesture.

The Tragic Halt in Construction

Construction of Boldt Castle progressed until 1904 when tragedy struck. Louise Boldt died suddenly, plunging George Boldt into profound grief. Heartbroken, Boldt ordered all construction to stop immediately, leaving the castle and its associated structures unfinished and abandoned. The magnate never returned to the island, leaving the castle as a monument to his loss. For over seven decades, Boldt Castle remained untouched, a haunting figure on the landscape, succumbing to the elements and the passage of time.

The Castle’s Transformation

The story of Boldt Castle took a turn in 1977 when the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired Heart Island. Recognizing the castle’s potential as a historical and cultural asset, the Authority embarked on a long-term restoration project. Funded by visitor admissions, this effort aimed to complete Boldt’s vision while preserving the castle as a monument to his love for Louise. The restoration focused on both the castle’s exterior and interior, seeking to reflect the original plans as closely as possible while adapting certain areas for public access and enjoyment.

The restoration of Boldt Castle has been a labor of love and dedication, bringing life back to a structure that was once a symbol of personal tragedy. Each room, each stone, and each garden path tells a part of the story, from Boldt’s initial dreams to the abrupt end of construction, and through to the castle’s rebirth as a beloved landmark.

Boldt Castle Interior and Exterior

The exterior of Boldt Castle reflects the architectural styles of the Gilded Age, with its grand towers, opulent facades, and picturesque setting on Heart Island. The castle’s architecture is a blend of the Romanesque and Renaissance revival styles, designed to evoke the splendor of a bygone era.

The interior of the castle, once left to decay, has been partially restored to reflect its intended grandeur. Original plans and photographs have guided the restoration, with rooms now showcasing period furniture, ornate fireplaces, and intricate woodwork. The grand entry hall, dining room, and ballroom stand as testaments to Boldt’s vision, offering a glimpse into the luxury that the castle was meant to embody.

Boldt Castle Today

Since the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired Heart Island in 1977, Boldt Castle has undergone extensive restoration efforts, funded by visitor admissions. Today, it serves as a popular tourist attraction, with visitors able to tour the castle, grounds, and surrounding structures, including the Power House, Alster Tower, and Dove-Cote, each with their own charm and history.

Boldt Castle Interesting Facts

• George Boldt originally purchased Heart Island for a mere $1 to start his ambitious project.
• The castle’s design was inspired by the Rhineland castles in Germany, reflecting Boldt’s German heritage.
• Boldt Castle remained untouched for 73 years, becoming a symbol of lost love, until restoration efforts began in the 1970s.

8 Fascinating Facts

Boldt Castle is enveloped in a myriad of fascinating details that extend beyond its romantic and tragic history. These interesting facts not only illuminate the castle’s unique past but also its cultural and architectural significance. Here are some intriguing aspects of Boldt Castle that captivate the minds of visitors and historians alike:

• Architectural Ambition : Boldt Castle’s design was inspired by the grandeur of European fortresses and castles, yet it incorporated modern American luxuries and conveniences, making it a symbol of cross-continental architectural ambition at the turn of the 20th century.
• A Symbol of Love : The castle was intended to be a gift from George C. Boldt to his wife, Louise, as a symbol of his deep affection for her. This level of personal dedication to a private residence was unprecedented among American millionaires of the time.
• The Heart-Shaped Island : George C. Boldt went to great lengths to carve Heart Island into a heart shape, further emphasizing the romantic inspiration behind the castle. This transformation of the landscape is a testament to Boldt’s commitment to his vision.
• Unfinished Legacy : When construction halted in 1904, many parts of the castle and the surrounding structures were left incomplete. It wasn’t until the restoration efforts began in the 1970s that many areas of the castle were finished, albeit a century later, making the castle a blend of 20th-century ambition and 21st-century restoration.
• The Children’s Playhouse : Among the various outbuildings on Heart Island is a fully equipped children’s playhouse, constructed with the same architectural detail and grandeur as the main castle. This playhouse was designed for the Boldt children, showcasing the family-oriented nature of George C. Boldt’s original plans.
• The Dove-Cote : A unique feature of the castle is its dove-cote, a structure intended to house doves and pigeons, which adds to the European medieval aesthetic of the estate. This feature underscores Boldt’s attention to detail and his desire to replicate European standards of elegance and grandeur.
• Public Transformation : From a private symbol of love to a public monument of architectural and historical significance, Boldt Castle’s transformation reflects changing attitudes towards preservation and access to historical sites. It has become an educational resource, a wedding venue, and a testament to the power of community efforts in historical preservation.
• Economic Impact : The restoration and opening of Boldt Castle to the public have had a significant positive impact on the local economy, particularly in the Thousand Islands region. It has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across the world and contributing to the tourism-driven economy of the area.

Things To Do When Visiting

Visiting Boldt Castle offers a multitude of activities for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and romantics alike:

• Explore the Castle: Take a self-guided tour through the restored rooms and hallways, marveling at the craftsmanship and imagining the castle as it might have been.
• Wander the Grounds: The castle’s grounds, including the Italian gardens and various outbuildings, offer a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the river.
• Visit the Yacht House: A short boat ride away, the Boldt Yacht House on Wellesley Island houses a collection of antique boats and offers additional insights into the Boldt family’s life.
• Enjoy a Picnic: The island’s picnic areas offer a perfect spot to relax and take in the scenic beauty of the Thousand Islands.

How to Get to Boldt Castle?

Where is castle located.

Boldt Castle is located on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region of the Saint Lawrence River, accessible only by water. The island sits along the border between the United States and Canada, near Alexandria Bay, New York.

Tours and Activities

Several tour operators provide boat tours to Heart Island from both the U.S. and Canadian sides of the river. These tours often include guided visits of the castle and its outbuildings, along with commentary on the history of the Thousand Islands region.

When is The Best Time to Visit the Boldt Castle?

The best time to visit Boldt Castle is during the summer months, from May through October, when the castle is open to visitors, and the weather is conducive to exploring the island and the surrounding area. Fall also offers a spectacular backdrop of autumn colors, making it a picturesque time for a visit.

• Is there an admission fee for Boldt Castle? Yes, there is an admission fee, which goes towards the ongoing restoration and maintenance of the castle and grounds.
• Can you stay overnight at Boldt Castle? No, overnight stays are not permitted on Heart Island, but there are numerous accommodations in nearby Alexandria Bay and the surrounding Thousand Islands region.
• Are pets allowed on Heart Island? Pets are allowed on the grounds but must be kept on a leash and are not permitted inside the castle buildings.
• Is Boldt Castle accessible for visitors with disabilities? While efforts have been made to make the grounds and lower floors of the castle accessible, some areas may not be fully accessible due to the historic nature of the site.
• Can I get married at Boldt Castle? Yes, Boldt Castle is a popular wedding venue. Couples can arrange to have their ceremony on the grounds or inside the castle, with the picturesque setting providing a perfect backdrop for a wedding.

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Boldt Castle Tour

Experience the beauty and spectacular architecture from a bygone era with a tour of Boldt Castle, in the heart of the 1000 Islands. Built in the early 1900s by George C. Boldt, the millionaire proprietor of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, the project was abandoned after the sudden death of Boldt’s wife, Louisa. Erected out of love and abandoned in tragedy, the site has been slowly restored to its original grandeur. A must see!

Address: 1 Heart Island City: Alexandria Bay State: New York Zip Code: 13607 Telephone: 315-482-9724 View Website

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Official Boldt Castle Website - Alexandria Bay NY in the Heart of the 1000 Islands

1000 Islands NY tour St. Lawrence River

Hours of Operation

Boldt Castle and the Boldt Castle Yacht House will open May 12th and close on October 21st for the 2018 Season.  See listing of full Summer hours below:

June 22:  10:30 AM – 6:30 PM

June 23 – August 26: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM

August 27 – September 23: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM

September 24 – October 8:  10:30 AM – 5:30 PM

October 9 – October 21: 11 AM – 5:00 PM

Special Hours:

Boldt Castle will remain open until 7:30pm on Memorial Day Weekend on Saturday May 26 th and Sunday May 27 th and remain open until 7:30pm on Labor Day Weekend on Saturday September 1 st and Sunday September 2 nd . In addition Boldt Castle will stay open until 6:30pm on Columbus Day/Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend on Saturday October 6 th and Sunday October 7 th .

For more info: 1.800.847.5263 Boat tours from both the U.S. and Canada stop at Heart Island. Extensive docking is available for private pleasure craft. A shuttle from Heart Island provides access to the Boldt Castle Yacht House.

Web site courtesy of the: Thousand Islands Bridge Authority / Boldt Castle PO Box 428, Collins Landing Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

In Season: 315-482-9724 Off Season: 315-482-2501

Coordinates: +44° 20' 40.29" N, -75° 55' 21.27" W

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Daily tours starting April 27th!

Uncle Sam Boat Tours: 1000 Islands Boat Tours in Alexandria Bay NY

OUR FULL SCHEDULE!!!

We have a lot to offer you at Uncle Sam Boat Tours. In fact, we have the MOST tour options of any tour operation in the 1000 Islands! Our docks are conventionality located in Alexandria Bay, just minutes from Boldt Castle, ONLY our passengers enjoy an UNLIMITED Boldt Castle visit. At the end of your cruise through the beautiful 1000 Islands your boat will dock at Heart Island where you can visit Boldt Castle. When you are ready, we will bring you back to Alex Bay FOR FREE! The average person takes around 1.5 hours to tour the property but some stay all day, but Uncle Sam Boat Tours is the only company that lets you decide when you are ready to return.

Visiting Boldt Castle is always OPTIONAL at Uncle Sam, you may also choose to not visit and return immediately to our docks in Alexandria Bay at the end of the tour.

To see what is being offered at any time simply select the desired date in the calendar to the right.

Looking for more information about what each cruise offers, follow the individual links to each cruise below the calendar for more detailed info about each offering.

*** We are still adding tours for the 2024 season. Tours will begin mid-late April. Weather permitting.*** ***If the date/tour you want is not here check back soon!!!***

***tours before may 11th and after october 14th can not stop at boldt castle. as it will be closed to the public at that time.***, 2 nation tour – our most popular cruise.

• 2 1/4 hr tour with Live Tour Guide
• Optional UNLIMITED Boldt Castle Stopover at End of Cruise
• Travels into Canadian waters, NO PASSPORT NEEDED EVER!
• Want to know more? Click Here!

Singer Castle Tour – A Castle filled with hidden passageways and mystery

• 3.5 hr tour with Live Tour Guide
• Includes Singer Castle Admission
• NO PASSPORT NEEDED & Optional UNLIMITED Boldt Castle Stopover at End of Cruise

Buffet Lunch Cruise – Enjoy a Buffet lunch with our 2 Nation Tour

• Our 12:30, 2 Nation Tour
• Enjoy a full Buffet served on the 1st deck of the Alexandria Belle
• Want to know more? Click Here

Millionaires Row – The highlights of the historic US side of the 1000 Islands

• 1 hr tour with Live Tour Guide
• View several historic homes built during Americas Gilded Age

Twilight – End your day in style on the River!

• 1 hr Cruise with Tour Guide and Music
• A more relaxed trip where our tour guide will point out some highlights but also let you just enjoy the view at the end of the day!
• Does NOT stop at Boldt Castle, NO PASSPORT NEEDED

Dinner Cruise – Enjoy the Islands with our Prime Rib Buffet & Live Music!

• 2.5 hr Cruise with Live Entertainment!
• The Ultimate 1000 Islands experience with Dinner, Music and a Beautiful 1000 Islands Sunset!
• Does not stop at Boldt Castle

Boldt Castle Shuttle – The ONLY direct shuttle service to & from Boldt Castle!

• Departs every 30 minutes for Boldt Castle, NO PASSPORT NEEDED
• Allows all Uncle Sam Passengers free return service from Heart Island no matter what Cruise you choose!

5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque

• 5-Hour Cruise; a Canadian Signature Experience
• Views of the St. Lawrence Seaway, Millionaires Row, Boldt Castle.
• Views of American & Canadian Spans of 1000 Islands International Bridge and Statue of St. Lawrence
• Onboard food and beverage available for purchase.
• Audio Commentary in English and French.
• Restroom on board
• Paid parking available on site.
• Parking Fees
• City Cruises Gananoque, 280 Main St, Gananoque, ON K7G 2M2, Canada A paid parking lot is available on-site. Parking passes are available for purchase at the lot or in the ticket office.
• Service animals allowed
• Pushchair accessible
• Wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 225 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Boldt Castle and the Boldt Yacht House
• 1000 Islands Tower
• Thousand Islands Bridge

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• Allie514 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Nice way to see the 1000 Islands. Fantastic boat tour! Lots of history and great views of everything, including Boldt Castle. The boat had enough space to move around easily and the company caps the number of guests on each tour so you have opportunity to view the sites from different spots on the boat since it's not jam-packed. We all enjoyed the tour. Read more Written March 4, 2024
• 739annettk 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Unacceptable cancellation policy - be aware!!! Booked and fully prepaid a 1 hour cruise in October 2023 for our group of 18 back in May 2023. On the day of the cruise we had one person really sick and he couldn't participate. I did ask for a refund for the one ticket, but was told that the refund policy is 7 days. This is ridiculous! Prepaid month in advance and they cannot refund 1 ticket out of 18?! I loved working with the local tour operators in the past, but this company seems to get the small ones out of business and rule everything. Be aware! Don't pre-book!!! There was lots of space on the ship, even though it was a beautiful and sunny day. Read more Written October 31, 2023
• TERRAvelista 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Will be back We came once again here, as we cannot get enough of this great part of the world with it's small islands stretching between USA and Canada and yes, most surely we will come again in the future. Although we set our base in Belleville, we were travelling returning from our 3000 km trip between PEI and Toronto and I called in advance to ensure the cruise will not be busy for their afternoon 1h tour: - the person on the phone confirmed there were only a few people buying tickets due to being late September and asked to pay a fee higher than what we paid later on at the ticket office - we noticed nowadays the ticket office is housed in a different building, where they also have a souvenir shop but no toilets. The original building is now a shop and restaurant with live music - although I took pictures of the City cruises, we actually took the Thousand island boat which is laid on 2 levels: the first level with air conditioned inside and where the bar with drinks/snacks is and also toilets. The second level is not covered and a seagull travelled with us without paying any fee - Mr Bad!!!! - the tour is narrated and you learn lots of things about the life on the islands, how difficult is to get the produce and how most are un-inhabited in the cold season - there are still some people on the island waiving friendly or kayakers - after getting the tickets and parking the car at a discounted cost in their car park, we were fortunate to be the first in line for this boat, some 30min earlier: when we were here in the past, we noticed how people were running to get the best seats which is not nice to see. Even so, near us, there was a group who kept moving in 3 different directions repeatedly to take their 'best pictures' annoying just about everybody. Everything is very idyllic, yet every single time I get a headache, no idea why: could be the engine smell, or the heat etc. Yet we are still going to return here. Read more Written October 28, 2023
• 991antonr 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Pleasant trip The boat was ok but very noisy on the lower deck. One of the seats on the upper deck had a small split which caused a small tear in my wife's trousers. The commentary was reasonably clear and provided some interesting information. It was a pleasant 3 hour cruise, although the amount of development on the islands and along the river bank was surprising. Read more Written October 25, 2023
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• 685oleksandrg 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles ill-considered booking Unfortunately, we were not able to arrive on time to take part in the cruise. We were travelling from another city and there was a problem with our car. As we found out when we contacted the cruise company, we would have had an opportunity to rebook the cruise, if we had booked it through the website of the cruise company, but since we booked it through Tripadvisor, we did not have such an option. So, if you aren't sure, whether you can arrive on time, we would definitely recommed to make a reservation through the cruise company directly. Read more Written October 7, 2023
• Anonymous855 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles A long 3 hour cruise with not much to see I was hoping the trees would be turning colors but nope and so until we got to Boldt castle, it was a bit dull. Pretty scenery for about 30 minutes, that's enough. We circled the castle island twice and then came back, of course, the same route. Now I was bored and went down a deck to eat popcorn and check my phone. 3 hours was too long for an adult with a terrific attention span....think about it. Parking was more expensive than the website says too. Read more Written September 28, 2023
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• 615filomenag 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles The Worse Boat Tour First of all, the price was ridiculous much more than the one we took with Clayton Tours in Kingston and it was approximately 3 hrs. I am still fighting with this company for my refund. It also cost $9 to park they kept stressing it was all day parking. The tour NEVER TOOK PLACE! They had us all board the boat and for the first 30 mins it was TOTAL SILENCE - no one spoke to any of us. Finally, I asked 2 very nice girls at snack bar what was up. They told us that the sound and video system was down and we would only be riding on the river for an hr clueless to our surroundings. They knew of a couple things and were kind enough to point them out. BOGUS!!!! Read more Written September 24, 2023
• andreasU7202RL 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Calm experience Calm.experience. Friendly staff Well organized. Get there early to get a hood seat. . Beautiful day on the water. Great commentary if you want yo listen but mot too intrusive if you don’t. Read more Written September 24, 2023
• AndrewM826 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles go on a sunny day nice scenery but a bit too long. it would have been much nicer if the weather was better, we had some rain. Read more Written September 20, 2023
• waltersU1843ED 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles this should be on every body's visit list We took the 3 hours tour and it was better than we had expected. Very interesting about the history of this particular area between Canada and USA. The properties are beautiful or stunning in some cases! Read more Written September 18, 2023
• KrisBrownfield 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great cruise, great weather Two couples made a last minute reservation for the one hour cruise. It was on time and very entertaining. We would all recommend this cruise. Read more Written September 11, 2023

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Tiger Woods accepts special exemption into 124th U.S. Open

Nine-time usga champion to make his 23rd u.s. open appearance at pinehurst.

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Tiger Woods has accepted a special exemption to play the 124th U.S. Open, the United States Golf Association (USGA) announced Thursday.

Woods will make his 23rd start at the U.S. Open, third at Pinehurst No. 2 and first since 2020 at Winged Foot Golf Club. It's the first time in Woods' career that he didn't qualify for the U.S. Open on his own merit. Woods' five-year major championship exemption for winning the 2019 Masters ran out earlier this year.

Woods, 48, has won the 2000, 2002 and 2008 U.S. Open Championships in addition to 12 other major championships and 82 total PGA TOUR victories in his Hall of Fame career. His nine USGA titles, matched only by Bobby Jones, include three consecutive U.S. Junior Amateurs (1991-1993) followed by three straight U.S. Amateurs (1994-1996) and an overall USGA match play record of 42-3.

“The U.S. Open, our national championship, is a truly special event for our game and one that has helped define my career,” said Woods. “I’m honored to receive this exemption and could not be more excited for the opportunity to compete in this year’s U.S. Open, especially at Pinehurst, a venue that means so much to the game.”

One of golf’s five Grand Slam winners, Woods’ incredible 15 major championship victories are second all-time to only Jack Nicklaus (18) and include three wins at The Open, four at the PGA Championship and five at the Masters. Most recently, he triumphed at Augusta National in 2019 to bookend an 11-year stretch between major championships.

“The story of the U.S. Open could not be written without Tiger Woods,” said USGA Chief Championships Officer John Bodenhamer. “From his 15-stroke victory at Pebble Beach in 2000 to his inspiring win on a broken leg at Torrey Pines in 2008, this championship is simply better when Tiger is in the field, and his accomplishments in the game undoubtedly made this an easy decision for our special exemption committee.”

As an amateur, Woods was a member of the 1995 USA Walker Cup Team and 1994 USA World Amateur Team. A seven-time member of the U.S. Ryder Cup Team, he served as assistant captain for the 2016 matches, and he has competed in nine Presidents Cups, including as a playing captain in 2019.

The U.S. Open will be contested June 13-16 on Pinehurst Resort & Country Club’s Course No. 2, in the village of Pinehurst, North Carolina.

Billie Eilish Reveals ‘Hit Me Hard and Soft’ World Tour, Starting in September

By Ellise Shafer

Ellise Shafer

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Billie Eilish is embarking on a world tour in support of her forthcoming third album, “ Hit Me Hard and Soft ,” set for release on May 17.

The Live Nation-produced tour will kick off in September in Quebec and continue through North America until December. In February 2025, Eilish will hit Australia, followed by Europe, the U.K. and Ireland from April to late July.

Tickets will be available for presale for American Express cardholders on April 30, with additional presales running throughout the week. General tickets go on sale May 3 through Ticketmaster .

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See the full tour dates below.

North America

Tue Feb 18, 2025 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre Wed Feb 19, 2025 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre Fri Feb 21, 2025 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre Sat Feb 22, 2025 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre Mon Feb 24, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena Tue Feb 25, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena Thu Feb 27, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena Fri Feb 28, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena Tue Mar 4, 2025 –Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena Wed Mar 5, 2025 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena Fri Mar 7, 2025 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena Sat Mar 8, 2025 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena

Europe/U.K./Ireland Wed Apr 23, 2025 – Stockholm, Sweden – Avicii Arena

Thu Apr 24, 2025 – Stockholm, Sweden – Avicii Arena

Sat Apr 26, 2025 – Oslo, Norway – Telenor Arena Mon Apr 28, 2025 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Royal Arena Tue Apr 29, 2025 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Royal Arena

Fri May 2, 2025 – Hannover, Germany – ZAG Arena Sun May 4, 2025 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome Mon May 5, 2025 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome Wed May 7, 2025 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome Fri May 9, 2025 – Berlin, Germany – Uber Arena Thu May 29, 2025 – Cologne, Germany – Lanxess Arena Fri May 30, 2025 – Cologne, Germany – Lanxess Arena Sun June 1, 2025 – Prague, Czech Republic – O2 Arena Tue June 3, 2025 – Kraków, Poland – Tauron Arena Wed June 4, 2025 – Kraków, Poland – Tauron Arena Fri June 6, 2025 – Vienna, Austria – Stadthalle Sun June 8, 2025 – Bologna, Italy – Unipol Arena Tue June 10, 2025 – Paris, France – Accor Arena Wed June 11, 2025 – Paris, France – Accor Arena Sat June 14, 2025 – Barcelona, Spain – Palau Sant Jordi Sun June 15, 2025 –Barcelona, Spain – Palau Sant Jordi

Mon Jul 7, 2025 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro Tue Jul 8, 2025 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro Thu Jul 10, 2025 – London, UK – The O2 Fri Jul 11, 2025 –London, UK – The O2 Sun Jul 13, 2025 – London, UK – The O2 Mon Jul 14, 2025 – London, UK – The O2 Wed Jul 16, 2025 – London, UK – The O2 Thu Jul 17, 2025 – London, UK – The O2 Sat Jul 19, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live Sun Jul 20, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live Tue Jul 22, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live Wed Jul 23, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live Sat Jul 26, 2025 – Dublin, Ireland – 3Arena Sun Jul 27, 2025 – Dublin, Ireland – 3Arena

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02 - 05 May 2024

Volvo China Open

Hidden Grace GC, Shenzhen, China

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Soderberg maintains strong recent form to share first-round lead at the China Open

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SHENZHEN, China (AP) — Sebastian Soderberg of Sweden maintained his impressive form by shooting a bogey-free 9-under 63 to take a share of the first-round lead at the China Open on the European tour on Thursday.

Soderberg has had runner-up finishes in the last two events — the Indian Open and the ISPS Handa Championship — and five top 10s in his nine tournaments in the 2024 season, helping him move to a career-best No. 98 in the world ranking.

Romain Langasque of France was tied for the lead after also being bogey-free around Hidden Grace Golf Club in Shenzhen, with his round including seven straight birdies from No. 16 after starting at the 10th hole.

Li Haotong, the 2016 winner from China, was a shot back from the lead after finishing his round with three straight birdies to be on 8 under. He also didn’t make a bogey.

Guigo Migliozzi of Italy, Julien Guerrier of France and Gordan Brixi of the Czech Republic were tied in fourth place after rounds of 65.

The China Open is back on the European tour schedule after an absence of five years.

AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf