thousand island tours ontario

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The heart of the 1000 Islands on the St. Lawrence River

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Discover and experience the Heart of the 1000 Islands, majestic castles and whispers of a thousand legends, as you cruise the breathtaking 1000 Islands with Rockport Cruises. This wonderfully lush landscape is dotted with luxurious cottages and vast estates. The only cruise line to showcase Boldt Castle on every cruise.

Rockport Cruises is proudly Canadian owned and operated for 70 years. Come and experience our own brand of “Canadian” hospitality in the historic and quaint village of Rockport, Ontario. Rockport is easily located along the scenic 1000 Islands Parkway. Driving directions available here. The only cruise line to offer Free Parking.

Safe Cruising Information Click here.

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Upcoming Cruises

Wednesday, September 18: Heart of the Islands One Hour Cruise : 9am, 10am , 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm

Thursday, September 19: Heart of the Islands One Hour Cruise : 9am, 10am , 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm

Friday, September 20: Heart of the Islands One Hour Cruise : 9am, 10am , 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm

Gift Certificates are available online for all of our cruises by clicking this link . 

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Rockport’s Signature Cruises

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 and you will be able to see all of the highlights on any of our cruises. We are the only boat line that will show you the famous Boldt Castle on all of our tours.

Explore the rugged natural beauty of the St. Lawrence river as you set off from the beautiful village of Rockport, Ontario, Canada. Imagine an era of elegance and nobility, majestic castles and whispers of a thousand legends. Cruise in the “heart” of the exhilarating 1000 Islands on one of the areas finest tours.

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Thousand Islands Cruise From Kingston (Our Boat Tour Experience)

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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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Kingston: Heart of the Thousand Islands Riverboat Cruise

Discover the enchanting heart of the Thousand Islands region aboard the Island Queen, a charming Mississippi River-style paddlewheeler . This 3-hour round-trip cruise offers breathtaking views of small cottage islands, towering limestone cliffs, and historic landmarks like Mandalay Mansion. With live musical entertainment , informative historical commentary, and convenient amenities, it’s a perfect outing for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. But the true allure lies in the chance to take in the natural beauty and rich history that define this captivating riverscape. Uncover the secrets waiting to be explored…

• Three-hour sightseeing cruise from Kingston to the picturesque Thousand Islands, offering scenic views of small cottage islands and historic landmarks.
• Onboard the Mississippi River-style paddlewheeler, Island Queen, with live musical entertainment and informative historical commentary to enhance the cruising experience.
• Priced starting at $47.70 per person, with the first deck of the vessel being wheelchair accessible and a full-service canteen and bar available.
• Convenient ticket exchange locations and check-in process, with nearby parking garages available for guests.
• Overall positive customer feedback, with high ratings for the guide, transportation, and service, though some suggestions for improved audio clarity.

Cruise Overview and Pricing

The Kingston Riverboat Cruise offers a 3-hour sightseeing experience from Kingston into the heart of the Thousand Islands, known for its stunning scenery and rich history.

Priced from $47.70 per person, this non-refundable activity departs from the Crawford Wharf dock.

The cruise features a round-trip route onboard the triple-deck Mississippi River-style paddlewheeler , Island Queen, allowing passengers to enjoy live musical entertainment and commentary on local history and folklore.

While the first deck is wheelchair accessible, washroom access may be limited.

Dining options are available for purchase on the cruise, but outside food, drinks, and large items aren’t permitted.

Itinerary and Highlights

Journey includes views of small cottage islands, Wanderer’s Channel, Mandalay Mansion, and historic Kingston.

The cruise features a round-trip route onboard the triple-deck Mississippi River style paddlewheeler , Island Queen. Visitors can enjoy live musical entertainment and captivating commentary on the region’s history and folklore throughout the 3-hour journey .

This sightseeing cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque Thousand Islands , showcasing the area’s stunning natural scenery and intriguing historical sites.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking breathtaking vistas, this riverboat experience promises an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the Thousand Islands region.

Accessibility and Amenities

Wheelchair users can access the first deck of the Island Queen paddlewheeler, though washroom access may be limited.

Those looking to grab a bite or refreshment while cruising can take advantage of the full-service canteen and bar onboard.

Smoking, pets, outside food/drinks, and large luggage aren’t permitted.

With no on-site parking available, guests will need to use nearby parking garages.

Meeting Point and Check-in

Passengers can exchange their GetYourGuide vouchers for tickets at either 1 Brock Street or 248 Ontario Street (Waterfront Gifts & Apparel Storefront).

Upon arrival, they’ll need to check-in and receive their boarding passes before embarking on the cruise. The meeting point is conveniently located near the Crawford Wharf dock, where the cruise departs.

The check-in process is straightforward:

• Find the designated ticket exchange location.
• Present your GetYourGuide voucher.
• Receive your boarding pass.
• Proceed to the dock and board the Island Queen paddlewheeler .

No on-site parking is available, but nearby parking garages can be accessed.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

The Kingston Riverboat Cruise has received an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 425 reviews.

Customers have praised the cruise, with the guide and transportation scoring a solid 4.4 out of 5. Service and organization were also well-received, earning 4.3 out of 5.

Common feedback highlights an enjoyable experience and great photo opportunities, though some noted the need for improved audio clarity during announcements.

Scenic Views and History

Towering limestone cliffs, lush green islands, and the gentle flow of the St. Lawrence River combine to create a breathtaking landscape that the Kingston Riverboat Cruise explores.

As the Island Queen paddlewheeler glides through the Thousand Islands region, passengers are treated to stunning vistas , including:

• The Wanderer’s Channel, a serene waterway dotted with small cottages and historic mansions.
• Mandalay Mansion , an impressive 19th-century summer estate on its own private island.
• The vibrant city of Kingston , with its iconic Fort Henry and stunning waterfront.
• Informative commentary that brings the region’s rich history and folklore to life.

This picturesque cruise offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Thousand Islands.

Onboard Entertainment and Commentary

Lively musical performances and captivating commentary bring the Thousand Islands region to life throughout the Kingston Riverboat Cruise .

As the triple-deck paddlewheeler, Island Queen, navigates the scenic waterways, guests are treated to live entertainment from local musicians.

The onboard commentary provides fascinating insights into the history and folklore of the area, educating visitors about the unique natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Thousand Islands.

Whether it’s learning about the storied past of the region or simply enjoying the melodic sounds, the onboard experience enhances the overall sightseeing adventure.

Cruise Duration and Departure

The 3-hour Kingston Riverboat Cruise departs regularly from the Crawford Wharf dock , allowing visitors ample time to fully enjoy the captivating scenery of the Thousand Islands region .

This non-refundable activity offers:

• Frequent departures throughout the day, ensuring flexibility for travelers.
• A round-trip journey aboard the impressive Mississippi River-style paddlewheeler, Island Queen.
• Opportunities to admire the small cottage islands, Wanderer’s Channel, Mandalay Mansion, and historic Kingston.
• Live musical entertainment and informative commentary to enhance the overall experience.

The cruise’s duration provides guests with a well-paced exploration of this stunning waterway, making it an ideal way to discover the heart of the Thousand Islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a dress code for the cruise.

There is no strict dress code for the cruise. Passengers can wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for the weather and the outdoor nature of the boat tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages Onboard?

No, outside food and drinks are not permitted onboard. The cruise offers a full-service canteen and bar for dining and beverage options during the journey.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

Yes, discounts are available for seniors (65+) and children (5-17). Senior tickets cost $44.65, while children’s tickets are $27.00. Advance reservations are recommended to secure discounted pricing.

Can I Get a Refund if I Need to Cancel My Booking?

This cruise has a non-refundable policy, so you can’t get a refund if you need to cancel your booking. However, the pricing includes options for seniors and children, which may provide some savings if you qualify.

How Stable Is the Boat During the Cruise?

The boat is generally stable during the cruise, with passengers reporting a smooth and comfortable ride. However, mild waves or wakes may cause some rocking, so those prone to motion sickness may want to take precautions.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Kingston City Tour
• Kingston: Brunch Cruise of Thousand Islands
• Kingston: Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
• Kingston: Sunset Dinner Cruise of Thousand Islands
• Kingston: Waterfront Discovery Cruise
• Kingston: Lunch Cruise of Thousand Islands
• From Montreal: Kingston City Day Trip & 1000 Island Cruise
• Hidden Kingston City Walking Tours
• Kingston: Haunted Night Walking Tour
• Kingston: Ghosts and Mysteries Trolley Tour
• Kingston: Trolley City Tour
• Kingston: Sunset Discovery Cruise
• Kingston: Historic Downtown Walking Tour
• Montreal: Private Tour to Niagara Falls

The Kingston: Heart of the Thousand Islands Riverboat Cruise offers a delightful way to explore the region’s natural beauty and rich history. With its charming Mississippi-style paddlewheeler, live entertainment , and informative commentary , the 3-hour cruise provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Convenient check-in locations and onboard amenities make this cruise an excellent choice for a relaxing and memorable day on the water.

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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

• Events and programs calendar
• Camping and overnight accommodations
• Visitor centre
• Group gatherings
• Audio tours
• Education programs
• Paddling in the Thousand Islands
• Shuttles and boat rentals
• Parks Canada Xplorers

• Reservations

'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.

https://www.traditionrolex.com/9

With a variety of sightseeing day cruises or special event night cruises, you’ll get the chance to experience the best of the area out on the water.  Be sure to listen to the on-board audio commentary, which gives insight into the incredible wonders of the St. Lawrence River.

Watch our video trailer

What you’ll see.

• Boldt Castle
• Millionaire’s Row
• 1000 Islands International Bridge
• Statue of St. Lawrence
• Zavikon Islands
• Fifth and sixth-generation family cottages

( This varies according to the cruise you select .)

Tours/Options

Three-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque

One-hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea

One-hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque

Five-hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque

View all details about this activity.

Don’t miss the boat!

Additional Information

• Sight-seeing day cruises and special event night cruises are available
• Recognized as a “Canadian Signature Experience”
• English and French audio commentary are available
• Choose your cruise carefully, depending on the landmarks you want to see
• You don’t need a passport (unless you’re on the five-hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque)
• All City Cruises Gananoque vessels are fully accessible on the first deck

“Great tour!!! We did the 5 hour Boldt Castle tour and it was just perfect. 2 hours on the island is just enough, not too long and not too short. Highly recommend!!! Staff are super friendly and the price is right.”

“Excellent value for money. The 1hr tour gives you a good insight on the islands history and their present as well as the characteristics of the region. The 3hr tour takes you to the beautiful Body castle and the international bridge and also has a really good description of the area.”

“If you go to visit 1000 Islands this is a must do! We absolutely loved our 2.5 hour cruise. The weather was nice and we managed to make some great photos of Boldt castle. The boat crew was very nice and their boat was very clean and spacious. It was a great experience for us and our kids and we enjoyed the scenery.”

Cancellation Policy

Your reservations may be made online , over the phone, through our online chat, and in-person at ticket booths at select locations.

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

Option 1: You may transfer to a different cruise date of your choosing. If you are rescheduling to a lower priced cruise, the company will refund you the difference. If you are rescheduling to a higher priced cruise, payment will be required for the difference once the new date is selected. Prices are subject to change based on demand and peak cruise times.

Option 2: If you are unsure of a new date when you can cruise, you may move your funds to a gift card. Gift cards never expire.

Option 3: If you are unable to join the cruise at a future date, you will receive a full refund back to the original form of payment. Please allow three to five business days for the funds to appear in your account.

Service animals are permitted. 

What You'll See

Tours / options, enjoy a comfortable stay, holiday inn express 1000 islands gananoque.

Holiday Inn Express

Ramada by Wyndham Gananoque Provincial Inn

Ramada by Wyndham

Gananoque Inn & Spa

Gananoque Inn & Spa

Travelodge by Wyndham Gananoque

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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.

• 1000 ISLANDS TOUR FROM TORONTO, The Thousand Island Cruise, One day tour to 1000 islands

The Thousand Islands are located between Ontario Canada and New york province USA It is a group of islands around 1,867 in the St. Lawrence River. A piece of land called island if it remains over the water 12 months and has at least 2 trees on that. There are some island with big size Wellesley Island is the largest in 1000 islands belong to united estate and Wolfe Island is the largest in Canadian side. The Thousand Islands is considering one of the world famous place to visit. When you visiting Toronto Canada, It is highly recommended 1 day tour from Toronto to 1000 islands, World shortest international bridge connecting Zavikon  Island  a Canadian and US island with 32 feet. This considers world shortest international bridge. During cruise in 1000 island you will see this amazing bridge. There is another bridge in 1000 island connect USA TO CANADA

  Thousand Islands Border Crossing  Bridge connects the towns of Alexander bay In New york and IVY LEA in Ontario.

Kingston Canadian First capital is main City in The Thousand Islands area. In one day tour from Toronto to 1000 islands you have opportunity to visit one of the Canadian historical cities as well.

Magnificent beautiful land scape of 1000 islands, make an unforgettable day trip from Toronto to there. Enjoy an organized custom private tour to 1000 island escorting by professional local tour guides.

Optional activities you may like to do during this one day tour is visiting 100 island tower with 400 feet give you the unique opportunity to see 1000 island landscape form above.  Another option will be using helicopter tour in The Thousand Islands.

Tour itinerary :  Pick up from arranged location at 7:00 am drive to 401  1 hours and 30 minute first stop will be at big apple located nearby Colborne Ontario , A road side restaurant decorated in Canadian country style with a complete menu for dinning and a souvenir shop. You will have 30 minute time to visit and have breakfast here by your own choice and your own expense. Around 9:15 we will drive to Kingston Canada first capital in 1 hour tour you have opportunity to walk around in beautiful historic down town of Kingston and you will have a time for your lunch in one of the restaurant in waterfront. Kingston host one of the Canadian prestigious universities called Queens University. After lunch and 1 hour tour in Kingston we will drive from side road to Ivy lea   one of the main 1000 island cruise port. At 3:30 we start our wonderful 1000 island cruise and will visit many beautiful islands. Bold Castel is one of the major landmark in the Thousand Islands region and one most beautiful scenery and tourist attraction in 1000 islands cruise. After enjoying 1 hour cruise we will back to Ivy lea and drive back to Toronto, there is possibility of having 1 hour free time to enjoy earthier observatory in 1000 island tower of fly over the Thousand Islands by helicopter as a optional tour.  We expect to arrive Toronto around 8:30- 9:00 pm

For reservation of one day tour to 1000 island from Toronto Call us at +1647544000   

you may find best collection of Canada tours at www.bestCanadatours.com

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5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque

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1000 Islands Cruises — Gananoque

Hop on with City Cruises Gananoque and discover the world-famous 1000 Islands. City Cruises operates triple-decker, all-aluminum vessels with on-board facilities such as restrooms, coffee shops, bars and refreshment areas. Each boat has its own open and enclosed decks.

Choose from one, three or five-hour cruises to enjoy Gananoque’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks such as Boldt Castle and Heart Island. Sail the narrow channels of the Admiralty and Navy group of islands while savouring delicious food and onboard entertainment.

Visit the City Cruises Gananoque website

1000 Islands | George Fischer

How to get to 1000 Islands Cruises — Gananoque

Location: 280 Main Street, Gananoque

By car: Gananoque is about a three-hour drive along the ON-401 East from Toronto and two hours from Ottawa. Paid parking is available onsite.

By transit: VIA Rail provides daily service to Gananoque train station. Take a local taxi  to the Gananoque City Cruises port.

Know before you go

Food and beverages are available for purchase on board.

Passengers on the Boldt Castle stop-over cruise are required to have a valid passport and/or Nexus card to board this cruise as Boldt Castle is an Official Port of Entry into the United States.

Book tickets and find the current City Cruises Gananoque tour schedule .

Things to do at 1000 Islands Cruises — Gananoque

Discover more activities and experiences.

See famous attractions

Hop on the 3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise and take in the stunning scenery Gananoque is renowned for. Snap amazing pictures as you sail past the iconic Boldt Castle and Millionaire’s Row.

Explore scenic islands

Learn the history of the 1000 Islands with the 1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise . Cruise narrow channels and discover generations-old cottages dotting the Admiralty and Navy group of islands.

Visit a historic castle

Stop over at Heart Island and tour Boldt Castle with the 5-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise . Other notable sights include Zavikon Island, the St. Lawrence Seaway and the 1000 Islands Bridge.

Articles and itineraries

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Interesting facts 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 1970s, City Cruises Gananoque began building its current vessels, starting with the Thousand Islander. When it set sail, it became the first, all-aluminum tourist vessel in North America.

Accessibility Features

Accessible entrances/exits, accessible parking, accessible restaurant, accessible seating, accessible washroom, assistive listening devices available, service animals welcome, support persons welcome, universal washroom, wheelchair accessible, wheelchair and/or mobility devices available.

Last updated:  September 13, 2024

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Kingston, ON

With so much to see and do , a good place to start gathering information is the city’s tourist information office on the waterfront in Confederation Park. To get an overview of the city’s attractions, climb aboard the Kingston Trolley Tours ‘ one-hour hop-on, hop-off tour now offered in a variety of languages.

A stop at Fort Henry is a must during your visit. This extraordinary garrison on the lakeshore was built to ward off potential enemy forces after the War of 1812. Daily performances by the Fort Henry Guard feature rifle and cannon drills and marches of soldiers stationed here in the 1800s. On Wednesday nights in July and August, enjoy Fort Henry’s Sunset Ceremonies, a spectacular celebration of the fife and drum, cannon fire and fireworks.

Year-round, Kingston is alive with cultural celebrations and more than two dozen museums, historic sites, and art galleries. Home to sailing events during the 21st Olympic Games, Kingston is known as the freshwater sailing capital of the world. Catch a ferry to Wolfe Island for a day of biking.

With menu selections from places spanning the globe, Kingston’s impressive collection of restaurants numbers in the hundreds. Nightlife features dance clubs and delightful pubs with live music. Home of the rock group Tragically Hip and actor Dan Aykroyd, you never know who you’ll bump into in Kingston.

Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises

Set sail for the heart of the 1000 Islands from downtown Kingston, Ontario, on the Food, Fun & Entertainment Ships of the 1000 Islands. 1h Discovery Cruises and 3h Heart of the Islands Cruises set sail throughout the day from April to October, including brunch, lunch, and dinner cruises in the 1000 Islands. Advance reservations are recommended, call 1-800-848-0011 or visit www.ktic.ca   

Step through the gates of this 19th-century military fortress and enter the realm of the 1867 garrison life. Enjoy guided tours, performances by the Fort Henry Guard, muster parades, heritage dining and more. The season includes Spectacular Sunset Ceremonies every Wednesday and Saturday evenings in July and August complete with fireworks, plus many other events and concerts.

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One Pass, One Price, All of Kingston

Available May 17 – October 14, 2024. Visit kpass.ca for included attractions and pricing.

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K-Pass is Back for 2024!

Bellevue house, the pumphouse, 1000 islands cruises, kingston trolley tours, sunset dinner cruise.

• Dining Cruises

Join us on the Sunset Dinner Cruise for a spectacular evening on the water; it’s a floating restaurant where the scenery is always changing. Dine aboard the glass-topped Island Star, where you’ll be treated to a three-course dinner prepared fresh and served to your table. Sunset Dinner Cruises sail Fri-Sun in the Spring (May 6-June 29) and Fall (Sept 5-Oct 9) , and daily in the Summer (June 30-Sept 4) . Prices vary by season.

Fall Route Change: For the remainder of the 2024 season, all Sunset Dinner Cruise sailings aboard the Island Star will follow a Panoramic Harbour Route with scenic views in and around the Kingston waterfront.

Dinner aboard the Island Star scenic and entertaining; enjoy live music and live-hosted commentary about the region as you sail historic and notable sites. Relax inside with panoramic views, then head outside in the open-air to promenade on the top deck at dusk. A Sunset Dinner Cruise hits all the right notes! This cruise includes a delicious three-course dinner .

Upgrade to a Premium Table

Enjoy the ultimate dinner cruise experience by upgrading your reservation to the Sunset Dinner Cruise with Premium Table. A Premium reservation includes a guaranteed window table for your party and a specialty appetizer in addition to your meal. This experience is available for an additional $30+hst per guest. Only a select number of Premium tickets are available.

Join us for special themed entertainment aboard the Island Star on Thursday nights.

The Sunset Dinner Cruise is also offered on select nights aboard the Island Queen .

All tickets are non-refundable. Changes to your reservation can be made with 24h advanced notice.

Dinner and a Show!

Set sail along Kingston’s historic waterfront on a 3 hour Sunset Dinner Cruise.

Live musical entertainment sets the tone for your dinner cruise experience.

A full service bar serving wine, cocktails and beer is available on board for purchase.

A three-course dinner is included with a choice entrée. See the menu .

Add a Trolley Tour

Hop on the Kingston Trolley to explore more of Kingston. Enjoy a live-guided tour through downtown highlighting National Historic Sites and visitor attractions like Fort Henry, Queen's University and Kingston Penitentiary.

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