THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Cross the Hudson River in 15 minutes aboard the Hudson Ferry Company’s historic weekend ferry from Athens to Hudson. Discover stunning river views and vibrant Hudson Valley culture on this budget-friendly ride.
Cross the Hudson River in 15 minutes aboard the Hudson Ferry Company’s historic weekend ferry from Athens to Hudson. Discover stunning river views and vibrant Hudson Valley culture on this budget-friendly ride.
Book with Hudson Ferry Company
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Hudson Ferry Company · Athens, New York
The Hudson Valley pulses with rugged beauty and rich history, and the Hudson Ferry Company offers a swift, scenic passage connecting two of its most vibrant river towns: Athens and Hudson, New York. For a mere five dollars and just 15 minutes aboard a historic ferry, travelers cross the storied Hudson River, immersing themselves in expansive water views framed by rolling hills and verdant forests. This weekend service revives a vital route dating back to before the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, continuing a tradition that knits communities across county lines.
Departing from a quaint dock at 4 N Water St in Athens, the ferry slices through calm waters toward Ferry St in Hudson, a city renowned for its creative energy, antique shops, and thriving food scene. The ferry ride offers an accessible, no-frills alternative to the long drive around the river, making it a practical connector for adventurers eager to sample weekend markets, galleries, or riverside hikes in either town.
Onboard, travelers can enjoy local sips and snacks while gazing at the Hudson’s ever-changing landscape, marked by rugged bluffs and occasional sightings of great blue herons and osprey patrolling the skies. The short journey embraces the cadence of the river, offering an intimate perspective of the valley’s waterways and the distinct character of both communities.
Hudson Ferry Company stands out as a local outdoor recreation staple by blending transportation with a unique outdoor experience. It invites both residents and visitors to reconsider the Hudson River, not as a barrier, but as a gateway—promoting outdoor mobility and cultural exchange in an area pulsing with natural beauty and historical significance.
easy.
15 minutes.
Suitable for all fitness levels; no physical exertion required.
Weekend service is available with regular departures; schedules may vary seasonally or due to weather.
Yes, walk-on passengers can buy tickets on the ferry if space is available.
Yes, passengers can purchase a selection of sips and snacks during the crossing.
Accessibility details are best confirmed directly with Hudson Ferry Company prior to booking.
You can use your ticket for another ferry trip when space is available; you will be notified in advance.
Pet policies vary; reach out to Hudson Ferry Company for their latest guidelines.
The ferry route predates the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, historically linking Hudson and Athens as essential river communities.
Hudson Ferry Company supports sustainable river transport, encouraging reduced car travel to protect the Hudson Valley environment.
Hudson Ferry Company operates seasonal ferry and cruise services from Hudson, New York, offering a range of public sightseeing cruises, narrated lighthouse tours, weekend one-way ferry crossings, music nights, and private charters. Based in Hudson, New York, Hudson Ferry Company provides scenic trips on the Hudson River with views of the Catskill Mountains and riverfront landmarks. Offerings include one-hour sunset sightseeing cruises, two-hour karaoke and music cruises, 45-minute narrated Lighthouse Legends tours in partnership with the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society, and 15-minute one-way ferry crossings between Hudson and Athens. Passengers can purchase snacks and drinks onboard during most departures. Private charters allow customers to choose from a fleet of vessels, customize routes, and arrange catered bites and beverages for special events. Seasonal fall foliage cruises highlight riverfront vistas, shipwrecks, sandbars, and the Rip Van Winkle Bridge for leaf-peeping and photography. Hudson Ferry Company collaborates with local musicians, including events featuring Bob Green and community favorites such as Amanda on Ferryoke nights. Ticketed public cruises emphasize relaxed sightseeing, accessible short crossings, and themed live-music evenings. The company offers departures that depart from both Hudson and Athens for select lighthouse tours, making the service convenient for travelers on both sides of the river. Hudson Ferry Company presents a combination of commuter-style ferry rides and curated leisure experiences that showcase Hudson River history, natural scenery, and community partnerships. Reservations can be made online or at the dock; schedules and ticket options vary by season and event. Check specific departure points before travel ahead.
Book with Hudson Ferry Company