Solar Cruise & History with Hudson River Maritime Museum
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels since the activity is seated and low impact.
Overview
Step aboard Solaris, the Hudson River’s only solar-powered boat, for a 75-minute cruise featuring historian Bill Merchant’s captivating stories about the Delaware and Hudson Canal. This unique trip blends sustainable boating with immersive local history.
D&H Canal History - A Conversation with Bill Merchant
1.25 Hours | With different topics & artifacts each trip!
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience a unique cruise aboard Solaris, the Hudson River's only solar-powered boat. Join historian Bill Merchant as he shares captivating stories of the Delaware and Hudson Canal, showcasing historical artifacts. Enjoy a peaceful journey up Rondout Creek to Lock No. 1, while soaking in the stunning scenery and rich history.
Tour Rondout Creek Aboard Solaris: a 100% Solar Powered Boat Built by the Hudson River Maritime Museum!
Join Bill Merchant, Deputy Director for Collections, Historian, Historian, and Curator of the D&H Canal Museum, for an engaging conversation about the history of the Delaware and Hudson Canal and how it shaped the industrial port of Rondout. On each cruise, Bill brings aboard a different historical artifact, of significance to the D&H Canal, to spark discussions about the fascinating history of this human-made waterway. Quiet and comfortable, this cruise will take you up Rondout Creek to the D&H Canal's Lock No. 1 at Eddyville, a weigh lock originally used to weigh barges traveling the Canal. Bring your questions and enjoy the sights!
All tickets include boat ride and general admission to the Hudson River Maritime Museum.
Duration
1 Hour & 15 Minutes
About Solaris
Built and operated by the Hudson River Maritime Museum right here in Kingston, NY Solaris is the only solar-powered boat in operation on the Hudson River. This quiet vessel has no exhaust and does not require any fossil fuels to operate. It is 100% solar powered.
What to Bring
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Water and/or snack
- Your history questions!
What Not to Bring:
- large coolers
- luggage
- strollers
- very large bags
What to Wear
Please dress for the weather. It can often be up to 10 degrees cooler out on the water, so we recommend a light jacket or sweater on cooler days.
Adventure Tips
Dress in Layers
It can be up to 10 degrees cooler on the water, so bring a light jacket even on warm days.
Bring a Camera
The quiet, solar-powered boat offers great photo ops of the creek, Lock No. 1, and natural scenery.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding at the museum dock.
Weather Considerations
Tours operate in light rain but may be canceled during storms; refunds are issued accordingly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great Blue Herons
- Ospreys
History
The Delaware and Hudson Canal once linked the coal fields of Pennsylvania to the Hudson River, fueling 19th-century industrial growth.
Conservation
Operating Solaris with solar power highlights the museum’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact on the Hudson River ecosystem.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Jacket
Keeps you comfortable against cooler temperatures and river breezes.
spring specific
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from direct sun exposure during the open-air cruise.
summer specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the scenic views and historical moments throughout the cruise.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer weather outings.
summer specific