easy
2 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels since the cruise involves minimal physical activity.
Step aboard the Rip Van Winkle II for a magical two-hour Live Music Cruise on the Hudson River. Enjoy vibrant local bands, stunning views of historic mansions and lighthouses, and a night under the stars near Kingston, NY.
Enjoy Live Music along the Scenic Hudson River
Experience enchanting evenings on the Hudson River with our Live Music Cruises! Enjoy a delightful two-hour journey under a starlit sky, featuring live bands, stunning views of lighthouses and mansions, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for celebrating any occasion. Create unforgettable memories aboard the Rip Van Winkle II!
Music Cruises are back!!
At night, it's another world! Beautiful evenings bring together music, romance and fun as our vessel glides under a canopy of stars. Our summer Live Music Cruises feature a Band for the listening pleasure of our passengers. Celebrate any occasion with our Live Music Cruises! Check out the calendar for a full schedule and booking.
June 27 - Jungle Love July 5 - Soul City Groove July 18 - Lost Cowboys July 25 - Midnite Image Band August 1 - Lost Cowboys August 15 - Jungle Love August 29 - Soul City Groove September 26 - Soul City Groove October 3 - Night Train October 17 - Midnite Image Band October 31 - Jungle Love
Live Music Cruises. Our full beverage service with a limited snack bar will be open and available for you and your friends throughout the evening.
Night sightings on our fun-filled 2 hour cruise may include:
• Hudson River lighthouses • Waterfront mansions • the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge
Celebrate any event on the Rip! Our evening cruises offer a unique locale for all types of different events! We have hosted:
• Birthday parties • Bachelorette parties • Employee Appreciation events • Family reunions • Class reunions • And a variety of other events!
Please check our FAQ page for additional details!
Not Included: • Food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, but are available throughout the evening from our beverage and limited snack bars. Please note that we do accept cash and credit cards on board the boat. No outside food or beverage is allowed.
• Gratuity is not included in the ticket price but it greatly appreciated.
Meeting Location: East Strand Street (Kingston, NY) (Exact meeting location details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets.)
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Advanced purchase is highly recommended. To maximize the chance of getting the day and time you prefer, be sure to book well in advance.
What will we see on the cruise? Where does the boat go?
The boat will cruise south on the Hudson River to about Hyde Park, before doubling back to Kingston. Along the way, we will see Hudson River lighthouses, waterfront mansions, the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge and scenic and historical sights.
What happens if it rains?
The cruise will run regardless of weather. There is an indoor lower deck and the upper deck is partially covered so you can enjoy the sights in all types of weather!
Is there shade or air-conditioning on the boat?
The Rip Van Winkle II has a lower enclosed deck and the upper decks are partially covered, providing shade. Please note the lower deck does have heat and air conditioning.
Can I purchase food or beverages on board?
Yes, on our lower main deck we have a fully stocked bar including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well as a limited snack bar with chips and candy. Please note that we do accept cash and credit cards on board the boat.
Can I bring my own food or beverages on the boat?
No, outside food and beverages are not allowed on board the boat.
Do cruises run year round?
No, our season runs from mid-May through the end of October.
Are there any stops along the way?
We will be viewing all of the beautiful sights from the boat and will not be stopping to get off the boat at any time during the cruise.
Is the boat safe? Is it US Coast Guard certified?
The Rip Van Winkle ii is a US Coast Guard certified boat and we follow all USCG regulations, including having enough life jackets for all passengers on board. Please pay attention to the safety announcement at the start of the cruise for details on where the life jackets are located. Please note that you are not required to wear life jackets during the cruise.
How many passengers can the boat hold?
The Rip Van Winkle 2 is US Coast Guard certified for up to 300 passengers across the 3 decks.
What type of seating is available?
There is plenty of seating on the boat, both inside as well as on the upper decks. The upper decks consists of mainly bench-style seating and the main lower decks has chairs. Seating is on a first come first serve basis, so be sure to arrive early if you'd like to sit in a particular area of the boat.
Will I get seasick?
Our 90 foot vessel is very stable on the water and the waters we travel are calm, so seasickness is generally not an issue. If you know you are especially prone to seasickness, please take the necessary precautions and consult a doctor.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
We will do our best to accommodate disabled people to the extent that our vessel, dock and tides will allow. The boat has an upper deck and a lower deck, and the only way to get between the two is by stairs. Though we normally board and disembark from the lower level, there are some days when the tides force us to board the upper level or create a situation where climbing a few steps may be required. However, there is a handicap accessible restroom located on the main deck. If someone in your group is in a wheelchair or has limited mobility, we recommend clicking on the "Contact HRCruises" link to check with us directly before buying your tickets.
Is tip included in the ticket price?
Tip for the crew is not included in the ticket price. While they are greatly appreciated, tip are completely up to guests.
Where should I park at the departure location?
There are two small free parking lots located nearby. One is directly in front of our booth and the other is located across the street. If both lots are full, there is also metered street parking available in the area.
Is there a restroom on the boat?
Yes, there are two bathrooms available on the main lower deck of the boat.
Can I bring personal items on board the boat? How much room is there?
Unfortunately, there is limited storage space available on board and those with luggage or large bags will be required to leave them securely stowed on the dock. Please note, however, that parents with small children can bring strollers on board.
Is smoking or e-cigs allowed on the boat?
No, smoking and e-cigs are both prohibited while onboard.
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, we do not allow pets other than bonafide service animals. Emotional support animals are NOT considered to be bonafide service animals.
Are gift certificates available for the cruise?
To redeem gift certificates, please walk up to the ticket booth on the day of the cruise and present it in exchange for a boarding pass.
Can I booked a private charter?
Yes! Please contact Hudson River Cruises for more details and to schedule your special event.
Refund/Rescheduling Policy
Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled. Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.
Weather Policy
Activity takes place rain or shine. The activity runs regardless of weather conditions. In the rare situation where the seller is forced to cancel the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule to another time (subject to availability).
Live Music Cruises fill up quickly, especially on weekends; secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.
Evenings on the Hudson can be cool and breezy—bring a light jacket to stay comfortable.
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and seating preferences.
Different bands perform on different nights; check the schedule if you have a favorite music genre.
Kingston was New York's first capital and holds significant historical sites along the riverfront.
The cruise operator supports local environmental efforts to maintain the Hudson River's ecosystem, including waste reduction and responsible boating practices.
spring specific
summer specific
fall specific
For enhanced views of wildlife and distant landmarks along the river
summer specific