Enjoy Live Music along the Scenic Hudson River
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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels since the cruise involves minimal physical activity.
Wildlife
History
Kingston was New York's first capital and holds significant historical sites along the riverfront.
Conservation
The cruise operator supports local environmental efforts to maintain the Hudson River's ecosystem, including waste reduction and responsible boating practices.
Hudson River Cruises
Enjoy Live Music along the Scenic Hudson River
Hudson River Cruises in Kingston, New York, operates scenic riverboat excursions aboard the Rip van Winkle II. The business offers two primary experiences: the Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise and the Live Music Cruise. The Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise is a narrated journey highlighting historic lighthouses, elegant riverside mansions, seasonal fall foliage, and local wildlife. The Live Music Cruise is an evening, two-hour experience featuring live bands, starlit views, and a festive atmosphere suitable for celebrations and group outings.
Hudson River Cruises focuses on showcasing the natural and cultural history of the Hudson River corridor through guided narration and curated onboard programming. The company departs from Kingston, NY, providing both residents and visitors with direct access to river views that include architectural landmarks and wildlife habitats. The Rip van Winkle II serves as the platform for sightseeing and entertainment cruises, offering passengers a stable, scenic vantage point for photography and observation.
Reservations and schedules are organized by cruise type and season. Sightseeing cruises emphasize interpretation of local history and environmental features, while Live Music Cruises prioritize entertainment and social ambiance. Both experiences are marketed as family-friendly; passengers of all ages can enjoy the scenery and onboard commentary. Hudson River Cruises presents a straightforward way to experience the Hudson River from Kingston without extensive planning or specialized equipment, making river exploration accessible to a broad audience.
Location
Kingston, NY
Gateway to the Hudson River
Tours Offered
2 trips
Sightseeing & Live Music
Live Events
2-hour cruise
Evening concerts onboard
Family Friendly
All ages welcome
Suitable for adults and children
Reserve a sightseeing or live music cruise from Kingston aboard the Rip van Winkle II — limited seating, easy online booking.
Book tickets in advance
Live Music Cruises fill up quickly, especially on weekends; secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.
Dress for variable weather
Evenings on the Hudson can be cool and breezy—bring a light jacket to stay comfortable.
Arrive early for boarding
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and seating preferences.
Check the schedule for performers
Different bands perform on different nights; check the schedule if you have a favorite music genre.
Light jacket or windbreaker
spring
Comfortable shoes
summer
Camera or smartphone
fall
Binoculars
For enhanced views of wildlife and distant landmarks along the river
summer