All Ages • 1 Hour • Departs from Hudson • Coming from Athens? • Check our ferry schedule!
Discover the Hudson River’s hidden stories and stunning fall colors on a one-hour narrated ferry ride. Explore historic lighthouses, abandoned barges, and sandbars framed by the Catskill Mountains’ autumnal hues.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the experience involves relaxed sitting and light walking on and off the ferry.
Wildlife
History
The Hudson River played a pivotal role in early American trade, with canal barges once transporting goods between the interior and New York City.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on maintaining water quality and protecting nesting grounds for native bird species to preserve the river’s natural heritage.
Hudson Ferry Company
All Ages • 1 Hour • Departs from Hudson • Coming from Athens? • Check our ferry schedule!
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.
Routes & Stops
Hudson ↔ Athens
Weekend one-way tickets available
Trip Types
Sightseeing, Charters, Music, Ferryoke
Varied experiences on the Hudson River
Trip Durations
15–120 minutes
Short ferries to two-hour cruises
Local Partnerships
Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society
Collaborative narrated lighthouse tours
Choose sunset cruises, fall foliage tours, lighthouse narrations, music nights, or private charters departing from Hudson and Athens.
Bring a Camera with a Zoom Lens
To capture distant details like the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse and shipwrecks clearly, pack a camera with zoom capabilities.
Dress in Layers
The river breeze can be cool in fall, so layering clothes helps you stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Arrive Early to Secure Seating
Seats fill up quickly on this popular tour; arriving early ensures you get the best vantage points on deck.
Check Weather Conditions
The Hudson River can be choppy in windy weather; confirm the day’s forecast for a safer and more pleasant ride.
Windbreaker Jacket
Protects against cool winds coming off the river during the autumn months.
fall
Binoculars
Enhances views of distant landmarks and wildlife along the river.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Useful for boarding and disembarking the ferry safely and comfortably.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated makes the experience more enjoyable, especially on unexpected warm days.