Take a Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise!

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About the tour

Relax and enjoy a clear view of historic Hudson River lighthouses, waterfront mansions, and other notable locations on this Sightseeing Cruise, from the decks of the Rip van Winkle II. The lightly narrated tour shows you some of the region’s most unique and fascinating locations on the Hudson River waterfront! Fall time cruises offer the added bonus of the gorgeous leaf peeping the Hudson Valley is known for. You will learn about:

• Hudson River lighthouses including the Rondout Lighthouse and the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse • The “Dinsmore,” built in 1936 for Mr. and Mrs. Lytell Hull • Wilderstein, a restored Victorian mansion that originally was an Italian Villa design • Staatsburg: formerly the home of Ogden Mills, has 65 rooms and 14 bathrooms, with an interior rich with marble fireplaces, oak paneling, and gilded ceilings.

Other highlights of your Hudson River sightseeing cruise include the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge that connects East Kingston with Rhinebeck and we often get glimpses of Bald Eagles and other wildlife along the river banks!

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Not Included:

• Food and drinks are not included in the ticket price but are available for purchase on board.

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Meeting Location:

East Strand Street (Kingston, NY) (Exact meeting location details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets.)

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FAQs

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.

Are children allowed? What type of ticket do they need?

Yes! This cruise is great for all ages. We offer a reduced price ticket for children 4-11 years old and children 3 and under are free. Please note that due to US Coast Guard regulations, all passengers are required to have a ticket, even a free one, so be sure your entire group is accounted for.

What will we see on the cruise? Where does the boat go?

The boat will cruise south on the Hudson River to about the Staatsburg Mansion 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.

Is the cruise narrated?

Yes, the cruise is narrated and throughout the cruise we will point out the historic sites and other highlights as we approach them.

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 has a lower enclosed deck and the two 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, we have a fully stocked bar including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well as a snack bar that includes light fare such as hot dogs, pretzels and popcorn. Please note that we accept credit cards only.

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 II is US Coast Guard certified for up to 385 passengers across the three 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 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. Though we normally board and disembark from the lower level, there are some days when the tides force us to board the mid level or create a situation where climbing a few steps may be required. If someone in your group is in a wheelchair or has limited mobility, we recommend calling or emailing prior to check on the day.

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 allowed on the boat?

No, smoking is not allowed on board.

Can I bring my dog?

Unfortunately, we do not allow pets other than service animals.

Do you offer a group discount?

Yes, we do offer a discount for large groups of 15 or more adults (anyone 12 and over) when they are purchased in advance. If you have a group, Please call or email sales@hudsonrivercruises.com to inquire about group discounts.

Are gift certificates available for the cruise? Yes, you can click to buy open ended gift certificates directly from our website or availability calendar.

Can I book a private charter?

Yes! Please contact Hudson River Cruises for more details and to schedule your special event. sales@hudsonrivercruises.com

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Policies

Refund/Rescheduling Policy

Non-refundable, tickets may be rescheduled with 24 hours notice.

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).

Other Policies

Everyone is required to have a ticket in order to attend this event. Due to US Coast Guard regulation, all passengers are required to have a ticket in order to attend the cruise. This includes free tickets for infants and toddlers.