Discover the stunning fall colors from the water with the Fall Foliage Eco-Cruise on Cayuga Lake. This eco-friendly boat tour offers breathtaking views and in-depth local insights, perfect for an unforgettable autumn adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical activity required
Wildlife
History
Cayuga Lake has been a vital part of the regional ecosystem and local communities for centuries, historically serving as a transportation and trade route.
Conservation
Discover Cayuga Lake emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction and sustainable boating to protect the pristine environment.
Discover Cayuga Lake
Discover the stunning fall colors from the water with the Fall Foliage Eco-Cruise on Cayuga Lake. This eco-friendly boat tour offers breathtaking views and in-depth local insights, perfect for an unforgettable autumn adventure.
Discover Cayuga Lake is an Ithaca, New York–based operator offering a diverse schedule of cruises and educational experiences on Cayuga Lake. The program includes Public Sunset Cruises, Fall Foliage Eco-Cruise, Lake & Land Tour, Osprey Eco-Cruise, Farmer's Market Cruise, Family Eco-Cruise, Night Sky Eco-Cruise, Club Cayuga – Sundays at Sunset, Lake Monitoring Cruise, and Community Sunset Cruise.
Trips pair on-water narration with hands-on activities such as water sampling, plankton observation, guided hikes, and kayaking options. The Lake & Land Tour features a narrated cruise to Taughannock Falls State Park plus shore-based choices like guided hikes or kayaking and can include an onboard lunch. The Osprey Eco-Cruise and Lake Monitoring Cruise focus on wildlife viewing and citizen-science activities, while the Family Eco-Cruise offers themed programming for children and caregivers and requires reservations due to limited space.
Shorter options like the Farmer's Market Cruise depart directly from the Ithaca Farmer’s Market, and evening programs such as Night Sky Eco-Cruise and Club Cayuga provide stargazing or musical experiences during sunset. Discover Cayuga Lake emphasizes environmental learning and community engagement through structured narration and interactive content. Schedules, durations, and availability vary by season and trip; visitors should consult current listings for departure times and reservation requirements.
Departure
Ithaca, NY
Launches from the Ithaca waterfront
Tours Offered
10 experiences
Seasonal and themed cruises
Family Friendly
Multiple trips
Activities for all ages
Education Focus
Citizen science
Water sampling & monitoring
Book a sunset cruise, eco-tour, or citizen-science trip from Ithaca to secure seats and seasonal availability.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can vary on the water; bring layered clothing to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Arrive Early
Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and find comfortable seating.
Bring a Camera
Capture the vivid fall foliage and scenic views with your camera or smartphone.
Respect Wildlife
Keep noise levels down and avoid disturbing local wildlife during the cruise.
Warm Layered Clothing
Necessary for staying comfortable in variable temperatures on the water.
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Binoculars
Helpful for spotting distant wildlife and enjoying scenic views.
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Protects against sun exposure during longer daylight hours on the water.
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Waterproof Camera Case
Keeps your camera protected from water spray and changing weather conditions.
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