Heart of the 1000 Islands Lunch Cruise from Kingston

THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel

Read the full experience

Late spring sunlight skims the St. Lawrence as the Island Queen shudders away from Kingston's limestone quay, paddlewheel churning a slow wake that dares the archipelago ahead.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3 hours.

Fitness level

Minimal walking and short steps during boarding; suitable for most fitness levels.

Frequently asked questions

Is lunch included in the cruise fare?

Yes. The cruise includes a three-course a la carte lunch (salad, entree and dessert) as described in the inclusions.

What is the cancellation policy for this tour?

For a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure; cancellations inside 24 hours are not refundable.

Is the vessel wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The operator lists wheelchair-accessible boarding and facilities; contact the provider ahead of time to confirm specific needs.

Are pets allowed on board?

Service animals are permitted; other pets are not listed as allowed—check with the operator if you plan to travel with a companion animal.

Local insights

Wildlife

Bald eagle
Great blue heron

History

The St. Lawrence and 1000 Islands became a Gilded Age playground; steamship excursions and summer cottages date to the late 19th century, with Fort Henry guarding Kingston since the early 19th century.

Conservation

Heavy recreational traffic can stress shoreline habitats; follow leave-no-trace practices, avoid feeding wildlife and choose operators who limit wake near vulnerable shorelines.

About Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises

Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationKingston, Ontario

Tours offered4+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Board earlyArrive 20–30 minutes before departure to claim preferred seating, especially in summer when the Island Star runs.

Bring layersWind off the St. Lawrence can be cool even on warm days; a light jacket makes outdoor deck time comfortable.

Protect against sunUse sunscreen and sunglasses—reflected light from the water intensifies UV exposure.

Sturdy shoesWear non-slip footwear for wet decking and easy boarding; flip-flops are not recommended.

Recommended gear

Sunglasses and hat: Cut glare and protect eyes during midday passages.
Light rain jacket or windbreaker: Keeps you comfortable on breezy or damp days, especially on the upper deck.
Non-slip shoes: Provide traction on wet or uneven decking during boarding and while moving around the vessel.
Binoculars or camera: Helps spot birds, shoreline details and distant fortifications for better views and photos.