THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover Kingston’s maritime past aboard the eco-friendly Solaris. This historic cruise offers a glimpse into the industrial legacy of Rondout Creek with stunning scenery and sunken ships. Perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers alike!
Discover Kingston’s maritime past aboard the eco-friendly Solaris. This historic cruise offers a glimpse into the industrial legacy of Rondout Creek with stunning scenery and sunken ships. Perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers alike!
Book with Hudson River Maritime Museum
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Hudson River Maritime Museum · Kingston, New York
Located in Kingston, New York, the Hudson River Maritime Museum offers an immersive journey into the area's maritime and industrial history. Rondout Creek, a vital waterway that fueled commerce and industry, serves as the perfect backdrop for this unique cruise aboard Solaris, the world’s first solar-powered passenger boat. This eco-friendly vessel glides silently over the water, allowing passengers to observe sunken ships, historic landmarks, and industrial relics from a different era. The tour highlights Kingston’s rich shipping past, including the iconic warehouses and maritime structures that still dot the shoreline. One of the standout features of this adventure is the chance to see submerged vessels and remnants of the area's shipping industry, which were pivotal during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The route offers scenic views of the creek’s distinctive geology and vibrant wildlife, providing plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.
The museum's cruise is more than just a scenic ride; it’s a deep dive into the stories that shaped Kingston. Guests learn about the evolution of maritime technology, the rise of local industry, and the sustainable efforts supporting the preservation of this historic waterway. The Solaris’s solar power makes this journey especially unique, demonstrating innovative, eco-conscious travel practices. Whether you’re a history buff or a lover of marine environments, this adventure delivers an engaging, educational experience right on the water. Perfect for families, history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a meaningful connection to the past with the benefits of modern sustainability, it’s a stand-out sea-based activity in the Hudson Valley.
Located near Kingston, this cruise makes for a memorable day trip to connect with history while enjoying a tranquil, eco-aware ride out on Rondout Creek.
easy.
1.5–2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels, with minimal physical exertion needed
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly and offers an educational experience suitable for all ages.
Guides provide detailed stories and background on the sunken vessels and industrial sites along the creek.
Pets are not permitted on the cruise to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.
Cruise schedules may be affected by weather; check with the museum for updates or rescheduling options.
Yes, ample parking is available near the museum for visitors.
Outside food and beverages are not allowed onboard, but the museum shop and nearby cafes are available.
Kingston was a major shipping port in the 1800s, with Rondout Creek serving as a bustling industrial hub, reflected in its preserved relics.
The museum promotes sustainable tourism and preservation efforts, emphasizing eco-friendly transportation and the protection of historic sites.
Hudson River Maritime Museum in Kingston, New York presents public cruises and themed experiences aboard Solaris, a solar-powered passenger boat. The museum programs a variety of outings that combine live performance, regional history, and waterfront scenery. Solaris Live Music Cruise showcases local artists in an intimate, floating concert setting where guests may bring beverages and enjoy an evening on the river. Dual Lighthouse Cruise sails past the historic Rondout and Esopus Meadows Lighthouses aboard Solaris, noted as the first solar-powered passenger boat licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard. Wrecks & Industry explores Kingston and Rondout Creek's industrial past, identifying sunken vessels and waterfront landmarks during a narrated cruise. Wine Tasting on the Hudson features curated tastings led by Sam Hewitt from the Kingston Wine Company, pairing local wines with river views. D&H Canal History invites historian Bill Merchant to share stories and artifacts en route to Lock No. 1. The River People: Historic Lenape Lifeways brings Lenape lifeways into a river context with Justin Wexler. River Gong on Solaris with HariPrakaash offers a sound-based experience, and Family Friendly Halloween Classics provides seasonal programming for families. These offerings emphasize Solaris as a 100% solar-powered vessel and reference U.S. Coast Guard licensing for the passenger boat. Named presenters, themed programming, and the unique solar platform make the museum's cruises a focused way to experience Kingston's waterfront from the water.
Book with Hudson River Maritime Museum