Discover the stunning 1000 Islands on a two-hour cruise with Clayton Island Tours. Marvel at historic castles, lighthouses, and scenic waterways—perfect for a family outing or a peaceful retreat on the St. Lawrence River.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable seating and standing are encouraged.
Wildlife
History
Many of the islands once hosted grand summer homes built during the Gilded Age, with stories of wealthy families and historic preservation efforts.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to protect the delicate island ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism along the St. Lawrence River.
Clayton Island Tours
Discover the stunning 1000 Islands on a two-hour cruise with Clayton Island Tours. Marvel at historic castles, lighthouses, and scenic waterways—perfect for a family outing or a peaceful retreat on the St. Lawrence River.
Clayton Island Tours is a locally based tour operator in Clayton, New York, specializing in guided boat experiences through the 1000 Islands and the St. Lawrence River. The company offers a range of sightseeing and themed cruises, including the Ultimate 1000 Islands Sightseeing Tour with picnic lunch, Islands, Lighthouses, and Castle two-hour cruises, a Boldt Castle and Two Nation 3.5-hour tour, a seasonal Clayton fireworks cruise on July 3, 2025, a 1000 Islands Canada tour that requires no passport, and a Rock Island Lighthouse excursion aboard the glass-bottom boat Night Heron.
Each trip features knowledgeable, onboard guides who share regional history, including stories about Boldt Castle, Rock Island Lighthouse, Millionaire's Row, and War of 1812 sites. Cruises traverse both U.S. and Canadian waters where applicable, providing close-up views of shoreline homes, historic landmarks, lighthouses, and local wildlife. Licensed bar service is available on select departures for adult guests, and picnic lunches are included on designated trips. Boats operate from Clayton, NY, and offer multiple departure times for special events such as the Independence Day fireworks cruise. Clayton Island Tours focuses on delivering intimate group experiences, accessible sightseeing without a passport on select routes, and interpreted storytelling that connects passengers to the region's maritime and cultural heritage. Safety, local knowledge, and authentic interpretation are emphasized across excursions, making the operator a dependable option for visitors seeking guided exploration of the 1000 Islands. Booking is available online and at the Clayton dock, with seasonal schedules adapted to peak summer demand and accessibility.
Tours Offered
8
Range of sightseeing options
Base Location
Clayton, NY
Launches from Clayton docks
Expert Guides
Onboard guides
Local history & lighthouse stories
Fireworks Cruise
July 3, 2025
Annual Independence Day water display
Secure seats for Boldt Castle tours, glass-bottom Night Heron trips, the no-passport Canada tour, or the July 3 fireworks cruise.
Dress for the weather
Bring layers and sun protection, as boat trips are outdoors and weather can change quickly.
Arrive early
Arriving 15 minutes before departure ensures a smooth boarding process and better seating options.
Bring your camera
The scenic views of islands and landmarks make for fantastic photographs—don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Comfortable footwear
While the boat itself is accessible, wearing comfortable shoes is ideal for walking around the dock or any optional land visits.
Layers of clothing
Bring layers to stay warm and adaptable in changing weather conditions.
spring, fall, winter
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during longer, sunny days on the water.
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Hat and sunglasses
Shield your eyes and face from the sun to stay comfortable during the cruise.
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Camera or smartphone
Capture the scenic vistas and historic landmarks along the route.