Scenic Lake Champlain Cruises by Spirit of Ethan Allen - Burlington

Scenic Lake Champlain Cruises by Spirit of Ethan Allen

Burlingtoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels, including families and seniors, with minimal physical exertion required.

Overview

Explore Lake Champlain’s breathtaking beauty aboard the Spirit of Ethan Allen. Enjoy accessible, scenic cruises with dining options and spectacular Adirondack views.

Details

Located in Burlington, Vermont, Spirit of Ethan Allen offers an exceptional cruising experience on Lake Champlain, one of the most storied freshwater lakes in the United States. This private outdoor adventure provides guests with unmatched views of the Adirondack Mountains, gentle lake breezes, and opportunities to unwind on spacious decks while soaking in the stunning natural panorama. The Spirit of Ethan Allen stands out as a unique way to engage with Vermont’s scenic charm, presenting a scenic cruise option that appeals to families, couples, and visitors eager to explore the local waterways in comfort and style.

This vessel is easiest to access with thoughtful considerations for guests with disabilities, including seamless roll-on boarding, handicap-accessible bathrooms, and climate-controlled facilities on the main floor. With a wide range of cruise options such as a buffet dinner cruise or a sunset sail with menu ordering on the open upper deck, visitors can find a personalized experience that matches their preferences. Guests also rave about the onboard hospitality staff, who enhance the journey with friendly service and thoughtful touches like private deck invitations for special occasions.

The lake itself is a centerpiece of this adventure, stretching between Vermont and New York, featuring calm waters dotted with small islands and scenic vistas of the Adirondacks and Green Mountains. The region’s geology showcases ancient glacial formations and fertile landscapes, enriched further by the cultural history of the Champlain Valley and its importance for trade and exploration dating back to the 18th century. Whether you’re interested in a relaxing day cruise or a melodic evening filled with food, drinks, and dancing under the sunset, Spirit of Ethan Allen provides an accessible, memorable way to experience this beautiful part of New England outdoors.

Trail Tips

Wear Layers

Lake breezes can be cool even in summer—bring a light jacket for comfort.

Book Ahead for Dining Cruises

Dinner cruises fill up quickly, so reserve your spot in advance to guarantee seating.

Accessible Boarding Available

Rolling onto the boat is easy and safe, with handicap-accessible bathrooms on board.

Arrive Early for Boarding

Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to ensure smooth check-in and seating.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The small islands dotting the lake accessible by boat for quiet exploration
  • Quiet bays ideal for spotting local bird species and enjoying solitude

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles
  • Great blue herons

History

Lake Champlain was a strategic waterway in early American history, pivotal during the Revolutionary War and well-known for its glacial origins.

Conservation

Spirit of Ethan Allen emphasizes sustainable boating practices to help preserve the lake’s delicate ecosystem and minimize environmental impact.

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
sunset
late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Upper deck facing Adirondack Mountains
  • Main deck by the bow for lake vistas
  • Private upper deck for sunset shots

What to Photograph

Lake Champlain scenery
sunset skies
distant mountain silhouettes

Recommended Gear

Light Jacket

Essential

Keeps you warm from cool lake breezes especially in spring and evenings.

spring specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin from strong UV rays while on the open deck.

summer specific

Camera or Smartphone

Essential

Capture stunning lake and mountain views, particularly around sunset.

Comfortable Shoes

Essential

Easy walking and standing on the boat’s decks and boarding ramps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Reviews