How many passengers can the Evening Star hold?

The boat accommodates up to 36 passengers, ensuring a relaxed and intimate experience.

Are food and drinks included in the ticket price?

No, but snacks, soft drinks, beer, and wine are available for purchase onboard.

Is this boat ride suitable for children?

Yes, the cruise is family friendly with seating and restrooms available onboard.

Where is the boarding location for the cruise?

Boarding takes place at Riverfront Green Park, 30 Hudson Ave, Peekskill, NY.

Can I bring outside alcohol on board?

No, outside alcohol is prohibited. Purchases must be made through the onboard concessions.

What happens if it rains?

Cruises operate rain or shine; however, check for any weather advisories on the day of your trip.

Hudson Highlands Boat Cruise with New York Boat Company

Situated along the lower Hudson River in Peekskill, New York, the New York Boat Company offers a captivating one-hour journey aboard the Evening Star, a former US Coast Guard buoy tender repurposed into an intimate 36-passenger tour boat. This brief but scenic cruise delivers a fresh perspective on the Hudson Highlands, a region known for steep ridges, rugged cliffs, and dense forests that define the river valley’s dramatic character.

Passengers aboard the Evening Star glide past noteworthy natural and geological landmarks such as Jones Point, Iona Island, Bear Mountain, and Anthony's Nose. Bear Mountain, part of the Appalachian range, stands as a commanding silhouette against the sky, its rocky outcrops and mixed hardwood forest stretching far above the river's edge. The cruise blends nature observation with a lightly narrated glimpse into the area's rich history, from Native American routes and Revolutionary War sites to 20th-century riverfront industries.

This cruise is an accessible option for families, locals, and visitors who want immersion in the outdoors without dedicating a full day. Its timing perfectly accommodates guests with evening dining plans nearby, making it ideal for those seeking an easy, refreshing escape on the water. Onboard amenities include light snacks, beer, and wine available for purchase under a modest credit card minimum.

The New York Boat Company’s commitment to presenting the Hudson Highlands from the water enhances appreciation for this slice of upstate New York’s natural heritage. For day-trippers or those new to river travel, this shorter cruise provides both impressive vistas and a window into the region’s layered cultural landscape. Located steps from Peekskill’s Riverfront Green Park, this trip offers a rare, winding river perspective on a landmark outdoor destination less than an hour from Manhattan’s urban pulse.

About New York Boat Company

New York Boat Company operates from Peekskill, New York, offering a range of guided cruises on the Hudson River aboard the Evening Star. The Evening Star is a converted U.S. Coast Guard vessel used for public excursions and private charters, providing guests with stable, distinctive, waterfront views of the Hudson Highlands and landmarks such as Bear Mountain and West Point. Trips include history-focused cruises that highlight Revolutionary War sites, sightseeing runs to West Point, sunset sailings, live music evenings, family-friendly picnic brunches, short one-hour rides, and seasonal fall foliage tours. Private charters accommodate up to 34 guests and can be tailored with catering or BYO options, making the vessel suitable for celebrations, corporate events, and group outings.

The company emphasizes interpretive commentary on many trips, helping passengers connect scenic views to local history and geography. Beverage service typically includes wine, craft beer, and cocktails on selected cruises, enhancing the onboard experience. Cruises depart from Peekskill and nearby ports such as Kingston for select departures, including a nostalgic 1930s motor boat fall foliage offering. The fleet’s focus on the Hudson Highlands, accessible shore landmarks, and a historic vessel helps establish credibility and a distinct regional identity. New York Boat Company presents straightforward booking and clear trip descriptions to set expectations for duration, route, and onboard amenities, supporting informed choices by guests seeking scenic, educational, and social river experiences. Schedules vary by season; travelers should consult the company's trip listings for exact times, ticket options, accessibility information, age restrictions, and reservation policies.