Historic La Duchesse Houseboat Tour | Antique Boat Museum
Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes for the tour plus flexible general admission time
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking involved inside the boat and museum.
Overview
Step aboard La Duchesse, a 1903 houseboat that once hosted a Waldorf-Astoria hotelier’s summer retreat. Discover the luxurious interiors and river lifestyle of a bygone era at the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY.
Tour of La Duchesse + General Admission
Experience a 1903 Houseboat | 30 Minute Guided Walking Tour of La Duchesse | Includes All Day Museum
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the charm of the early 1900s aboard the historic 106' houseboat, La Duchesse. Once a summer residence for a Waldorf-Astoria hotelier, this elegant vessel showcases luxurious interiors and original furnishings. Guided tours reveal captivating stories, making it a memorable journey into the gracious River lifestyle of yesteryear.
La Duchesse Tour & General Admission Package
Admission Rates
Adult: $17 Youth: $11 Child: $3 Senior: $15 Family: $50
Please Note
- The time you are selecting is your tour time for the La Duchesse.
- General Admission is good all day
About the La Duchesse
The 106′ houseboat La Duchesse brings the gracious River lifestyle of one hundred years ago to life. Built in 1903 for hotelier George Boldt, manager of New York City’s famed Waldorf-Astoria hotel, the houseboat has been in continuous use as an elegant summer residence ever since. Generously donated by the McNally family, of Wellesley Island, NY, and Chicago, IL, she opened for visitors at the Museum in July of 2005. Each year, more than 20,000 visitors have enjoyed seeing her luxurious interior and original furnishings while hearing the story of this unique summer home from one of our volunteer docents.
Adventure Tips
Book your tour in advance
Tours of La Duchesse run on a schedule with limited group sizes, so reserve early to secure your preferred time slot.
Wear comfortable shoes
The houseboat tour involves walking through narrow interior spaces; sturdy footwear ensures a confident stroll aboard.
Arrive early for general admission
General admission grants access to multiple exhibits—arriving early maximizes your visit before or after the houseboat tour.
Check weather conditions
Museum grounds are outdoors; dress appropriately, especially in cooler months or if planning additional outdoor exploration.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagles frequent the river and treetops
- Great blue herons can often be spotted along shorelines
History
La Duchesse was built in 1903 for George Boldt, a key figure in shaping luxury hospitality in the early 20th century.
Conservation
The Antique Boat Museum practices sustainable stewardship by preserving historic vessels and educating visitors about the St. Lawrence River ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Watertown, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Navigate the boat’s interior and museum grounds with ease.
Weather-appropriate outerwear
Stay warm and dry during outdoor portions of your visit in cooler months.
spring|fall|winter specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture intricate details of La Duchesse and surrounding exhibits.
Water bottle
Keep hydrated during warmer weather on-site exploration.
summer specific