The Ultimate Heart of 1000 Islands Sightseeing Boat Tour
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
THIS TOUR DEPARTS FROM THE UNITED STATES
2 Nation Lunch Cruise with stops at Boldt Castle and Rock Island Lighthouse. Join us for the ultimate sightseeing tour on the St. Lawrence River. Designed for those who wish to take in the beauty of the 1000 islands Region and experience the the most attractions from the river in an afternoon. This tour includes lunch, combines our Boldt Castle Tour stopping at Heart Island for a tour of Millionaire George Boldt's Rhineland style castle, a cruise through Millionaires Row viewing magnificent summer homes of the rich and famous of the gilded age, and a stop at Rock Island Lighthouse to visit the "Keepers Cottage" Museum & Gift Shop and climb to the top of lighthouse to enjoy the spectacular view of the St. Lawrence Seaway. NO Passports required!
Available options
11:30AM Departure
Admission to Boldt Castle : Admission to Rock Island<br/>Picnic Lunch<br/>60 Minute Stop at Rock Island: 75 Minute Stop at Boldt Castle on Heart Island
What's included
Picnic Lunch is included in this tour. Lunches are prepared for each reservation. Contact Clayton Island Tours to confirm lunch choices
Sightseeing boat cruise
Admission to Rock Island Lighthouse
Admission to Boldt Castle
Opportunity to walk along TWO of the 1000 Islands
Restroom on board
Local naturalist guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Tour Departs from 39611 Chateau Lane, Clayton NY
2
We weave among the islands through Canadian and US Waters - No Passports Required
3
This tour circumnavigates Wellesley Island, New York, the largest U.S. Island in the 1000 Islands Region. We travel north of Wellesley Island through Canadian Waters to Boldt Castle, No Passports Required
4
Cruise through millionaires row to view the large "cottages" built by the wealthy during the "Guilded Age"
5
Cruise the St. Lawrence River Seaway Shipping Channel to view "Lakers" or "Saltys" (Ocean Going Ships) traveling to/from the Great Lakes and/or ports around the world
6
This tour travels under two spans of the Thousand Islands Bridge System. One in Canada and one in the US
7
Stop 7
Boldt Castle on Heart Island is located near Alexandria Bay, NY in the famed 1000 Islands Region. Whether you are making an annual visit to see what’s new, looking for an affordable family vacation close to home or a couple seeking that romantic getaway, Boldt Castle and the Boldt Yacht House has something for you! In fact, the Castles’ legendary beauty nestled among the St Lawrence Rivers’ 1000 Islands will keep you returning year after year!
The Thousand Islands Bridge Authority (TIBA) welcomes you to tour Boldt Castle to explore and experience an attraction like no other. Construction began on Boldt Castle in 1900 at the bidding of millionaire hotel magnate George C. Boldt as a tribute to his beloved wife Louise. Boldt Castle was designed as their summer dream home. A castle rivaling those of Europe, built on the St. Lawrence River, in the heart of the 1000 Islands. However it was not to be, Mrs. Boldt passed away suddenly just months before the completion of the castle. Mr. Boldt was inconsolable and immediately stopped all construction on Heart Island, leaving the property vacant for over seventy years…
The Thousand Islands Bridge Authority (TIBA), who owns and operates Boldt Castle and the Boldt Yacht House, invite you to explore our website. Here you can glimpse what awaits you at Heart Island. A chance to experience the Boldt’s tragic love story and the magnificence of a bygone era…
8
Stop at Rock Island Lighthouse State Park where visitors can climb to the top of the Lighthouse, walk the island, and visit the keepers cottage which is a museum and gift shop.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
244 reviews
5★
222
4★
20
3★
2
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1★
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Tripadvisor
4.9
290 reviews
5★
266
4★
21
3★
2
2★
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1★
1
Important information
Service animals allowed
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchair accessible
No passport required
Please arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to allow for parking and ticket redemption. Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure.
This Tour Departs from and returns to Clayton, New York, United States
Important notes
Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure to allow time for parking and ticket redemption. Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure.
ALL GUESTS MUST CHECK IN AT OUR TICKET BOOTH FOR TICKET REDEMPTION ON THE DATE OF YOUR TOUR, AT LEAST 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE TIME.
Picnic Lunch - Includes wrap or sandwich, side salad, chips, dessert, and drink. Please contact us at least 24 hours prior to departure to arrange a lunch of your choice. Call 315-686-4820
About Clayton
Clayton, nestled in the Thousand Islands region of New York, is a charming lakeside village known for its stunning waterfront views, historic architecture, and rich maritime heritage. It's a gateway to the Thousand Islands, offering a mix of outdoor adventures and quaint small-town charm.
Top Attractions
Thousand Islands Boat Museum
This museum showcases the maritime history of the Thousand Islands with a collection of historic boats and artifacts.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate
Antique Boat Show
An annual event featuring vintage and antique boats, drawing enthusiasts from around the world.
Event
Weekend event
Free to attend, fees for some activities
Thousand Islands Winery
A local winery offering tastings and tours of their vineyards and wine-making facilities.
Winery
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Walleye
A local favorite, often fried or baked, made from fresh-caught walleye.
Main Course
Gluten-free options available.
Thousand Islands Dressing
A creamy, tangy dressing made with local ingredients, perfect for salads and seafood.
Condiment
Contains dairy.
Popular Activities
Boating
Fishing
Hiking
Picnicking
Wine tasting
Beach lounging
Museum visits
Historical tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, numerous outdoor activities, and festivals. The Thousand Islands are at their most beautiful, and the village is lively with visitors.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Clayton is a safe and welcoming destination with low crime rates. Standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
- • Be cautious when swimming or boating, as currents can be strong.
- • Follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities.
Getting there
By air
- Watertown International Airport • 25 miles (40 km)
By bus
Clayton Bus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
Buses run sporadically and mainly connect to nearby towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Limited app-based services
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Clayton
Waterfront
Day trips
Alexandria Bay
10 miles (16 km) • Half day
A charming town with a rich history, known for its beaches, shopping, and the nearby Boldt Castle.
Watertown
25 miles (40 km) • Full day
A larger city with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Festivals
Antique Boat Show • Early September
Thousand Islands Seaway Festival • Late June to Early July
Pro tips
- Visit the Thousand Islands Boat Museum for a deep dive into the region's maritime history.
- Take a boat tour to fully appreciate the beauty of the Thousand Islands.
- Try local specialties like walleye and Thousand Islands dressing.
- Explore the charming downtown area with its antique shops and boutiques.
- Check the calendar for local festivals and events to enhance your visit.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
