Whether you want to explore the Thousand Islands peacefully or with the wind whipping your hair back, the six cruise operators in the region should have the ride for you. From a glass top river boat to a classic paddle wheeler to a high-speed catamaran, each of their ships is different. Before you head out, read up on the ships to find the one that’ll make your cruise one to remember. Here are a few that are setting off for the 1000 Islands this summer (stay tuned later in the year for more ship profiles).
Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises
Island Queen
The Island Queen is a 300-passenger paddle wheeler. With interior oak panels and antique tin, this beautifully restored triple-decker will remind you of those classic cruise ships on the Mississippi. Suitable for leisure cruises but perfect for wedding ceremonies and receptions.
Island Belle
Captained by the most engaging skipper on the river, Norm Rennie (aka “Laird of the River”), the 150-passenger Island Belle is a regular site in and around the 1000 Islands. It’s a replica St. Lawrence Steamer with two decks that’s used for Discover Cruises and charters. It can accommodate 60 passengers for a sit down meal or 125 for an evening reception or informal barbecue.
Island Star
The Island Star is one of the most recognized 1000 Islands cruise ships, likely due to its unique translucent glass canopy. Similar to the Bateaux-Mouche style boats popular on the Seine in Paris, this 180-capacity model puts you closer to the water than any other type of cruise ship. A popular option for lunch, dinner and panorama cruises.
1000 Islands and Seaway Cruises
WildCat
If you need some adrenalin with your 1000 Islands, 1000 Islands and Seaway Cruises has you covered with WildCat, its 54-capacity open catamaran that can reach speeds of up to 45 mph (72 km/h). At that pace, you can pack in more sites than any other one- or two-hour cruise on the water and have a lot of fun doing it, especially with a classic rock soundtrack and the captain’s always-enlightening commentary. Rest assured, however, that just because it’s the fastest tour boat in the Thousand Islands, it’s not the fastest boat on the river, so it will be a safe trip. High speed segments of your trip are across open stretches of water. The boat slows at main attractions.
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