In New York State, finding that amazing exotic cruise or boat tour is not exactly the most affordable or accessible at this time, especially given the ongoing pandemic. On the upside, there are many waterways across New York State that might make the locals and tourists happy.
While we still have social distancing, masks, and other safety guidelines, it's good to plan out and research any boat touring company ahead of time.
Some companies may be more compliant and strict with the ongoing laws in the area, and it's always good to make sure that you'll be receiving quality service. See the list below for names and accompanying maps.
Captain Bill’s Cruises
The Seneca Harbor Station is really popular with tourists. It is along the lake in Watkins Glen, where you can dine in the restaurant or have a wedding, but you can take cruises with Captain Bill's. It is family-owned and operated, and you can choose between:
The Stroller IV
The Seneca Legacy
They both offer tours of Seneca Lake.
Dutch Apple Cruises and Tours
This one is quite luxurious and it takes you down the Hudson River. It is a three-deck touring boat. They offer both private and special tours for holidays and special events.
The Canandaigua Lady
This is an Americana-theme vessel that is a replica of a 19th-century steamboat. Unlike the olden days, it comes with air conditioning and heating. You can take a view of the Canandaigua shoreline from the upper and lower decks while you feast on a glorious lunch or dinner.
Lake George Steamboat Company
Sometimes, finding the right steamboat can be incredibly hard. The Lake George Steamboat Company offers many different tour options across three different historical steamboats.
They are:
The Minnie Ha-Ha
The Mohican
Lac du Saint Sacrement
The first is one of the last few paddle-wheel steamboats in the entirety of America. The second one is the oldest operating tour boat in America. Finally, the last one is the largest cruise ship for the New York State inland waters.
It seems that there is something for everyone.
Lake Placid Marina and Boat Tours
If you visit Adirondacks, you can visit Lake Placid Marina and Boat Tours. It is a 1-hour-long pontoon boat ride that takes you down many miles across Lake Placid. you can see the scenic wildlife, see the beautiful homes, and see the bottom of Whiteface Mountain.
Mid-Lakes Navigation
If you wanted to explore one of the Finger Lakes by boat only, this would be a great option. It takes you to the village of Skaneateles and contains three main vessels. They are:
The Judge Ben Wiles
The Stephanie
The Barbara S. Wiles
The first one is for special occasions, which include sightseeing, cocktails, and moonlight dinner cruises. The second one is a smaller boat for private tours. The third one is one of the few remaining American mail boats still in operation.
The Maid of the Mist Boat Tour
In Niagara Falls, you can take the Maid of the Mist. Just make sure to be ready and prepared for the cold wind and water splashing on your face and clothes. Yes, you will get a parka, but you might still get cold. The view is absolutely worth it.
The Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours
If you wanted to learn more about the most iconic waterways of New York, step no further. The Sam Patch takes you down the Erie Canal in a replica 1800s covered packet boat. It's great for students, history buffs, and families, from late May to the end of October.
Spirit of Buffalo
If you have kids and your kids are into pirates and captains and their birthdays are coming up, they may like the Spirit of Buffalo on Lake Erie. From there, they can go on an amazing adventure.
If you're not into that, you can choose to sail and unwind. You might also get craft beer and wine cruises for both day and night. There's a little something for everyone.
Uncle Sam Boat Tours
Uncle Sam Boat Tours is a very popular tourist tour that will take you along the St. Lawrence Seaway, and has an optional stop at Boldt Castle on Heart Island. From there, you can do a self-guided tour.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it: here was a list of places where you can get a boat tour or cruise in New York State. Just make sure to research carefully (and ahead of time), follow the safety and pandemic guidelines of New York, and you should be fine.
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