Kingston: Heart of the Thousand Islands Riverboat Cruise

Planning a trip to Kingston and intrigued by the idea of seeing the Thousand Islands from the water? This cruise offers a relaxing way to enjoy some of Canada’s most beautiful river scenery, with a dash of history and lively entertainment thrown in. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful afternoon on the water, this tour checks a lot of boxes.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and straightforward it is—no complicated logistics, just a three-hour boat ride filled with views that are often described as unforgettable. Plus, the live music onboard turns an already pleasant cruise into a lively, fun atmosphere. The triple-deck Mississippi River-style paddlewheeler adds a touch of old-fashioned charm that makes the whole trip feel special.

One thing to keep in mind is that the cruise is about three hours long, which is generally perfect for most, but might feel a bit lengthy for families with very young children. It’s a leisurely trip, not a high-speed adventure, so those seeking rapid sightseeing might find it a tad slow. That said, if you’re after a relaxing, scenic experience with friendly guides and stunning views, this cruise is well worth considering.

This experience suits most travelers—families, couples, solo explorers—especially those wanting a mix of sightseeing and entertainment without breaking the bank. It’s also a great way to get a good overview of Kingston’s water-based attractions and the famed Thousand Islands region.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Pass by iconic islands and stunning waterways of the Thousand Islands.
• Entertaining Guides: Enjoy lively commentary and live musical entertainment onboard.
• Historical Highlights: Learn about landmarks like Mandalay Mansion and Kingston’s waterfront.
• Value for Money: At $47 for a 3-hour cruise, it offers solid value, especially given the entertainment and scenery.
• Accessible Experience: Wheelchair-friendly on the first deck, with some limitations on washroom accessibility.
• Food & Drinks: Available for purchase onboard, but not included in the ticket price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Cruise Experience

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Offers

From the moment you arrive at Crawford Wharf, you’ll see the friendly staff ready to help you exchange your voucher for tickets. The boats depart from a convenient location next to the ticket office, with no parking at the dock itself—so planning ahead for parking is wise. Once onboard the triple-deck Island Queen, you’ll feel the charm of its historic paddlewheeler design, reminiscent of Mississippi riverboats, which adds a nostalgic touch to your journey through the Thousand Islands.

The cruise lasts roughly three hours, usually in the afternoon, giving you plenty of time to relax, take photos, and listen to commentary about the area’s history, folklore, and notable sights. The boat has a full-service canteen and bar, so you can buy drinks and snacks as you enjoy the scenery. Note that food and drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, but reviews suggest the onboard options are convenient, though somewhat pricey.

What to Expect on the Route

The route begins in Kingston, a city that itself is worth a quick exploration before or after your cruise. As you cruise out, you’ll pass by the small cottage islands in the Admiralty group, with names like Napoleon’s Hat—each with their own stories and charm. The noted Wanderers Channel and Bateau Channel are scenic water passages that showcase the region’s natural beauty.

A highlight for many is the view of Mandalay Mansion, an opulent estate that reflects the area’s historic affluence. Along the way, the commentary provides context about each sight, blending facts with local folklore. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge, describing them as both engaging and helpful.

The Islands and Homes

You’ll see a variety of island homes—from cozy cottages and vacation retreats to grand mansions. The comments about the scenery are universally positive; many travelers mention the “spectacular views” and “beautiful scenery” as the main draw. For those interested in wildlife, the waters are often buzzing with activity, including sightings of swans, geese, and other waterfowl, as some reviews note.

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Live Entertainment: A Fun Addition

One of the features that many travelers enjoy is the onboard live music, which turns the cruise into a mini party at times. As Leslie from Canada appreciated, “The band turned an already good experience into a great experience and turned it into a super fun time sing-a-long party.” The music adds a lively vibe, especially when requests are taken, as many reviews have observed.

The Value of the Experience

At $47, the cruise offers a good deal considering the length, scenic value, and entertainment. Several reviewers highlighted this as a strong point, with one describing it as “more value than many steamship cruises.” The inclusion of live commentary and entertainment makes it a well-rounded experience, especially for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of the region.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The boat is wheelchair accessible on the first deck via a gangway, though the washroom facilities are only partially accessible. Passengers should be prepared for some stairs if they wish to access the second deck or enjoy the full experience. There are no age restrictions, so families can bring children, but some reviews point out that a lengthy cruise may be less exciting for very young kids.

Weather-wise, dressing appropriately is advised—since the boat is open-air, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are recommended, especially on sunny days. Several travelers mention bringing extra sunscreen and noting that the views are best on clear days.

Potential Drawbacks

While the overall impression is positive, some reviews mention downsides. The boat can get crowded, especially if oversold, making it hard to see some sights or find a comfortable spot. The entertainment, while fun for many, may not appeal to everyone, particularly those seeking a quiet, purely scenic trip. Cost of onboard food and drinks was also noted as high by some travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for adults and families looking for a relaxed, scenic outing with a touch of local culture. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting to get a broad sense of Kingston and the Thousand Islands area. Those who enjoy live music and engaging guides will find it particularly enjoyable. If you’re hoping for a quick, inexpensive overview of the region, this tour offers excellent value.

However, travelers seeking a private, highly customizable experience or visiting with very young children might want to consider alternative options, especially since some reviewers noted that the cruise could be lengthy for small kids.

Final Thoughts

For a straightforward, engaging way to see the Thousand Islands from Kingston, this riverboat cruise delivers charm, scenic beauty, and entertainment at a reasonable price. It combines the magic of a historic paddlewheeler with informative commentary and lively music, making it a memorable part of any Kingston visit.

The cruise’s balance of sightseeing, history, and fun makes it a solid choice for most travelers. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy being on the water, want a leisurely pace, and appreciate friendly guides who bring the area’s stories to life. Just remember to prepare for the weather, bring some sunscreen, and enjoy the stunning views—this trip is about making the most of a beautiful region with minimal fuss.

FAQ

Is this cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, wheelchairs are welcome on the first deck of the Island Queen and can board via the gangway, which is 35 inches (88 cm) wide. However, the washroom facilities are not fully accessible.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, usually scheduled in the afternoon. It includes time for boarding, the scenic ride, and onboard entertainment.

Does the price include food and drinks?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard but are not included in the $47 ticket price. Reviewers mention that prices can be somewhat high.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
You need to exchange your voucher at the ticket office located at 1 Brock Street or 248 Ontario Street (Waterfront Gifts & Apparel). The departure point is the Crawford Wharf dock directly adjacent to the ticket office.

Are there any age restrictions?
No, there are no age restrictions, making it suitable for all ages. Keep in mind that the cruise might be lengthy for small children.

Is there parking available at the dock?
No, there is no parking at the dock, so plan to find parking nearby before picking up your tickets.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended, especially on sunny days. Bring a hat if you want extra sun protection.

This cruise is a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience the beauty and history of the Thousand Islands from Kingston. Whether you’re into sightseeing, live music, or simply relaxing on the water, it offers a memorable outing for a fair price.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby