2-Hour Two Castle 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea

If you’re looking for an easy, affordable way to see some of the most iconic sights in Ontario’s 1000 Islands, this 2-hour cruise might just be your ticket. Promoted as an opportunity to glimpse Boldt Castle and Singer Castle—two of the most photogenic and historically intriguing landmarks—this tour promises scenic views, insightful commentary, and a relaxed pace. While it’s not a day-long expedition or a private charter, it hits many of the right notes for a memorable half-day outing.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is its value for money—coming in at just over $36 per person—and how it packs in so much visual and educational content into a short trip. The fact that it departs from the fully renovated Ivy Lea Port, a prominent gateway into the islands, adds a touch of modern comfort and convenience. Another highlight? The audio commentary in both English and French helps make the tour accessible and engaging for a broad audience.

One potential consideration is the crowd density. Reviews mention that the boat can get quite busy, which might affect your comfort or viewing experience if you prefer quiet or private outings. Plus, some travelers noted issues with the ticketing process—which might seem a bit cumbersome—so you’ll want to arrive a little early to ensure a smooth boarding.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic, laid-back boat rides with a touch of history and iconic sights. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple looking for a “must-see” experience that doesn’t break the bank, this cruise offers a balanced mix of beauty, history, and value.

Beautiful scenery and views of Boldt and Singer Castles are the highlights.
Informative commentary helps bring the islands’ stories to life.
Affordable price makes it accessible for most travelers.
Departure from Ivy Lea offers modern facilities and convenience.
Crowd levels could be high, affecting the overall experience.
Weather dependence is a factor—good weather is necessary for the best views.

The Setting: The Enchanting 1000 Islands Archipelago

The 1000 Islands are more than just a romantic name; they comprise 1864 islands stretching over 50 miles along the Saint Lawrence River. This archipelago forms a natural border between Canada and the US, offering a diverse landscape of tiny rocky outcroppings and lush green patches. It’s a unique setting for a sightseeing cruise, providing ample photo opportunities and a sense of peaceful seclusion even during peak times.

The tour begins at Ivy Lea, a well-maintained port that has recently undergone renovations, ensuring travelers step onto a comfortable, modern vessel. The boat itself can accommodate up to 225 travelers, which explains the crowding some reviews mention. Still, the large capacity allows many to enjoy the views simultaneously.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: The Thousand Islands

The cruise kicks off with sweeping views of this archipelago’s islands, with the backdrop of the St. Lawrence River. Think of it as a moving gallery of different-sized islands—some tiny rocks, others sizable enough for a house or two. The scenic views are the first highlight, with the boat gliding past lush greenery, rocky coastlines, and a handful of notable landmarks.

The Iconic Bridges and Statues

One of the early sights is the Thousand Islands International Bridge, an impressive international crossing connecting Ontario to northern New York. As you cruise underneath, you’ll appreciate its engineering and the way it frames the landscape.

Nearby, a white limestone statue of St. Lawrence stands about 5 meters tall, located just east of the bridge on the Canadian side. It’s a striking landmark that adds to the picturesque scenery and offers a bit of cultural context.

Zavikon Island: The Famous “Shared” Island

A quick mention goes to Zavikon Island, often called the “world’s smallest border crossing” because it’s actually two connected islands, straddling the US-Canada border. You’ll see it from the boat, and it’s a fun photo stop—highlighting how the islands playfully blur national boundaries.

Boldt Castle: The Main Event

The highlight for many is Boldt Castle—a five-acre mansion on Heart Island, built by George Boldt as a tribute to his wife, Louise. Its fairy-tale appearance and majestic architecture have made it one of the most recognizable symbols of the region. You’ll see the castle from the water, with its turrets and lush grounds providing a perfect picture backdrop.

Reviewers mention that this stop offers “great views” and that the cruise effectively highlights the castle’s story—George Boldt’s heartbreak and his dreams of a grand estate that was left unfinished in 1904 after Louise’s death. Although you can’t get off the boat to explore, the panoramic views are enough to leave a lasting impression.

Singer Castle: The Mysterious Fortress

On Dark Island, across the water from Boldt Castle, lies Singer Castle—constructed in 1905 by Frederick Bourne of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. It’s less famous but equally captivating, often called the “Castle of the Isles” because of its medieval-style towers and secretive air. From the boat, you’ll see its well-preserved, castle-like structure, and the guide’s commentary will probably share some tales of its history and legends.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The scenic beauty of the islands combined with the storytelling makes this cruise engaging. The audio commentary in both English and French helps travelers understand what they are seeing, adding context to the sights. Many reviews praise the guides for being knowledgeable and offering interesting tidbits about the islands’ history and architecture.

The views of the castles—Boldt and Singer—are the main attractions. While you won’t step onto these grounds, the boat’s vantage point offers an excellent overview, especially for first-time visitors. It’s a quick way to see these landmarks without the commitment of a longer, more expensive tour.

Value for money is another key benefit. At around $36, it’s an affordable outing that combines sightseeing, a light educational element, and some relaxation. The full cash bar and snack options add to the comfort, making it easy to enjoy a drink or a quick snack while taking in the scenery.

The Practicalities: Timing and Comfort

The cruise departs at 3:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore the region beforehand. The duration of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes strikes a balance—long enough to see the main sights without fatigue. The group size can be up to 225 travelers, so the boat can feel lively, especially during peak times.

Some reviews mention crowding issues and sound quality concerns—for instance, the loudspeakers might not always be loud enough, and arriving early can help secure a good spot. Bringing a warm jacket or windbreaker is advisable, as the outside decks can get windy and chilly even in warmer months.

Parking is not included, so travelers should budget for parking fees near the port. The booking process involves a mobile ticket, which simplifies check-in, but some reviewers found the ticketing system a bit cumbersome.

Authentic Feedback: What Travelers Say

One reviewer captured the essence of the experience: “This cruise gives a great view of part of the Thousand Islands highlighted by views of the 2 famous castles. Although very crowded it is a very relaxing tour.” This sums up the experience well—beautiful scenery, iconic landmarks, and a laid-back cruise atmosphere.

However, not all reviews are perfect. Concerns about boat cleanliness and maintenance have been voiced, reminding potential travelers to keep their expectations in check. Still, these issues seem to be relatively minor compared to the overall enjoyment.

This cruise appeals primarily to those who want an accessible, affordable introduction to the 1000 Islands and its castles. It’s well-suited for families, couples, and first-time visitors eager for scenic beauty and a touch of history without committing to a full-day or private tour. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate guided commentary to enrich their sightseeing.

If you’re someone who values good value and stunning views in a relaxed setting, this cruise checks both boxes. But if you prefer more intimate, less crowded experiences, or want to explore the castles in detail, you might consider other options.

This Two Castle 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea offers a straightforward, scenic, and educational glimpse into one of Ontario’s most picturesque regions. The views of Boldt and Singer Castles, combined with the informative narration, create a memorable snapshot of the area. The price point makes it appealing, especially for those who want a taste of the islands without a lengthy commitment.

While crowding and some logistical inconveniences exist, they are offset by the overall quality of the scenery and storytelling. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for a relaxed, picturesque, and reasonably priced outing that highlights the essence of the 1000 Islands.

What is included in the tour fee?
The ticket covers the 2-hour 15-minute cruise, with audio commentary in English and French, scenic views of Boldt and Singer Castles, and the cruise from Ivy Lea.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you will need to pay for parking, and snacks or drinks are available for purchase on board. A full cash bar is also available during the cruise.

What time does the cruise start?
The cruise departs at 3:30 pm from Ivy Lea’s port.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in scenic views and light educational commentary.

Can I buy tickets in advance?
Yes, tickets are purchased via a mobile ticket, making check-in straightforward.

Is there a maximum number of travelers?
Yes, the tour can host up to 225 travelers, which can make it feel lively and bustling.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior to the start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What should I bring?
Bring a warm jacket or windbreaker for when you’re outside, and arrive early to choose a comfortable spot, especially if you prefer indoor seating.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of the 1000 Islands—focusing on sure-fire sights, good storytelling, and excellent value. It’s an easy, scenic way to experience the romance and history of this unique region.