If you’re dreaming of seeing the stunning 1000 Islands without the hassle of hiking or driving, a cruise from Ivy Lea offers a relaxing window into one of the most picturesque spots along the St. Lawrence River. These cruises are popular for a reason—they combine beautiful scenery, informative commentary, and a leisurely pace. Whether you’re a history buff, photography enthusiast, or just seeking a peaceful way to enjoy the water, this tour offers a solid experience—at a very reasonable price.
What we love most? The close-up views of iconic landmarks like Boldt Castle and Singer Castle, and the fully narrated commentary that enriches the scenery with stories and historical tidbits. The second highlight is the flexibility of options—a 1-hour cruise for a quick taste or a 2-hour tour for a deeper dive into the region’s stories and sights. That said, a common concern among travelers is that the audio commentary can sometimes be quiet or hard to hear, and some wish the boat had more stops or longer passing times at key landmarks.
This cruise is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, informative outing that fits into a day trip. Families, couples, or solo adventurers who enjoy scenic water views and gentle exploration will find this experience worthwhile. Keep in mind, it’s not a lively party cruise—more of a peaceful sightseeing adventure with a touch of local history.
Key Points
- Close-up views of Boldt Castle and Singer Castle provide unique photo opportunities.
- Cruise offers fully narrated descriptions in English and French for a richer understanding.
- Duration options include a 1-hour quick tour or a 2-hour in-depth experience.
- Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, enhancing the relaxing vibe.
- Fully accessible on the first deck, making it easier for travelers with mobility issues.
- It’s a great value at only $29 per person, especially considering the scenery and storytelling.
Exploring the Itinerary and Experience
The adventure begins at the City Cruises Port in Ivy Lea, a convenient location off the 1000 Islands Parkway. It’s an easy drive from Kingston or the US border, with ample free parking. Once aboard, the boat’s casual, friendly atmosphere makes settling in straightforward. The crew is often praised for their courteous and helpful service, setting the tone for a relaxed trip.
What’s Included and What to Expect
For $29, you get a 1- or 2-hour cruise with audio commentary in both English and French. The narration is delivered via speakers, providing insights into the islands, the castles, and the area’s history. Reviewers consistently mention how informative and friendly the guides are, with many quoting how they appreciated learning about Boldt Castle’s fascinating background.
You’ll glide along the water, passing by some of the most recognizable landmarks:
- Boldt Castle: The most famous sight, this grand mansion on Heart Island is a must-see from the water. Many reviews rave about how close the boat gets, offering perfect photo opportunities. One visitor said, “We loved the way the boat approached Boldt Castle, giving us a great view without the crowds.”
- Singer Castle: Visible on the 2-hour tour, this private island castle is equally stunning. While the boat doesn’t stop here, the views are compelling, and the narration helps bring its history to life.
- Zavikon Islands: The tiny twin islands connected by the “world’s smallest international bridge” fascinate many. The boat passes close enough for good photos.
- Statue of St. Lawrence: A distinctive landmark visible during the cruise, adding a touch of local symbolism.
The 1-Hour vs. 2-Hour Cruise
The one-hour cruise is ideal for those short on time or looking for a quick scenic escape. It covers the main highlights—Boldt Castle, Zavikon Islands, and the Statue of St. Lawrence—without feeling rushed. Several travelers appreciated this option, noting, “It was just the right length to see the islands without getting tired.”
The two-hour cruise, which includes a closer view of Boldt and Singer Castles, is perfect if you want a more leisurely pace. Many reviews express that the extended cruise allows for better photography and a deeper appreciation of the region’s beauty. One reviewer shared, “The extra time made a big difference—more time at the castles and less hurried.”
The Comfort and Convenience
The vessels are fully accessible on the first deck, making it suitable for travelers with mobility challenges. The boat features indoor seating and covered areas for those who prefer to stay inside, especially in unpredictable weather. The bar onboard offers a selection of wine, cocktails, beer, and snacks—these are available for purchase, so bringing your own outside food or drinks isn’t allowed. Several reviewers noted the onboard bar as a convenient perk, with some mentioning they enjoyed a drink as they took in the scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience’s Strengths
Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and engaging commentary, which elevate the cruise from merely scenic to educational. The narration covers local history, interesting facts about the islands, and insights into the castles’ stories. One traveler from the UK said, “The guide’s commentary was very clear, and it added a lot to the experience, especially being bilingual in English and French.”
The views are consistently praised as spectacular, with the boat getting close enough to capture stunning photos of the castles and islands. The price point is considered very reasonable for what’s delivered—especially given the quality of the scenery and the information provided.
Potential Drawbacks
While most travelers find the cruise highly satisfying, some common critiques include audio volume issues, with some passengers mentioning that the narration can be hard to hear, especially on windy days or if seated farther from the speakers. A few also wish the boat would stop longer at the castles for better photo opportunities or allow for brief walks ashore, but that’s not part of this experience. Plus, seating on the upper deck can sometimes be uncomfortable if facing inward or twisted to see the views, so choosing seats carefully or moving inside during windy conditions might improve the experience.
Practical Tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak times.
- Bring your own camera or smartphone for photos—close-up views of Boldt Castle are memorable.
- Dress comfortably, especially if you plan to spend time on the top deck.
- Be aware that outside food and drinks are not permitted onboard, but the bar offers good options.
- Consider the timing—cruises are available in the morning, afternoon, and evening, providing flexibility for your schedule.
- If you’re sensitive to sound, sit closer to the speakers or move inside if needed to hear the commentary clearly.
Who Should Consider This Cruise?
This cruise is a perfect choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic experience with a touch of history and beautiful photo ops. Families with children (noted by some as getting a bit bored after an hour) will find it suitable, especially with options to extend the trip. Couples and solo travelers seeking a peaceful break will enjoy the tranquil waters and the storytelling.
It’s especially good if you want to see the main landmarks without the hassle of navigating on your own or booking multiple tours. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the close-up views and ample time at key sites make this a worthwhile outing.
However, if you’re after an extended tour with in-depth exploration or guided walks ashore, you might want to look for other options. Similarly, if you prefer a more lively or interactive experience with stops and walks, this cruise may feel a bit limited.
Final Thoughts
The Ivy Lea 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Scenic Cruise offers a great value for the price. It’s an easy, accessible way to enjoy the stunning scenery along the St. Lawrence River, with knowledgeable narration guiding your view. The close proximity to iconic landmarks makes it especially appealing for photographers and anyone wanting a memorable water-based sightseeing experience.
The combination of beautiful vistas, informative commentary, and affordability makes this cruise a solid choice for most travelers. While it may have a few minor quirks, such as audio volume issues or limited stop times, these are far outweighed by the overall quality of the experience. Whether you’re visiting from near or far, this cruise provides a lovely, relaxing way to enjoy the enchanting 1000 Islands.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is best suited for those seeking a peaceful, scenic water tour that combines views with storytelling. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers interested in a manageable, affordable adventure. It’s especially recommended for anyone who values authentic views of Boldt Castle and other landmarks, and those who enjoy relaxed, informative outings without the pressure of extensive walking or complex arrangements.
FAQ
Is there a time limit for the cruise?
Yes. There are options for either 1-hour or 2-hour cruises, giving flexibility based on your schedule and interest level.
How close does the boat get to the landmarks?
The boat approaches the landmarks closely enough for good photos and viewing—especially Boldt Castle, which many reviews highlight as a highlight.
Are there food and drinks available onboard?
Yes, there is a full-service bar offering wine, cocktails, and beer, as well as snacks for purchase. Outside food and drinks are not allowed.
Is the cruise accessible for people with mobility issues?
Absolutely. All vessels are fully accessible on the first deck, making it easier for travelers with mobility challenges to enjoy the experience.
Do I need a passport?
No passport is required for this cruise, as it stays within U.S. and Canadian waters.
What is the best time of year to go?
While the reviews show trips year-round, many suggest fall offers especially beautiful foliage, but summer provides warm weather and lively scenery.
In summary, if you’re after a reasonably priced, scenic, and informative boat trip that captures the essence of the 1000 Islands, this cruise from Ivy Lea is tough to beat. It caters well to those who appreciate natural beauty, historic sights, and a peaceful water journey.
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