Kingston: Heart of the Thousand Islands Riverboat Cruise

Planning a day on the water around Kingston? This 3-hour sightseeing cruise offers a delightful way to explore the famed Thousand Islands region from the comfort of a vintage paddlewheeler. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just in need of a relaxing break, this tour promises scenic views, engaging commentary, and lively onboard entertainment—all for a fair price.

What we love about this experience are the stunning vistas of small cottage islands and luxurious homes, and the informative narration that adds depth to the scenery. Plus, the live music onboard really lifts the mood and makes the cruise feel festive. That said, it’s worth noting the boat can get crowded—some reviews mention the oversold nature of the boat and limited top deck seating, so planning ahead is wise.

This tour suits travelers looking for a laid-back, scenic adventure that balances gentle sightseeing with some lively entertainment. If you’re curious about the region’s history, enjoy being on the water, or want to see some of the most iconic islands in the Thousand Islands, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially good for those who appreciate value and are open to a bit of social atmosphere onboard.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery of small cottage islands, historic sights, and luxurious homes
• Live musical entertainment adds to the joyful atmosphere
• Informative narration enhances understanding of the region’s history and folklore
• Good value for a 3-hour cruise with access to amenities
• Accessible for wheelchairs and all age groups
• Limited top deck seating might require early arrival or patience

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Picture of the Kingston Heart of the Thousand Islands Cruise

Setting Sail from Kingston into the Thousand Islands

This cruise departs from Kingston, a city on the shores of Lake Ontario, and takes you into the world-famous Thousand Islands—a region renowned for its hundreds of small, scenic islands along the St. Lawrence River. The boat, a triple-deck Mississippi River style paddlewheeler called Island Queen, sets the tone with its nostalgic, vintage charm, promising a maritime experience that combines history, scenery, and entertainment.

The departure point is straightforward—tickets are exchanged at the ticket office near 1 Brock Street or 248 Ontario Street, with the boats leaving from Crawford Wharf dock, just adjacent to the ticketing. Keep in mind, parking isn’t available at the dock, so plan to arrive early and find parking nearby. The process is simple: exchange your voucher, join the boarding line, and settle into your seat.

What to Expect on the Cruise

Once onboard, the three-hour round trip begins. The route takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the region, passing small cottage islands—perfect for imagining summer retreats or full-time homes. You’ll see the Wanderers Channel, Mandalay Mansion, and other notable spots, all while enjoying live entertainment and commentary.

The narration is generally well-appreciated—reviewers mention “great educational narration” and “interesting facts” about the islands and the area’s history. Expect to learn about the region’s folklore and significant sites as you cruise past the island homes. The cruise also includes access to a full-service canteen and bar, though food and drinks are not included in the ticket price.

Highlights of the Tour

• Scenic views of cottage islands: These small, often private islands are the highlight, offering photo opportunities and a sense of escapism. Travelers have reported seeing geese, mama swans with babies, and admiring the charming vacation cottages.
• Mandalay Mansion and historic sights: The cruise provides a glimpse into the area’s luxurious past and the opulent homes dotting the islands.
• Live music onboard: The musical entertainment, often described as “fantastic,” elevates the experience and encourages singalongs. One reviewer noted that the band turned the cruise “into a super fun time”.
• Informative commentary: While generally praised, a few reviewers felt the narration could be more robust. Still, most found it engaging and informative, adding context to the scenery.

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The Itinerary in Detail

The route is designed to give you an intimate look at the Admiralty group of islands. As you pass the Napoleons Hat island, you’ll get a sense of how the region’s geography influences local lore and history. The cruise also ventures through Wanderers Channel and Bateau Channel, providing a variety of perspectives on the waterways.

One of the most appreciated features is the ability to see island homes and cottages, some of which are quite grand, and the wildlife—geese and swans—which adds to the charm of the environment. Reviewers mention how the views are “beautiful” and “relaxing”, making it a perfect outing for a summer afternoon.

Accessibility and Practical Details

This cruise is designed to be inclusive, with wheelchair accessibility on the first deck via a gangway. The first deck also includes washrooms, although they are not fully accessible and might be too narrow for some wheelchairs. To reach the second deck, which features the dining area, passengers need to climb a flight of about 10 stairs.

Children and all age groups are welcome, with no age restrictions. However, some reviews suggest the cruise might be lengthy for very young children, especially if they tire easily from the boat ride or the sun. The vessel is climate-controlled but bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially if the weather forecast calls for sun or rain.

Food, Drinks, and Onboard Amenities

The cruise includes access to a full-service canteen and bar—perfect for enjoying cold drinks and snacks while soaking up the scenery. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, and prices can be comparable to other tourist attractions. Some passengers appreciate the opportunity to relax with a cold beverage while taking in the views.

Pricing and Value

At $47 per person, this cruise offers reasonable value given the scenic beauty, live entertainment, and informative narration packed into three hours. Many reviews highlight “good value for money”, especially when considering the length of the trip and the amenities included. The fact that it’s not overly commercialized makes it feel more authentic than some larger tourist excursions.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are positive, some mention the crowded nature of the boat, feeling that it can get oversold. This can lead to limited seating on the top deck—so arriving early or being strategic about where you sit can enhance your experience. Others have expressed a desire for more engaging content or longer time around the smaller islands but recognize the cruise’s main focus is scenic sightseeing and relaxed enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This cruise offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, fun entertainment, and educational commentary, making it a popular choice for visitors to Kingston. It showcases the region’s natural charm and the elegance of the Thousand Islands’ historic homes, all aboard a classic paddlewheeler.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic day with some lively music and interesting stories, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate great views, a touch of history, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a laid-back way to enjoy Kingston’s waterways. It offers a great introduction to the region without requiring strenuous activity or extensive travel. Those interested in history, architecture, or wildlife will find plenty to enjoy, while people seeking entertainment and social vibes will appreciate the onboard music.

It’s a good value option for a summer afternoon, but if you’re after a more private or less crowded experience, consider arriving early or checking if there are options for groups or private charters.

FAQ

Is this cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, wheelchairs are welcome on the first deck and can be boarded via a gangway that is 35 inches/88 centimeters wide.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, but they are not included in the ticket price.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts 3 hours, making it a relaxed yet substantial outing.

Where do I pick up my tickets?
Tickets must be exchanged at either 1 Brock Street or 248 Ontario Street at Waterfront Gifts & Apparel Storefront before boarding.

Is there parking available at the dock?
No, parking is not available at Crawford Wharf, so plan to arrive early and find parking nearby.

Are there age restrictions?
No, there are no age restrictions. All ages can enjoy the cruise.

Can I bring large luggage or coolers?
Large bags, luggage, and coolers are not allowed onboard. The cruise is focused on sightseeing and comfort.

What should I wear?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing—think layers, rain gear, or sun protection—depending on the forecast.

In essence, the Kingston Heart of the Thousand Islands Riverboat Cruise offers a charming, scenic, and lively way to explore one of Canada’s most picturesque regions. It’s a solid choice for travelers who value authentic experiences, great views, and a touch of local entertainment—all at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: