Kingston: Lunch Cruise of Thousand Islands

Enjoy a Relaxing 3-Hour Cruise with Lunch in Kingston’s Thousand Islands

The Kingston: Lunch Cruise of Thousand Islands offers a delightful way to explore one of Ontario’s most picturesque regions. Priced at $73 per person and running for 3 hours, this cruise blends scenic sightseeing with a tasty onboard meal. Departing from downtown Kingston, the tour features a full-service onboard dining experience complemented by live entertainment and narrated insights into the islands’ history and folklore. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a leisurely, visually stunning outing with the added bonus of a delicious meal.

While the cruise is generally well-received, potential visitors should note that specialty menu items and beverages are available at an additional cost, and no parking is provided at the dock. However, the wheelchair accessibility makes this an inclusive experience, perfect for a variety of groups looking to enjoy Kingston’s waterfront from a different angle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• 3-hour sightseeing cruise departing from Kingston’s downtown dock
• All-inclusive price of $73 includes lunch, live entertainment, and taxes
• Multiple vessel options: the Island Queen and the Island Star, depending on availability
• Panoramic views from the second deck and indoor comfort with a full glass canopy
• Narrated commentary on the islands’ history, folklore, and prominent sights
• Flexible dining options with vegetarian choices and additional menu items available for purchase

The Departure Point and How to Prepare

The cruise begins at Crawford Wharf dock, located next to the ticket office at 1 Brock Street, Kingston. Travelers must exchange their GetYourGuide voucher for tickets and arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to facilitate check-in. Since parking is not available at the dock, a good tip is to park at the Hanson Memorial Parking Garage at 105 Brock Street. It’s recommended to arrive early to avoid rushing and to ensure timely boarding.

The Scenic Route through the Thousand Islands

This 3-hour cruise navigates through the small cottage islands of the Admiralty Group, with highlights such as Napoleon’s Hat and Wanderer’s Channel. The route also takes in the Bateau Channel, the historic sights of Kingston, and the opulent Mandalay Mansion. Passengers wind their way past the island homes, some of which have notable histories or unique features, offering plenty of photo opportunities and visual interest.

The cruise’s route showcases both spectacular scenery and historic sites, making it ideal for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The passage through Wanderer’s Channel offers a particularly scenic view of the islands’ rugged beauty, while Kingston’s waterfront adds a charming urban backdrop.

Inside the Vessel: The Island Queen and the Island Star

The tour is typically aboard either the Island Queen, a triple-deck paddle-wheeler with a panoramic second deck perfect for outdoor viewing, or the Island Star, which features an air-conditioned cabin with a fully translucent glass canopy. This design ensures 360-degree views wherever you sit, allowing passengers to stay comfortable regardless of weather conditions.

The second deck of the Island Queen provides an open-air promenade, perfect for leisurely strolling between courses or simply soaking in the scenery. Inside, the live entertainment creates a lively atmosphere, with the guide offering descriptions of sights and stories to keep everyone engaged.

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The Onboard Dining Experience

The lunch onboard is a key highlight of this cruise. It includes appetizer, entrée, and dessert, with vegetarian options available and special menu items at an extra charge. The food quality earns high praise, with reviews noting the appealing presentation and delicious flavors.

The dessert options, including upgraded carrot cheesecake, receive particular mention for their quality. The full-service canteen and bar offer beverages for purchase, including alcoholic drinks, which complement the meal. The warm and attentive service ensures a relaxed dining experience, making the meal an integral part of the scenic journey.

Live Entertainment and Narration on the Water

While cruising, passengers enjoy live entertainment that enhances the relaxing atmosphere. The narration provides insights into the islands’ history and folklore, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The guides are praised for their knowledge and personable delivery.

However, some reviews highlight that midway through the cruise, audio clarity can become a challenge on the middle deck, especially for those seated at the back. This minor issue can be mitigated by choosing seats closer to the guide or enjoying the narration from the outdoor decks.

Accessibility and Group Bookings

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, with advance notice required for assistance. This inclusivity makes the experience accessible to a broader audience. Group reservations of 20 or more are available via a dedicated booking link, making it suitable for family outings, corporate groups, or special celebrations.

Considerations and Tips for Visitors

Travelers should note that smoking, vaping, and bringing outside food or drinks are not permitted onboard. Beverages and specialty menu items are available for purchase, and guests are encouraged to inform the staff of any dietary restrictions or allergies at the time of booking. The menu and vessel are subject to change, and specialty items come at an extra cost.

It’s also wise to arrive early to collect tickets and avoid delays, especially since parking is not available at the dock. The overall organization of boarding and service is well-managed, earning praise in reviews.

The Value and Who Will Enjoy This Cruise

For $73, this cruise offers a comprehensive experience that combines scenic beauty, engaging narration, and a quality meal. The 3-hour duration is ample to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed, making it ideal for those wanting a leisurely water-based tour.

This experience best suits families, couples, or groups who appreciate waterfront scenery with a comfortable dining setting. The live entertainment and historical narration add value beyond just sightseeing, providing a well-rounded outing.

Kingston: Lunch Cruise of Thousand Islands – Final Thoughts

This cruise is a solid choice for exploring Kingston’s famous waterway with a delicious onboard meal and breathtaking views. The friendly staff, high-quality food, and panoramic vessel design create a memorable experience, especially for those interested in scenery and local history.

While some minor issues with audio clarity exist and parking requires planning, the overall organization and value make this cruise a worthwhile addition to any Kingston visit. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy scenic cruises combined with good food and live narration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible. Please advise at the time of booking if wheelchair assistance is needed.

What is included in the price?
The $73 ticket includes the 3-hour cruise, appetizer, entrée, and dessert, live entertainment, and local taxes. Beverages and additional menu items are extra.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The cruise departs from Crawford Wharf dock at 1 Brock Street, Kingston. Arrive 30 minutes early to collect tickets and board comfortably.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No, outside food and drinks are not permitted onboard. Beverages are available for purchase, and special dietary requests should be communicated in advance.

What vessel might I ride on?
The cruise may be aboard the Island Queen or the Island Star, depending on availability and capacity. Both vessels feature excellent panoramic views.

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