
City Cruises Gananoque 1000 Islands
Explore the stunning 1000 Islands from Gananoque with scenic cruises past mansions, bridges, and the iconic Boldt Castle.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

City Cruises Gananoque 1000 Islands
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the stunning 1000 Islands from Gananoque with scenic cruises past mansions, bridges, and the iconic Boldt Castle.
"The views are breathtaking and it was a great way to spend the day. I would do it again."

🎯 Book Online for Ease
Secure your tickets online for a smooth check-in and boarding experience.
🛂 Passport for Boldt Castle
Don't forget your passport if you plan to visit Boldt Castle on the US side!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boldt Castle
Heart Island, USA
Explore the iconic, romantic castle on Heart Island. A must-see for history and architecture buffs.

Millionaire Mansions
Various Islands
Marvel at the opulent homes dotting the islands, showcasing unique architecture and luxurious lifestyles.

Historic Bridges
Connecting Islands
Admire the picturesque bridges that link some of the islands, adding to the scenic beauty of the region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Cruise in Advance
Passport for Boldt Castle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Online for Ease
Secure your tickets online for a smooth check-in and boarding experience.
🛂 Passport for Boldt Castle
Don't forget your passport if you plan to visit Boldt Castle on the US side!
⏳ Allow Extra Time for Boldt
The 2-hour stopover at Boldt Castle can feel rushed; factor in shuttle times.
👂 Listen to the Narration
Enjoy clear and well-paced narration, even for those with hearing impairments.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Online for Ease
Secure your tickets online for a smooth check-in and boarding experience.
🛂 Passport for Boldt Castle
Don't forget your passport if you plan to visit Boldt Castle on the US side!
⏳ Allow Extra Time for Boldt
The 2-hour stopover at Boldt Castle can feel rushed; factor in shuttle times.
👂 Listen to the Narration
Enjoy clear and well-paced narration, even for those with hearing impairments.
🅿️ Convenient Paid Parking
Parking is available in a paid lot directly across from the boarding area.
🍺 Local Brews Available
Enjoy local craft beers, like the 1000 Islands Brewing Company Amber, onboard.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise City Cruises Gananoque for its breathtaking views and well-organized tours, especially the 5-hour trip to Boldt Castle. The friendly staff and clear narration enhance the experience, though some find the Boldt Castle stopover a bit rushed. Overall, it's considered a worthwhile and memorable way to explore the 1000 Islands.
"We had a wonderful tour of the 1000 Islands with City Cruises. We did the 5 hour trip with the stop over at Boldt Castle, and it was so amazing and worth every penny. The boat was on time, the staff were friendly and the views - breathtaking!😍 It was a great way to spend the day. I would do it again."
Ronamae Bradford
"We had a great time on our 5-hour stopover cruise, today happened to be the last trip of the season.
Only feedback is that I wish the stopover period was a bit longer. We had around two hours, but after customs and exploring the main castle, we didn't have enough time to shuttle boat across to the Yacht House (included in ticket). Shuttles left every 30 minutes on either side, meaning you would need an hour for that activity alone.
We were warned to not miss our return sailing, as we would be stuck in the U.S. on an island with no alternative transportation."
Charlotte H.
"We took the 3-hour cruise to the islands. We booked online and the check-in and boarding went smoothly. The boat wasn’t very crowded as we took the first cruise on a weekday.
It was such an exhilarating experience! The sparkling waters and the lush green landscapes left us in awe."
Dew
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
City Cruises Gananoque is located in Gananoque, Ontario, Canada. It's accessible by car, with paid parking available nearby. For those traveling by public transport, it's a stopover point between Ottawa and Toronto, with Kingston being a more common public transport hub for the region.
Yes, there is a paid parking lot conveniently located right across the street from the boarding area, making it easy to access the cruises.
While a car offers the most flexibility, it is possible to visit Gananoque using public transport, though it might require more planning. Many travelers stop here on a road trip between major cities like Ottawa and Toronto.
Gananoque is situated along the Thousand Islands Parkway, offering scenic drives. It's easily accessible from Highway 401, a major route connecting Eastern and Southern Ontario.
Yes, besides Gananoque, you can also take 1000 Islands cruises from Kingston, Ontario.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance to secure your spot and ensure a smooth check-in process. You can then simply show your phone code to the agent upon boarding.
City Cruises Gananoque offers various cruise durations, including 1-hour, 3-hour, and 5-hour options. The 5-hour cruise includes a stopover at Boldt Castle.
A passport is only required if you choose the 5-hour cruise that includes a stopover at Boldt Castle, as it is located on the US side of the border.
Traveling mid-week, especially in September, or opting for early weekday morning cruises can help you avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Information on discounts is not readily available in user-generated content, but booking in advance is always a good strategy. Checking their official website closer to your travel date might provide more details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see stunning natural beauty, numerous islands with unique homes, historic bridges, and the famous Boldt Castle. The narration provides insights into the history and landmarks.
The 3-hour cruise takes you through the heart of the 1000 Islands, offering beautiful views of the islands, homes, and the castle. While enjoyable, some find it a bit long.
Many find the 5-hour cruise with the Boldt Castle stopover to be amazing and worth the cost. However, the 2-hour stopover can feel rushed, especially with customs and shuttle times.
You can get a nice spot on the top deck for amazing shots and views. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a good seat, especially on busier days.
Yes, local brews from the 1000 Islands Brewing Company are available for purchase onboard, adding to the enjoyable experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Morning cruises or late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting. The sparkling waters and lush green landscapes provide stunning photo opportunities throughout the journey.
You can capture panoramic views of the islands, unique waterfront homes, historic bridges, and the majestic Boldt Castle. Getting a spot on the top deck is ideal for unobstructed photos.
The entire cruise route offers picturesque scenery. Focus on capturing the scale of the islands, the architectural details of the mansions, and the grandeur of Boldt Castle.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most travelers. If you're serious about photography, consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for capturing details of Boldt Castle from afar.
Yes, the Boldt Castle stopover provides ample opportunities for photography both of the castle exterior and interior, as well as the surrounding island.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, although local brews are available for adults. The top deck offers great views, but ensure children are supervised closely. If planning for the 5-hour cruise with Boldt Castle, assess your children's stamina and passport requirements carefully, as the stopover can be demanding.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for a weekday morning cruise can sometimes mean fewer crowds and potentially a more relaxed atmosphere. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money on onboard purchases.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic effects on the water and landscape. Be prepared to capture a variety of scenes, from sweeping panoramas to intricate architectural details. The Boldt Castle stopover offers unique opportunities for both exterior and interior shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the 1000 Islands Cruise Experience
When planning your trip, consider the timing of your cruise. Weekday mornings or mid-week in September are often recommended to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Booking tickets online in advance is a smart move to secure your preferred sailing and streamline the boarding process. Remember that for the 5-hour cruise, a valid passport is mandatory to enter the US territory for the Boldt Castle visit.
Onboard, you can expect informative narration that details the history and highlights of the islands, including the opulent mansions and historic bridges. Many visitors appreciate the clarity and pace of the narration, making it accessible for everyone. For those looking to enhance their experience, local brews are available for purchase, adding a touch of local flavor to the scenic journey.
The Allure of Boldt Castle
Visiting Boldt Castle typically involves taking the 5-hour cruise offered by City Cruises Gananoque, which includes a stopover. This allows approximately two hours to explore the castle and its grounds. However, as some travelers note, this timeframe can feel tight, especially when factoring in customs procedures and the shuttle boat service to and from the main dock. It's crucial to be mindful of the return sailing schedule, as missing it would leave you stranded on the island.
Despite the time constraints, the experience of exploring Boldt Castle is widely considered worthwhile. The castle's architecture, the stories behind its construction, and the picturesque island setting offer a unique glimpse into early 20th-century ambition and romance. Photography opportunities abound, both of the castle's exterior and its interior details.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit