Ready to set sail with Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises? Then you’re in the right place. From relaxed sightseeing cruises along Kingston’s historic waterfront to unforgettable dining experiences in the 1000 Islands, there’s a cruise for every kind of day.
Whether you’re visiting Kingston, Ontario for the first time, planning a family outing, looking for a unique date night, or just hoping to get out on the water, this guide will help you find the cruise that fits your plans best.
Sightseeing Cruises
Looking for a laid-back way to explore Kingston and the 1000 Islands? Sightseeing cruises are a great place to start. Each one offers a different way to experience the water, from quick harbourfront tours to scenic island routes and unique stories from beneath the surface.
- The 1-hour Discovery Cruise is perfect for an introduction to Kingston’s historic waterfront. This sightseeing cruise focuses on the unique sights and heritage of the region, passing close to landmarks like Fort Henry, Cedar Island, Garden Island, the Royal Military College of Canada, and the limestone walls of Kingston Penitentiary. It’s an easy and enjoyable option for families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking to experience Kingston from the water without committing to a longer tour.
- The 3-hour Heart of the Islands Cruise takes you along the St. Lawrence River into the Admiralty Islands. This sightseeing cruise winds through small cottage islands, scenic channels, and well-known sights like Napoleon’s Hat, Wanderer’s Channel, and Mandalay Mansion. It’s a great choice if you want the full island experience and more time to sit back, relax, and take in the views.
- The 1.5-hour Shipwreck Cruise offers a unique perspective on the region’s maritime past. Created in partnership with the Great Lakes Museum, this live-guided experience explores Kingston’s historic waterfront, local scenery, and fascinating shipwreck history through storytelling, artifacts, and exclusive wreck-diving footage. It’s a great option for anyone interested in local history, hidden stories, and the mysteries beneath the surface of the 1000 Islands.
- The 2-hour Sunset Cocktail Cruise is great for those looking for an evening involving fresh air, sunset views, and a drink in hand. This cruise travels along Kingston’s historic waterfront with a live host, curated music, and a full-service bar with beer, wine, cocktails, and zero-proof options available for purchase. Please note that this cruise is for guests 19 and older.
Dining Cruises
The 3-hour dining cruises are our signature experience within the 1000 Islands. With freshly prepared three-course meals, live entertainment, hosted commentary, and beautiful waterfront views, these cruises combine dining, sightseeing, and entertainment all in one.
- The Brunch Cruise is a relaxed way to start the day on the water. Enjoy a three-course plated brunch aboard the Island Queen while sailing through the Admiralty Islands, surrounded by panoramic views, small cottage islands, and grand estates.
- The Lunch Cruise offers a scenic midday escape through the 1000 Islands. This three-hour cruise includes a plated lunch with salad, your choice of entrée, and dessert, along with live music and commentary as you pass through the islands. It’s a great option if you want the beauty of a sightseeing cruise with the added comfort of a meal served right to your table.
- The Sunset Dinner Cruise brings together dinner, entertainment, and the beauty of the 1000 Islands as the day begins to wind down. Dine aboard the glass-topped Island Star and enjoy a three-course dinner while the scenery shifts around you. It’s a memorable choice for date nights, celebrations, visiting guests, or anyone looking to make their evening in Kingston feel a little extra special.
Special Events
Along with sightseeing and dining cruises, Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises also offers Special Events throughout the season. These vary depending on the time of year, but they’re always worth keeping an eye on if you’re looking for something a little more unique.
From guest performances to themed entertainment and seasonal cruise experiences, special events are a fun way to experience Kingston’s waterfront in a different way. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check the Special Events page to see what’s coming up.
Find the Cruise That Fits Your Day
No matter how you choose to cruise, each experience offers its own way to take in the beauty of Kingston and the 1000 Islands. You can keep things simple with a sightseeing cruise, make it a full outing with brunch, lunch, or dinner, or try something different with a shipwreck or sunset cocktail experience.
So pick your cruise, book your ticket, and get ready to see Kingston & the 1000 Islands from the best possible location: the water.
