Sunset Sightseeing Cruise

Come aboard and enjoy a Sunset Sightseeing Cruise aboard the Rip van Winkle II. This 90 minute tour will we cruise past the Rondout and Esopus Lighthouses as you enjoy narration by our captain tour guide.

Other highlights of your Hudson River sightseeing cruise include the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge that connects East Kingston with Rhinebeck, the Esopus Meadows, and the impressive Mt. St. Alphonsus seminary, a castle-like seminary.

Not Included:

• Food and drinks are not included in the ticket price but are available for purchase on board.

Meeting Location:

40 Rondout Landing Kingston, NY

FAQs

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advanced purchase is highly recommended. To maximize the chance of getting the day and time you prefer, be sure to book well in advance.

Are children allowed? What type of ticket do they need?

Yes! This cruise is great for all ages. We offer a reduced price ticket for children 4-11 years old and children 3 and under are free. Please note that due to US Coast Guard regulations, all passengers are required to have a ticket, even a free one, so be sure your entire group is accounted for.

What will we see on the cruise? Where does the boat go?

The boat will cruise south on the Hudson River to about Hyde Park, before doubling back to Kingston. Along the way, we will see Hudson River lighthouses, waterfront mansions, the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge and scenic and historical sights.

Is the cruise narrated?

Yes, the cruise is narrated and throughout the cruise we will point out the historic sites and other highlights as we approach them.

What happens if it rains?

The cruise will run regardless of weather. There is an indoor lower deck and the upper deck is partially covered so you can enjoy the sights in all types of weather!

Is there shade or air-conditioning on the boat?

The Rip Van Winkle II has a lower enclosed deck and the two upper decks are partially covered, providing shade. Please note the lower deck does have heat or air conditioning.

Can I purchase food or beverages on board?

Yes, we have a fully stocked bar including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well as a snack bar that includes light fare. credit cards only please.

Can I bring my own food or beverages on the boat?

No, outside food and beverages are not allowed on board the boat.

Do cruises run year round?

No, our season runs from mid-May through the end of October.

Are there any stops along the way?

We will be viewing all of the beautiful sights from the boat and will not be stopping to get off the boat at any time during the cruise.

Is the boat safe? Is it US Coast Guard certified?

The Rip Van Winkle II is a US Coast Guard certified boat and we follow all USCG regulations, including having enough life jackets for all passengers on board. Please pay attention to the safety announcement at the start of the cruise for details on where the life jackets are located. Please note that you are not required to wear life jackets during the cruise.

How many passengers can the boat hold?

The Rip Van Winkle II is US Coast Guard certified for up to 385 passengers across the three decks.

What type of seating is available?

There is plenty of seating on the boat, both inside as well as on the upper deck. The upper decks consists of mainly bench-style seating and the main lower decks has chairs. Seating is on a first come first serve basis, so be sure to arrive early if you'd like to sit in a particular area of the boat.

Will I get seasick?

Our 90 foot vessel is very stable on the water and the waters we travel are calm, so seasickness is generally not an issue. If you know you are especially prone to seasickness, please take the necessary precautions and consult a doctor.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

We will do our best to accommodate disabled people to the extent that our vessel, dock and tides will allow. The boat has 2 upper decks and a lower deck, and the only way to get between them is by stairs. Though we normally board and disembark from the lower level, there are some days when the tides force us to board the upper level or create a situation where climbing a few steps may be required. However, there is a handicap accessible restroom located on the main deck. Please reach out with further questions on accessibility.

Is tip included in the ticket price?

Tip for the crew is not included in the ticket price. While they are greatly appreciated, gratuities are completely up to guests.

Where should I park at the departure location?

There are two small free parking lots located nearby. One is directly in front of our booth and the other is located across the street. If both lots are full, there is also metered street parking available in the area.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

Yes, there are two bathrooms available on the main lower deck of the boat.

Can I bring personal items on board the boat? How much room is there?

Unfortunately, there is limited storage space available on board and those with luggage or large bags will be required to leave them securely stowed on the dock. Please note, however, that parents with small children can bring strollers on board.

Is smoking allowed on the boat?

No, smoking is not allowed on board.

Can I bring my dog?

Unfortunately, we do not allow pets other than service animals.

Do you offer a group discount?

Yes, we do offer a discount for large groups of 10 or more adults (anyone 12 and over) when they are purchased in advance. If you have a group of 10 or more adults or seniors (anyone 12 and over), Please call us or email [email protected]

Can I booked a private charter?

Yes! Please contact Hudson River Cruises for more details and to schedule your special event.

Policies

Refund/Rescheduling Policy

Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled.
Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.

Weather Policy

Activity takes place rain or shine.
The activity runs regardless of weather conditions. In the rare situation where the seller is forced to cancel the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule to another time (subject to availability).

Other Policies

Everyone is required to have a ticket in order to attend this event.
Due to US Coast Guard regulation, all passengers are required to have a ticket in order to attend the cruise. This includes free tickets for infants and toddlers.