thousand island ny boat tours

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Daily tours starting April 27th!

Uncle Sam Boat Tours: 1000 Islands Boat Tours in Alexandria Bay NY

Uncle Sam Boat Tours Thousand Islands, New York

Any of our daytime tours offer an optional stop at Boldt Castle at the end of the tour. If you choose to disembark at the castle you can purchase the castle admission at the ticket booth on the island.

Come explore one of America’s greatest vacation getaways, the Thousand Islands, in Alexandria Bay, NY. Here you can find magnificent homes, including historic American Castles and modern mansions, all carefully placed throughout one of nature’s most picturesque settings. Uncle Sam Boat Tours is family-operated and has been navigating these waters since 1926!!!

Contact our office with any questions at 315-482-2611 ext. 131 or [email protected] . 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Tis’ the Season for Gift Certificates!

Give them something more, give them an experience! Explore the St. Lawrence River & 1000 Islands aboard one of our famous cruises. And don’t forget the Castle’s!

About Uncle Sam Boat Tours

Uncle Sam Boat Tours invites you to cruise the St. Lawrence River and explore the famous Thousand Islands. Uncle Sam Boat Tours has been providing guided tours of the Thousand Islands for nearly 100 years from our downtown Alexandria Bay location, directly across from Boldt Castle.

Uncle Sam Boat Tours provides a variety of regularly scheduled 1000 Islands sightseeing cruises as well as luncheon  and  dinner  cruises. We are also the ONLY tour company that allows guests an unlimited visit to Boldt Castle and Heart Island. It’s not just a tour; it’s an unforgettable experience!

The most popular option is the 2 Nation Tour. Departing from the heart of the Thousand Islands, Alexandria Bay, NY. This narrated tour offers you historic and scenic wonders of American and Canadian waters; no passport required! At the end of each trip, there is an optional stop at the world-famous Boldt Castle on Heart Island for an unlimited self-guided tour. Click here for more information about Boldt Castle .

Join us for a wonderful time on the water!

Check out our Instagram feed below!

Unclesamboattours.

Uncle Sam has been providing scenic cruises of the Thousand Islands for over 85 years from its downtown Alexandria Bay, NY, location.

THE 10 BEST Thousand Islands New York Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in thousand islands new york.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Boat Rentals
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Water Sports
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Boldt Castle and the Boldt Yacht House
• Thousand Islands Bridge
• Clayton Island Tours
• Rock Island Lighthouse State Park
• Saint Lawrence River
• Wellesley Island State Park
• 1000 Islands Tower
• Wellesley Island
• Singer Castle
• 1000 Islands & Seaway Cruises
• City Cruises Gananoque
• Thousand Islands
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Ultimate Heart of 1000 Islands Sightseeing Boat Tour

2. Boldt Castle and 2 Nation Tour

3. 3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque with views of Boldt Castle

4. 5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque

5. 1000 Islands Sunset Cruise from Clayton, NY

6. Islands, Lighthouses, and Castle Tour on the St. Lawrence River

7. St Lawrence River - Rock Island Lighthouse on a Glass Bottom Boat Tour

8. Half Day Breakfast Tour in 1000 Islands

9. 1 hour 'Singer Castle Express' Wildcat 1000 Islands Cruise

10. 2 hour 1000 Islands 'Castle Prowler' WildCat Cruise

What travelers are saying.

• 3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque with views of Boldt Castle
• 5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque
• 2 hour 1000 Islands 'Castle Prowler' WildCat Cruise
• Sail Ontario
• Uncle Sam Boat Tours
• Your Wave Tours
• 1000 Islands Water Tours
• Adirondack River Outfitters
• Whitewater Challengers - Black River
• BOB Rafting

"More than just a boat ride...."

• PRIVATE SCENIC TOURS

315-727-1939

1000 Islands Scenic Boat Tours

Alexandria bay, n.y. private boat tours of the beautiful thousand islands.

Private Scenic Boat Tours

Welcome to 1000 Islands Scenic Tours. We provide boat tours of the 1000 Islands boarding from Alexandria Bay, New York. Leisure activities are important while visiting the beautiful 1000 Islands.... and experiencing the river  "ON THE RIVER" is our specialty. Make the most of your free time.  For those who are visiting the 1000 Islands without boat transportation...or are just unfamiliar with navigating the expansive St. Lawrence River, we provide your best option.  

Whether you desire a lengthy scenic tour or a shorter ride around Boldt Castle and the surrounding islands, you'll feel like you're on your own private vessel.  We have no signage or advertisements on our boats.  You will board either our 26' authentic wooden Lyman "APACHE" or a comfortable, easy on/easy off pontoon boat at a convenient Alexandria Bay location.  We will customize your cruise to your personal preferences and carry up to  six passengers of your own party. You're invited to bring your own refreshments and of course your camera and relax while you serenely drift down the river, get close to nature and wildlife, view the island mansions or cruise to your specific destination.  The options are limitless with your own private boat and captain.  Avoid the cruise boat crowds and structured tours.  This is YOUR TIME on the river and it should be SPECIAL.

Contact us to request how we can make your stay at the 1000 Islands most memorable. 

• to read about tours....click on Private Scenic Tours at top of page
• to read about your captain....click on About Us  at top of page
• to contact us....click on Contact US at top of page

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BOAT CRUISES AVAILABLE FROM MAY THRU SEPTEMBER

• [email protected]
• +1 917-207-2181

Small, Private Tours of the Thousand Islands

Custom tours made just for you.

See the many back waters and other lesser-known areas where only shallow-draft boats like ours can visit. Our tours are customized for you .

Wonderful Variety of Wildlife and Bird Species

Mammal species commonly seen include white-tailed deer, woodchucks, raccoons, red squirrels, beavers, otters, and mink.

Go for a snorkel and see if you can spot a bass, northern pike, or the famous muskie. Bird species commonly found in the Thousand Islands:

• Great Blue Heron
• American Black Duck (winters and breeds)
• Common Loon (breeds)
• Least Bittern (possible breeder)
• Osprey (breeds)
• Bald Eagle (winters)
• Northern Harrier (breeds)
• Red-shouldered Hawk (possible breeder)
• American Woodcock (probable breeder)
• Black Tern (historic breeder)
• Whip-poor-will (probable breeder)
• Red-headed Woodpecker (possible breeder)
• Willow Flycatcher (possible breeder)
• Wood Thrush (probable breeder)
• Cerulean Warbler (confirmed breeder, two nests observed on Thousand Islands Land Trust property)
• Vesper Sparrow (possible breeder)

Make Yourselves Comfortable

Based in Alexandria Bay, New York, a bustling tourist town with many nicknames (Alex Bay, A Bay, or just The Bay), 1000 Islands Water Tours has two 6-passenger boats, a 34-foot Parker and a 25-foot center console Olympia, which can can travel distances quickly if needed or just putter slowly to take in the scenery.

The charming village of Clayton, New York, is only 10 miles upstream from Alexandria Bay and is the other main American town of the Thousand Islands.

Book a cruise for your special occasion: birthday, anniversary, proposal, graduation.

Rates for a private tour are $175 per hour.

As an officer in the Royal Marines Commandos for 8 years, Andrew served on various appointments at sea and on land including tours for which he received extensive training in parachuting, Arctic survival, and combat swimming with oxygen rebreathers. He was a member of the British National Parachute team and commanded the world-record-holding Royal Marines Free Fall Team.

What are you waiting for?

See us on facebook.

Find us at the marina at Keewaydin State Park in Alexandria Bay. Park admission is $6.00.

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©2017–2024 1000 Islands Water Tours Website by Lisa Goodlin Design

Uncle Sam Boat Tours

Experience the 1000 islands aboard uncle sam boat tours.

Two Nation Tour

The Uncle Sam Two Nation Tour has long been a favorite of visitors to the Thousand Islands Region. On this scenic tour you will pass by many island mansions owned or visited by some of the most famous names in American history, learning many interesting facts and legends along the way.

For over a hundred years the Thousand Islands area has been a popular vacation retreat for some of the wealthiest and most influential people in North America. You’ll recognize many names, like Kellogg (of breakfast cereal fame), Abraham & Strauss (who married twin sisters and built twin mansions here, and who died together in the sinking of the Titanic), John Jacob Astor, George Pullman (the inventor of the Pullman railroad car), and Ulysses S. Grant, President of the United States, Thomas E. Dewey, Governor of New York, to name just a few.

I have nothing but fond memories of the many times I toured the Thousand Islands on Uncle Sam, dating from childhood to becoming ancient. Don’t leave the 1000 Islands without riding Uncle Sam. Their dinner cruise is especially wonderful.

We come from Lordstown, Ohio almost every year and go the two nation tour. The trip on Uncle Sam Boat Tour is wonderful and we are going to do it again in Oct 2014.

My wife and I visited Alex Bay and really enjoyed the 2 Nation Tour. With the stop at Boldt Castle, we spent 3-4 hours on the river and it was a remarkable day. A really unique experience. Thanks,

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517 Riverside Dr, Clayton NY 13624 315.686.3771 | E-Mail Us

Thousand Islands - Visit Clayton NY in the 1000 Islands Region of NY

Thousand Islands Vacation Planner - Your Online Guide to the 1000 Islands

1000 Islands Excursions

Business description.

1000 Islands Excursions is a family-owned boat tour company that takes pride in delivering one of a kind river experiences to groups of up to six people. Our collection of tours is designed to cater to diverse interests while providing you with lasting vacation memories. We offer a variety of options including land and sea eco-tours, winery excursions, event celebrations, sunset cruises, fishing excursions, and customized outings tailored just for you.

All our tours are provided by Captain Matt who has 30 years of experience navigating and exploring the St. Lawrence River.

Visit our website today to get more information about our Land & Sea Eco-tour, Yacht Rock Sunset Tour, Sangria Sunday Winery Tours, Fishing Charters, and our personalized custom tours.

1000 Islands Private Boat Tours

Founder and captain, Jordan, grew up year-round on one of the islands in the 1000 Islands region. Through his formative years, he developed a deep appreciation for the beauty and unique character of the area. Jordan’s passion for the region led him to creating a unique offering for visitors, providing the opportunity to fully experience all the special parts of the area that he has come to know and love.

At 1000 Islands Private Boat Tours, we believe that the best way to explore the 1000 Islands is by boat, and we offer a variety of tour packages that encapsulate the best of what the area has to offer. Whether you are looking for a quiet day on the water, an adventure-packed island-hopping tour, or a custom tour tailored to your specific interests, we have something for everyone.

As a young captain, Jordan brings a fresh and lively approach to experiencing the area. His enthusiasm for sharing the most captivating and charming parts of the 1000 Islands is evident in every tour that he leads. Beyond the tours, he’s always happy to share personalized recommendations for restaurants, activities, and attractions in the area to help you have the best time during your stay.

At 1000 Islands Private Boat Tours, we are excited to show you everything that the 1000 Islands has to offer. We invite you to come aboard and experience the beauty, charm, and excitement of this unique and captivating region.

Antique Boat Museum

The Antique Boat Museum, “…the largest and most impressive collection of inland recreational boats in the world…” according to Joseph Gribbins of Nautical Quarterly Magazine. When you visit the Museum at 750 Mary Street you’ll discover the largest collection of Antique and Classic boats on display in North America. Stop by the boat shop to see a restoration in progress. While at the Museum take a speedboat ride through the 1000 islands in a triple cockpit runabout. Take up the oars yourself in a St. Lawrence skiff and explore the shoreline of Clayton. Take a tour of George Boldt’s 106′ historic houseboat. The Antique boat Museum hosts a number of activities throughout the summer, including the longest running annual antique boat show and auction in the country. The Museum also offers classes and programs for adults and children. Before you leave make sure you check out the Museum store and pick up a keepsake for your own river memories.

750 Mary Street Clayton NY 13624

Clayton Island Tours

“1000 islands most unique boat tour experience”

From Early May through Late October, Clayton Island Tours offers narrated tours for the general public. Enjoy magnificent views of premier sights with opportunities to view giant Great Lakes freighters, lighthouses, magnificent island homes and the Thousand Islands International Bridge up close. Daily tours to Boldt Castle, Rock Island Lighthouse, Two Nation Tour, and Sunset Cruises available. All tours have many photo opportunities and cruise areas of the St. Lawrence River and many of the Thousand Islands not seen on other cruises.

Our boats are available for private parties, wedding shuttles, sightseeing tours and corporate events.  Catering and Bar options available.

1000 Islands Receptive and Group Tour Planning services available year-round.  Let our local, knowledgeable and professional staff provide you with all the information you will need for that one of a kind experience among the 1000 islands.  Step-on-Guide service also available for your itinerary.

39611 Chateau Lane Clayton NY 13624

Uncle Sam Boat Tours

Uncle Sam Boat Tours has been providing scenic, narrated cruises of the 1000 Islands since 1926 with departures daily from Alexandria Bay May 1st thru October 31st.

You can choose from a variety of tours – a 10 minute shuttle to Boldt Castle, 1 and 2 1/4 hour sightseeing cruises, Luncheon and Dinner Cruises and Singer Castle Tours. We are also the only boat tour company that offers an unlimited stopover at famous Boldt Castle.

Proudly celebrating over 95 years touring the 1000 Islands.

47 James Street Alexandria Bay NY 13607

Last Call! Available until July 17th. Buy Now, Stay Later Bonds: Buy a $100 Hotel Bond and Earn a $50 Credit

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200 Riverside Dr. Clayton NY • (315) 686-1100

Clayton Island Boat Tours

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THE BEST WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE THOUSAND ISLANDS 

Experience the Top-Rated Private Boat Tours in the 1000 Islands Region

The #1   Private Tour Experiences in the 1000 Islands

Take a look below at some of the spots our customers love the most

Our Signature  Tour Packages

Book online, via email, or over the phone, with next day booking available!

The Ultimate Boat Day

A SPLASH OF EVERYTHING

6 Guests Max

Available at: 

The Ultimate 1000 Islands experience, with all the best the river has to offer! Your group will see Boldt Castle, Millionaire's Row, the Lost Channel, Rock Island Lighthouse, and much more! Including extra time to swim or relax, with snorkel gear and water toys provided on the boat.

The Island Explorer

WATER & LAND ADVENTURES

Choose one of four destinations that are only accessible by boat, then cruise over and explore it yourselves! Destinations include: the famous Boldt Castle, beautiful Grindstone Island Winery, historic Rock Island Lighthouse, or the relaxing Picnic Point! Plus, see our favorite river spots along the way!

The Sunset Cruise

GOLDEN HOUR CRUISE

A relaxing cruise through serene waters to finish off your day! Great for groups or couple's date night. Watch the sun disappear over the horizon while putting through Eel Bay, one the best sunset spots on the river.

Meet Your Captain

Hi, I'm Jordan! I'm a U.S. Coast Guard certified Captain.

I've grown up year-round in the 1000 Islands since I was a kid, and I've developed a deep love for the area.

One of my favorite things is sharing it with others, and I love having the opportunity to do that with these tours.

How We Got Started

Growing up in the 1000 Islands, I've discovered so many special parts of the river that visitor's rarely get to see.

From untamed islands to little-known coves and passageways that larger tour boats can't reach. And of course the beloved local landmarks like castles, lighthouses, and historic private estates.

My goal is to help people experience the most special parts of this region through the eyes of a lifelong local.

Customer's Reviews

Joan Canastraro

1000 ISLANDS PRIVATE BOAT TOURS WAS PHENOMENAL!

"Jordan truly wants his guests to enjoy every minute of the tour. He is super cool and very accommodating!

You will not be disappointed! I HIGHLY recommend you give him a call and book a tour."

Hourly Rates for Custom 1000 Island Cruises

We also offer tours by-the-hour! 

Experience the best of the 1000 Islands in one fun boat day! We offer unique tour packages and custom hourly tours as well. Perfect for those looking to explore the beauty of the 1000 Islands at their own pace. Contact us to book your personalized private boat tour!

Tours Resume May 11th for the 2024 Season. Calendars are open, book your tour now!

• #1 Attraction on the River

Boldt Castle and Two Nation Tour

This intimate tour travels over 27 unique miles among many of the 1000 Islands through US and Canadian waters of the St. Lawrence River. We spend 75 minutes at Heart Island for a self guided tour of Boldt Castle and grounds.

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 3.5 hours
• Users Age: All Ages Welcome

This intimate tour travels over 27 unique miles among many of the 1000 Islands through US and Canadian waters of the St. Lawrence River.  We spend 7 5 minutes at Heart Island for a self guided tour of Boldt Castle and grounds. Many photo opportunities as we pass Freighters and Ocean Going Vessels traveling to and from the Great Lakes and ports around the world, millionaires row, private islands, and premier sights as your tour guide shares the history, mystery, legends and lore of the area.  Your boat, captain, and guide will be with you every nautical mile of this most popular tour in the 1000 Islands.

Explore the beauty of the 1000 Islands on our Boldt Castle Tour

Enjoy an intimate boat tour as we travel over 27 unique miles through US and Canadian waters among many of the 1000 Islands along the St. Lawrence River. Our professional local guides share rich history, legends and lore as we get closer to the islands than any other tour. View magnificent million-dollar homes, travel under American and Canadian spans of the 1000 Island Bridge System, and pass Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island.

At Heart Island guests have the option to take a self guided tour of millionaire George Boldt’s Castle, built as a testament of love for his wife Louise, before tragedy struck in 1904. Marvel at life in the “Gilded Age” for the wealthy who built magnificent castles and summer homes on islands as we travel through “Millionaire’s Row” and the St. Lawrence Seaway shipping channel with the possibility of viewing oceangoing vessels that travel from around the world to the Great Lakes of North America. Our small boats provide for a personal experience with our Captain and Crew. Each of our crew members have a unique, never recorded presentation, and a love of sharing the River with guests.

 Exclusions – Admission to Boldt Castle on Heart Island is not included in the price of boat tour tickets.  Adult’s $12.50 and Children (5-12) $9.00 / Tickets may be purchased through our website at the time of purchasing your boat tour tickets, upon check in the day of your tour, upon arrival at Boldt Castle on Heart Island, or at www.boldtcastle.com

2024 Schedule – 

Highlights of this tour include:.

• This tour circumnavigates Wellesley Island, the largest US Island through Canadian Waters in the north and us waters in the south
• Canadian Steamboat Channel
• The Lost Channel
• Tom Thumb Island
• Parks Canada
• Rockport, Ontario
• Canadian Palisades
• Whirlpool Channel
• Tom thumb Island
• Million Dollar Canadian homes
• The Statue of St. Lawrence
• St. Lawrence Seaway shipping channel
• Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island
• Travel under 2 spans of the 1000 Island Bridge System
• Twin Pine Treehouse on Cherry Island
• Millionaire’s Row
• Devil’s Oven
• Hopewell Hall
• Boldt Castle on Heart Island
• and so much more!

Meeting Location

Clayton Island Tours – 39611 Chateau Lane, Clayton, NY 13624

Frequently Asked Questions

• Chevron down Is Boldt Castle Admission Included?

No, Boldt Castle Admission is a separate fee. Adults $12.50 / Children (5-12) $9.00 / Children 4 and under Free –  Admission tickets may be purchased online with your boat tour, are available at our ticket booth upon check in, Upon arrival at Boldt Castle, or online at www.boldtcastle.com

• Chevron down Are there concessions on-board?

We do not have concessions on our boats. We do offer food and beverages from  Kay’s Kitchen  , our onsite concessions.

Picnic Lunches available to pre-order for each tour Breakfast in-season Lunch in-season Catering for group/private charters aboard our boats

You may bring your own food and beverages on-board. No Alcohol.

• Chevron down Do you travel if it is raining?

Yes, our boats are covered and have windows that roll up or down in inclement weather. We do not travel in severe storms or high winds. If the weather prevents us from departing we will let you know as soon as the decision is made.

• Chevron down Are Passports Required?

Passports are not required.

• Chevron down Where do I park?

We have ample free parking. Motorhomes are welcome.

• Chevron down Are pets allowed?

Only Service Animals are allowed. No pets, Comfort Animals or ESA’s are allowed.

• Chevron down Can I smoke on the boat?

Our boats are smoke free.

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• Our Best Selling Tour!
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The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour in the 1000 Islands

Designed for those who wish to see the most attractions in an afternoon from the river!  Tour the 1000 islands on the St. Lawrence River through US and Canadian Waters, visit Boldt Castle on Heart Island and Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island.  Picnic Lunch and all admissions included.

• 2 Hour Boat Tour on the St. Lawrence Seaway
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Islands, Lighthouses, and Castle Tour

Join us for 2 hour narrated tour among many of the islands on the St. Lawrence River, including Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island, Sunken Rock Lighthouse on Bush Island, and Boldt Castle on Heart Island

Private Sightseeing Tour for just your family, friends, or social group!

Take a private sightseeing tour among the 1000 Islands on the St. Lawrence River in comfort, safety, and privacy with your immediate family or social group. We provide the boat, captain, and guide for a “live” narrated sightseeing tour among the islands.

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Gananoque City Cruises

Toll Free Phone: (800) 459-8105

Get ready to set sail and experience the wonder of the  Thousand Islands  aboard  City Cruises Gananoque  with ports in Gananoque and Ivy Lea. Visit the magnificent  Boldt Castle  on Heart Island, discover and learn about the 1000 islands region, its history, and stories of those who have called it home. Or enjoy a cruise at sunset with breathtaking views of majestic estates and small cottage islands.  With many cruise options to choose from, your visit to the Thousand Islands is sure to be an amazing experience! 1-Hour to Half-Day Cruises available including an officially curated 3-Hour Cruise with views of Boldt Castle, a  Canadian Signature Experience .

2023 Boat Cruise Options:

1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea

1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque

3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque

5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise from Gananoque