Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises

Imagine a journey through a labyrinth of emerald islands, where every bend of the river reveals a breathtaking new view. 1000 Islands Cruises from Kingston offer a unique opportunity to explore one of the most picturesque natural regions that Canada is proud of. Departing from the historic Crawford Wharf, you enter a world where nature and history merge seamlessly across the vast expanse of the majestic St. Lawrence River.

The crown jewel of the fleet is the triple-deck Island Queen, built in a classic style. This vessel has become a true symbol of the warm welcome extended to tourists by the city of Kingston. During the tour, passengers can observe not only a scattering of tiny cottage islands but also significant sites such as the Admiralty Islands group, the mysterious Bateau Channel, and the legendary Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

These cruises are famous for their "food, fun, and entertainment" atmosphere. It’s not just a sightseeing trip, but a full immersion into local folklore and culture. You will see luxurious mansions like "Mandalay" and hear stories of millionaires and adventurers who chose these islands as their sanctuary. It is worth noting that for most routes, a passport is not required, making the excursion easily accessible to all visitors of the city.

To plan your trip and clarify cruise details, you can use the following contact information. The company's office is conveniently located in the city's historic center.

There is certainly no time to be bored during the cruise, as the program is thought out to the smallest detail. The main activity is, of course, seeing the incredible landscapes of the Thousand Islands. You will sail past whimsical rock formations like "Napoleon’s Hat" and see how private villas and historic estates are nestled on tiny patches of land. Live commentary from onboard guides will reveal the secrets of local history and legends of pirates and lovers.

If you have chosen a cruise aboard the Island Queen, prepare for a pleasant relaxation: there is a full dining room and bar where you can order drinks and snacks. A special charm is added to the trip by live music, creating a festive atmosphere right in the middle of the river. The top open deck is the perfect place for those who want to take panoramic photos or simply enjoy the fresh river breeze.

For those craving a deeper dive into history, special tours with stops at grand castles are available. You can personally explore the corridors of Singer Castle or the majestic Boldt Castle. In addition, the company often offers themed evening dinner and show cruises, which are a great way to end a day in Kingston. The vessels are fully equipped for the comfort of all passengers, including those in wheelchairs.

All cruises depart from Crawford Wharf, located at 1 Brock St. It is easy to find in the heart of the city, right next to the scenic Confederation Park. Please note that tickets must be purchased in advance at the office at 248 Ontario St or directly at the seasonal ticket booth on the pier. Keep in mind that there is no parking directly on the wharf, so travelers arriving by car are recommended to leave their vehicles at paid city parking lots downtown and walk to the waterfront.

If you are arriving from further away, the nearest air hub is Norman F. Rogers Airport (YGK), located about 10 kilometers away. From there, it is most convenient to reach the wharf by taxi or public transport. For those who prefer buses, the Kingston Transit city network provides regular service to stops near Ontario St and Brock St.

The departure point coordinates are approximately 44.2307599 N and -76.479728 W. The organizers strongly recommend arriving at the boarding area at least 30 minutes before departure to board comfortably and secure the best viewing spots.

The history of Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises is closely tied to the development of tourism on the St. Lawrence River. It all began in 1976 with the Kingston and the Islands Boat Lines Ltd. A landmark event was the arrival of the Island Queen in 1975—a majestic three-deck Mississippi-style paddle wheeler designed for 300 passengers. Under the leadership of founder Bill Swan, the company grew into a major tourism group that today offers a variety of unique routes.

In 2025, the legendary Island Queen celebrated its 50th anniversary on the water, confirming the company's status as one of the region's oldest and most reliable operators. Over decades of operation, millions of tourists have been able to see the famous "Garden of God"—as this region is sometimes called due to its incredible beauty.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the Thousand Islands region was known as the "Millionaires' Playground." It was during this time that luxurious residences began to appear, such as Singer Castle, built in 1905 for Frederick Bourne, the president of the Singer Manufacturing Company. The historical heritage of these places is closely interwoven with the modern comfort of cruise ships, creating a unique time-travel atmosphere.

The duration of your adventure depends on the chosen route. If you are planning the classic "Heart of the 1000 Islands" sightseeing tour, set aside about 3.5–4 hours in your schedule. This will cover the three-hour cruise itself, as well as the required arrival 30 minutes before departure for boarding.

For those short on time, there are brief sightseeing tours lasting about 1 hour. Meanwhile, history buffs wishing to visit the famous castles (such as Boldt Castle or Singer Castle) should dedicate a full day, as these tours can last 5 hours or more, including stops. In any case, the time will fly by to the sound of music and the splashing of river waves.

The cruises are seasonal and typically operate from April to October. The exact sailing schedule depends directly on weather conditions and the specific month, so visitors are strongly encouraged to check current departure times on the company's official website before their trip.

The customer service office on Ontario St is generally open on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The seasonal ticket office at Brock St pier is open daily from May to October. Remember that boarding ends several minutes before departure, so plan your time in advance.

After your boat tour, don't rush to leave the waterfront. Downtown Kingston is full of historical treasures and cozy spots that are literally just steps away from the pier. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of the "Limestone City" and see its most iconic landmarks.