If you’re planning a trip to Upstate New York and want to add a splash of water-based adventure, a cruise through the Thousand Islands near Clayton offers a pretty compelling option. This particular tour, offered by Clayton Island Tours, takes you on a roughly two-hour journey without the hassle of passports—departing from the US side but cruising into Canadian waters. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on reviews, tour details, and what travelers seem to love (and dislike), I can give you an honest, well-rounded picture of what to expect.
What really catches the eye about this experience are two things: the up-close views of the islands and the small group size. With no more than 15 travelers, it’s a more intimate way to see the sights without feeling lost in a crowd. Plus, the narration from a naturalist guide promises some interesting tidbits about the region’s history and legends—something that can really enrich your trip.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that this specific tour doesn’t include stops at famous sites like Boldt Castle or Millionaires Row, which might be a letdown if those iconic sights are what you’re after. Still, if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic cruise with a chance to learn about the area, this could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a more personal experience and want to explore the natural beauty of the Thousand Islands without the rush or crowds.
Key Points
- No passports needed: You cruise into Canadian waters but stay on the US side during the tour.
- Small group size: Max 15 travelers, making the experience more personal.
- Affordable price: At $28 per person, it offers a budget-friendly way to see the islands.
- Focus on natural scenery: Highlights include Grindstone Island, Eel Bay, and the Canadian Admiralty Islands.
- Educational narration: Learn about local legends, island history, and natural features from your guide.
- Limited sightseeing scope: It doesn’t pass by renowned mansions or castles, which might matter if those are your main interests.
The Experience Breakdown
Starting Point and Departure
The tour kicks off at 39611 Chateau Lane, Clayton, NY, a fairly straightforward spot. It’s good to arrive about 30 minutes early to pick up your boarding pass from the blue ticket booth, especially since the tour departs promptly at 11:00 am. The boat itself isn’t huge—keeping the group to a maximum of 50 travelers—so you’ll probably find yourself with enough space to settle in comfortably, especially with only around 15 people often participating.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The cruise is an intimate ride around the islands near Clayton, with your guide providing narration about the region’s natural features and legends. The tour doesn’t include stops; instead, it’s a scenic ride with multiple viewpoints along the way.
Highlights include:
– Cruising the Gananoque, Ontario waterfront—a nice way to get a feel for both sides of the border.
– Viewing Grindstone Island from different angles—a familiar sight for many, with the promise of seeing it from one side and again on the return trip.
– Passing by Eel Bay and the Canadian Admiralty Islands—these are notable for their natural beauty and strategic location in the river.
You’ll get close enough to many of the islands to truly appreciate their size and landscape, which is perfect if you’re a fan of the natural scenery. However, as one reviewer pointed out, the tour mainly sticks near Grindstone Island and doesn’t venture into the more glamorous areas like Millionaires Row or Boldt Castle, which might feel a bit underwhelming if those are your benchmarks for the region.
Onboard Amenities and Guides
The boat features a restroom—an underrated perk for a cruise of this length—and the guide is a naturalist, meaning you’ll hear stories and facts woven into the ride. Based on reviews, the narration is engaging, making the experience not just a sightseeing trip but an educational one as well.
Cost and Value
Priced at $28 per person, this tour is quite affordable. For that price, you’re getting a scenic cruise, interesting commentary, and an experience away from the crowds. Compare this to other tours that might include stops or visits to specific attractions; this one emphasizes the scenic journey and natural beauty.
Potential Downsides
Not everyone may find this tour fulfilling if their main goal is to see the iconic mansions or castles—this particular cruise keeps it close to natural islands and doesn’t include those sights. One reviewer humorously noted, “We saw Grindstone Island from one side and Grindstone Island on the way back,” implying it’s more about the landscape than the grand estates.
Plus, a recent review mentioned a cancellation fiasco where the boat was canceled due to a missed confirmation, which highlights the importance of confirming your reservation well in advance. Make sure to arrive early, as delays could be frustrating if the tour is full or canceled unexpectedly.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you enjoy relaxed, scenic boat rides with an educational twist and prefer a small group experience, this one is a good choice. It’s well-suited for those who want a quick getaway into nature without the need to visit specific landmarks. It also works for travelers who may have limited time but still want to get a good overview of the islands from the water.
Final Thoughts
This cruise offers a nice, affordable way to explore a beautiful part of the St. Lawrence River, especially if you’re after stunning views and a quiet, personal experience. It’s a good fit for those who appreciate natural scenery more than celebrity mansions or castles, and the small group size makes it a comfortable, less touristy outing.
Price-wise, the tour delivers solid value—just keep in mind it’s a scenic ride rather than a sightseeing extravaganza. The narration from the guide is a bonus, giving you some context for what you’re seeing, whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff.
If you’re visiting Clayton and want a peaceful way to enjoy the water, this cruise could be just what you need. However, if you’re craving a more elaborate or landmark-focused experience, you might want to explore other options that include stops at Boldt Castle or Millionaires Row.
1000 Islands Canada (No passports required, Departing from the US
“We did not have an experience. The cruise vendor never received our confirmation or name. The boat for the cruise was canceled. Relatives from N. C…”
FAQ
Do I need a passport for this tour?
No, you don’t need a passport. The cruise stays in US waters but goes into Canadian territory, so it’s accessible without crossing borders officially.
What is the group size?
The tour typically has no more than 15 travelers, which makes for a more personal experience.
How long is the tour?
It lasts around 2 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat ride, narration by a naturalist guide, and access to the restroom onboard.
Are picnic lunches available?
Yes, you can pre-order a picnic lunch for $12.00 for adults and $8.00 for children—call ahead to arrange.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is this a good tour for families?
While the tour is suitable for most travelers, it’s not specifically geared toward children. It’s more about the scenery and education than interactive activities for kids.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted onboard.
What are the main sights I’ll see?
Expect views of Grindstone Island, Eel Bay, the Canadian Admiralty Islands, and the Clayton and Gananoque waterfronts.
In all, this little cruise is a straightforward, budget-friendly option for those wanting to soak in the natural beauty of the Thousand Islands with a personal touch. It’s perfect if you’re after a relaxing, scenic boat ride rather than a tour packed with grand mansions—sometimes the quiet, natural views are just what you need.
