2-Hour Two Castle 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea

If you’re considering a trip to Ontario and want a relaxed way to see some of its most iconic sights, the Two Castle 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea might just be worth your while. This tour offers a gentle cruise through one of North America’s most picturesque regions—the 1000 Islands—with a focus on two of its most famous landmarks: Boldt Castle and Singer Castle. While it’s not a full-day adventure, it packs enough beauty and history to make it a memorable outing.

What we really like about this cruise is how accessible it is—fairly affordable at around $36 per person—and how it combines scenic vistas with interesting stories from the guide (or audio commentary). Plus, the fact that it departs from the completely renovated Ivy Lea Port makes it feel fresh and welcoming. On the flip side, it’s a popular trip—so expect some crowds—and the boat’s amenities and sound system are sometimes a little on the basic side, as some reviews have noted.

This tour works well for those who enjoy a laid-back sightseeing experience, especially if you’re short on time but want to take in the essence of the 1000 Islands. If you’re interested in castles, beautiful river scenery, and a quick but informative boat ride, then this cruise could be a good fit. However, if you’re hoping for an in-depth exploration or a quieter, more luxurious ride, you might want to look at other options.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just over $36, this cruise offers a good value for a couple of hours of sightseeing.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect to see stunning views of the islands, the Saint Lawrence River, and famous landmarks.
• Educational Audio: The commentary, available in English and French, provides context and stories behind the sights.
• Popular and Crowded: It’s a well-liked tour, so expect it to be busy, especially during peak times.
• Comfort and Amenities: The boat’s facilities are fairly standard; some reviews mention that the sound system could be better.
• Suitable for Most: The tour is generally accessible, with most travelers able to participate, and service animals are allowed.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point at Ivy Lea

The tour begins at the fully renovated Ivy Lea Port, which has a modern, welcoming vibe. The meeting point is straightforward, and the two-hour, 15-minute cruise kicks off at 3:30 pm. From here, you’ll hop onto a boat designed for sightseeing capacity, with a maximum of about 225 travelers.

Scenic Cruise Through the Thousand Islands

The first thing you’ll notice is the sheer number of islands—1864 in total—stretching over 50 miles along the Saint Lawrence River. The views here are quite striking: lush green islands, rocky outcrops, and water that shifts from calm to lively as you cruise along.

Expect to see the Thousand Islands International Bridge, which connects Ontario and New York, spanning the river and offering a great photo opportunity. Not far from the bridge is the impressive 14-foot limestone statue of St. Lawrence, marking the border and adding a touch of local character.

Visiting Zavikon Island and Boldt Castle

One unique feature of this cruise is the visit to Zavikon Island, a tiny but famous pair of islands connected by a bridge. Despite the name, it’s actually two islands—an interesting geographical quirk that many find charming. The tour also includes views of Boldt Castle on Heart Island. Built by George Boldt as a tribute to his wife, the castle’s story of love and loss resonates with many passengers; it’s a photo-worthy spot that really captures the grandeur of the region.

Singer Castle and Dark Island

The cruise also highlights Singer Castle on Dark Island, built in 1905 by Frederick Bourne. It’s the only remaining castle on the St. Lawrence River still standing today, and it’s steeped in stories of wealth and power. While you don’t get to go inside, the exterior views are impressive and give a real sense of the area’s opulence.

What You’ll Hear and See

The audio commentary (in English and French) will fill you in on the history and significance of each stop. Based on reviews, guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, adding warmth and context to the scenic views. Expect to see the castles, the statue of St. Lawrence, and the islands themselves—each with their own stories and quirks.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers the cruise itself, with commentary and scenic views. You’ll also find a full cash bar on board, so you can enjoy a drink while taking in the sights. Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase—bring some cash or a card for easy access.

However, parking fees are not included, so plan accordingly. The meeting point is at Ivy Lea, and depending on where you’re coming from, parking charges could add up.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Great Value for Money: At just over $36, it’s a budget-friendly way to see the islands without sacrificing the scenic beauty.
• Stunning Views and Landmarks: The castles, the bridge, and the islands are incredibly photogenic, making this tour perfect for photographers or anyone who loves picturesque landscapes.
• Informative Commentary: The audio guide in two languages provides interesting tidbits, enhancing the experience without needing a guided group.
• Relaxed Pace: The 2-hour and 15-minute duration feels just right—long enough to see the sights but not so long you get tired.

Cons

• Crowded: As noted in reviews, the popularity means it can get busy, especially in peak season, which might detract from the feeling of intimacy.
• Sound System and Cleanliness: Some guests have mentioned that the boat’s sound system isn’t always loud enough and that the boat could use better maintenance. It’s nothing major but worth noting if you’re sensitive.
• Limited Inside Space: If the weather is bad, indoor seating is available, but it might be crowded, and some guests find the sound quality less than ideal.
• Weather Dependent: Like most outdoor tours, poor weather can lead to cancellations or less enjoyable experiences.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who want an efficient, scenic overview of the 1000 Islands with a touch of history and iconic landmarks. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy beautiful water views and a relaxed atmosphere. Families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a fun, casual outing will find this a good fit, especially if you’re interested in the castles and the story behind them.

If you’re a history buff craving a detailed exploration, or if you prefer a quieter, more luxurious boat experience, you might prefer other options. But for most visitors wanting a straightforward, enjoyable boat ride with photo opportunities, this cruise hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

The Two Castle 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea offers a charming and affordable way to see some of the most recognizable sights of the region. With friendly guides, stunning scenery, and a relaxed vibe, it’s a good option for travelers who want a taste of what the 1000 Islands have to offer without committing to a full-day tour or a more expensive experience.

The cruise’s popularity speaks to its appeal—lots of happy travelers and a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating—but be prepared for crowds and some basic amenities. If you like scenic water trips with a dash of history and plenty of photo ops, you’ll likely enjoy this tour.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate a casual sightseeing experience and aren’t fussed about luxury or exclusivity. Whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned explorer, this cruise offers a lovely slice of the Saint Lawrence River and the stories that make it special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? While children can enjoy the scenic views and castles, the tour is mainly a sightseeing cruise. The experience doesn’t specify any age restrictions, but parents should be aware of the boat’s capacity and that it’s a relatively relaxed, seated experience.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including time for the commentary and sightseeing.

What time does the tour start? The tour departs at 3:30 pm from Ivy Lea.

What is included in the price? The ticket covers the cruise, audio commentary in English and French, and scenic views of key landmarks like Boldt and Singer Castles, along with the statue of St. Lawrence.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, parking fees are not included. There is a full cash bar available, and snacks or drinks can be purchased on board.

How crowded does it get? The tour is quite popular, and some reviews mention it can be crowded, especially during peak times.

Is there indoor seating? Yes, but it may be crowded, and the sound system may not be perfect, so outdoor seating is recommended if the weather allows.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, it’s advisable to book ahead, especially during busy periods, to secure your spot.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In all, the Two Castle 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea offers a warm, straightforward way to enjoy some of Ontario’s most iconic sights. It’s a good pick for anyone wanting a relaxed day on the water, with plenty of photo opportunities and a few stories to take home.