Hudson River Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Hudson River. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise From Albany

• Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise From Kingston

• New York City Sunset or Daytime Sightseeing Cruise

• Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge Jet Ski Tour of New York

• New York City Fall Foliage Brunch Cruise

As you might expect, it costs nothing to stroll along or across the Hudson River or bike the Hudson River Greenway. But many travelers choose to discover the waterway on a Hudson River cruise: Prices start at around US$40, with Jet Ski adventures starting at around US$215, including a wetsuit.

Yes, the Hudson River is worth visiting. Whether soaking up the sunshine in Hudson River Park, cycling the Hudson River Greenway, or heading upriver on a fall foliage cruise, you can take a trip along the Hudson River and learn a lot about American history along the way. Booking a cruise with a guide is a great way to get a unique viewpoint on New York City—or New York state—from the water.

Per one customer who booked the New York City Sunset or Daytime Sightseeing Cruise, "Would highly recommend this experience, especially for couples! The boat itself was incredibly beautiful, and the views were even more beautiful of the city skyline, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge. The boat had a full bar (1 complimentary drink included of your choice, including seasonal cocktails!) and charcuterie to snack on. The tour guides were great in sharing info/facts about the sights, but it did not at all feel like a history lesson."

That depends. The Hudson River extends for some 315 miles (507 kilometers), from the Adirondacks to New York City. Most people access the river from the city—and most urban cruises stay local and last from one to several hours—but boat tours that go beyond city limits last longer.

There are many ways to explore the Hudson River. If you're in New York City, boat tours offer top-notch skyline views, while riverside bike tours present a different perspective. River cruises also depart from upstate locations like Albany and Kingston; time your visit for fall for the best foliage views.

That depends. If you're exploring the section of the river that runs through New York City, most boat tours depart from Chelsea Piers on the west side of Manhattan. Beyond city limits, upstate river tours depart from Hudson River Valley hubs like Albany and Kingston.

Yes, most Hudson River cruises offer restrooms, although it may depend on whether you choose a short boat tour of New York City or a lengthier journey. Many tours are conducted on heritage schooners or spacious yachts, and most have on-board restroom facilities. Some also have bars and other hospitality offerings.

Yes, you'll be able to find a boat cruise no matter the season. Many tours that explore New York's Hudson River offer trips year-round—including special New Year's Eve and New Year's Day excursions. However, some tour providers do limit or cease tour options in the colder months.

That depends on the tour that you choose. Some of the most popular Hudson River boat tours are dinner excursions that include on-board buffets or multi-course meals, so bringing your own food won't work. However, some sightseeing tours do invite guests to bring their own snacks aboard.

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting the Hudson River. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in New York City:

• Statue of Liberty

• Empire State Building

• Ellis Island

• Central Park

• National September 11 Memorial and Museum

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in New York City.