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Beyond Albany

Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise from Albany

Recommended by 95% of travelers
Albany, USA
Popular pick
Booked 10+ times last week!
  • 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Why travelers loved this

4.7
·
· Faye ·
Sep 2025
Just nice informative boat ride. Good way to get out and see the city. Good drinks and service. Staff very good.
· Nancy_F ·
Sep 2025
The cruise was lovely. The staff were friendly and professional. The weather was spectacular which added to the beauty of the scenic route. The narrative was informative and was clearly spoken and understandable. Cocktail was yummy and the food was delicious!

Overview

Cruise the mighty Hudson River aboard the ‘Dutch Apple II’ on this 90-minute Albany, N.Y., sightseeing tour. Listen closely as a Hudson River expert talks about the history of the region and the river, including the evolution of industries. Explore the boat itself, crafted from the popular Hudson River Dayliners of yesteryear, and enjoy the view outside as barges, freighters and tugboats pass by. Bring a camera and/or binoculars to capture the eagles and other wildlife that occupy the region. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.
  • 90-minute cruise from Albany on the Hudson River
  • Learn about the history of Albany and the nearby area from a Hudson River historian
  • Gawk at eagles and other wildlife
  • Enjoy beverages and other refreshments at the cash bar

What's Included

  • Fully narrated 90-minute sightseeing tour
  • Narrated by a Hudson River historian
  • Food & drinks available for purchase (cash & credit accepted)

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

  • 141 Broadway, Albany, NY 12202, USA

    Intersection of Broadway & Quay St. Same free parking lot as the USS Slater Destroyer Escort.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

USS Slater DE-766 (Pass By)

Albany (Pass By)

New York State Capitol (Pass By)

Erastus Corning II Tower (Pass By)

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Stroller accessible
  • Binoculars are recommended for eagle sightings
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Most travelers can participate
  • No outside food or beverages are permitted. Full bar and snack bar available on board. Cash & Credit accepted.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 120 travelers

Cancellation Policy

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Traveler Photos

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Reviews

4.7
based on 523 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

It was a very bright and...

Dennis_S, Oct 2025
It was a very bright and sunny day, slight breeze, and we got to see two bald eagles. All the staff was very pleasant and helpful.

Good time in the Hudson

mwmcmahon, Oct 2025
Excellent cruise! Very informative narration and beautiful scenery. We saw a few eagles at a distance.

Fantastic scenic cruise

Gary_H, Oct 2025
Fantastic crew, beautiful views, would highly recommend. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed this off the beaten path cruise.

Just nice informative...

Faye, Sep 2025
Just nice informative boat ride. Good way to get out and see the city. Good drinks and service. Staff very good.

Hudson River Cruise

Bob_L, Sep 2025
Well planned and well executed river cruise - all employees well mannered plus a delight to deal with. Solid n enjoyable river cruise lasting 1 1/2 hours . 5 Star too !

A Great Ride

David_C, Sep 2025
Well worth our time and money. My wife and I traveled early September, overcast skies, about 66 degrees. Not at all crowded. Most of the narration was about the current buildings and sites on both sides of the river. Interesting facts. Due to the ship’s engine noise it was sometimes hard to make out the narration. I recommend sitting outside, up front, starboard, middle deck., near the only 2 restrooms.

The cruise was lovely....

Nancy_F, Sep 2025
The cruise was lovely. The staff were friendly and professional. The weather was spectacular which added to the beauty of the scenic route. The narrative was informative and was clearly spoken and understandable. Cocktail was yummy and the food was delicious!

The cruise was truly a...

Peter_S, Aug 2025
The cruise was truly a wonderful time. The tour was very informative and enlightening. The service provided by the Dutch Apple Cruise as exceptional. We would highly recommend taking one of the tours.

It was a pleasant ride...

Melinda_S, Aug 2025
It was a pleasant ride but more "industrial" than "pretty." The narrator was very knowledgeable about the area so that made it interesting but it wasn't what I would call a "pretty ride" until near the end when there were some interesting houses to look at. But it was relaxing and they had nice free ice water in a pitcher in addition to a bar and snack stand.

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thank you, Melinda, for taking the time to share your experience with us. We’re so glad you found the cruise relaxing and enjoyed our guide’s narration along with the amenities on board. While parts of the Hudson near Albany do showcase more of its working, industrial character, we’re happy you found the latter portion with the riverfront homes and scenery more to your liking. Your feedback is greatly appreciated, and we hope you’ll join us again to enjoy another perspective of this historic river!

Very informative and...

Adam_D, Aug 2025
Very informative and great atmosphere, Nancy was great with her tour, great weather, smooth ride. Even saw some bald eagles on the ride.

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thank you, Adam, for sharing your experience! We’re so happy to hear you enjoyed the smooth ride, beautiful weather, and of course Nancy’s narration. Spotting bald eagles is always such a treat, and we’re glad you had that special moment on board. We appreciate your kind words and look forward to welcoming you back for another cruise on the Hudson!

great time. Everyone on...

Barbara_C, Aug 2025
great time. Everyone on the boat seemed to be having a good time. Would have like the narration to have been a little louder. Unable to hear a lot due to the crowd.

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thank you, Barbara, for cruising with us and sharing your feedback. We’re delighted to hear you had a great time on board and that the atmosphere was enjoyable for everyone. We appreciate your note about the narration volume - your comments help us improve, and we’ll be sure to take this into consideration so future guests can enjoy the narration more clearly. We hope to welcome you back again soon for another Hudson River experience!

A great activity for my 94-year-old grandfather in a wheelchair

Carol_G, Aug 2025
I stumbled across this river cruise because we were headed to Schenectady and it was nearby. I’m glad I found it as it was a lovely way to spend a couple of hours with my 94-year-old father who is in a wheelchair. I called ahead to make sure that the cruise boat could accommodate a wheelchair and they explained that there is a ramp and it goes to the middle deck. There are bathroom facilities that are handicap accessible on the dock. The bathrooms on the boat are on the bottom floor where there are steps, but that was just fine for us for an hour and a half cruise. The middle deck is a perfect place to watch the beautiful scenery go by and the snack bar is right there with tasty hamburgers and hotdogs and other things. I really appreciated the help of Evan, one of the crew hands, who helped get my father‘s wheelchair up the ramp and then kindly came back when we returned to ask me if I’d like help again. The captain gave a great tour and there were numerous bald eagles to spot on the way. I also knew nothing about Albany, so his tour was a great way to get an overview about the city and its history. Many thanks for this wonderful experience for me and my father. I highly recommend this tour for elderly people who might not get such a great opportunity to be on the water except for a tour boat like this.

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thank you, Carol, for sharing such a heartfelt review. We’re so glad you and your father were able to enjoy a memorable afternoon together on the Hudson. It’s wonderful to hear that the middle deck worked well for his wheelchair and that you both found it a comfortable spot to relax, enjoy the scenery, and grab a snack. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to Evan - he and the rest of our crew take pride in making every guest feel cared for, and it’s great to know he helped make your experience smooth and stress-free. We’re also delighted you enjoyed the narration and the chance to spot bald eagles along the way! Thank you again for your thoughtful recommendation. It means so much to us that we could help create a special experience for you and your father, and we’d love to welcome you back on board anytime.

Albany Hudson River Cruise!

John_G, Aug 2025
Very interesting things to see on the river! Including mother nature with egrets and eagles. Bery good historical narrative during the cruise.

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thank you, John, for joining us on the Hudson and for sharing your experience! We’re so glad you enjoyed the historical narration as well as the wonderful wildlife sightings - egrets and eagles always make the cruise extra special! We appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back aboard for another river adventure soon!

This was a great tour! We...

Therese_S, Jul 2025
This was a great tour! We had a rainy day & it was perfect . Learned lots of history . Saw many bald eagles .

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thank you, Therese! We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed the tour, even on a rainy day. The Hudson always has something special to offer, and spotting bald eagles makes the experience even more memorable. We’re delighted you also enjoyed learning about the history of the area, and we’d love to welcome you back aboard again soon!

Nice family experience

Mary_T, Jul 2025
Its wonderful experience. The tour was good. Loved the breeze and observing bald eagles in flight. The crew were kind and helpful.

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thank you, Mary, for sharing your experience! We’re so glad you and your family enjoyed the cruise, from the refreshing river breeze to the special chance to see bald eagles in flight. It’s wonderful to hear that our crew made you feel welcome - we’ll be sure to pass along your kind words. We hope to see you aboard again soon!

Pleasantly surprised

Charles_R, Jul 2025
Wasn't expecting much when the suggestion arose to take this trip. Although it's not as scenic as other Hudson River boat rides I've been on, it was really informative and historical. The crew was amazingly friendly and helpful. I was very glad to see that they had a very nice crowd on a Tuesday afternoon. Great way to spend a couple of hours on a nice day.

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thank you, Charles, for giving our cruise a try and for sharing your impressions! We’re delighted to hear that the historical narration exceeded your expectations and that our friendly crew helped make the experience enjoyable. It’s also wonderful to know you appreciated the welcoming atmosphere and lively crowd, even on a weekday afternoon. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you aboard again soon!

It was a beautiful boat...

Maureen_D, Jul 2025
It was a beautiful boat ride on the Hudson River. We were fortunate to see 3 bald eagles as they fished the river for food. The staff were all very nice and I would say it is a don’t miss on a trip to Albany.

Response from Host, Aug 2025

Thank you, Maureen, for your wonderful review! We’re so glad you enjoyed the cruise and had the special opportunity to see bald eagles fishing along the Hudson—that’s always a highlight. Our crew will be thrilled to know they helped make your experience a pleasant one. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back aboard the next time you’re in Albany!

Just as Advertised

Ira_B, Jul 2025
We arrived for this river cruise experience exactly 30 minutes prior to departure, and just as advertised they were checking people in to board. The boat took off right on time, and the narration about the history of the Hudson and the impact that it had on the local area immediately started. We learned quite a bit about the nature and wildlife, commerce and other aspects of Hudson River. The ride was fun, safe and I'd highly recommend it to others. There were clean bathrooms, plenty of refreshments offered, friendly staff, and three levels from which to enjoy the experience.

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Thank you so much for cruising with us and for taking the time to share such a detailed, glowing review! ⚓️ We’re thrilled to hear that boarding was smooth, departure was prompt, and our narration helped you discover more about the Hudson’s rich history, nature, and commerce. Knowing you found the ride fun, safe, and worthy of recommending means the world to us. I’ll be sure to pass your compliments along to our crew—they take great pride in keeping the boat spotless, refreshments stocked, and every guest feeling welcome on all three decks. We hope you’ll join us again soon—whether for another sightseeing cruise, one of our themed sunset trips, or an upcoming fall foliage sail. Until then, thank you for choosing us to explore the Hudson River. Safe travels and see you on the water!

Great tour- well...

Joy_K, Jul 2025
Great tour- well narrated, comfortable boat and plenty of refreshments! Perfect afternoon and we learned a lot about the Hudson

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Thank you for sailing with us! We’re delighted you enjoyed the narration, comfort, and refreshments. Hope to welcome you aboard again soon.

A very pleasant and...

Peter_A, Jul 2025
A very pleasant and helpfully narrated tour of Albany's waterfront and a nice green stretch of river south of the city. The Dutch Apple is beautifully kept with both indoors and outside deck area, sun and shaded. There is table service and a knowledgeable guide who spoke about history, structures, and wildlife (several bald eagles) along the route. On a hot day, the wind and movement along the river were refreshing. In general, I got the impression of a very well-run team working this operation. I highly recommend it for an entertaining hour and a half, perhaps followed by a riverside bike ride up river on the Empire Trail (don't park at the boat lot!)

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Thank you for joining us on the Dutch Apple and for the wonderful review! We’re delighted you enjoyed the mix of shaded and sunny decks, refreshing breezes, and our guide’s insights into Albany’s history, architecture, and wildlife—spotting those bald eagles is always a highlight. I’ll share your kind words with our crew; they work hard to keep everything ship-shape and welcoming. Great tip about pairing the cruise with a ride on the Empire State Trail (and the parking reminder!). We hope to see you back on board for another relaxing hour-and-a-half on the Hudson soon.

Outstanding!

Bonnie_H, Jul 2025
Great relaxing day. The crew did an outstanding job. Service was top notch. And the ride was smooth.

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Thank you! We’re so glad you enjoyed the smooth, relaxing ride and top-notch crew service. Hope to welcome you aboard again soon!

Hudson River Port Cruise

Jane_L, Jul 2025
Very scenic and informative. Lovely way to see the active port and share with family from out of state.

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Thank you! We’re glad you enjoyed the scenery and informative narration—and that it was a great way to show off our working port to your out-of-state family. Hope to welcome you all aboard again! ⚓️

Great afternoon activity!

Barbara_T, Jun 2025
It was a beautiful day on the river. Enjoyed the history shared for the 1st half and enjoyed the quiet on the way back.

Awesome Afternoon!

Anthony_G, Jun 2025
Captain Frank and the crew were incredibly kind and knowledgeable. The food was good too. What a great afternoon!

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Thank you for cruising with us! Glad you enjoyed the history on the way out and the peaceful return. Hope to see you aboard again soon! ⚓️

A Must See

Eve_Z, Jun 2025
If you want to learn a bit about the area's history, I would highly recommend this relaxing sightseeing cruise. The weather was perfect, and the staff were incredibly friendly and attentive. It was an all-around great little excursion.

Response from Host, Jul 2025

Thank you! We’re so glad you found the cruise relaxing, informative, and our team friendly and attentive. Delighted it made for a great little excursion—hope to welcome you aboard again! ⚓️

Fun in the Hudson

James_S, Jun 2025
It was an AMAZING experience. Captain Frank and our host, Peter, were just the best. The tour was informative, the boat was super clean, and the snacks and drinks were tasty and affordable. Best of all, the captain let my son sit in the captains seat for a moment! A truly worthwhile experience.

Response from Host, Jun 2025

Thank you so much for the AMAZING review! We’re thrilled you had such a memorable time with Captain Frank and Peter—they’ll be so happy to hear your kind words. It’s great to know you enjoyed the tour, the clean boat, and the refreshments. Happy that your son got to sit in the captain’s seat! 🚢👨‍✈️ Moments like that make lasting memories. We hope to welcome you all aboard again soon!

Great activity even on a rainy day

Troy_W, Jun 2025
The cruise was informative and the perfect activity for a rainy day. The boat was comfortable and we got a good view of the area during the cruise. The crew was very friendly. It was a good choice for our time in Albany.

Response from Host, Jun 2025

Thank you for joining us! We’re glad the rain didn’t stop you from enjoying the cruise and that you found it both comfortable and informative. It’s great to hear our crew made a positive impression. We appreciate you spending part of your time in Albany with us! 🚢

Nice and relaxing

Allerick_W, Apr 2025
Nice river trip, relaxing. Wish more narration was possible for full trip. What narrative provided was informative. Crew friendly.

Response from Host, May 2025

Thanks for the feedback! Our narrator does usually walk about for the second half, when we play music. They are always eager and available to chat if you ever have any more questions for us. Hope to see you cruising with us again sometime!

Beautiful guided tour

Steve_N, Oct 2024
We love the informative historical narrative guided tour! The icing on the cake was the three eagles!

Cruse on the Hudson

Judith_J, Oct 2024
To learn the history of the port of Albany, and what happens around the area now and then. We really enjoyed the cruise,and it was a beautiful day to be on the water with good friends.

From $39.99

per person

-You will not receive a refund if you cancel.

Book ahead!
On average, this is booked 7 days in advance.