With its small-town charm, rich history and picturesque views, Gananoque and the 1000 Islands, located along the St. Lawrence River in eastern Ontario, is one of North America’s most beautiful and unique travel destinations.
Considered the Canadian Gateway to the Thousand Islands, Gananoque is one of Ontario’s most popular summertime havens for residents both in and out of province — nestled conveniently just a few hours’ drive from 91Ô´´, Niagara and Montreal, only 1.5 hours from Ottawa, and just 30 minutes from Kingston, and 15 minutes from the New York State border crossing.
Amongst the beautiful scenery, charming shops and restaurants, this quaint town of just over 5000 year-round residents is well known for its variety of activities — especially when it comes to the water — and no one does it better than City Cruises Gananoque.
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Previously operating as Gananoque Boat Line, City Cruises Gananoque has serviced the community for over 70 years — since 1951 — making it the oldest and largest cruise company navigating the 1000 Islands. That experience means crews are well-versed in the rich history of the St. Lawrence River island chain and can share lesser-known details about its past, the wildlife and the landmarks that span across the stunning seaway.
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Sailing from ports in Gananoque and nearby Ivy Lea, guests have a variety of cruise options available, each offering different sights and travel times — everything from one-hour sightseeing tours to half day adventures.
With the 5-Hour 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise, for example, you can take your time exploring the magnificent Boldt Castle on Heart Island, an over 100-year-old, six story, 120 room castle that is only accessible by water. You’ll need your passport for this trip — Boldt Castle is an Official Port of Entry into the United States, meaning all passengers are subject to U.S. Customs and Border Control.
That’s not the only border crossing you’ll come across during your time on the St. Lawrence. You can also sail past the 1000 Islands International Bridge system, a series of five bridges that connects southeastern Ontario with northern New York state. Cruisers can also check out Zavikon Island, which is home to the world’s shortest international bridge — a 32-foot structure that links a small Canadian island with an even smaller American island.
Whether on the U.S. or Canadian side, the 1000 Islands are also home to an area known as Millionaire’s Row, which is dotted with majestic estates and dreamy cottage islands, a must see for anyone spending time in Gananoque this spring or summer.
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All City Cruises Gananoque tours are equipped with onboard audio commentary in English and French, so guests won’t miss a thing, and each vessel features a full cash bar with a variety of snack items including nut free, vegan, vegetarian, gluten free and halal options, and alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase.
Kick off staycation season with a visit to Gananoque, one of the most enchanting destinations, not just in Ontario, but in all of 91Ô´´. Book your 1000 Islands cruise at .
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