Gananoque, which became a city in 1890, was given its name by Native Americans as a destination for healing and peace along the riverbanks. Today, this picturesque town is home to just over 5,000 residents and is bursting with historic charm. Visitors and locals enjoy an upscale lifestyle with all the bells and whistles to enjoy the beauty of the 1000 Islands, Boldt Castle, and Zavikon Island. World-famous for its scenic boat tours, historic buildings, theatre, shopping, dining, museums, and accommodations, Gananoque is an excellent choice for taking in historic sites, unbeatable hospitality, and scenic beauty like no other. With various sightseeing cruises, City Cruises offers the best experiences to explore unforgettable sites of Gananoque from the best seats in the house-on the water!
Discover the Charm of Gananoque: City Cruises Takes You Through Historic Sites
If you are considering a visit to the majestic area of Gananoque, there are a few historic sites you must put on your bucket list during your stay. Let’s dive into some of the top sites you can find in the region.
Boldt Castle
Millionaire George C. Boldt, of the world-famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York, set out to build a full-size Rhineland castle on picturesque Heart Island as a gesture of love for his wife Louise. Without sparing any expense, he (along with 300 workers) fashioned a six-story, 120-room castle, complete with tunnels, a powerhouse, Italian gardens, a drawbridge, and a children’s playhouse for his family to spend summers. Sadly, tragedy struck when his wife Louise died suddenly, and he could not bear to complete the structure without her. For 73 years, the stone structure stood empty until the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired the property in 1977. It was decided that the castle would be preserved for the enjoyment of future generations. Today, it is only accessible by water and is the premier home and attraction in the region. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an annual traveler, there is something beautiful and affordable for your entire family nestled among the St. Lawrence Rivers’ 1000 Islands to keep you coming back for more. City Cruises will get you there as you cruise through the Canadian and American span of the 1000 Islands, before your stopover at the majestic castle. Enjoy a narrated tour as you see the area’s most breathtaking scenery. The price of the Boldt Cast Stopover Cruise includes the admission fee for your convenience, allowing you to bypass the ticket booth once you clear U.S. Customs & Border Control. You will need your camera or phone for this trip for those Instagram-worthy shots.
1000 Islands
Picture a perfect day, with an inspiring sunrise or breathtaking sunset. Perhaps it includes storybook castles, craft beverages, pristine waters, or a trip back
in time. There are a thousand things to do and see while in the region, hence the name. Journey to the amazing granite islands and rugged shorelines and learn about the region’s rich Indigenous heritage. Originally known as St. Lawrence Islands National Park, thousands of visitors travel each summer to enjoy boating, fishing, and the natural beauty of the area. Some 10,000 years ago, Aboriginal Peoples came to set up and fish along the river. There are actually over 1,800 islands that make up the area, with the largest being Wolfe Island, which is 27 miles long, and Howe Island which is 9 miles long. Many people call this area home year-round, including some famous residents like Mary See, of candy-dynasty fame. She began creating her chocolate candy recipes while helping her husband run a nearby hotel. She is said to have drawn inspiration from her “sweet” surroundings on the St. Lawrence River as the island served as a backdrop for her first creations.
Enjoy the beauty of 1000 Islands as you embark upon a 3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise departing from Gananoque, a Signature Experience. This tour featuring onboard audio commentary in English and French tells the story of the 1000 Islands region, its history, and the stories of those who have called it home. You will see the famed Boldt Castle and the lavish homes of the rich and famous on “Millionaire’s Row.” Learn about and discover the remarkable feats of engineering required to build the St. Lawrence Seaway, 1000 Islands International Bridge and so much more! The 3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise is the perfect way to explore the scenery that has made the region famous throughout the world.
Millionaire’s Row
Purchased by some of the wealthiest families in the 1800s and 1900s, sail past extravagant properties designed to accommodate the lifestyles of the region’s most sought-after address. Take a peek at how the other half lives as you unwind and relax with City Cruises as your guide. Fairytale castles display a gilded age grandeur that will take your breath away. If you do one thing in the 1000 Islands, be sure to see the lavish island mansions from the sparkling waters. You will not be disappointed.
Sailing Through History: Discover Gananoque and the 1000 Islands with City Cruises
There is no better way to experience the historic beauty of Gananoque than with City Cruises, offering 2 choices for a one-hour adventure. Enjoy a full cash bar and assorted snacks available for purchase on historic sightseeing cruises through Gananoque in comfort and style while sailing along the St. Lawrence River. Sailing from the City Cruises port at Ivy Lea, experience the 1000 Islands and see Boldt Castle, the Statue of St. Lawrence, the 1000 Island International Bridge, and Zavikon Island containing the smallest international bridge in the world. During this 1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Ivy Lea, cruise past the Statue of St. Lawrence while he watches peacefully over the moving vessels and mighty St. Lawrence River. This statue is only visible from the water, standing high above a rock cut. Fairytale castles, historic lighthouses, stately mansions, and endless breathtaking views await you.
Come on board City Cruises 1-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque and join us for a one-hour island cruise taking you closer to the scenery than any other cruise available in the 1000 Islands. Referred to by the Iroquois Nation as the “Garden of the Great Spirit,” the tranquility of the area belies a history of adventures, wars, and rebellions. See fifth and sixth-generation family cottages. Cruise the narrow channels of the Admiralty and Navy group of islands in the most intimate tour the 1000 Islands has to offer. Located approximately three hours from Toronto, two hours from Ottawa, and three hours from Montreal, Gananoque is the Gateway to the 1000 Islands and an unmissable place to visit.
Uncover History in Gananoque with City Cruises
Stunning mansions, historical shipwrecks, emerald, green forests, and million-dollar views surrounded by the reflective waters of the St. Lawrence River are just a few reasons to plan a getaway to Gananoque. You cannot help but be impressed with the beauty of the Thousand Islands with its charming cottages sprinkled around creating a magical beauty on the water. Let City Cruises Gananoque take you on a historical journey, where you can explore the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of the Thousand Islands region as you sail along the St. Lawrence River. You will be captivated as you learn about the fascinating stories and landmarks that highlight the area’s vibrant past and welcoming beauty. We cannot wait to welcome you aboard.