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Small, Private Tours of the Thousand Islands

Custom tours made just for you.

See the many back waters and other lesser-known areas where only shallow-draft boats like ours can visit. Our tours are customized for you .

Wonderful Variety of Wildlife and Bird Species

Mammal species commonly seen include white-tailed deer, woodchucks, raccoons, red squirrels, beavers, otters, and mink.

Go for a snorkel and see if you can spot a bass, northern pike, or the famous muskie. Bird species commonly found in the Thousand Islands:

• Great Blue Heron
• American Black Duck (winters and breeds)
• Common Loon (breeds)
• Least Bittern (possible breeder)
• Osprey (breeds)
• Bald Eagle (winters)
• Northern Harrier (breeds)
• Red-shouldered Hawk (possible breeder)
• American Woodcock (probable breeder)
• Black Tern (historic breeder)
• Whip-poor-will (probable breeder)
• Red-headed Woodpecker (possible breeder)
• Willow Flycatcher (possible breeder)
• Wood Thrush (probable breeder)
• Cerulean Warbler (confirmed breeder, two nests observed on Thousand Islands Land Trust property)
• Vesper Sparrow (possible breeder)

Make Yourselves Comfortable

Based in Alexandria Bay, New York, a bustling tourist town with many nicknames (Alex Bay, A Bay, or just The Bay), 1000 Islands Water Tours has two 6-passenger boats, a 34-foot Parker and a 25-foot center console Olympia, which can can travel distances quickly if needed or just putter slowly to take in the scenery.

The charming village of Clayton, New York, is only 10 miles upstream from Alexandria Bay and is the other main American town of the Thousand Islands.

Book a cruise for your special occasion: birthday, anniversary, proposal, graduation.

Rates for a private tour are $175 per hour.

As an officer in the Royal Marines Commandos for 8 years, Andrew served on various appointments at sea and on land including tours for which he received extensive training in parachuting, Arctic survival, and combat swimming with oxygen rebreathers. He was a member of the British National Parachute team and commanded the world-record-holding Royal Marines Free Fall Team.

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Find us at the marina at Keewaydin State Park in Alexandria Bay. Park admission is $6.00.

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Uncle Sam Boat Tours

Experience the 1000 islands aboard uncle sam boat tours.

Two Nation Tour

The Uncle Sam Two Nation Tour has long been a favorite of visitors to the Thousand Islands Region. On this scenic tour you will pass by many island mansions owned or visited by some of the most famous names in American history, learning many interesting facts and legends along the way.

For over a hundred years the Thousand Islands area has been a popular vacation retreat for some of the wealthiest and most influential people in North America. You’ll recognize many names, like Kellogg (of breakfast cereal fame), Abraham & Strauss (who married twin sisters and built twin mansions here, and who died together in the sinking of the Titanic), John Jacob Astor, George Pullman (the inventor of the Pullman railroad car), and Ulysses S. Grant, President of the United States, Thomas E. Dewey, Governor of New York, to name just a few.

I have nothing but fond memories of the many times I toured the Thousand Islands on Uncle Sam, dating from childhood to becoming ancient. Don’t leave the 1000 Islands without riding Uncle Sam. Their dinner cruise is especially wonderful.

We come from Lordstown, Ohio almost every year and go the two nation tour. The trip on Uncle Sam Boat Tour is wonderful and we are going to do it again in Oct 2014.

My wife and I visited Alex Bay and really enjoyed the 2 Nation Tour. With the stop at Boldt Castle, we spent 3-4 hours on the river and it was a remarkable day. A really unique experience. Thanks,

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THE BEST WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE THOUSAND ISLANDS 

Experience the Top-Rated Private Boat Tours in the 1000 Islands Region

The #1   Private Tour Experiences in the 1000 Islands

Take a look below at some of the spots our customers love the most

Our Signature  Tour Packages

Book online, via email, or over the phone, with next day booking available!

The Ultimate Boat Day

A SPLASH OF EVERYTHING

6 Guests Max

Available at: 

The Ultimate 1000 Islands experience, with all the best the river has to offer! Experience Boldt Castle, Millionaire's Row, the Lost Channel, Rock Island Lighthouse, and much more all from the water! Including extra time to swim or relax, with snorkel gear and water toys provided on the boat.

The Island Explorer

WATER & ISLAND ADVENTURES

Choose one of four destinations that are only accessible by boat, then cruise over and explore it yourselves! Destinations include: the famous Boldt Castle, beautiful Grindstone Island Winery, historic Rock Island Lighthouse, or the relaxing Picnic Point! Plus, see our favorite river spots along the way!

The Sunset Cruise

GOLDEN HOUR CRUISE

A relaxing cruise through serene waters to finish off your day! Great for groups or couple's date night. Watch the sun disappear over the horizon while putting through Eel Bay, one the best sunset spots on the river.

Meet Your Captain

Hi, I'm Jordan! I'm a U.S. Coast Guard certified Captain.

I've grown up year-round in the 1000 Islands since I was a kid, and I've developed a deep love for the area.

One of my favorite things is sharing it with others, and I love having the opportunity to do that with these tours.

How We Got Started

Growing up in the 1000 Islands, I've discovered so many special parts of the river that visitor's rarely get to see.

From untamed islands to little-known coves and passageways that larger tour boats can't reach. And of course the beloved local landmarks like castles, lighthouses, and historic private estates.

My goal is to help people experience the most special parts of this region through the eyes of a lifelong local.

Customer's Reviews

Joan Canastraro

1000 ISLANDS PRIVATE BOAT TOURS WAS PHENOMENAL!

"Jordan truly wants his guests to enjoy every minute of the tour. He is super cool and very accommodating!

You will not be disappointed! I HIGHLY recommend you give him a call and book a tour."

Hourly Rates for Custom 1000 Island Cruises

We offer tours by-the-hour! 

Experience the best of the 1000 Islands in one fun boat day! We offer unique tour packages and custom hourly tours upon request. Perfect for those looking to explore the Thousand Islands in whatever way suits them. Contact us to book your personalized private boat tour!

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517 Riverside Dr, Clayton NY 13624 315.686.3771 | E-Mail Us

Thousand Islands - Visit Clayton NY in the 1000 Islands Region of NY

Thousand Islands Vacation Planner - Your Online Guide to the 1000 Islands

1000 Islands Excursions

Business description.

Welcome to 1000 Islands Excursions, a family-owned boat tour company dedicated to delivering unforgettable river experiences for groups of up to six people. We pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of private tours that cater to your unique interests to include:

• Island Winery Excursion • Family-Friendly Fishing Charters • Yacht Rock Sunset Cruises • Guided (two island) Land and Sea Eco-Tours • Customized Outings Tailored to your interests and your day

Tours can be mixed and matched, (think wine tour and sunset cruise). Many fun options can be added, such as a trip to Rock Island Lighthouse, star gazing, a trip to Boldt Castle, Morning Island Mountain Biking, Dinner & a Show, or an island picnic.

All tours are led by Captain Matt, who brings over 30 years of expertise in navigating the St. Lawrence River. As an Environmental Science teacher, a holder of a 50-ton Captain’s license, a NYS Certified Hiking and Fishing guide, and a PADI Certified Diver, Captain Matt ensures a safe, informative, and enjoyable experience for all.

No matter which tour you choose, our mission is to help you create lasting memories with your family and friends while vacationing in the 1000 Islands.

Visit our website for detailed information about our tour options. For custom tour itinerary suggestions, general inquiries, or personalized water pick-up arrangements, please call or text us at 607-592-6226.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

1000 Islands Private Boat Tours

Founder and captain, Jordan, grew up year-round on one of the islands in the 1000 Islands region. Through his formative years, he developed a deep appreciation for the beauty and unique character of the area. Jordan’s passion for the region led him to creating a unique offering for visitors, providing the opportunity to fully experience all the special parts of the area that he has come to know and love.

At 1000 Islands Private Boat Tours, we believe that the best way to explore the 1000 Islands is by boat, and we offer a variety of tour packages that encapsulate the best of what the area has to offer. Whether you are looking for a quiet day on the water, an adventure-packed island-hopping tour, or a custom tour tailored to your specific interests, we have something for everyone.

As a young captain, Jordan brings a fresh and lively approach to experiencing the area. His enthusiasm for sharing the most captivating and charming parts of the 1000 Islands is evident in every tour that he leads. Beyond the tours, he’s always happy to share personalized recommendations for restaurants, activities, and attractions in the area to help you have the best time during your stay.

At 1000 Islands Private Boat Tours, we are excited to show you everything that the 1000 Islands has to offer. We invite you to come aboard and experience the beauty, charm, and excitement of this unique and captivating region.

Antique Boat Museum

The Antique Boat Museum, “…the largest and most impressive collection of inland recreational boats in the world…” according to Joseph Gribbins of Nautical Quarterly Magazine. When you visit the Museum at 750 Mary Street you’ll discover the largest collection of Antique and Classic boats on display in North America. Stop by the boat shop to see a restoration in progress. While at the Museum take a speedboat ride through the 1000 islands in a triple cockpit runabout. Take up the oars yourself in a St. Lawrence skiff and explore the shoreline of Clayton. Take a tour of George Boldt’s 106′ historic houseboat. The Antique boat Museum hosts a number of activities throughout the summer, including the longest running annual antique boat show and auction in the country. The Museum also offers classes and programs for adults and children. Before you leave make sure you check out the Museum store and pick up a keepsake for your own river memories.

750 Mary Street Clayton NY 13624

Clayton Island Tours

“1000 islands most unique boat tour experience”

From Early May through Late October, Clayton Island Tours offers narrated tours for the general public. Enjoy magnificent views of premier sights with opportunities to view giant Great Lakes freighters, lighthouses, magnificent island homes and the Thousand Islands International Bridge up close. Daily tours to Boldt Castle, Rock Island Lighthouse, Two Nation Tour, and Sunset Cruises available. All tours have many photo opportunities and cruise areas of the St. Lawrence River and many of the Thousand Islands not seen on other cruises.

Our boats are available for private parties, wedding shuttles, sightseeing tours and corporate events.  Catering and Bar options available.

1000 Islands Receptive and Group Tour Planning services available year-round.  Let our local, knowledgeable and professional staff provide you with all the information you will need for that one of a kind experience among the 1000 islands.  Step-on-Guide service also available for your itinerary.

39611 Chateau Lane Clayton NY 13624

Uncle Sam Boat Tours

Uncle Sam Boat Tours has been providing scenic, narrated cruises of the 1000 Islands since 1926 with departures daily from Alexandria Bay May 1st thru October 31st.

You can choose from a variety of tours – a 10 minute shuttle to Boldt Castle, 1 and 2 1/4 hour sightseeing cruises, Luncheon and Dinner Cruises and Singer Castle Tours. We are also the only boat tour company that offers an unlimited stopover at famous Boldt Castle.

Proudly celebrating over 95 years touring the 1000 Islands.

47 James Street Alexandria Bay NY 13607

The River Less Traveled

One OF A KIND BOAT TOURS on the st. lawrence river

3 Hours Land and Sea Tour with Stops on Both Grindstone and Wellesley Island

Fishing Charters

1/2 Day Fishing Charters For Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye And Perch

Sunset Cruise

1.5 Hour Sunset Cruise

Custom Tours and Special Events

Tailor a Boat Tour to Your Interests

Pair a boat tour with a stop at the Grindstone Island Winery, accessible only by boat

Meet Your Captain

Why 1000 Islands Excursions?

We are a family-owned small boat tour business that is fully insured. Our Captain, Captain Matt, is a 50-ton United States Coast Guard Master. Matt has been navigating the river for over 30 years, bringing this expertise to every tour.

Our tours will offer a unique river experience, as Captain Matt is not only a licensed NYS Hiking Guide and Fishing guide but is also PADI Advanced Scuba Certified. Matt has spent countless hours exploring life on and in the St. Lawrence River, giving him a unique perspective to draw from.

 With over 25 years of experience teaching Environmental Science and Biology, he brings a wealth of knowledge to our boat tours ensuring they are both engaging and fun.

When not in the classroom or on the river, Matt spends his free time fishing , hiking in the Adirondacks, playing guitar, refinishing wooden boats, and making people laugh.

Welcome Aboard

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Alexandria Bay, NY

Located in the heart of the beautiful 1000 islands.

There are many exciting ways to tour the beautiful 1000 Islands from Alexandria Bay . For a bird’s eye view, climb aboard a helicopter or hot air balloon. The many boat tours originating from the waterfront are a great way to get a close-up view of the islands and their sites, including the famous Boldt Castle and Millionaire’s Row. Take a lunch or dinner cruise on a Mississippi-style paddle wheel boat, a narrated excursion on a triple-decker, or hop a shuttle over to the castle.

The young and young at heart can indulge in mini-golf, batting cages, go-karts, arcades and a hedgerow maze. See exotic animals and underwater species at two unique permanent exhibits. Water activities include boating, guided fishing charters, and swimming. From Alexandria Bay, there is easy access to a municipal golf course and tennis courts and eight state parks. The courses of Wellesley Island are not far from “The Bay.”Dock at The Bay and spend the day!

Alexandria Bay’s events schedule is always jam-packed. Families and friends are transformed into buccaneers and scalawags during Bill Johnston’s Pirate Days. And everyone always enjoys the Annual Powerboat Poker Run, Blues in the Bay Festival, Fourth of July Fireworks over Boldt Castle, Fish Day in the Bay and Roaring ’20s Weekend.

The young and young at heart can indulge in mini-golf, batting cages, go-karts, arcades and a hedgerow maze. See exotic animals and underwater species at two unique permanent exhibits. Water activities include boating, guided fishing charters, and swimming. From Alexandria Bay, there is easy access to a municipal golf course and tennis courts and eight state parks. The courses of Wellesley Island are not far from “The Bay.” Dock at The Bay and spend the day!

Boldt Castle & Boldt Yacht House

Millionaire George C. Boldt — proprietor of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City — set out to build a full-sized Rhineland-style castle on Heart Island for his beloved wife, Louise. Construction began in 1900 on a six-story, 120-room castle, complete with a drawbridge and Italian gardens. Then in 1904, tragedy struck.

Boldt telegrammed the island and commanded the workers to “stop all construction.” His wife had died unexpectedly. Boldt never returned to the island. The castle remained vacant for 73 years. Since 1977, millions of dollars have been invested in the restoration of the Heart Island structures and the Yacht House on Wellesley Island.

Boat tours from both the USA and Canada stop at Heart Island and extensive docking is available for private watercraft. A shuttle runs from Heart Island to the Boldt Yacht House.

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Daily tours starting April 27th!

Uncle Sam Boat Tours: 1000 Islands Boat Tours in Alexandria Bay NY

For more information about the entire Thousand Islands region click here to visit the Thousand Islands International Tourism Council’s website.

Accommodations

Online Reservations

Home – Capt’s Inn and Suites

"More than just a boat ride...."

• PRIVATE SCENIC TOURS

1000 Islands Scenic Boat Tours

Alexandria bay, n.y. private boat tours of the beautiful thousand islands, meet your captain.

Most likely your captain will be Ed Peters who holds multiple Merchant Mariner Credentials authorized by the United States Coast Guard including Master Captain of Motor Vessels upon Coastal and Inland Waters.  Captain Ed is American Red Cross Adult First Aid/CPR/AED certified.  In addition to his maritime credentials, Captain Ed is also a FAA certified aviation pilot and your safety is his foremost priority.  While the magnificent St. Lawrence River is one of the most scenic waterways in the world, it is also part of the St. Lawrence Seaway shipping lane that extends over 2000 miles from Duluth, Minnesota to the Atlantic Ocean north of Nova Scotia.  While on your cruise, it is very possible we will encounter enormous freighters from all parts of the world.  It is an experience like no other!  Expect a safe and carefree ride while abiding by maritime rules and regulations as Captain Ed (or another experienced and certified U.S.C.G. river captain) will safely guide you up close to these impressive ships, navigate among the many islands and casually meander among the beautiful sights of the 1000 Islands.  Your captain at all times will be available to address your questions and comments. 

Alexandria Bay boat tours. 1000 Islands boat tours. Thousand Island boat tours.

1000 Islands water tours.  St. Lawrence River boat tours.  Abay boat tours

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1000 Islands Scenic tours -  

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BOAT CRUISES AVAILABLE FROM MAY THRU SEPTEMBER

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• #1 Attraction on the River

Boldt Castle and Two Nation Tour

This intimate tour travels over 27 unique miles among many of the 1000 Islands through US and Canadian waters of the St. Lawrence River. We spend 75 minutes at Heart Island for a self guided tour of Boldt Castle and grounds.

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 3.5 hours
• Users Age: All Ages Welcome

This intimate tour travels over 27 unique miles among many of the 1000 Islands through US and Canadian waters of the St. Lawrence River.  We spend 7 5 minutes at Heart Island for a self guided tour of Boldt Castle and grounds. Many photo opportunities as we pass Freighters and Ocean Going Vessels traveling to and from the Great Lakes and ports around the world, millionaires row, private islands, and premier sights as your tour guide shares the history, mystery, legends and lore of the area.  Your boat, captain, and guide will be with you every nautical mile of this most popular tour in the 1000 Islands.

Explore the beauty of the 1000 Islands on our Boldt Castle Tour

Enjoy an intimate boat tour as we travel over 27 unique miles through US and Canadian waters among many of the 1000 Islands along the St. Lawrence River. Our professional local guides share rich history, legends and lore as we get closer to the islands than any other tour. View magnificent million-dollar homes, travel under American and Canadian spans of the 1000 Island Bridge System, and pass Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island.

At Heart Island guests have the option to take a self guided tour of millionaire George Boldt’s Castle, built as a testament of love for his wife Louise, before tragedy struck in 1904. Marvel at life in the “Gilded Age” for the wealthy who built magnificent castles and summer homes on islands as we travel through “Millionaire’s Row” and the St. Lawrence Seaway shipping channel with the possibility of viewing oceangoing vessels that travel from around the world to the Great Lakes of North America. Our small boats provide for a personal experience with our Captain and Crew. Each of our crew members have a unique, never recorded presentation, and a love of sharing the River with guests.

 Exclusions – Admission to Boldt Castle on Heart Island is not included in the price of boat tour tickets.  Adult’s $12.50 and Children (5-12) $9.00 / Tickets may be purchased through our website at the time of purchasing your boat tour tickets, upon check in the day of your tour, upon arrival at Boldt Castle on Heart Island, or at www.boldtcastle.com

2024 Schedule – 

Highlights of this tour include:.

• This tour circumnavigates Wellesley Island, the largest US Island through Canadian Waters in the north and us waters in the south
• Canadian Steamboat Channel
• The Lost Channel
• Tom Thumb Island
• Parks Canada
• Rockport, Ontario
• Canadian Palisades
• Whirlpool Channel
• Tom thumb Island
• Million Dollar Canadian homes
• The Statue of St. Lawrence
• St. Lawrence Seaway shipping channel
• Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island
• Travel under 2 spans of the 1000 Island Bridge System
• Twin Pine Treehouse on Cherry Island
• Millionaire’s Row
• Devil’s Oven
• Hopewell Hall
• Boldt Castle on Heart Island
• and so much more!

Meeting Location

Clayton Island Tours – 39611 Chateau Lane, Clayton, NY 13624

Frequently Asked Questions

• Chevron down Is Boldt Castle Admission Included?

No, Boldt Castle Admission is a separate fee. Adults $13.00 / Children (5-12) $9.00 / Children 4 and under Free – Admission tickets may be purchased online with your boat tour, are available at our ticket booth upon check in, Upon arrival at Boldt Castle, or online at www.boldtcastle.com

• Chevron down Are there concessions on-board?

We do not have concessions on our boats. We do offer food and beverages from  Kay’s Kitchen  , our onsite concessions.

Picnic Lunches available to pre-order for each tour Breakfast in-season Lunch in-season Catering for group/private charters aboard our boats

You may bring your own food and beverages on-board. No Alcohol.

• Chevron down Do you travel if it is raining?

Yes, our boats are covered and have windows that roll up or down in inclement weather. We do not travel in severe storms or high winds. If the weather prevents us from departing we will let you know as soon as the decision is made.

• Chevron down Are Passports Required?

Passports are not required.

• Chevron down Where do I park?

We have ample free parking. Motorhomes are welcome.

• Chevron down Are pets allowed?

Only Service Animals are allowed. No pets, Comfort Animals or ESA’s are allowed.

• Chevron down Can I smoke on the boat?

Our boats are smoke free.

Related Boat Tours

• Our Best Selling Tour!
• Clock 11:30am
• Hour Glass 5.0 hours

The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour in the 1000 Islands

Designed for those who wish to see the most attractions in an afternoon from the river!  Tour the 1000 islands on the St. Lawrence River through US and Canadian Waters, visit Boldt Castle on Heart Island and Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island.  Picnic Lunch and all admissions included.

• 2 Hour Boat Tour on the St. Lawrence Seaway
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Islands, Lighthouses, and Castle Tour

Join us for 2 hour narrated tour among many of the islands on the St. Lawrence River, including Rock Island Lighthouse on Rock Island, Sunken Rock Lighthouse on Bush Island, and Boldt Castle on Heart Island

Private Sightseeing Tour for just your family, friends, or social group!

Take a private sightseeing tour among the 1000 Islands on the St. Lawrence River in comfort, safety, and privacy with your immediate family or social group. We provide the boat, captain, and guide for a “live” narrated sightseeing tour among the islands.