Hudson River Summer Classic Cruise
New York, NY to Albany, NY
Albany, NY to New York, NY
Enjoy a scenic river cruise through the Hudson Valley. This cruise offers fewer crowds and plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors along the Hudson River, making this the ideal time to visit.
Spend your days on guided excursions exploring cultural and historic landmarks. Visit the United States Military Academy at West Point, tour Franklin D. Roosevelt’s childhood home, and explore Olana, the estate of artist Frederic Edwin Church, with views of the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains. Discover the Vanderbilt Mansion and wander riverside towns such as Sleepy Hollow.
Cruise past the Statue of Liberty on a narrated journey and take part in a guided exploration of the World Trade Center 9/11 Memorial and Reflective Pools. Evenings provide time to relax onboard or enjoy performances by local musicians.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary & Excursions
*Exact itinerary & excursions will vary by cruise date
Map & Itinerary Overview
On this amazing Hudson River cruise journey from NYC to Albany, enjoy the warm temperatures, verdant landscapes, and fewer crowds along the Hudson River Valley during the summer season.
Day 1 - New York, NY
Arrive in New York City a day before your cruise and settle into a downtown hotel, conveniently located for easy access to the ship and nearby neighborhoods. Use this time to experience New York City at your own pace, and discover the city’s iconic cultural landmarks, from the bright lights of Times Square and the theater district along Broadway to world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Stroll historic streets, sample diverse cuisines, or simply soak in the energy of the city, there’s no better way to begin your Hudson River cruise.
Day 2 - Cruising the Hudson River
As you board your ship in the heart of Manhattan, you are ready to set sail. Settle into your stateroom, meet the crew, and enjoy welcome aboard activities as the ship prepares to depart. Leaving the cityscape behind, you'll begin cruising the Hudson River northward toward upstate New York. Step out on deck and watch the Statue of Liberty pass you by as you make your way up the river. This shift from city lights to peaceful river scenery marks the start to your journey.
Day 3 - Sleepy Hollow, NY
Visit Sleepy Hollow, a riverside village rich in literary history and folklore. Immortalized by Washington Irving in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, the town offers charming shops and river views. Stand by the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse and take in expansive vistas of the Hudson. During summer, the village comes alive with gardens, local markets, and cultural events, providing plenty of things to do in Sleepy Hollow and nearby attractions.
Step into Untermyer Gardens, where history and nature converge. Wander the Walled Garden, inspired by Indo-Persian design, with symmetrical pathways, vibrant seasonal blooms, and flowing fountains. Explore Gothic Lyndhurst Mansion, one of the Hudson Valley’s most iconic estates, with its striking architecture and stunning river views. This stop blends literary history and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit for travelers.
Day 4 - West Point, NY
Overlooking the Hudson River is West Point Military Academy, established in 1802 and known for its rich military and historical heritage. Enjoy a West Point Military Academy visit with an exploration of the campus, including the Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, and the West Point Museum. Beyond the academy, experience the Walkway Over the Hudson, a historic bridge that once spanned the river as the world’s longest and played a key role during the Industrial Revolution. With museums, architecture, and riverside panoramas, this stop is a standout among Hudson Valley historic sites.
Day 5 - Kingston / Hyde Park, NY
Along the Hudson River is Kingston, a former New York State capital that welcomes visitors with its colonial history. Walk through the well-preserved Stockade District among 17th-century stone houses and visit the Senate House, then continue south along the Hudson to Hyde Park, home to some of the Hudson Valley’s most notable historic estates.
Tour the FDR Home, where the neo-Georgian mansion reveals the life and legacy of America’s longest-serving president, and visit the Vanderbilt Mansion, showcasing the grandeur and architectural elegance of a bygone era. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of the Hudson River, including the historic Rondout Lighthouse.
Day 6 - Catskill, NY
Nestled along the Hudson River you’ll find Catskill, a village rich in art and history, with something to offer every traveler. Once a bustling port and part of the 19th-century ice trade, it later inspired the Hudson River School of painters, with Thomas Cole establishing his home and studio, now preserved at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site. Explore the surrounding Catskill Mountains, where hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic overlooks highlight some of the region’s top Catskill Mountains attractions. Travel through Catskill State Park, pausing at the historic Rip Van Winkle Bridge, then visit Olana, Frederic Church’s Middle Eastern-inspired estate designed with architect Calvert Vaux.
Day 7 - Day of Cruising
Enjoy a full day of river cruising along the Hudson River, taking in the tranquil waters from the ship’s outdoor decks or the privacy of your own balcony. Participate in onboard enrichment programs that explore Hudson Valley’s culture, history, and natural beauty, offering unique insights into the region. Share a leisurely lunch with fellow travelers, toast the day during an evening happy hour, and enjoy nightly entertainment as your Upstate New York cruise continues, making this relaxing river cruise a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the Hudson River scenery while cruising.
Day 8 - Albany, NY
This state capital city, one of the oldest in the region, Albany offers a rich mix of history, architecture, and riverfront charm. Explore the Empire State Plaza with its renowned art collections, stroll along the scenic riverfront, or visit museums that highlight the city’s cultural heritage. Just across the river, Troy reflects 19th-century prosperity through Victorian architecture and preserved streets, where a local historian shares the stories behind its remarkable buildings. Back in Albany, a narrated city exploration highlights the New York State Capitol and other downtown landmarks.
Day 9 - Albany, NY
Your Hudson River cruise concludes in Albany, NY, where the city’s historic skyline blends modern architecture with echoes of its rich past. Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarkation. Take a moment to reflect on your week along the legendary Hudson River, from rolling hills and quaint river towns to grand estates nestled among the trees. For travelers continuing their journey, there are ample opportunities to explore more of the region. This final stop provides a memorable close to your Hudson River adventure.
Enjoy a 1-night hotel stay, breakfast, and transportation to the ship. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.
As you board the ship, be welcomed by the crew who will ensure that every detail of your journey is seamless. Take the time to meet fellow travelers, share stories, and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of small-ship cruising.
From panoramic deck views to thoughtfully designed lounges, every corner of the ship offers a chance to relax, socialize, and prepare for the memorable adventures that await.
Overlooking the Hudson River in Tarrytown, NY is Lyndhurst, one of America’s finest Gothic Revival mansions. Join us on a guided exploration of this remarkable example of the Hudson River’s grand and historic estates while enjoying the spectacular beauty of the Hudson River.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Celebrate fall with a visit to historic Sleepy Hollow Cemetery where Washington Irving, the celebrated author of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, is buried. Learn more about his famous short story, his enduring legacy within the community, and visit Irving's final resting place.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Discover America’s most notable military academy, considered by George Washington to be the most important military position in America. Its establishment as the United States Military Academy occurred in 1802 when Thomas Jefferson signed legislation to that effect. This guided exploration of the historic grounds of West Point includes Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, and other stunning areas of campus. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking vistas and magnificent views of the Hudson Valley.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Learn about the past, present and future of this important Walkway. Since its historic construction and opening as the longest bridge in the world 1889, the Hudson River Bridge served for many years as a key railroad span during America's Industrial Revolution. In 1974, the great fire ended its operation, but in 2009, thanks to a grassroots effort, it was reimaged as the Walkway Over the Hudson, the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge. Ride a 21-story, glass-enclosed elevator to the bridge for breathtaking views of the Hudson River Valley.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Led by an expert guide, visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, one of the great historic homes of America. Learn about the fascinating history of this neo-Georgian home, filled with memorabilia of the Roosevelt family and the birthplace of the president in 1882.
Enjoy a self-guided exploration of the FDR Library and Museum, which features exhibits that tell the story of the Roosevelt presidency beginning in the depths of the Great Depression and continuing through the New Deal and World War II, with an emphasis on both Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s relationship with the American people. Special interactives, immersive audio‐visual theaters, and rarely seen artifacts convey the dramatic story of the Roosevelt era.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Historically known as Hyde Park, Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site is one of the region's oldest Hudson River estates. For nearly two centuries, this home has been the epicenter to the socially prominent and the elite class of New Yorkers in late nineteenth-century America. Led by your guide, get a glimpse of estate life, the social stratification of the period, and the world of the American millionaire during the era historians refer to as the Gilded Age. Discover the over 200 acres of the original property, including historic buildings, original furnishings, manicured landscapes, natural woodlands, formal gardens and associated documents. Explore the centerpiece of the estate, the mansion, a masterpiece of American Beaux-Arts design by the distinguished architectural firm McKim, Mead & White.
Next, take a short, narrated motorcoach ride over to visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, one of the great historic homes of America. Enjoy lunch before self-guided exploration of the grounds and of the FDR Library and Museum. This building features exhibits that tell the story of the Roosevelt presidency, beginning in the depths of the Great Depression and continuing through the New Deal and World War II with an emphasis on both Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s relationship with the American people. Special interactives, immersive audio-visual theaters, and rarely seen artifacts convey the dramatic story of the Roosevelt era. After some free time, join us for our guided tour of the mansion, the neo-Georgian house was the birthplace of the president in 1882, filled with memorabilia of the Roosevelt family. At the conclusion of the guided tour, take some time for more self-exploration of the grounds or the library before returning to the coach. The coach ride to the first stop is about 45 minutes.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Step into maritime history on a guided exploration of the historic Rondout Lighthouse, one of only seven remaining lighthouses on the Hudson River. Led by guides and crew of the Hudson River Maritime Museum, be ferried to the lighthouse, which is accessible only by boat, aboard the museum’s fully solar-powered Solaris, an exceptionally quiet passenger vessel. While leading guests through the interior of the 1913 brick lighthouse, the guide will tell tales of the lives of lighthouse keepers past and the bustling history of the largest river port between New York City and Albany. The excursion culminates in an optional climb to the top of the tower and onto the observation deck around the light itself, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Hudson River, the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge, and, on a clear day, the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
Gain fascinating insight into the story of the Hudson River and its rich maritime history in this guided museum exploration. Join one of our expert guides, as you explore Hudson River Maritime Museum's fascinating exhibits and collections. Learn about the river's tributaries and the industries that thrived along its banks, like brick making, bluestone quarrying, and coal transportation. Ever wondered how the New York Canal system and the steam era revolutionized transport on the river? Discover how these influences paved the way for the booming industries of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Traverse the historic formal approach to Olana's Main House and learn about the ideas that influenced Frederic Church and architect Calvert Vaux in sitting and designing this Middle Eastern-inspired Hudson Valley villa. Explore the intact, richly decorated historic interiors of the main floor, including the stunning central Court Hall, Isabel Church's Sitting Room designed around her husband's masterpiece, El Khasné, Petra (1874), and Frederic Church's richly appointed painting studio.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Explore this impressive museum, featuring over sixty fire engines on exhibit, as well as numerous examples of firefighting gear, as well as equipment and art, depicting the heroic history of firefighting in New York City. Current exhibits include Touchstone: Remembering the 20th Anniversary of 9/11, which contains artifacts from this tragic event. The exhibit The Romance of Firefighting includes one-of-a kind wooden hand pumpers with original artwork and intricate woodworking, and also features amazing oils on canvas. And don’t miss meeting Molly the Museum Dog, the Museum’s resident Dalmatian.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Explore the charming historic Main Street in Catskill, featuring artisans, gift shops, antiques, books, records, coffee, and more. As you stroll past colorful storefronts and vintage signs, you'll find cozy cafés perfect for sipping espresso and people-watching. Unique galleries showcase the work of local artists, many inspired by the beauty of the nearby Catskill Mountains. Antique stores invite you to uncover treasures from the past, while specialty shops offer everything from handmade candles to rare vinyl records.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Discover the charm of Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery, nestled in the historic Hudson Valley. This family-run winery focuses on sustainability and environmental stewardship, offering a unique glimpse into New York wine traditions. Stroll through the vineyard with a knowledgeable wine expert who shares insights that evolve with the seasons and the growth of the vines. Conclude with a tasting of four 2-ounce pours, allowing you to savor the flavors and craftsmanship behind each wine while gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s winemaking heritage.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
Step back in time at Historic Catskill Point, where the Hudson River meets Catskill Creek. Discover the Freightmasters Building, constructed in the 1860s, once welcomed visitors from New York City who continued onward to the mountains by railway or horse and buggy. As more guests arrived with trunks full of clothing and household goods, the adjoining warehouse, now known as the Historic Warehouse, was added to accommodate them. Together, these preserved buildings offer a vivid glimpse into the region’s role as a gateway for river and rail travel.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails), Trivia, Game Shows, and more.
Discover Albany and see what has enticed visitors for over 400 years. Albany is one of the oldest surviving settlements from the original thirteen colonies, and the longest continuously chartered city in the United States. Enjoy a narrated exploration of the city, with a stop at the New York State Capitol. Sitting atop Albany’s State Street hill, the New York State Capitol has served as the seat of government for New York since the 1880s. The building is a marvel of late 19th-century architectural grandeur, built by hand of solid masonry over a period of 32 years. Highlights of the 45-minute exploration can include the legislative chambers, Hall of Governors, Governor’s Reception Room, Hall of New York, historic staircases, and carvings. Governors who went on to the Presidency who served here include Grover Cleveland, Theodore Roosevelt, and Franklin Roosevelt. The Capitol continues to be a place of grandeur and change with visitors from every corner of the world coming to see this beautiful and unique building that you will never forget.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial
Enjoy exploring the New York State Museum, a center of art, science, and history. Established in 1836, it is the oldest and largest state museum in the country and explores New York State’s significant natural and cultural diversity, past and present. From its beginning, the Museum has been home to some of the nation’s leading scientists, with collections that rank among the finest in many fields and total more than 16 million scientific specimens and one million cultural objects.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
In the mid-19th century, Troy was one of the wealthiest cities in the United States thanks to a booming textile industry. Enjoy a walking tour with a local historian as you view the Victorian architecture of the area and hear how such remarkable structures are preserved over time. Step back in time to the Age of Innocence, while learning about the history of the town. There is a reason that HBO is filming The Gilded Age in Troy.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Visit this fascinating museum to learn how Troy was once the "stove capital of the world" and played an important role in the construction of the Union Civil War ironclad USS Monitor. Today, the museum is one of a few buildings left with a link to Troy’s past as a major iron center. Explore an extensive display of artifacts connected with the region's industrial past, including cover iron, bells, cast iron stoves, precision instruments, textiles, and rototillers.
Accessible: Yes | Activity Level: Low
Enjoy a scenic ride to Saratoga Springs, where your experience begins at the Saratoga Automobile Museum. Delve into an expertly curated collection of classic and vintage automobiles, brought to life through vibrant exhibits and the rich stories of innovation, design, and automotive history behind each vehicle.
After your museum visit, spend time exploring Downtown Saratoga Springs at your own pace. Wander along its charming streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and classic architecture, or unwind at a local café or restaurant. When your time in town concludes, relax on the return trip back to the ship.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
Be greeted by your guide at the ship as you board your motorcoach to travel to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Located at the World Trade Center, this museum honors those who were killed in the 2001 and 1993 attacks, those who risked their lives to help others, and the courage of those who survived. Enjoy a guided exploration, during which this poignant story is told through media, narratives, and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts. After, explore the grounds on your own which include the Memorial Pools where the towers once stood, the Survivor Tree, and the 9/11 Memorial Glade.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Journey through decades of innovation and achievement at this engaging museum. Step aboard the legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid and explore a remarkable collection that includes the world’s first space shuttle, a nuclear-armed submarine, dozens of military aircraft, a supersonic spy plane, and one of the fastest commercial airliners in history. As you wander the decks and exhibits, discover the stories behind these iconic machines and the people who built and flew them.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
See New York City from a fresh perspective aboard a beautifully designed 1920s-style yacht. Relax in the climate-controlled solarium or take in sweeping views from the open bow as you glide along the Hudson River past iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Battery Park, Governors Island, and Manhattan’s glittering skyline. Along the way, enjoy light narration that brings the city’s history and stories to life, all while sipping a complimentary drink.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
Stay an extra day or two to enjoy all that New York City has to offer. Enjoy a performance at the Metropolitan Opera House, view exhibits at the Museum of Modern Art, or simply explore New York City, freestyle. Ask your onboard Hotel General Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
Map & Itinerary Overview
On this amazing Hudson River cruise journey from NYC to Albany, enjoy the warm temperatures, verdant landscapes, and fewer crowds along the Hudson River Valley during the summer season.
Day 1 - Albany, NY
Arrive in Albany and settle in before embarkation. As one of New York State’s oldest cities and its capital, Albany offers a blend of historic character and modern civic architecture. Stroll along the Hudson River waterfront, explore the Empire State Plaza and its impressive art collections, or visit museums that showcase the region’s political and cultural legacy. A narrated city exploration highlights downtown landmarks, including the New York State Capitol. This historic river city sets the tone for your Hudson River cruise.
Day 2 - Cruising the Hudson River
After boarding your ship, settle into your stateroom and enjoy welcome aboard activities as you depart Albany. Begin cruising south along the Hudson River, where rolling hills, forests, and riverside towns define the landscape. Spend time on deck watching the scenery drift by or attend onboard enrichment programs that introduce the Hudson Valley’s history, culture, and natural beauty. This peaceful day of cruising offers a relaxing start to your journey.
Day 3 - Catskill, NY
Nestled along the Hudson River you’ll find Catskill, a village rich in art and history, with something to offer every traveler. Once a bustling port and part of the 19th-century ice trade, it later inspired the Hudson River School of painters, with Thomas Cole establishing his home and studio, now preserved at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site. Explore the surrounding Catskill Mountains, where hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic overlooks highlight some of the region’s top Catskill Mountains attractions. Travel through Catskill State Park, pausing at the historic Rip Van Winkle Bridge, then visit Olana, Frederic Church’s Middle Eastern-inspired estate designed with architect Calvert Vaux.
Day 4 - Kingston / Hyde Park, NY
Along the Hudson River is Kingston, a former New York State capital that welcomes visitors with its colonial history. Walk through the well-preserved Stockade District among 17th-century stone houses and visit the Senate House, then continue south along the Hudson to Hyde Park, home to some of the Hudson Valley’s most notable historic estates.
Tour the FDR Home, where the neo-Georgian mansion reveals the life and legacy of America’s longest-serving president, and visit the Vanderbilt Mansion, showcasing the grandeur and architectural elegance of a bygone era. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of the Hudson River, including the historic Rondout Lighthouse.
Day 5 - Day of Cruising
Enjoy a leisurely day cruising the Hudson River as the ship continues south. Take in tranquil river views from the outdoor decks or relax in the comfort of your stateroom. Onboard enrichment programs dive deeper into the region’s history, culture, and natural environment. Share meals with fellow travelers, enjoy an afternoon cocktail, and unwind with evening entertainment, making this day of cruising a perfect opportunity to fully appreciate the Hudson River experience.
Day 6 - West Point, NY
Overlooking the Hudson River is West Point Military Academy, established in 1802 and known for its rich military and historical heritage. Enjoy a West Point Military Academy visit with an exploration of the campus, including the Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, and the West Point Museum. Beyond the academy, experience the Walkway Over the Hudson, a historic bridge that once spanned the river as the world’s longest and played a key role during the Industrial Revolution. With museums, architecture, and riverside panoramas, this stop is a standout among Hudson Valley historic sites.
Day 7 - Sleepy Hollow, NY
Visit Sleepy Hollow, a riverside village rich in literary history and folklore. Immortalized by Washington Irving in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, the town offers charming shops and river views. Stand by the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse and take in expansive vistas of the Hudson. During summer, the village comes alive with gardens, local markets, and cultural events, providing plenty of things to do in Sleepy Hollow and nearby attractions.
Step into Untermyer Gardens, where history and nature converge. Wander the Walled Garden, inspired by Indo-Persian design, with symmetrical pathways, vibrant seasonal blooms, and flowing fountains. Explore Gothic Lyndhurst Mansion, one of the Hudson Valley’s most iconic estates, with its striking architecture and stunning river views. This stop blends literary history and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit for travelers.
Day 8 - New York, NY
Arrive in New York City as the skyline comes into view. Cruise past the Statue of Liberty and into the heart of Manhattan, where your journey along the Hudson River nears its end. Spend the day exploring the city’s iconic museums and cultural landmarks.
Shore excursions allow visits to iconic sites such as the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, where the stories of those affected are shared and allows time at the Memorial Pools and Survivor Tree. Other excursions highlight Midtown Manhattan, including Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Bryant Park, Grand Central Station, and views of Central Park.
Day 9 - New York, NY
Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before disembarkation. As you say farewell to the ship, reflect on your voyage down the legendary Hudson River, from historic capitals and artistic enclaves to grand estates and charming river towns. For those extending their stay, New York City provides countless ways to continue the adventure, offering a memorable conclusion to your Hudson River cruise.