Hudson River Summer Classic Cruise
New York, NY to Albany, NY
Albany, NY to New York, NY
Enjoy the warm temperatures, verdant landscapes, and fewer crowds along the Hudson River Valley during the summer season. On this captivating cruise, witness the perfect blend of stunning natural landscapes, New York City's famed landmarks, and the glittering waterfront mansions of the Hudson Valley, aboard the brand new Coastal Cat, American Eagle.
Walk the hallowed grounds of West Point Military Academy, while viewing the magnificent vistas of Hudson Valley. Take a guided exploration of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s childhood home, where he hosted Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth. Travel to Olana, the estate of 19th-century artist Frederic Edwin Church and admire unrivaled panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains.
Visit the Vanderbilt Mansion, once the epicenter of the socially prominent and elite class of New Yorkers. Discover the riverside town of Sleepy Hollow made famous by the great American writer Washington Irving. Enjoy a narrated cruise around the Statue of Liberty and a guided exploration of the World Trade Center 9/11 Memorial and Reflective Pools.
After a day of discovery, relax in your spacious stateroom or in the company of fellow guests in one of the lounges. After dinner, enjoy the performance of local musicians who board for the evening entertainment.
Cruises departing in 2024 will be round-trip from New York City.
Dates & Fares
Itinerary
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 the Big Apple, the ideal starting point for your cruise along the Hudson River. Celebrated as the city that never sleeps, it's a bustling hub filled with bright Broadway marquees, esteemed museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, iconic buildings that create the most notable skyline.
As you board your ship within the towering concrete jungle of Manhattan, we’re ready to set sail. Leaving the cityscape behind, you'll cruise into the calm waters of the Hudson River. Watch as the Statue of Liberty stands proud with her ever-burning flame of freedom. This shift from the energetic urban sprawl to peaceful river settings offers a striking contrast, marking a beginning to your journey.
Day 2 - Sleepy Hollow, NY
Sleepy Hollow, cloaked in the legend of American folklore, becomes particularly enchanting under the verdant canopy of its summer foliage. Renowned for inspiring Washington Irving's haunting tale of the Headless Horseman, the village embraces its mystical past with lantern-lit evening tours of the historic Old Dutch Church and its ancient burying ground. As legend has it, on quiet nights, some say you can still hear the thundering hooves of the Headless Horseman racing through the sleepy streets. The Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse, perched by the enigmatic Tappan Zee, a 10-mile stretch along the Hudson River, offers splendid sunset views. Throughout the warm months, the village is alive with cultural celebrations and lively farmers markets.
Day 3 - West Point, NY
Positioned dramatically on the high bluffs overlooking the Hudson River, West Point is not only a site of breathtaking natural beauty but also a storied locale brimming with military history. Founded in 1802, the United States Military Academy at West Point is the oldest continuously occupied military post in America, having trained some of the nation's most distinguished leaders. The Academy's Gothic Revival architecture dominates the landscape, with the iconic Cadet Chapel and the imposing statues of Thayer and Eisenhower surveying the grounds. Visitors are captivated by the West Point Museum, which houses a vast collection of military artifacts that chronicle the bravery and strategy of American forces through centuries. The combination of rigorous military tradition, historic landmarks, and the scenic splendor of the surrounding Hudson Highlands makes West Point a truly inspiring destination.
Day 4 - Kingston, NY/Hyde Park, NY
Along the banks of the Hudson River, stands Kingston, a beacon of historical charm and architectural diversity. Founded in 1652, it was once the state's first capital, and its streets still tell stories from its colonial past. The city's Historic Stockade District transports visitors back in time with well-preserved 17th-century stone houses and the Senate House, where New York's first constitution was drafted.
Just a short distance away, Hyde Park welcomes history enthusiasts with the majestic estate of Franklin D. Roosevelt, America’s longest-serving president. This sprawling property, along with the neighboring Vanderbilt Mansion, showcases the extravagance of a bygone era.
Day 5 - Catskill, NY
Catskill, NY, a quaint village situated in Greene County, is full of nature and history. Once a vital port along the Hudson River, it served as a key player in the 19th-century ice trade, where large quantities of ice were harvested and shipped to distant locales, including the Caribbean. This area also served as an inspiration for the Hudson River School of painters; notably, Thomas Cole, a founding figure of the movement, established his home and studio here, now preserved as the Thomas Cole National Historic Site. The nearby Catskill Mountains offer extensive hiking trails and striking waterfalls, drawing nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the natural beauty of the region. Additionally, the historic Rip Van Winkle Bridge, completed in 1935, spans the Hudson River with impressive architectural features and provides stunning panoramic views that connect the picturesque environment with New York’s broader historical narrative.
Day 6 - Day of Cruising
Take in the serene landscapes from the comfort of your private balcony, where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of nature. Join fellow travelers for a delightful lunch and engage in afternoon enrichment programs led by our onboard expert. As you cruise along, experience the beauty of the Hudson River from a new perspective. Don’t miss out on our nightly happy hour and settle in for a night of onboard entertainment.
Day 7 - Albany, NY
This state capital city perched on the banks of the Hudson River, is a fusion of architectural elegance and historical depth. Established in 1686, it is one of the oldest surviving European settlements from the original thirteen colonies and serves as a living museum of American history. The city's skyline is crowned by the striking Empire State Plaza, a modernist marvel, which houses an impressive collection of modern art and the iconic Egg, a venue that hosts performances year-round. Albany's rich past is also preserved in its bustling downtown area, home to the New York State Capitol, a stunning example of 19th-century Gothic architecture. The city not only offers a gateway to New York’s legislative heart but also provides parks and riverfront areas where locals and visitors can enjoy peaceful views away from the rush of the city.
Day 8 - Albany, NY
Conclude your Hudson River journey in Albany, NY as the city's historic skyline unfolds before your eyes, blending modern architecture with glimpses of Albany's rich past. Take time to reflect upon your amazing week cruising the legendary Hudson River, featuring verdant hillsides, quaint riverside towns, and occasional glimpses of grand estates nestled amidst the trees.
As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.
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
Visit this idyllic setting that brings a piece of Olde New England to Hudson Valley. Enjoy a hayride through the DuBois Family Farms and orchards as you take in colorful Fall scenery. Take home a bag of four apples.
Activity Level: Moderate / 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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
On a guided exploration of the Hudson River Maritime Museum and the Wooden Boat School, discover the unique marine history of the Hudson River. Explore the museum which houses unique artifacts from the age of steamships and canal boats to ice sailing and the tugboat industry. Learn about the lighthouses and keepers that kept the traffic on the Hudson River moving. During your excursion, get an introduction to the Wooden Boat School and enjoy a boat building demonstration of half hull lofting. The techniques used and taught in our Wooden Boat School are as old as shipbuilding itself.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
This active shore excursion is in 2 parts:
Hudson River Skywalk provides panoramic views from hundreds of feet in the air and is one of two pedestrian crossings over the Hudson River. As you look towards the mountains, see if you can identify the features of Rip Van Winkle sleeping. The walkway is over 2 miles round-trip.
Kaaterskill Falls Viewing Platform: Witness the highest two-tiered cascading waterfall in New York and one of America’s oldest tourist attractions. It has been a featured topic of prominent books, essays, poems, and paintings of the early 19th century.
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: No
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.
Explore the landscape on a walking exploration along Olana’s upper carriage road loop. Learn about Frederic Church’s work as an artist and landscape designer, as well as his engagement with environmental conservation. Along this route, enjoy exquisite, panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley, Catskill Mountains in New York, Berkshire Mountains in Massachusetts, and the Green Mountains of southern Vermont.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partially
A visit to the Thomas Cole National Historic Site provides entry into the world of the man who became the father of American landscape painting and founder of the Hudson River School of Art. Tour the 1815 Federal yellow-brick Main House and visit the historic rooms where the Cole family lived, including the West Parlor where Thomas Cole was married and the upstairs rooms where his children were born and where Cole died in 1848.
Discover the Old Studio where Thomas Cole created many of his major works. The building was restored in 2004 and is now furnished with his original easels and other art-making equipment and tools.
Enjoy an exploration of the formal gardens including a variety of flowers, including hollyhocks, larkspur, poppies, roses, china asters, dahlia, and valerian. Admire the wide variety of fruit trees, including a honey locust that grows close to the front porch of the house. View a small portion of what was once an extensive kitchen garden with vegetables, bush fruit, and grape vines.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
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
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, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), 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 stops at the New York State Capitol, Albany Visitors Center, and Albany Institute of History and Art.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
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
Indian Ladder Farms is a centennial farm founded in 1916, which boasts over 90 acres of orchards producing over 40 varieties of apples. Enjoy a classic New England autumn past-time at the farm, admire the breathtaking fall foliage, and take home some fresh apples!
Activity Level: Low | 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 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
Begin your journey in Albany as the city's historic skyline unfolds before your eyes, blending modern architecture with glimpses of Albany's rich past. Board your ship and set sail as you meet new friends at the Welcome Reception, roll along the river, and enjoy the dynamic onboard entertainment.
Day 2 - Catskill, NY
Catskill, NY, a quaint village situated in Greene County, is full of nature and history. Once a vital port along the Hudson River, it served as a key player in the 19th-century ice trade, where large quantities of ice were harvested and shipped to distant locales, including the Caribbean. This area also served as an inspiration for the Hudson River School of painters; notably, Thomas Cole, a founding figure of the movement, established his home and studio here, now preserved as the Thomas Cole National Historic Site. The nearby Catskill Mountains offer extensive hiking trails and striking waterfalls, drawing nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the natural beauty of the region. Additionally, the historic Rip Van Winkle Bridge, completed in 1935, spans the Hudson River with impressive architectural features and provides stunning panoramic views that connect the picturesque environment with New York’s broader historical narrative.
Day 3 - Kingston, NY/Hyde Park, NY
Along the banks of the Hudson River, stands Kingston, a beacon of historical charm and architectural diversity. Founded in 1652, it was once the state's first capital, and its streets still tell stories from its colonial past. The city's Historic Stockade District transports visitors back in time with well-preserved 17th-century stone houses and the Senate House, where New York's first constitution was drafted.
Just a short distance away, Hyde Park welcomes history enthusiasts with the majestic estate of Franklin D. Roosevelt, America’s longest-serving president. This sprawling property, along with the neighboring Vanderbilt Mansion, showcases the extravagance of a bygone era.
Day 4 - Day of Cruising
Take in the serene landscapes from the comfort of your private balcony, where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of nature. Join fellow travelers for a delightful lunch and engage in afternoon enrichment programs led by our onboard expert. As you cruise along, experience the beauty of the Hudson River from a new perspective. Don’t miss out on our nightly happy hour and settle in for a night of onboard entertainment.
Day 5 - West Point, NY
Positioned dramatically on the high bluffs overlooking the Hudson River, West Point is not only a site of breathtaking natural beauty but also a storied locale brimming with military history. Founded in 1802, the United States Military Academy at West Point is the oldest continuously occupied military post in America, having trained some of the nation's most distinguished leaders. The Academy's Gothic Revival architecture dominates the landscape, with the iconic Cadet Chapel and the imposing statues of Thayer and Eisenhower surveying the grounds. Visitors are captivated by the West Point Museum, which houses a vast collection of military artifacts that chronicle the bravery and strategy of American forces through centuries. The combination of rigorous military tradition, historic landmarks, and the scenic splendor of the surrounding Hudson Highlands makes West Point a truly inspiring destination.
Day 6 - Sleepy Hollow, NY
Sleepy Hollow, cloaked in the legend of American folklore, becomes particularly enchanting under the verdant canopy of its summer foliage. Renowned for inspiring Washington Irving's haunting tale of the Headless Horseman, the village embraces its mystical past with lantern-lit evening tours of the historic Old Dutch Church and its ancient burying ground. As legend has it, on quiet nights, some say you can still hear the thundering hooves of the Headless Horseman racing through the sleepy streets. The Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse, perched by the enigmatic Tappan Zee, a 10-mile stretch along the Hudson River, offers splendid sunset views. Throughout the warm months, the village is alive with cultural celebrations and lively farmers markets.
Day 7 - New York, NY
As the impressive New York City skyline approaches, the architectural giants pierce the clouds, heralding your arrival. Once your ship docks in vibrant Manhattan, a world of exploration awaits. American Cruise Lines offers a range of shore excursions that cater to different preferences, from self-guided wanderings to expert-led tours. Stroll down the bustling avenues to Times Square, where the summer air buzzes with the energy of glowing billboards and street performers. Wander the expansive trails of Central Park, a green oasis amidst the city’s concrete, perfect for a leisurely summer day. Whether it’s catching a Broadway show, exploring world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or enjoying a picnic in the park, New York City in summer offers an unforgettable palette of experiences.
Day 8 - New York, NY
End your journey where it all started in the lively heart of Manhattan. Take a moment to reflect on the fantastic experiences you've enjoyed as you prepare for your journey home. Or, why not extend your stay for a day or two? There's always more to see and do in this ever-energetic city. Whether you head home or decide to stay longer, thank you for cruising with us.