HUDSON BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
River Bluffs in Technicolor: A 1.5‑Hour Fall Colors Cruise on the St. Croix
A concise guide to the 1.5-hour St. Croix River cruise out of Hudson that highlights the Minnesota and Wisconsin bluffs, onboard snacks and a cash bar, and essential boarding details.
River Bluffs in Technicolor: A 1.5‑Hour Fall Colors Cruise on the St. Croix.
This short, scenic run along the St. Croix River threads between the striking bluffs of Minnesota and Wisconsin — a concentrated autumn spectacle best enjoyed from the open decks of a comfortable excursion boat. The outing is presented with a relaxed onboard atmosphere, a cash bar and snacks available, and practical boarding reminders to get you on the water without fuss.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Bluff-lined vistas between two states
The cruise runs along the St. Croix River so passengers can take in the vivid fall colors on the bluffs of both Minnesota and Wisconsin — the central draw of this short outing.
Relaxed boat service with a cash bar
A casual, social setting on board is augmented by a cash bar and available snacks, letting you focus on the scenery and company rather than logistics.
Short, accessible outing for groups and families
At 1.5 hours, the cruise is intentionally brief and approachable for a wide range of ages — a compact way to share the river views with friends and family.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
You’ll arrive at the Hudson embarkation point and, after boarding, spend 1.5 hours drifting the St. Croix River while the bluffs of Minnesota and Wisconsin slide past. The pace is unhurried — a sightseeing run rather than a strenuous outing — and the presence of a cash bar and snacks keeps the focus on the landscape and conversation. Be sure to arrive early to board and settle in before the boat departs.
THE LANDSCAPE
Bluff-lined vistas between two states
The cruise runs along the St. Croix River so passengers can take in the vivid fall colors on the bluffs of both Minnesota and Wisconsin — the central draw of this short outing.
ONBOARD COMFORT
Relaxed boat service with a cash bar
A casual, social setting on board is augmented by a cash bar and available snacks, letting you focus on the scenery and company rather than logistics.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY
Short, accessible outing for groups and families
At 1.5 hours, the cruise is intentionally brief and approachable for a wide range of ages — a compact way to share the river views with friends and family.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits best, based on operator guidelines and fare categories.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The cruise runs for 1.5 hours; boarding begins well before departure — plan to arrive early to board 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure.
Bring payment for the cash bar and snacks if you plan to purchase refreshments; note a port fee is applied per passenger.
Fares are stratified by age (Adults 11+; Children 3–10; Tots 2 & under) and a port fee of $1.50 is applied to each passenger.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the cruise?
The cruise duration is 1.5 hours.
When should I arrive to board?
Passengers are asked to board 30 minutes before departure.
Are food and drink available on board?
Yes — there is a cash bar and snacks available at the boat’s bar.
What are the fares by age?
Fares are age-based: Adults (ages 11+) at $27; Children (ages 3–10) at $20; Tots (age 2 & under) at $14.
Is there an extra port fee?
Yes — a port fee of $1.50 is applied to each passenger.