Burdett’s Finger Lakes: A 2‑Hour Private Boat Tour to Hector Waterfalls

BURDETT PRIVATE FIELD GUIDE

Burdett’s Finger Lakes: A 2‑Hour Private Boat Tour to Hector Waterfalls

A private, two-hour cruise from Burdett that covers 12.4 nautical miles of lakeshore — including the 250' top‑to‑bottom Hector Waterfalls and a private shale patio with a complimentary beverage.

Burdett’s Finger Lakes: A 2‑Hour Private Boat Tour to Hector Waterfalls.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Burdett
Operator
Falling Waters Boat Tours
Category
Private
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Falling Waters Boat Tours runs a two‑hour private boat excursion out of Burdett that traces the most scenic stretches of the Finger Lakes’ east, west and south shores. The route threads past 100–300‑ft shale cliffs, multi‑million‑dollar estates, vineyards and Watkins Glen vistas before pausing at the dramatic Hector Waterfalls and a secluded shale patio where guests can step down to the water or watch from shore.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE WATERFALL

Hector Waterfalls — top‑to‑bottom views

The cruise showcases the site’s signature cascade — described in the route as a 250‑foot top‑to‑bottom Hector Waterfall — seen from the boat and again from shore at the landing for an up‑close perspective.

THE LANDSCAPE

Shale cliffs, estates and vineyard panoramas

The two‑hour itinerary covers 12.4 nautical miles of shoreline, passing 100–300‑foot shale cliffs, rolling hillside vineyards, state parks and multi‑million‑dollar lakeside estates that reveal why this stretch of the Finger Lakes is prized for its vistas.

THE FINISH

Private shale patio and a complimentary beverage

After the cruise, the tour continues with a short walk from the lake dock to an exclusive natural shale patio that meets the waterfall’s edge, where guests enjoy a complimentary Finger Lakes beverage and may choose to walk the flat shale at the base of the falls.

What the day feels like

What the two hours feel like

The tour moves at an easy, observational pace — a two‑hour circuit that covers 12.4 nautical miles of lake shoreline so you can take in grand cliffs and estates from the water, then step ashore for the tactile contrast of flat shale, cooling spray and the roar of Hector Waterfalls as you sip a complimentary Finger Lakes beverage.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this private outing suits — and who it doesn’t.

1
Small GroupsIdeal: the tour is framed as a private experience for small parties and is noted as great for groups of 2–6.
2
Families with Young ChildrenAcceptable: the tour allows children ages 2 and up, making it accessible to families with young kids who can safely manage a short dock walk and shoreline terrain.
3
Celebration OutingsWell suited: the operator highlights bachelorette outings and other small celebrations as a recommended use for the private cruise.
4
Large Parties or Those Avoiding Water AccessLess ideal: the offering is configured for small private groups (2–6) and includes an on‑land component at a waterfall edge that may not suit large parties or those unable to navigate a short dock walk.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring water shoes if you plan to walk the flat shale at the base of the falls; you may opt to stay on the patio if you prefer not to get in the water. The tour includes a complimentary Finger Lakes beverage on the private shale patio.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the tour?

The tour duration is two hours.

What ages can participate?

Participants ages 2 and up are accepted.

What size group is this best for?

The trip is described as great for private groups of 2–6.

Can I get close to or enter the waterfall?

Yes — after the cruise there is a short walk to a private shale patio at the waterfall’s edge where you can enjoy a complimentary beverage, and guests may get in and explore the falls with the guide if they wish.

What should I wear or bring for the on‑shore portion?

Bring water shoes for walking on flat shale at the base of the falls; if you prefer not to enter the water, you can remain on the patio or sit beside the falls.