BEACON SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Beacon to Bannerman: A Short Hudson Cruise to Pollepel Island’s Storied Ruins
A 2.5‑hour guided cruise-and-walk from 2 Red Flynn Drive in Beacon to Pollepel (Bannerman) Island — a compact, all‑ages outing that pairs river scenery with a guided tour that supports preservation efforts.
Beacon to Bannerman: A Short Hudson Cruise to Pollepel Island’s Storied Ruins.
Pollepel Island — home to the evocative ruins of Bannerman Castle — sits like a small jewel in the Hudson Highlands. This 2.5‑hour experience launched from Beacon combines a short river cruise with a guided walking tour of the island’s ruins and grounds, offered rain or shine and run by the Bannerman Castle Trust in cooperation with state preservation partners.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Bannerman Castle and Pollepel Island
The walking component focuses on the ruins and stories of Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island; proceeds from the public tours support ongoing preservation of the site for future generations.
Short Hudson cruise and shore exploration
The outing departs from Beacon and includes a brief boat transfer to the island followed by a guided walk — the full experience is 2.5 hours, beginning at 2 Red Flynn Drive in Beacon.
A compact, family‑friendly day trip
Tours are offered for all ages, run rain or shine with a no‑refund/no‑reschedule policy, and include shore time to buy snacks and souvenirs on the island if desired.
What the day feels like
What the tour feels like
Expect a brisk, well‑paced outing: board at Beacon, cross a short stretch of the Hudson, step ashore on Pollepel Island and follow a guided path through the castle remains and island viewpoints. The whole program is structured to deliver history, views and a tangible sense of preservation work within about 2.5 hours.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The program is a fixed 2.5‑hour public tour that departs from Beacon; tours operate rain or shine and are subject to the operator’s no‑refund/no‑reschedule policy.
Wear comfortable footwear for rough terrain and stairs. Food and drinks are not included; snacks and souvenirs may be purchased on the island. Strollers cannot be accommodated.
Advance booking is required for all tours. There is a 72‑step climb from the dock and the island cannot accommodate wheelchairs; only service dogs as defined by the ADA are permitted.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The full tour is 2.5 hours.
Where do tours depart from?
Tours depart from the meeting location at 2 Red Flynn Drive, Beacon, NY 12508.
Are tours affected by weather?
Tours run rain or shine; there is a no refund or rescheduling policy.
Is Bannerman Island wheelchair accessible?
No — Bannerman Island is not handicap accessible and cannot accommodate wheelchairs.
Can I bring a stroller or a non‑service dog?
Strollers cannot be accommodated, and only service dogs as defined by the ADA are allowed on Bannerman Island.
Are food and drinks included?
No — food and drinks are not included, though snacks and souvenirs can be purchased on the island.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes — advance booking is required for all tours.