KINGSTON SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Solaris: A Quiet, Solar-Powered Cruise from Rondout Creek to Sturgeon Point (1 hr 15 min)
A 1 hour 15 minute sightseeing cruise from Rondout Creek south past Port Ewen Bay to Sturgeon Point, with lighthouse views and museum admission included.
Solaris: A Quiet, Solar-Powered Cruise from Rondout Creek to Sturgeon Point (1 hr 15 min).
The Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise departs from Rondout Creek and runs south along the Hudson, skimming past Port Ewen Bay before bringing passengers to Sturgeon Point and the southeast reach of Vanderburgh Cove. Along the way the route offers views of the Rondout Lighthouse, the Rhinecliff waterfront and a distant glimpse of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Solaris — the Hudson's only solar-powered passenger vessel
Built and operated by the Hudson River Maritime Museum in Kingston, Solaris is the only solar-powered boat in operation on the Hudson River, a quiet vessel that does not require fossil fuels to operate.
Skimming Port Ewen Bay toward Sturgeon Point
The cruise runs south from Rondout Creek, passes Port Ewen Bay and reaches Sturgeon Point, where Vanderburgh Cove extends to the southeast—offering close riverfront views along the way.
Lighthouses and waterfront landmarks
Passengers can expect vistas that include the Rondout Lighthouse and the Rhinecliff waterfront, with a distant glimpse of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse as the boat traverses the Hudson.
What the day feels like
What the Cruise Feels Like
Boarding from Rondout Creek, the Solaris moves quietly southward, tracing the river past low shoreline, bay and point. The short outing is paced to allow steady observation of lighthouses and waterfronts as the boat reaches Sturgeon Point and the sweep of Vanderburgh Cove before turning back.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this short river cruise suits — and who should plan accordingly.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a camera and any preferred non‑alcoholic beverage or small snack.
Do not bring large coolers, luggage, or very large bags.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the cruise?
The cruise runs approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Where does the cruise depart from?
The boat departs from Rondout Creek in Kingston.
Are snacks and beverages allowed on board?
Yes; you may bring non‑alcoholic beverages and small snacks.
Is Solaris a fossil-fuel vessel?
No. Solaris is the only solar‑powered boat in operation on the Hudson River and does not require fossil fuels to operate.
What are the physical requirements to board Solaris?
Guests must be able to navigate a gravel path to the docks, use elevated gangways that may sway or be slightly wet, and climb three steps down to board; contact HRMM for more accessibility information.
What does my ticket include?
All tickets include the boat ride and general admission to the Hudson River Maritime Museum.
Who operates this cruise?
The Hudson River Maritime Museum operates the cruise and the Solaris vessel.