KINGSTON SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Solaris and the Sunken Past: A Solar-Powered Cruise Through Kingston’s Rondout Creek
A 1 hour 15 minute cruise aboard Solaris that traces Rondout Creek’s industrial ruins, sunken vessels and waterfront landmarks—useful for planning an eco-conscious, camera-ready outing.
Solaris and the Sunken Past: A Solar-Powered Cruise Through Kingston’s Rondout Creek.
Adventure brief
Solaris and the Sunken Past: A Solar-Powered Cruise Through Kingston’s Rondout Creek
Board Solaris, the Hudson River Maritime Museum’s quiet, solar-powered passenger boat, and glide up and down Rondout Creek while a guide traces Kingston’s industrial past: shipyards, barges, bluestone and cement works, and the skeletal remains of vessels that rest at low tide. The outing pairs environmental technology with local maritime history, delivering close views of waterfront landmarks and submerged curiosities.
Located in Kingston, New York, the Hudson River Maritime Museum offers an immersive journey into the area's maritime and industrial history. Rondout Creek, a vital waterway that fueled commerce and industry, serves as the perfect backdrop for this unique cruise aboard Solaris, the world’s first solar-powered passenger boat. This eco-friendly vessel glides silently over the water, allowing passengers to observe sunken ships, historic landmarks, and industrial relics from a different era. The tour highlights Kingston’s rich shipping past, including the iconic warehouses and maritime structures that still dot the shoreline. One of the standout features of this adventure is the chance to see submerged vessels and remnants of the area's shipping industry, which were pivotal during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The route offers scenic views of the creek’s distinctive geology and vibrant wildlife, providing plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.
The museum's cruise is more than just a scenic ride; it’s a deep dive into the stories that shaped Kingston. Guests learn about the evolution of maritime technology, the rise of local industry, and the sustainable efforts supporting the preservation of this historic waterway. The Solaris’s solar power makes this journey especially unique, demonstrating innovative, eco-conscious travel practices. Whether you’re a history buff or a lover of marine environments, this adventure delivers an engaging, educational experience right on the water. Perfect for families, history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a meaningful connection to the past with the benefits of modern sustainability, it’s a stand-out sea-based activity in the Hudson Valley.
Located near Kingston, this cruise makes for a memorable day trip to connect with history while enjoying a tranquil, eco-aware ride out on Rondout Creek.
Route Schematic
Route & Stops
The short cruise threads the creek to bring passengers alongside key waterfront sites and wrecks.
Depart aboard Solaris
Board Solaris for a cruise up and down Rondout Creek; the vessel is operated by the Hudson River Maritime Museum.
Island Dock and Wurts Street suspension bridge
Pass Island Dock and the notable Wurts Street suspension bridge while learning about their place in the creek’s working history.
Wilbur Train Bridge and industrial remnants
View the Wilbur Train Bridge and the remnants of the cement and bluestone industries that once shaped Kingston’s waterfront.
Sunken vessels and low‑tide sightings
Look for the ribs and hulks of sunken and abandoned vessels—including the steamboat Mary Powell—appearing at low tide along the creek.
Dress for the weather—conditions on the water can be up to 10 degrees cooler than on shore—and note restrictions on large items: large coolers, luggage, strollers and very large bags are not permitted.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Solaris — the first solar passenger boat licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard
Solaris operates without fossil fuel: it is the first solar-powered boat licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry passengers, a quiet platform for interpretation of Rondout Creek and Kingston’s waterfront.
Bridges, docks and the working waterfront
The cruise brings you alongside iconic waterfront features — Island Dock, the Wurts Street suspension bridge and the Wilbur Train Bridge — and the scars of the region’s cement and bluestone industries.
Sunken vessels and the ribs of the past
At low tide the remains of abandoned and sunken vessels surface: guides point out noted wrecks including the steamboat Mary Powell and other hulks that punctuate the creek’s history.
What the day feels like
The cruise, in motion
Over roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes you’ll ride Solaris up and down Rondout Creek, listening to the rise and fall of Kingston’s maritime industry as the boat offers close-in views of docks, bridges and submerged ship remains; the outing is equal parts history lesson and shoreline reconnaissance.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Camera, sunscreen, water and/or a snack are recommended.
Do not bring large coolers, luggage, strollers or very large bags.
Dress for the weather; it can be up to 10 degrees cooler on the water so bring a light jacket or sweater on cooler days.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the cruise?
The cruise duration is 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Is Solaris really solar-powered?
Yes. Solaris is the first solar-powered boat built and operated by the Hudson River Maritime Museum to be licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry passengers; it operates without fossil fuels.
Do tickets include museum admission?
All tickets include the boat ride and general admission to the Hudson River Maritime Museum, which is open 11 am to 5 pm.
What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, and water and/or a snack.
Are there items I cannot bring aboard?
You may not bring large coolers, luggage, strollers or very large bags on the cruise.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-10T12:12:33.521Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.