KINGSTON SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Solaris at Sundown: A Two-Hour Passage Past Kingston’s Twin Beacons
A two-hour solar-powered cruise from Rondout Landing that brings you alongside the Rondout and Esopus Meadows lighthouses, offering water-level views of two of the Hudson’s historic beacons.
Solaris at Sundown: A Two-Hour Passage Past Kingston’s Twin Beacons.
Adventure brief
Solaris at Sundown: A Two-Hour Passage Past Kingston’s Twin Beacons
Board Solaris, the Hudson River Maritime Museum’s solar-powered passenger boat, and spend two hours skimming the Hudson past the Rondout and Esopus Meadows Lighthouses—two of the river’s remaining historic beacons—while the shoreline drifts by and the soft thrum of electric drive replaces the diesel clatter of conventional tours.
Set sail on a two-hour voyage along the Hudson River, embarking from the Hudson River Maritime Museum. This unique cruise takes you aboard Solaris, the first solar-powered passenger boat licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard, highlighting a commitment to sustainable travel. The cruise offers an up-close view of historic maritime landmarks, including the Rondout and Esopus Meadows Lighthouses, each with their own compelling tales and historical significance. These lighthouses aren’t just navigational aids but landmarks that have guided mariners for generations, standing as resilient symbols of the region’s maritime heritage.
The Hudson River, threading through New York and into the Atlantic, is a vital waterway steeped in history. During this cruise, passengers will enjoy panoramic vistas of the river’s natural beauty and the charming towns along its banks. The boat’s eco-friendly design provides a quiet, emissions-free experience, allowing for an intimate connection with the surrounding scenery. As you cruise past the lighthouses, expect striking views of the river’s shimmering surface, often catching glowing reflections at sunrise or sunset.
The Maritime Museum in Kingston anchors this experience, offering insight into the region’s rich nautical traditions. This cruise not only highlights the scenic appeal but also educates guests on maritime safety, navigation, and the importance of conservation efforts along this busy waterway. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful yet engaging outing, this cruise offers a memorable perspective on the Hudson River’s iconic lighthouses.
Overall, the Dual Lighthouse Cruise stands out as a compelling adventure for visitors interested in maritime history, sustainability, and scenic waterway views, making it a must-do for anyone in the Kingston area or passing through the Hudson Valley region.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Route Schematic
A straightforward, water-only loop that departs from Rondout Landing and sails past the two lighthouse landmarks.
Boarding — Rondout Landing
Passengers embark at 50 Rondout Landing in Kingston; tickets include the boat ride and museum general admission.
Sail past Rondout Lighthouse
Solaris passes the yellow-brick Rondout Lighthouse (built 1915) at the entrance to Rondout Creek for close water views.
Sail past Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
The route continues past the wooden 1871 Esopus Meadows Lighthouse near Black Creek—visible from the river and notable as the Hudson’s remaining wooden light.
Return to Rondout Landing
The cruise completes the loop back to the Kingston landing after approximately two hours on the water.
This is a sightseeing cruise that does not stop at either lighthouse; facilities aboard are minimal (a simple composting toilet), so passengers are encouraged to use shore restrooms before boarding.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Solaris — the quiet solar passenger boat
Built and operated by the Hudson River Maritime Museum, Solaris is the first solar-powered passenger boat licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry passengers; its quiet, fuel-free operation is central to the experience of viewing the river and its landmarks.
Rondout and Esopus Meadows — two different faces of Hudson history
Sail past Rondout Lighthouse, a yellow-brick 1915 light marking the entrance to Rondout Creek, and Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, the 1871 wooden structure by Black Creek—one of the Hudson’s last wooden lights—each a working piece of maritime history visible only from the water on this cruise.
A compact, two-hour waterbound overview
This two-hour sightseeing cruise concentrates on water-level views rather than landings: Solaris keeps moving past the lighthouses so passengers can enjoy uninterrupted perspective and photography without disembarking.
What the day feels like
What the cruise feels like
The outing unfolds as a relaxed, two-hour loop from Rondout Landing: you board in Kingston, settle on the deck or cabin, and glide past the Rondout and Esopus Meadows lights while crew point out history and navigation notes—there are no landings at either lighthouse, so the emphasis is on seeing the structures from the water and soaking up the Hudson’s atmosphere aboard a silent, solar-driven vessel.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits — and who should plan accordingly.
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 aboard Solaris.
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.
A simple composting toilet is aboard, but passengers are encouraged to use shore restrooms before boarding.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Dual Lighthouse Cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours.
Where does the cruise depart?
The tour departs from 50 Rondout Landing, Kingston, NY.
Does the boat stop at the lighthouses so passengers can disembark?
No. Solaris does not stop at either lighthouse on this sightseeing cruise; the lighthouses are viewed from the water.
Can I tour the interior of Rondout Lighthouse on this cruise?
No. To visit the interior of the Rondout Lighthouse, you must register separately for the Rondout Lighthouse Tour.
Is there a restroom on board?
There is a simple composting toilet aboard Solaris, but passengers are encouraged to use shore restrooms before boarding.
Are museum admissions included with the ticket?
Yes. All tickets include the boat ride and general admission to the Hudson River Maritime Museum.
Is Solaris powered by fossil fuels?
No. Solaris is the first solar-powered passenger boat licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry passengers and does not require fossil fuels to operate.
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: 2026-09-10T12:12:33.511Z
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.