Boat Tours, Cruises & Charters
Lake George is the crown jewel of Adirondack waters, and a boat tour has long been the most cherished way to take in all 32 miles of its stunning shoreline. Before roadways were developed, cruise ships served as vital transportation for residents and visitors traveling to distant towns. Over time, companies like the Lake George Steamboat Company—operator of The Mohican, the oldest continuously operated tour boat in America—and Lake George Waterfront Cruises, began focusing on sightseeing cruises and private charters, quickly becoming one of the region's top attractions.
Today, travelers can explore the length of Lake George from stern to bow or embark on specialty cruises that highlight the lake’s islands or rich history. Whether you're aboard the Sagamore's Morgan—a replica 19th-century touring vessel that ventures into the Narrows—or lounging on Tiki Tours’ floating tiki bar, there's a cruise for every kind of explorer. And don’t miss the Lac du Saint Sacrement, the largest boat on Lake George, also operated by the Lake George Steamboat Company—an unforgettable vantage point for taking in the Adirondack scenery.
If specialty cruises pique your interest, you’ll find a wide range to choose from. Options span everything from one-hour outings to all-day excursions. Think family-friendly sightseeing rides, lively late-night booze cruises, and everything in between. On most Thursday evenings in July and August, fireworks cruises light up the lake—with some even offering dinner (watching fireworks burst over the lake from a cruise ship has become a favorite evening activity for visiting couples). In fall, foliage cruises depart regularly, with early October typically marking peak color season—so plan ahead. Feeling bold? Join a frostbite cruise on New Year’s Day, complete with warming food, drinks and live music, or a compelling murder mystery dinner cruise complete with live actors. Bonus: many boat tours are dog-friendly—but check with the cruise operator before you board.
Want to pair your sightseeing with a meal? Many Lake George cruises offer daily dinner sailings in the summer, complete with a variety of dining options and full bars. And many dinner cruises incorporate fun themes like Elvis Tribute Cruises and the Roaring '20s Gatsby Cruise.
Planning a wedding? Lovebirds can book private boat tours to tie the knot on the majestic waters of Lake George, creating an unforgettable memory on their special day.
To truly experience the full breadth and beauty of Lake George, there’s no better way than from the deck of a boat cruise.