Hudson River Adventures

A little too much talking on the tour but other than that it was a great experience.

A lovely boat ride and island. We had expected the opportunity to have some independence in exploring the island. We did not realize the tours are carefully controlled, all participants must stay in a group, and a tour leader would lecture the entire time. While he had many stories to tell about the Bannerman family and the Island, those who wanted to quietly enjoy the beauty of the island on their own were not able to do so.

I WAS A GREAT DAY

Had a great time extremely convient. The tour given was very informative. Extremely pleased.

The cruise travels through what is arguably the most spectacular stretch of the Hudson River. It can only improve as the fall foliage reaches full color. I found it a bit disingenuous that the discounted $17 special for seniors was bumped up to $19 at checkout with a $2 "ticket handling" charge. I'm sure the $20 ticket doesn't get bumped to $22. Why not just advertise a $19 senior ticket and knock off the "bait and switch" routine?

Just a word of caution for the elderly. The 72 steps were well constructed, with hand rails and did not present a problem. The difficulty in hiking started after ascending the stairs. The terrain was rather rugged and steep at times. My 80 year old friend, felt that she should have been advised to bring a walking stick. She also was overwhelmed when she learned that she had to take her large bag off the tour boat. I carried it for her, along with my shoulder bag, because she needed to watch her footing and balance at all times. Our tour guide was marvelous in his presentation and also in his intuity, seeing that my friend needed a hand for support, he jumped right in and helped her along. I took pictures of her, with Hard Hat and the Island background. She is delighted and thrilled to experience this wonderful adventure. I would recommend this tour to the elderly with instructions to bring a walking stick or cane and forfeit bringing a large bag. No one should be denied the pleasure of touring Bannerman's Island. Thanks! JB from Poughkeepsie.

I had been aware of the Bannerman ruins for some time -- had seen it from the train, looked it up on the internet, talked to friends -- but actually knew very little about it. When friends of ours expressed interest in taking a tour of the island, we researched it and found this tour. This trip is beautiful and fascinating and takes only 2.5 hrs in total. You can combine it with a nice lunch or dinner in either Beacon or Newburgh for a totally enjoyable day. The short boat ride out and back is completely comfortable in an enclosed cabin with (yes!) airline seats and large windows. We went on a pretty windy day and ride was very smooth. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board, as are various books, photos and other items related to Bannerman. The crew is friendly and informative and show you a 2-part documentary video about the island on both legs of the trip. When you reach the island, you disembark onto a dock where you're issued your hard hat, have a last chance to use the porto-potty and get an introduction to the island from your tour guide. You then climb the long wooden stairs up to the higher part of the island. (Just a note about the terrain on the island: There is no alternative to taking the stairs, so be sure you are able to climb "72 steps". The trails on the island are dirt, and in some places, bumpy with small rocks and tree roots. There are some short flights of uneven stone steps here and there and some moderate hills. Wear comfortable casual clothes and very comfortable flat hiking sneakers or boots with non-skid soles. I don't know if children are permitted on the tour but if they are, I would recommebd not bringing any child younger than 12, and then only if they are mature and can stand still and be quiet for periods of time and enjoy history.) The walk in total is not a long distance and there are frequent stops where your guide will explain what you are looking at and will supplement it with old photos from books. The history of the island and the buildings is very interesting and unique for the area. Our guide was very well-versed in the history of the island and was interesting and amusing. She held our interest the entire time. She was able to answer all questions posed. The stops along the way for the lectures provide ample opportunity for photography and there is no shortage of beautiful vistas and amazing views of the ruins. For safety reasons, they don't let you wander around on your own, but if you like taking pictures, you will wish you had another few hours on the island, It is stunningly and hauntingly beautiful and you will be happy to have visited the island. The future of the ruins is uncertain but you will come away caring about them and determined to help save "Bannerman Island."

The tour was fun and the staff was very nice and informative. I would recommend this tour to anyone.

The cruise out to the island was very comfortable and enjoyable. The guides were such experts that it made the talks so interesting. After going by the island by train so many times, it was great to finally get to see what the site was all about.

We had expected more of a hike and walking event. Instead an overly-enthusiastic tour guide walked us to a half dozen places and talked for 10-15 minutes at each place. We also learned way too much about the biography, likes and dislikes of the guide. The description of the event should be changed to reflect what actually happens.

Learn about a real treasure in the Hudson, walk the uneven paths that Bannerman walked and hear the history surrounding this once beautiful castle. Be prepared for uneven ground and wear very sturdy shoes, Hopefully this wonderful treasure will someday be restored to its former beauty.

The Bannerman tour was a great day trip for my family. My two daughters 6 & 8, my husband and myself love to hike and explore and this encompassed hiking and so much more. The history of the island was very fascinating, and our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, having written several books on the subject. It's unfortunate the buildings have fallen into such disrepair, I would have liked to have seen them in their hay day! I would recommend this trip to others who are interested in local history, and those who have children. It was a great day!

The cruise was fun and views were beautiful. The only problem was that for a short time you could not hear the person speaking over the PA system. The information shared was very interesting. I would recommend this to anyone - even if you live locally!

If it is a beautiful day, you want to get there early to ensure seats on the top deck. Cruise was relaxing and enjoyable. Intercom could have been a bit louder - as it was hard to hear unless you were pretty much right on top of the speakers.

I was unable to go on the cruise due to vertigo.