Hudson River Adventures

I don't have time for anything more. Thanks.

An excellent way to spend an afternoon in the Hudson Valley; essential information for understanding the Hudson River and the history of the Hudson River valley

The tour of Bannerman Castle is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and something that should not be missed. No one should leave the Hudson Valley without having visited Bannerman Castle. The boat ride back and forth, on the Hudson River, to the island is lovely. I happened to go on the last trip for the season (October 31, 2010), and the weather proved to be quite cold and windy, so be sure to dress warmly, and in layers if you prefer to go late in the season. However, I must say going late in the season we were able to avoid all of the pesky summer insects you might have to endure, during the summer. Hiking in the cool weather is always the best time, to avoid insects. There are a number of stairs to climb, after getting off at the dock to get onto the island, however there were members of my group that were well into their eighties that made the trek just fine. The paths along the tour are definitely garden paths and not carriage paths, so if you are bring small children, it will be necessary for you to watch for them carefully. The view shed from the homestead at the top of the island, may well be the most beautiful one within the entire valley. And, the scenery is even more lovely with the fall colors covering the surrounding mountains, which is another perk for visiting in the fall. There is no access to water on the island, so I might suggest you bring a small bottle of water with you, if the weather is warm, however there are two porto-poties located on the dock. You might choose to avail yourselves of them before you climb the 76 steps to the top. The guides are an amazing source of knowledge about the island and its history. And, their dedication to maintaining and preserving the island and its remaining structures is truly an act of love on their behalf... Love of Bannerman's breathtaking structures, love of history, but most importantly their love of the beautiful Hudson Valley, and the amazing history it has to offer. If your looking for a day of fun, with friends, family, grandparents, go to Bannerman Castle and enjoy the lovely walk, the gardens (that are being restored by volunteers to the original beauty), and the peaceful breathtaking views that surround you on all sides. I hope you enjoy your time there as much as I did. I can't wait to go back in the Spring!

The whole trip was very enjoyable. It was a pleasant fall day. The boat ride trom the dock in Newburgh to the island was smooth. The walk around the castle and island was easy.. The tour guide was very knowledgeable on the history of Bannerman life. The video gave some history of the island's name.

Crew was friendly and curtious.

It was a wonderful experience. I recommend it for everyone who has any interest in local history of the New York Hudson River region. The walk on the Island was great. The guides were interesting and entusiastic and the length of time was perfect. The only suggestion that I have to improve the total experience involved the boat trip to the Island (and it is a relatively minor one). I would have liked some commentary about what we were seeing along the shoreline of the Hudson as we first got into the river. It would have made for an even better experience.

This was a wonderful excursion! The boat ride on the Poleipel was excellent. Seats were comfortable, ride was enjoyable and view of both Beacon and Newburgh sides of the river were outstanding! DVD presentationo on boat ride was an excellent overview of Bannerman's Island and the history of the Bannerman family along with folklore associated with the naming of the island.. The boatload of 48 was divided into two tour groups upon arrival. Our guide Steve and his wife Marge led the 24 of us and were nothing short of outstanding! You are lucky to have such engaging volunteers!. Each was clearly enthusiastic about the Bannerman family and its island; they were open to questions and made the overall trip the success it was! We will heartily recommend this trip to others! I can't think of a better way to spend a beautiful day on and in the Hudson! Congratulations to both the volunteers who give tours on the island and the professionalism and courtesy of the Poleipel crew! Thank you for a memorable trip! Joseph Czerwinski Exeter, RI

We think that if the benches in the front of the boat either faced out or had the movable backs that the people could choose to face one way or the other. For safety sake, I think that netting or some restricting device be installed on the rails at the front of the boat, there were small children on our cruise and I believe that there was a chance for one of them to climb through the opening and fall into the river or under the boat. We did enjoy the cruise a little windy coming north, but that's the problem with sitting in the front. The windows on the ship were so clean as if they were just put in, whoever cleans them should be recognized.

My husband and I were reading Newsday and there was an article on this castle - so we took the drive and what happened was a wonderful surprise. It was amazing to see this castle - the boat ride there was great and very comfortable. Then when we got to the Island - our tour guide was a woman and she was fantastic, knowledgeable and you could tell she loved what she was doing (I apologize - I dont remember her name). We were so excited to go home and share with friends and family how really great this trip was. Thanks Bob and Theresa Vandermark Coram, Long Island

I really enjoyed listening to the history of the towns and historical sites along the Hudson. I would have preffered a presentation from a personal speaker in order to ask questions and exchange comments.

Pride of the Hudson lets you relax, and learn something about the stretch of river from Newburgh to West Point with a friendly staff. Sitting on the top is lovely although the narrator tape generally was not loud enough to hear everything. Be prepared for strong sun on top, there are few seats in the shade. Even though we never saw a sign for Newburgh landing, the waterfront is small enough that we could spot the boat easily as we drove along. Some very nice restaurants to dine in afterwards. We recommend the Torches, no way as expensive as had been told.

The tour guide (Wes) was extememely informative and provided interesting details on both the island and all its inhabitants. Definitely bring your camera......the castle, the surrounding buildings and the veiw are spectactular. The boat ride was nice, but would be better with an open deck.

We thoroughly enjoyed the Sunset Cruise. The sights were beautiful and the narrative was very interesting. The crew was very friendly and accomodating. All in all, a bargain for the price. Another bonus was the dock area with its unique restaurants (all with outside river-front seating) and a walkway along the river for strolling and watching the sights.

Excellent tour. Experience part of NY history as well as the history of the Hudson Highlands.

Our tour of Bannerman Island was enhanced by the very knowledgeable docents that led our groups. I had read about the island and the Bannerman family but their input brought everything to life. A very rewarding experience. I reccommend it heartily.