Lake George Tours: Top 5 Sightseeing Cruises & Boat Rides

Lake George, you know, it’s very often called the “Queen of American Lakes,” and it’s not hard to see why. The water, very clear and incredibly inviting, stretches out, almost mirroring the Adirondack Mountains around it. But to really soak up all that natural beauty, you often want to get out on the lake itself, very possibly hopping on a sightseeing tour. I mean, who wouldn’t want to, right? That’s exactly where these tours really shine; they give, sort of, unique views and those photo opportunities that, to be honest, you’re probably not going to find anywhere else. So, really, I took a closer look at a lot of them, to show you only the very best choices. I hope my work brings some helpful pointers for you in choosing the ultimate Lake George experience! Read our full review: Lake George Sightseeing Tours Full Review and Details

1. Lake George Steamboat Company: The Classic Experience

Lake George Steamboat Company, you see, is just almost a piece of history right there on the water. I mean, founded way back in 1817, it really is one of the oldest and, in some respects, most established ways to see Lake George. You know, their fleet has boats like the Minne Ha Ha, that offers very short, casual cruises, but the Lac du Saint Sacrement is rather known for longer, rather more comprehensive tours. What I feel really puts them, sort of, on top is that they cover almost the entire lake. That said, on any one of their cruises, so keep your eyes open, and you’re, likely, going to hear some cool stories and maybe even learn some little-known facts about the lake, like where some hidden islands might be, or, that, famous estates used to reside! Plus, a boat cruise could also be quite a good way to learn local stories if you’re into that sort of thing. These cruises often are a bit on the long side, so keep that in mind when choosing which you wish to attend, because they all range from around one and a half to, virtually, three hours!

What makes it stand out: Really, the Steamboat Company delivers just such, incredibly, historic charm, and that sense that you are going way back into the area’s past! Also, there’s different routes; some go past Millionaire’s Row with its stunning mansions, and others head way up north to showcase the very unspoiled natural beauty. To experience this first-hand See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Lake George Steamboat Company)

2. Lake George Waterfront Cruises: Intimate and Relaxing

Lake George Waterfront Cruises, as a matter of fact, it offers a somewhat cozy contrast to the bigger steamboats. Now, operating with rather smaller boats, these cruises definitely feel more intimate, just perfect for, well, let’s say you’re looking for something relaxed. Anyway, it has, arguably, a good setup to chill and, in a way, enjoy the scenery without any big crowds. That’s why Waterfront Cruises is often popular. So I found them particularly, sort of, appealing because they put so much focus on just enjoying the natural environment and some quiet observation of, in particular, the lake’s quieter corners, you know. It, sort of, made me think of all the locals trying to get away from it all and it had just that type of atmosphere.

Their main offering, very much, focuses on those classic sightseeing tours around Lake George. Most depart, just a little, later in the afternoon, so be wary if that will affect you, very possibly with getting sunburned! Also it’s worth thinking that this timing offers great views of the surrounding landscape as it glows and takes on a slightly reddish tint. Plus it is rather convenient for those who prefer to start their day at a leisurely pace. To find your perfect day-cruise See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Lake George Waterfront Cruises)

3. Shoreline Cruises: Exceptional Dining Cruises

Shoreline Cruises are definitely something to keep on your radar for adding a dash of tasty food to your sightseeing. As I was saying, these cruises, it’s often what you choose if you want to have lunch or dinner while seeing some gorgeous spots along Lake George. That they have rather tasty eats makes it really, sort of, popular with folks celebrating something special. I, for one, really, truly enjoyed what they did with their cruises, and the atmosphere really does a lot to put you at ease. Oh, also! Don’t miss your opportunity for some photos from the ship of your surroundings.

Why go for it: As a matter of fact, the food often is really top-notch, from the kind of simple midday meals to the fancier, sort of, four-course dinners, and they’re just perfectly paired with the views! You’ll have all kinds of dining packages; that way you can make a selection for both budget and enjoyment. Also you could look for one to take that person of interest to! Check out Shoreline Cruises See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Shoreline Cruises)

4. The Morgan: A Classic Sailing Experience

The Morgan, well it’s not quite your standard tour boat, you know. Now, that is a beautiful sailboat that just makes the experience way more engaging. Very, very good for people who enjoy, in a way, some hands-on sailing or those looking for that more authentic feel, these sails often will let you feel the lake wind while the staff, obviously, take care of the actual navigation. So that often just makes The Morgan memorable, really.

That type of tour is the only type to go on if you are feeling active or very want to actually, honestly, feel the lake rather than observe it! And these rides have all those picturesque things the boat tours all get, but really gives you something more authentic that could make that vacation very special. To find out about this great adventure See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (The Morgan Sailing)

5. Private Charter Tours: Your Lake, Your Way

Sometimes, what you want is what you get, alright? So, for anyone trying to have more, very personalised lake exploring, looking into a private charter might be your best bet, too it’s almost certain you will not regret it! Some companies, you know, often provide boats where you get to set that itinerary, and the result you see is really, really good for gatherings, events, or those times that you just want some tailored sightseeing. Anyway, it’s just so very flexible! These are available for many of the tour companies around the lake and really can give you the ability to enjoy it your way. Plus you could, arguably, save a good amount of money depending on how many you bring, since that money per person might go down, depending on the charter. These are quite convenient if you also don’t want the tour following those common sites; that, as I was saying, flexibility can go a long way, you know!

If you happen to be someone really looking for an extra touch, this can come through such features like a custom catering order and decorations for those specific events that you wish to hold! In the meantime, a great custom order, you know, it’s not often done with ease! Check out Private Tours See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Private Lake George Boat Tours)

Read our full review: Lake George Sightseeing Tours Full Review and Details