Gananoque is a charming town that serves as a gateway to the 1000 Islands—a stunning landscape of islands, castles, and waterways that beckon exploration. What makes Gananoque especially appealing for tour lovers is its variety of experiences that fit different interests and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise, a bird’s-eye view from a helicopter, or a social visit to local breweries, Gananoque offers options that showcase its natural beauty and unique attractions. Personally, I’d say that the scenic boat cruises stand out for their relaxed pace and intimate views, especially if you want a more immersive experience of the region’s landmarks like Boldt Castle. The 1000 Islands Cruise & Optional Boldt Castle Entry is a great starting point, combining history with scenic cruising.
For those who crave a more adrenaline-packed adventure, the scenic helicopter tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the islands and castles—an unforgettable way to see the region from above. And if you want to combine sightseeing with local flavor, the cider mill visit with a helicopter ride and brewery experience provide a taste of regional craftsmanship along with panoramic scenery.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we’ll explore four top tours in Gananoque, each providing a different way to enjoy the 1000 Islands. From boat cruises to helicopter flights, and culinary stops, these tours cater to a variety of interests and time commitments. Check out the 1000 Islands Cruise for a classic experience, or elevate your trip with a helicopter tour for stunning aerial views. If you’re interested in combining sightseeing with local tasting, the cider mill and helicopter tour and the brewery visit with helicopter are perfect picks.
1. Gananoque: 1000 Islands Cruise & Optional Boldt Castle Entry
This scenic cruise from Gananoque is a well-loved classic, with a score of 4.4 out of 5 from over 4,200 reviews. The cruise takes you through the heart of the 1000 Islands along the St. Lawrence River, offering onboard audio commentary in English and French that brings the landscape to life. The tour options range from 1 to 5 hours, with the longest including a visit to the majestic Boldt Castle on Heart Island, which is often the highlight for history buffs and castle lovers alike.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance between affordability and depth. For only $29, you can enjoy a 1-hour cruise, but if you want the full experience—including a visit to Boldt Castle—you’ll want to opt for the 5-hour cruise. The boat has food and drinks available onboard, making it a relaxed way to spend a day. The scenic views, including landmarks like Zavikon Islands and the Statue of St. Lawrence, are particularly striking at sunset or during peak summer days.
Bottom Line: It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a flexible, scenic experience that combines sightseeing with a touch of history, all without breaking the bank.
2. 1000 Islands: 10, 20, 30, or 60-Min Scenic Helicopter Tour
For those seeking an unmatched view of Gananoque and the surrounding islands, the helicopter tours are hard to beat. With a perfect 5-star rating from nearly 400 reviews, these flights range from a quick 10-minute jaunt to a full hour in the air, giving you ample opportunity to capture dramatic panoramas. The tours highlight iconic landmarks such as the Ivy Lea Bridge, Boldt Castle, and Singer Castle.
What makes this experience so special is the chance to see the entire region from above, especially if you’re a “bird’s-eye view” enthusiast. The pilot-narrated commentary in English or multilingual audio provides insights into the area’s geography and history. The 10-minute option offers a quick taste, perfect if you’re pressed for time, while the 60-minute tour is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive aerial overview.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a memorable, Instagram-worthy adventure that captures the vast scale of the 1000 Islands, a helicopter tour is a high-value, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
3. Thousand Islands: Helicopter Tour with Cider Mill and Lunch
This combination tour merges a scenic helicopter flight with a visit to a cider mill, making it one of the most unique options on our list. Starting with a 30-minute helicopter ride, you’ll fly over Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, and the Millionaires Row, soaking in the sweeping views that only aerial perspective can provide. Afterward, the tour includes a visit to the region’s newest cider mill, where you can sample a variety of locally produced ciders, guided by knowledgeable staff.
Priced at $305, it’s a more premium experience, but many reviewers say the value is evident in the quality of the sights and tastings. The tour is especially suited for travelers interested in both adventure and regional food and drink, with the backdrop of the islands providing a picturesque setting for your cider tasting.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those who want a little bit of everything—spectacular views, regional flavor, and a leisurely pace—all rolled into one memorable afternoon.
4. Gananoque: Helicopter Tour with Craft Brewery Stop and Lunch
For the craft beer enthusiast, this helicopter tour combined with a brewery stop offers a compelling mix of sights and tastes. After soaring over the 1000 Islands to admire Boldt Castle and Singer Castle, you’ll land at ARBRU Craft Brewery, Canada’s first solar-powered brewery. Here, you can sample a flight of beers—each brewed with care and local hops—while enjoying a relaxed lunch of wood-fired pizza options like pepperoni, meat lovers, or margarita.
Rated 5 out of 5 from 9 reviews, this tour is appreciated for its exclusive combination of scenic flight and regional craft flavor. It’s best suited for travelers who want an active, experiential day that combines aerial views with a taste of local brewing ingenuity. The 1.5-hour duration makes it a compact but enriching experience, perfect for those with limited time but a desire for something different.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in both aerial sightseeing and sampling innovative craft beers, this tour hits a high note, especially with its scenic views and relaxed vibe.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you prefer a relaxed approach with historical sights, the 1000 Islands Cruise offers a classic experience. For adrenaline and stunning visuals, the helicopter tours provide a quick, breathtaking perspective. Those wanting a mix of adventure and local flavor should consider the cider mill and helicopter, while craft beer lovers will find the brewery and helicopter particularly appealing.
Remember, booking early is recommended, particularly for helicopter tours, which tend to fill up quickly in peak season. Consider your priorities: a long, detailed cruise for history and scenery, or a short but intense helicopter ride for spectacular views.
Final Thoughts
Gananoque offers a range of tours that suit different styles—whether you want to relax on a boat, soar high above the islands, or combine sightseeing with local culinary delights. For a classic experience, the 1000 Islands Cruise is hard to beat. If you crave the thrill of aerial views, the helicopter tours are second to none for their panoramic perspectives. For those seeking a blend of adventure, food, and regional character, the cider mill and brewery options stand out.
Whatever your choice, booking in advance is wise, especially during the busy summer months. These tours will give you a fresh appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the 1000 Islands and make your Gananoque visit truly memorable.