Kingston: Sunset Dinner Cruise

Imagine gliding across the waters of Kingston’s harbor just as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Admiralty Islands and the sprawling 1000 Islands. For just around $97 per person, you can spend three hours aboard a boat like the Island Queen or the Island Star, enjoying a three-course meal, live music, and a unique vantage point of Ontario’s scenic shoreline. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to see Kingston from a new perspective, this cruise offers a delightful combo of gourmet food and breathtaking views.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the quality of the cuisine—with a menu that features four tempting entrees—and the live entertainment that keeps the atmosphere lively and engaging. Plus, the cruise’s route through the Admiralty Islands showcases some of Kingston’s most charming cottages and impressive mansions, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

One consideration to keep in mind: hearing the commentary can be a bit challenging due to noise from other guests, especially when seated further back or in crowded areas. If you’re eager to soak up all the historical and local tidbits, trying to sit near the front could help.

This cruise is best suited for couples celebrating anniversaries, families looking for a memorable outing, or anyone interested in scenic waterways with good food and music. If you enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, engaging guides, and views that go from charming cottages to grand mansions, this trip could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Enjoy the sunset over Kingston and the 1000 Islands, with 360-degree sights when under the glass canopy.
• Quality Dining: Savor a well-prepared 3-course meal with four entree options, highlighting the cruise’s focus on good food.
• Live Entertainment: Music onboard adds a lively touch, making the evening feel festive and fun.
• Comfort & Accessibility: The cruise is wheelchair accessible, with options to advise in advance for assistance.
• Timing & Duration: At around three hours, it’s a relaxed evening activity, usually starting in the evening.
• Value for Money: For less than $100, you get a scenic cruise, a meal, and entertainment—an engaging way to experience Kingston.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Kingston Sunset Dinner Cruise

Setting Sail into the Evening
This three-hour cruise takes place primarily in the evening, just as the sky turns from blue to a stunning palette of oranges and pinks. Departing from Crawford Wharf, you’ll exchange your voucher at the ticket office on Brock Street, then board either the Island Queen or the Island Star, depending on the day of the week. The Island Queen features a traditional paddle-wheeler design with three decks, while the Island Star offers a glass-topped canopy providing panoramic views—a definite plus for photography and sightseeing.

The Route and Sights
Once underway, the boat winds through Kingston’s harbor, giving you an up-close look at the charming cottages and grand mansions lining the shoreline. The route through the Admiralty Islands is especially scenic, with views of lush greenery, historic homes, and the water’s surface reflecting the sunset’s glow. Many reviews highlight how “the scenery was superb,” and that “the sunset was perfect,” making this cruise a photographer’s dream.

Dining Experience
The highlight for many travelers is the three-course a-la-carte dinner. With a choice of four entrees, including vegetarian options, the meal is cooked onboard and served to your table, adding a sense of occasion. Guests frequently mention the quality of the food, with reviews describing it as “excellent,” “delicious,” and “fabulous.” A full-service bar is available but at your own expense, offering wines, cocktails, and beers, which enhances the relaxed, celebratory vibe.

Live Commentary and Entertainment
A friendly host or guide provides commentary on the sights, sharing stories and interesting facts about Kingston’s history and the islands. While most guests find the commentary engaging, some note that “it was hard to hear,” especially when the boat is crowded or noise levels rise. The onboard live music adds to the atmosphere, with reviews describing the entertainment as “great” and “excellent,” making it enjoyable even if you’re just relaxing with a drink.

The Pros and Cons
Most reviews are glowing—guests appreciate the attentive staff, delicious food, and stunning sunset views. Reviewers often mention how “the staff was great,” and “the service was excellent,” which makes a big difference in creating a pleasant experience. The scenery is repeatedly described as “superb,” with especially positive comments about the sunset and the mansion views.

However, a few guests point out some minor drawbacks. A common theme is difficulty hearing the guide, especially when seated at the back or during busy times. Also, since beverages and specialty menu items cost extra, your overall expense can add up if you indulge. The cold fish dish some guests experienced is a reminder to specify your preferences or check the menu details.

Practical Tips
To get the most out of your cruise, arrive 30 minutes early to pick up your tickets and get settled. Remember, no parking is available at the dock, so plan how you’ll get there. If hearing the commentary is important, try to sit towards the front of the boat. Also, consider whether you want to upgrade your experience with additional beverages or special menu items—these are at additional cost.

Who Will Love This?
This cruise is perfect for romantic couples, families wanting a memorable sightseeing experience, and anyone who appreciates good food combined with scenic waterway views. It’s also an excellent choice for those celebrating a special occasion, like anniversaries, given the atmosphere and ambiance.

Final Thoughts: Is the Kingston Sunset Dinner Cruise Worth It?

For a reasonable price, you gain more than just a boat ride—you get a combination of stunning scenery, quality food, and lively entertainment. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances relaxation and engagement, with plenty of chances to take photos and enjoy Kingston from the water. The majority of reviews praise the friendly staff, delicious cuisine, and spectacular sunset vistas, making it clear that many travelers find this cruise a great value.

While there are minor hiccups—like difficulties hearing the commentary or extra costs for beverages—the overall experience feels genuine and worth the investment. If you’re seeking a laid-back, scenic evening that combines nature, history, and good company, this cruise should make your Kingston visit even more memorable.

In summary, the Kingston Sunset Dinner Cruise offers authentic charm, delicious food, and beautiful views that will appeal most to romantics, families, and those looking for a relaxed yet lively water-based experience.

FAQs

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, usually in the evening, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, meal, and entertainment.

How do I get tickets?
You need to exchange your GetYourGuide voucher at the ticket office at 1 Brock Street, Kingston, about 30 minutes before departure. Make sure to arrive early and note that there’s no parking at the dock.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and you should advise of any allergies or restrictions when booking to ensure your meal meets your needs.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Absolutely, the cruise is wheelchair accessible. It’s recommended to inform the provider in advance if assistance is needed.

What about drinks and extra menu items?
Beverages and specialty menu options are not included in the base price and are available for purchase onboard. Be prepared for additional costs if you want wine, cocktails, or extras.

Can I hear the guide’s commentary?
Most guests find the commentary engaging, but it can be hard to hear at the back or during busy times. Sitting toward the front may improve the experience.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the cruise’s relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly route suggest it’s suitable for children, provided they enjoy boat rides and scenic views.

What’s the best time to go?
The cruise departs in the evening, timed to coincide with sunset, making it the ideal choice for watching the sun dip below the horizon and capturing those perfect photos.

This well-balanced tour blends natural beauty, local history, and good food into a memorable evening on Kingston’s waters. Whether it’s your first visit or a special celebration, this cruise offers enough charm and comfort to make your time in Ontario truly special.