Hudson
New York, USA
The Hudson River runs from the Adirondacks south to New York Harbor, but its cruise-worthy stretch is the Hudson Valley north of Manhattan, especially in fall, when the wooded hillsides along the river turn into one of the East Coast's best foliage displays. The valley's Gilded Age estates and Revolutionary War history give the itinerary its historical backbone.
Cruises here run aboard small American ships of well under 200 passengers, typically sailing a short round trip out of New York City over four to seven nights — long enough to reach Albany or even the Erie Canal for itineraries that continue west, but compact enough to work as an easy first river cruise for travelers who don't want to fly overseas. Fall foliage sailings in October book up furthest in advance.
Ports of Call
New York City, New York
Most Hudson River cruises begin or end in Manhattan, giving passengers a skyline view of the city from the water before heading upriver.
West Point, New York
Home to the United States Military Academy since 1802, West Point sits on a dramatic bluff above the Hudson and offers tours of its campus, museum, and cemetery.
Hyde Park, New York
Hyde Park is home to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum and his family estate, Springwood, along with the Vanderbilt Mansion, a Gilded Age riverside estate open for tours.
Kingston, New York
New York's first capital, Kingston retains a stone-built colonial district, along with a working waterfront that once shipped the region's bluestone and cement downriver.
Albany, New York
New York's capital city anchors the northern end of most Hudson River itineraries, with the New York State Capitol and the Empire State Plaza as its main sights.
