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Thousand Islands: Private Boldt Castle & Skiff Island Cruise

Board a private charter through the legendary Thousand Islands archipelago, stepping ashore at the fairy-tale Boldt Castle — a gilded-age monument to love, ambition, and tragedy set on Heart Island.

What to expect

Depart from Alexandria Bay, NY, weaving through a tapestry of granite islands crowned with palatial summer 'cottages.' Dock directly at Heart Island and explore the six-story Boldt Castle at your own pace — turrets, Alster Tower, and all. Your guide layers the castle's haunting backstory (George Boldt halted construction upon his wife Louise's sudden death) against the backdrop of gilded-age excess. Return via the open river, scanning for osprey and great blue herons nesting on uninhabited islets.

Book it with
Uncle Sam Boat Tours
USD 32–42 per person (standard tours); private charters from USD 450
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Good to know

Alexandria Bay is the gateway; arrange private transport from your port call. Allow at least 4–5 hours including transit. Pre-book Heart Island landing tickets separately at boldtcastle.com (USD 10 pp). Confirm all-aboard time — the 5-hour tour is the one that includes the Boldt Castle stop.

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