American Cruise Lines triples summer Hudson River departures

Traditionally the line has plied the Hudson in late September and October for fall foliage viewing, with cruises often selling out a year in advance.

May and June sailings just wrapping up

This year, the line tested several early summer sailings in May and June, on a new eight-day 'Hudson River Summer Classic' itinerary, roundtrip New York. This offers views of Manhattan’s famous skyline, sails right past the Statue of Liberty and visits Catskill, Albany, Kingston, Hyde Park, West Point and Sleepy Hollow, New York. New York City excursions are included.

The new 'Summer Classic' itinerary is similar to popular fall foliage cruise, offering ample excursions to cultural sites throughout the Hudson Valley. The summer harken back to a time when summer sojourns throughout the region were popular.

Pier 81 departures

American Cruise Lines pointed out the new cruises are also particularly convenient for New Yorkers, with ships departing from Pier 81, off 41st Street, a few blocks south of the Intrepid Museum.

The cruises operate on ships with all balcony accommodations, indoor and outdoor lounges, walking tracks and water views from nearly every space on board.

Over the past century, the Hudson River Valley was home to US presidents, titans of industry, illustrious artists and Gilded Age characters. The region is steeped in history and offers many historic sites.

Guided tours

Local guides and experts lead passengers to place of interest including West Point Military Academy, Franklin Delano Roosevelt's  Presidential Library & Museum in Hyde Park, the Vanderbilt Mansion and Lyndhurst.

The trip also offers a guided exploration of New York City including a special World Trade Center experience, and the opportunity to visit Sleepy Hollow where Washington Irving’s most famous novel, 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,' was written while Irving lived on the banks of the Hudson at his home, Sunnyside.