The wonders of the mighty Hudson River come into sharper focus when you cruise and enjoy its timeless beauty. Opportunities for enjoying this spectacular American treasure are being offered on cruises to and from the Historic Hudson River Towns.  For information on river cruises, please contact the cruise operators below.

West Haverstraw and Peekskill

The Commander, a classic excursion boat out ofWest Haverstraw, plys the Hudson all season, serving charter groups and cruises.  On the last Saturday of every month from May through October, a 3-hour narrated cruise north through the Hudson Highlands leaves Peekskill at 12:30 p.m., returning at 3:30 p.m. For fare, schedule and charter information, contact Hudson Highland Cruises at (845) 534-7245.

Peekskill

Whether you are interested in art, wine tasting, seeing the sunset or having a private party the "Evening Star" will take you through the Hudson Highlands to do so. The boat departs from both Charles Point Marina and Riverfront Green Park in Peekskill, Wednesday through Sunday. For more information on special tours, hours and fares contact Trinity Cruise Company at (914) 589-7773.

Constitution Island from West Point

A different angle on the history of West Point is sure to please with boat trips to Constitution Island, once the home of Fort Constitution and the Warner sisters, who wrote inspirational books and conducted Bible classes for generations of cadets. Tour boats leave South Dock at West Point every Wednesday and Thursday during the summer at 1 and 2 p.m. Reservations are a must. Visit Constitution Island or call (845) 446-8676.

Newburgh Landing

Ruins of a 19th century castle on Bannerman's Island can be seen on special narrated history tours aboard the "Pride of the Hudson" which departs from Newburgh Landing, (845) 220-2120.

Tthe "River Rose," a New Orleans-style paddlewheeler, offers sunset and moonlight cruises, as well as afternoon sightseeing cruises, evening dance parties and dinner cruises, all departing from the Newburgh waterfront.River Rose Cruises, (845) 562-1067.

Kingston

Sightseeing and evening music cruises sail from Kingston's Rondout Landing, navigating past two Hudson River lighthouses and many great estates on the "MV Rip Van Winkle," a 300-passenger cruise boat with all the comforts of home, (845) 340-4700, www.hudsonrivercruises.com.

Poughkeepsie and Hudson

Hop aboard a charter with your group in Poughkeepsie or take a more public tour, with special offers such as the murder mystery tour, which leaves from downtown Hudson. For more information on tours, hours and fares visit Hudson Cruises or call (518) 822-1014.

Albany and Troy

In the Capital District, dance parties and comedy cruises are offered by the Captain JP Cruise Lines out of Troy, (518) 270-1901, www.captainjp.com.

The Dutch Apple Cruises out of Albany feature sightseeing, dinner cruises and special events (518) 463-0220, www.dutchapplecruises.com.

River Valley Tours

For cruise enthusiasts who want more time to explore the Hudson Valley, River Valley Tours will customize your dream cruise for you and your group, whether you want to go for a day or the whole week. Tour historic sites and charming villages by coach. Visit River Valley Tours or call  (239) 395-2191 for more information.