Start the tour in the newly renovated main building designed to resemble an 1800’s Canal Town. Walk down the “Cobblestone” street and gaze at the original stone walls, while examining the various canal exhibits showcasing Erie Canal’s rich history. Once on board the day cruise, sit back, relax, and enjoy the historical narration by a Coast Guard licensed Captain, while listening to traditional Canal Music!
The Erie Canal is 363-mile waterway between the Hudson River with the Niagara River and the Great Lakes. While on the canal experience, five of the original Lockport Locks that still remain in use. Experience the Lockview V, or VI, raised and lowered 50 feet in the only double set of Locks left on the Erie Canal.
The double locks are Lock 34 and Lock 35. Witness 3 million gallons of water fill each lock as you are raised and lowered on the canal. Pass under Lockport’s “Upside Down Bridge” and Lockport’s “Big Bridge”, which is the widest bridge in the US at 399 feet. Pass under a few smaller bridges and take in the scenery on this historical day cruise.
The Locks are known as the “greatest series of high lift locks in the shortest distance of any canal in the US” since construction finished in 1915.
Fleet
On the day cruise, one of two possible vessels will be available through the bus tour booked. The Lockview V, is a 125-passenger double-deck, 65 Foot US Coast Guard licensed vessel equipped with 2 restrooms and a snack area.
Lockview VI, is a 150-passenger, 75 Foot double-deck Mississippi-style stern paddle wheel motor vessel. Lockview VI is US Coast Guard licensed equipped with an upper and lower deck, 2 restrooms, and a fully licensed bar.
The day cruise is wheelchair accessible.
Meals and beverages are not included in the bus tour package price for the 2 hour Day Cruise On the Erie Canal.
Gift shop is located in the main building. Traditional Erie Canal music cds, books about the history of the area and construction can be found along with novelty gifts.