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1000 Island Cruises

The 1000 Islands are remnant peaks of an ancient mountain chain, shaped by successive glacial advances and then inundated by the floodwaters of the Great Lakes creating a richly diverse eco-region. View an osprey nest; watch for Canada’s largest snake or see a great horned owl.

The Islands (Garden of the Great Spirit) were initially settled by the Indian tribes of Mohawk, Oneidas, Onendaga, Cayuga, Senica and Tuscaroras; known collectively as the Iroquois. During the 1600’s the French explorer Samuel de Champlain explored the area opening it up to the colourful French “Coureur de Bois” who used this route to move westward in search of furs and then back to Mount Royal (Montreal) to trade.

The St. Lawrence Seaway was opened by Queen Elizabeth II and President Eisenhower in 1959. Construction began in April 1932 to create jobs during the Great Depression. The “Bridge” is really five separate bridges; three Canadian, one international and one American.

The 1000 Islands has been the home to many notable characters. Pirate Bill Johnston, who was most famous for his exploits during the Canadian Rebellion of 1838. The British steamer Sir Robert Peel was plundered and burned by a party of 22 self-styled patriots, led by Johnston.

Abbie Hoffman (Alias Berry Freed), political activist, hid for several years on Wellesley Island while he was one of America’s 10 Most Wanted”; George Boldt; owner of the Waldorf Astoria, New York and Boldt Castle in the 1000 Islands. The castle was intended as a gift for his wife Louise, but when she died suddenly in 1904, construction ceased. The castle is now a major summer attraction; Edward J. Noble, who co-founded the Life Saver Corporation in 1913 and the American Broadcasting Corporation; George Pullman, who revolutionized train travel by building one of the most luxurious rail cars in American history; Irving Berlin, one of the most prolific American songwriters in history; and Kate Smith, legendary singer, songwriter, radio host and television personality.

Though the 1000 Islands have an extraordinary history, it is the geographic uniqueness of this region that attracts people year after year.

Visit Gananoque Boat Line.