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 schedule and ticket information, please contact the cruise operators below.

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 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 guided history and walking tours departing from Newburgh Landing and Beacon. (845) 220-2120.

Hudson River Adventures operates the Pride of the Hudson out of Newburgh, offering sightseeing and sunset cruises throughout the season. (845) 220-2120)

The "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.

Poughkeepsie

Departing regularly from Poughkeepsie’s Waryas Park, the 60-foot long, double-decked motor vessel Mystère offers sightseeing and dinner cruises, as well as once-a-month High Tea outings. 866-797-9024; www.empirecruiselines.com

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.

Hudson

Hop aboard a charter with your group or take a more public tour, with special offers such as the murder mystery tour, which leaves from downtown Hudson aboard the "Spirit of 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.

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

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.