I’m excited to cruise on the Canal but you have nothing available when I’d like to go out. What can I do?

Email Captain Marla at mohawkmaidencruises@gmail.com. With our limited capacity, it is much easier to add a cruise to the schedule. If there’s enough notice, we can put a cruise on the date you request and then open up the rest of the seats to the public. In addition, both vessels are available for very affordable private cruises of up to six passengers.

Should I purchase tickets in advance?

Advance ticket purchase is required for all cruises as capacity is now limited to six passengers. To be sure you are able to purchase tickets for the cruise date & time you prefer, we suggest you purchase tickets early. In addition, private cruises for up to six passengers are available by emailing Captain Marla at mohawkmaidencruises@gmail.com. Please be aware that USCG capacity rules count babies toward that maximum.

I'm in the parking lot. Where's the boat?

When you pull into a parking space (on the left), we are located to your right - at the end of the peninsula. You do not need to cross over the lock bridge to get to us.

What type of footwear is recommended?

Non-slip footwear is recommended. High-heels are NOT recommended. You must keep your shoes on your feet while aboard our vessels

We paid in advance, but we got lost and didn't arrive until you were pulling away from the dock - why couldn't you wait for us?

We make every effort to stick to our schedule and leave promptly at our posted sailing time. That's why we ask passengers to arrive at least 15 minutes early for boarding. The last thing our deckhand does before returning to the boat to cast off is the check the parking lot for cars pulling in or passengers hurrying down - especially if we know we're missing passengers. But once we actually push away from the dock, because we have no bow thrusters, we physically can't return without going out, turning around and redocking - a process that would take about 30 minutes.

Does the Caldwell Belle cruise in the rain?

Yes! The decision to go out is always at the discretion of the captain, but we cruise rain or shine. Guests can cruise in comfort in the enclosed cabin or under the canopy on the top deck. High winds or imminent storms on the radar may cause last-minute cancellations.

We arrived late and we could see the boat right there in the lock right next to the parking lot. Why wouldn't you let us board?

Because you could have gotten hurt. It would be extremely dangerous for us to allow passengers to board our boat in the lock. Our insurance company would not be happy with us! Even if it weren't for the danger, the time it would have taken to secure the boat properly, pull out a step stool, etc, would have significantly delayed the cruise. That would not have been fair to the rest of our passengers, who did manage to arrive on time!

Which cruise(s) do you recommend for children?

While we welcome all children, depending on their age, they may enjoy one of our shorter cruises. All children must be under the supervision of an adult at all times while aboard the Caldwell Belle.

How many passengers can fit on your boat?

Both vessels can accommodate up to six passengers.

Is it okay to stand in front of the pilot house?

ABSOLUTELY NOT! The captain must be able to see to navigate safely.

Is Food or Drinks available on the cruises?

We have a modest snack bar on the Belle with soda, water and bite-sized snacks available, but feel free to bring your own food and beverages. After your cruise, consider heading into town for one of the many great restaurants in Schuylerville!

Is it customary to tip the crew?

Gratuities are completely at the guests' discretion. The crew works for tips and they are greatly appreciated.

Is smoking allowed on board the boats?

Smoking is not permitted on the docks or aboard our vessels. We are a Smoke Free, Tobacco Free, Vapor and E-Cig Free Zone!

Will I get motion sick?

Motion sickness is very rare on our cruises since we travel on the river and experience almost no rocking. Our vessels are very stable. Should you be particularly prone to motion sickness, feel free to take your own preventative measures beforehand.

Are restrooms available on board?

There is a modest "head" on board the Caldwell Belle

Is the boat handicapped accessible?

No. Neither vessel is wheelchair accessible. You must be able to board with minimal assistance. Walkers are welcome. Because our vessels are a bit of a walk from the parking lot, you may arrange for closer parking if needed by emailing Captain Marla at mohawkmaidencruises@gmail.com prior to your cruise.

Can I bring my pet?

Because we are now limiting the number of passengers on both vessels, your pet may be able to come along, but you must check with Captain Marla for approval at mohawkmaidencruises@gmail.com prior to your cruise. Of course, service dogs are always welcome.

Are there life jackets on board?

Both vessels carry more than enough life jackets for six passengers.

Do you offer private charters?

Yes, that's our specialty, but be aware we cannot take more than six passengers. Contact Captain Marla at mohawkmaidencruises@gmail.com for more information.

Can I call for more information?

Yes, but you will get a much quicker response if you email us at mohawkmaidencruises@gmail.com. We've found the telephone to be the least efficient way to communicate with our customers - you will get our voicemail and will have to wait longer for a return call. We can almost always respond promptly to email inquiries - unless we're piloting the boat when they come through!