How to Tour Bannerman Island Without Having to Take a Kayak

If you've always wanted to visit Bannerman Island but didn't want to have to row a kayak there you're in luck, but you better plan now.

The Bannerman Castle Trust has announced a schedule of tours starting this Spring that includes a boat ride from either Newburgh or Beacon. The 2.5 hour excursions include a 30 minute board ride that leaves from either Blue Point Restaurant in Newburgh or the Beacon dock. During the ride over a guide will explain about the history of the island and the famous castle.

After docking at the island there is a guided walking tour that will let you see the castle ruins, the Bannerman Garden and residence area. Because of safety concerns, no one is allowed inside the buildings, but seeing them up close and learning about their fascinating history is something everyone should experience at least once. This aerial footage shows what the island looked like at the end of last year's tour season.

Tickets are $35 per adult and $30 for children age 11 and under. The tours are conducted by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, with all proceeds going to benefit Bannerman Island preservation efforts.

Rides from Newburgh are on Sundays beginning on May 1. Beacon excursions are mostly on Saturdays and some Sundays starting on April 30. The first trips from Newburgh have already sold out, so you may want to book your trip soon.

You can purchase tickets for tours leaving from Newburgh and tours starting in Beacon online. Tours will also be leaving from Cold Spring this summer, but those tickets have not yet gone on sale.