Boat Tours are something we've always enjoyed and this one did not disappoint! We discovered Ithaca Boat Tours' "Wine on the Water' tour via their website and figured it'd be a great way to spend the evening. We were right! We boarded the MV Haendel and left the docks a little after 7:00 under the care of the seasoned Captain Paul and were treated to a knowledgable tour of the lake and surrounding areas by the very pleasant young tour guide, Ben. The very best part, however, was meeting Cindy, the boat's owner and our hostess for the evening who provided wine, light snack fare and friendly conversation.
Cindy treated us to a generous tasting flight of four different wines from Ithaca's own Six Mile Creek Vineyard (a different local vineyard is featured on each Wine on the Water tour). The guests enjoyed this pleasant local wine with cheese and crackers, fruit, olives, and cookies! Cindy mingled amongst the crowd sharing stories of the boat's history, pouring the wine, and passing around the snacks. She was a real hit with the guests; personable and sociable. She broke the ice among strangers and had us talking to people we may have never had the nerve to introduce ourselves to.
As the sun set over the lake we sipped wine, grazed on grapes and chatted with Ben the tour guide who seemed to enjoy his job very much. Definitely worth the $50. We'd do it again and again.
The Wine on the Water Tour isn't their only tour, however, and we'd suggest checking out their other...
   Read moreI highly, highly recommend Ithaca Boat Tours. We chartered the Patrick T. Kennedy boat for a family reunion and it was absolutely perfect. The price is extremely affordable for a private beautiful evening on the lake. We were staying in downtown Ithaca and it was very convenient to get to (5 min drive from our hotel). We loved the military history of the boat. The entire boat is very easy to maneuver around (even for 70+ ages) and anywhere you are will be fantastic viewing. There is easy seating on one end and on the other end is comfortable standing along the railing for great views and breezes. Captain Dave is super responsive, on top of every detail, and incredibly friendly. The crew on the boat were professional and friendly -- we felt completely safe. They provided coolers and ice - no charge. We brought some sodas and wine and now have an unforgettable memory of...
   Read moreThis was my first boat tour and it won’t be my last! Captain Dave took me on a cruise of a lifetime! I was able to bring my own wine aboard which he kept chilled, and kept our cups full! His demeanor and personality shows he knows his stuff and he really enjoys what he does. As soon as we hit the water all my pain and depression started to go away, I felt at one with all the elements around me, air, water and sun. The motion of the boat made me feel hypnotized. The scenery was breathtaking. The only thing I would want to do is cruise for longer! Thank you so much Captain Dave, I hope to see you again in October, if you are still open then. Im still feeling good from my sunset cruise. Thank you, thank...
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