I was torn between doing the Hudson Cruise in Kingston or doing a Hudson River Cruise in Albany, since we would be up that way later in the weekend. I chose to go with Hudson River Cruises and am so glad I did! Not only was the cruise beautiful, but so were the people! I casually mentioned that it was my husband's birthday when I was purchasing the cruise, and the gentleman selling the tickets quietly called me back over to the window and asked my husband's name so they could put it up on the screen later in the cruise. The photographer secretly took a couple of pictures of my husband and I, and added it to the presentation on the screen, including a birthday message to my husband. He thought it was so fun! The photographer was so nice, and even gave my husband a free photo for his birthday.
As for the cruise itself, it was the perfect blend of informative and relaxing. It wasn't one of those cruises where the tour guide or captain is talking in a steady stream. While I never looked at a building, or a lighthouse, or an interesting bit of topography without learning about it, there were several moments of quiet from the captain that allowed us to simply sit back and enjoy the experience. The boat was in good condition, the snack prices were very reasonable (at least compared to what they might be further down state), and the bathrooms were very clean and well-kept (especially on a boat!). The price of the ticket was very reasonable for the length of the trip. All in all, highly recommended. Once we saw the dilapidated condition of the boat they use for the Hudson River Cruises out of Albany, we were doubly glad we had sailed out of Kingston!