SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Discover Schenectady and the Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority today announced that starting this Friday, June 10, boat tours will be available on the Mohawk River. Residents and visitors can now enjoy a two-hour cruise between Locks 7 and 8 on a 25-foot tritoon boat.
Tours are available every Friday, Saturday and Sunday starting at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 4 p.m. until mid-October. Reserve tickets are $45 per person, with a maximum of eight people. The entire boat can be reserved for $360. Four and six-hour trips are also available by request. Reservations and additional information can be found at the Mohawk River Boat Rides website found here: http://mohawkriverboatrides.com.
The tour boat’s pilot, Captain George Kozer, is a decorated United States Coast Guard veteran who served on a cutter in Alaska performing numerous life-saving helicopter search and rescue missions in the Aleutians. An experienced big game fisherman, Kozer is now a semi-retired business owner who has called the Capital Region home for the past 25-years.
“We are excited to partner with Captain George Kozer to bring this attraction to Schenectady County,” said Schenectady County Legislator Cathy Gatta, Chair of the Tourism, Arts & Special Events Committee. “Not everyone has access to a boat of their own. These tours will allow visitors to learn about the Erie Canal’s rich history and enjoy the beauty of our community from a different perspective.”
Captain Kozer was introduced to Schenectady officials by Brian Stratton, New York State Canal Corporation Director.
“We thank Canal Director Stratton for putting us in touch with Captain Kozer,” said Todd Garofano, Executive Director of Discover Schenectady. “Working with Metroplex and the Galesi Group, developers of Mohawk Harbor, we are excited to add river tours of the Mohawk to our roster of summer and fall events.”
“Mohawk River Boat Rides is a fantastic addition to the amenities available at Schenectady’s Mohawk Harbor and proves that nearly 200 years after its opening, the Erie Canal continues to drive economic growth as a recreational destination that offers both residents and tourists alike endless opportunities for adventure,” said New York State Canal Corporation Director, Brian U. Stratton. “By riding aboard the tour vessel, participants will experience America’s most enduring waterway while learning local history as they view the Electric City and surrounding landscapes from the water.”
“My top priority is always the safety of my passengers, followed by giving them a fun and historic ride on the Mohawk River,” said Mohawk River Boat Rides owner & operator, Captain George Kozer.
“The beauty of the Mohawk and the compelling history of the Erie Canal is sure to be a memorable experience for all my passengers. I’m really looking forward to spending time with them on the river this summer and fall.”
About Discover Schenectady
Discover Schenectady is a non-profit organization responsible for promoting travel, tourism, conference and convention assets and opportunities throughout Schenectady County. Discover Schenectady inspires visitors to experience and enjoy that Schenectady County has to offer, from its vibrant communities with dining, entertainment and shopping to its gorgeous waterfront and outdoor activities. For more ways to Discover Schenectady County all year long, visit www.discoverschenectady.com.