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SCHOOL FIELD TRIP CRUISES

HISTORY COMES ALIVE ON A SCHOOL FIELD TRIP CRUISE!


Educational Field Trips

Welcome aboard the most exciting and educational field trip! Take your students on a journey back in time with a cruise on the historic Erie Canal!

Imagine yourself in the early 1800’s traveling the Erie Canal, being raised and lowered through the locks and listening to tales spun by your Captain. This experience can be yours aboard a Lil’ Diamond vessel. Hear the history of the Canal from its origins in Rome, NY to its current role today.

Our 90-minute cruise is BOCES approved and compliments the 4th Grade curriculum. We travel through a lock and feature a lively question and answer session especially for school groups.


School Field Trip Group Ticket Prices

$18.00 per person (grades K-8)*, $20.00 per person (grades 9-12)*
*Minimum requirement of 30 paid passengers to qualify for the group rate.

We offer two complimentary tickets with the minimum paid passenger requirement being met.
Our cruise season runs from mid-May through mid-October.

Reserve your field trip today by calling our Group Sales Office at 315-941-7585

ARRIVAL TIMES

  • Please arrive 30 minutes prior to departure
  • Boarding: 15-30 minutes before departure at Gems Along the Mohawk.
  • We are located directly across the street from Exit 30 of the NYS Thruway –  continue straight into the parking lot.
Address: 800 Mohawk St, Herkimer, NY 13350


ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION

Our crew members are trained to help guests navigate our docks and vessel and are prepared to assist. Our vessel does have mobility limitations. We strongly recommend calling ahead to (315) 941-7585 for specific concerns.


Erie Canal Cruises, Inc. reserves the right to cancel any cruise, change schedules or routes and substitute vessels at any time without prior notice. All lock cruises are subject to lock availability.


Frequently Asked Questions

Does Lil’ Diamond II cruise in the rain?

  • Yes! The decision to go out is always at the discretion of your captain, but we cruise rain or shine in our weather-protected vessel.
  • Guests can cruise in comfort while enjoying a breathtaking view of the Erie Canal.

Are food or drinks served during the cruises?

  • Outside food and/or drinks are not permitted onboard!
  • On Lil’ Diamond ll (LD2), we have soda, water, and bagged snacks available for cash purchase.
  • If you are looking for a full menu options for your group, we have a great restaurant on-site called the Waterfront Grille. Arrangements can be made directly by calling 315-717-0700 and speaking with Rocky. He’s best reached weekdays, 2:30 -4:30pm.

Will I get motion sickness?

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

Are restrooms available on board?

  • Yes, there is a restroom on board.

Can I bring my pet?

  • All pets, other than registered service dogs, are not allowed on any cruise.
  • If you need to bring a registered service dog, please let us know in a “Message to the Seller” box upon purchasing your tickets.

Are there life jackets on board?

  • Our vessel is U.S. Coast Guard certified and we have more than enough life jackets for all passengers.

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

  • Group Sales must be completed in advance of your arrival.
  • To be sure you are able to purchase tickets for the cruise date & time you prefer, we suggest you purchase tickets early.

Is it customary to tip the crew?

  • Yes, it is customary, but it’s completely at the guests’ discretion. They are greatly appreciated.

Smoking Policy?

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

Is the cruise suitable for pregnant women?

  • Absolutely, our vessel cruises in the smooth waters on the Erie Canal. The ride is smooth, stable, and gentle.