Sam Patch, Riverie prepare to cruise Rochester waterways once again

Mike Murphy, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
·3 min read

Corn Hill Navigation's Riverie and Sam Patch will once again cruise the historic waters of the Genesee River and Erie Canal.

The vessels, with cruises intended to offer insight into the region's history, culture and distinctive biodiversity aimed at fostering the preservation and improvement of the two waterways, will start their journey down the Erie Canal on May 10.

The cruises offer a distinct cultural experience to enjoy nature's beauty from a unique perspective and explore the waterways’ significant historical and natural sites, said Patrick Russell-Walsh, executive director of Corn Hill Waterfront and Navigation Foundation, in a statement.

“We are excited to offer a wide range of immersive journeys led by knowledgeable onboard guides, providing a glimpse into our region's heritage,” Russell-Walsh stated. “Rochester’s iconic landscapes, rich culture and historic heritage truly come to life on a Corn Hill Navigation cruise."

Could this be a Mother’s Day gift? Why, yes it could

The Riverie cruises the Genesee River and Erie Canal out of Corn Hill Landing in Rochester.
The Riverie cruises the Genesee River and Erie Canal out of Corn Hill Landing in Rochester.

To celebrate the season's start, Sam Patch will host its popular special Mother's Day cruises on Saturday, May 11, and Sunday, May 12. The craft departs from Schoen Place in Pittsford.

Complimentary mimosas will be offered to mothers joining the 10 a.m. cruises, and they must be 21 years of age and older. Mothers on other cruises that weekend can enjoy a complimentary beverage of their choice.

For more information on ticket pricing visit: cornhillnav.org/mothers-day-cruises.

New cruises of Genesee River and Erie Canal

Mother’s Day weekend is only the kickoff of a season on Rochester’s waters.

The new Arts and Culture Series will feature guest speakers from the Erie Canal Museum who will present monthly talks monthly aboard the Riverie on subjects related to the Erie Canal and Genesee River.

Cruises for children are being introduced this season with 75-minute morning boat rides on the Sam Patch, with activities specially designed for young passengers.

Boxed lunches provided by Neutral Ground Coffeehouse will be available for purchase on select afternoon cruises on both boats.

Rohrbach Brewing Co. will debut two new beers in partnership with Corn Hill Navigation.

The Nautical Mile is a hazy session IPA double dry-hopped with New Zealand Nelson Sauvin hops for notes of white wine, sweet fruit and gooseberry. The Sam Patch Porter is named after the infamous daredevil who took his last successful jump at Rochester’s very own High Falls.

For information on these and other cruises offered, or to book a cruise, visit cornhillnav.org/riverie and cornhillnav.org/sam-patch.

About the Riverie

Launched in May 2023, Riverie is a key component of Rochester’s ROC the Riverway initiative and the only passenger cruise boat on Rochester’s Genesee River.

The 33-passengerRiverie, which cruises the river and parts of the Erie Canal, offers a wide array of cruises and on-the-water STEM-based experiential learning for thousands of students annually. It is available for private charters and themed cruises.

Riverie cruises depart from Corn Hill Landing at 280 Exchange Blvd. in downtown Rochester. Refreshments and drinks are available to purchase on all cruises. Per current U.S. Coast Guard regulations, infants ages 3 and under can ride for free, but must be ticketed.

About the Sam Patch

The Sam Patch cruises the Erie Canal out of Schoen Place in the village of Pittsford.
The Sam Patch cruises the Erie Canal out of Schoen Place in the village of Pittsford.

The Sam Patch replica 1800s packet boat offers historical, educational and entertaining cruises from Schoen Place in the Port of Pittsford. Launched in 1991, the boat's mission is to increase awareness of Rochester's waterways through guided tours along the Erie Canal, educating students and hosting events that contribute to the region's cultural landscape and tourism.

Onboard amenities include drinks, snacks and restroom. Cruises depart daily from Schoen Place in Pittsford. Annually, over 11,000 people from all 50 states and more than 30 countries cruise on the Erie Canal on the Sam Patch, which is named for the 19th-century mill worker who gained fame as America's first daredevil by leaping off waterfalls, including Rochester’s High Falls.

This article originally appeared on MPNnow: Sam Patch, Riverie prepare to cruise Rochester NY waterways once again