1.  What is the Tugboat Roundup?

    The Tugboat Roundup is an annual event where tugboats and other historic vessels gather for a weekend of festivities, including a tugboat parade, tugboat tours, demonstrations, live music, tug talks, and family fun.

  2. Where and when can I watch the parade?

    The tugboat parade starts in Albany at 3:30 PM and arrives in Waterford around 6PM. It can be viewed from anywhere along the Hudson between Albany and Waterford.

    Approximate viewing locations and times are:

    3:30: USS Slater, Broadway and Quay Streets, Albany, NY 12202

    3:40: Jennings Landing and Riverfront Park at the Corning Preserve

    4:10: Mohawk Hudson Bikeway, Fourth Street Parking Lot, Watervliet, NY

    4:30: Hudson Shores Park, Watervliet, NY

    4:40: Troy Riverfront Park, River St. Troy, NY

    4:40: Dinosaur BBQ, River St. Troy, NY

    4:55: Ingalls Avenue Boat Launch, Ingalls Ave, Troy, NY

    5:50: 112 Street Bridge, Between Cohoes and Waterford. From bridge, walkway on the Cohoes side, or small park on north side of Bridge in Lansingburgh

    6:00: Peebles Island, overhang deck behind pavilion on east side of the island

    6 - 6:30: Waterford Harbor

  3. Can I tour the tugboats?

    Yes, many tugboats are open for tours during the Tugboat Roundup. It's a unique opportunity to step aboard these historic vessels, learn about their history, and experience their working environment. Please ask permission to board or check for signs to confirm that the particular tug you are visiting is open.

  4. Can I ride on a tugboat?

    Most of the tugboats that participate are either active commercial vessels or privately owned and not in a position to provide rides to the public. Occasionally (typically every other year or so) the W.O. Decker from South Street Seaport attends the Roundup and can provide tugboat rides.

    Pontoon boat rides are available.

  5. When and where does the Tugboat Roundup take place?

    Tugboat Roundup takes place annually the weekend after Labor Day in Waterford, NY along the Waterford Harbor Promenade and Lock E2 Park. Directions and parking information is here: https://www.tugboatroundup.com/directions

    Note that the event takes place within a residential neighborhood. Please consider carpooling, using auxiliary parking, and taking the trolley.

  6. What activities can I expect at the Tugboat Roundup?

    Activities typically include the tugboat parade, tugboat tours, boat rides, tug talks, live music, food vendors, maritime demonstrations, and children’s activities like face painting and bounce houses. It's a celebration of maritime heritage and a chance to see working tugboats up close.

  7. Can I bring my family and kids to the Tugboat Roundup?

    Absolutely! The Tugboat Roundup is a family-friendly event with activities for people of all ages. Children often enjoy exploring the tugboats and participating in the various interactive displays.

  8. How much does it cost to attend the Tugboat Roundup?

    Tugboat Roundup is free to attend. Most of the activities at TBR are offered at no cost. Food, merch, and vendor items are available for purchase.

  9. Is there parking available?

    The Tugboat Roundup takes place along a quarter mile of the Erie Canal and at Lock E2 Park. The address 1 Tugboat Alley, Waterford, NY will take you to the Hurst Harbor Center (formerly the Waterford Visitor Center) at the heart of the festival. However, parking is very limited in this area. A satellite parking lot is available. A trolley to the festival is available from the parking lot to the festival (Saturday and Sunday only). It is a short walk from the parking lot to the festival. You will see signs for the parking lot when you arrive in Waterford. If you choose to find a parking spot closer to the festival, please note that this is a residential area and be respectful of homes and driveways. Typically there are more spaces available north of Broad St, and then short walk south to the festival.

  10. Can I bring my dog to the Tugboat Roundup?

    Dogs are generally welcome at the Waterford Harbor. However, keep in mind that it does get crowded and can be very loud. Use discretion and always keep pets on a leash.