Quick Details
Join us as we welcome the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief to Downtown Rochester on September 27th, 2025!
Corn Hill Navigation, 280 Exchange Blvd Rochester, NY 14608
The Erie Canal’s Bicentennial & The Voyage of the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief
On the morning of Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Buffalo Maritime Center’s replica of the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief will embark on its Bicentennial Voyage, commemorating Governor DeWitt Clinton’s historic 1825 journey from Buffalo to New York Harbor.
A Buffalo Maritime Center crew, comprised of staff and volunteers, will navigate the 33-day voyage, departing from Buffalo’s Commercial Slip – the western terminus of the Erie Canal – and traveling to Pier 26 in New York City.
Along the way, the boat will dock at 28 ports along the Erie Canal and Hudson River before reaching New York City for the official commemoration of the canal’s opening – 200 years after Governor Clinton’s inaugural trip.
This historic journey invites Buffalo and communities across New York State to honor the past while envisioning the future.
Itinerary for September 27th, 2025
Location:
Corn Hill Navigation, 280 Exchange Blvd Rochester, NY 14608
| Time | Activity | Description |
| 10am |
The Planting of the White Pines & the Gathering of the Waters |
Join us as we plant a tree in North Star Commons!
As the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief journeys through New York State, we will plant White Pine trees as a symbolic tribute to the Haudenosaunee – a commitment to a sustainable future – and celebrate the communities along the canal. |
| 2-3pm |
John Dady Performs |
Live music |
| 2pm-6pm |
On Shore Activities Food Cart & Beverages Paddle Shaping & Wood Carving Activity |
Enjoy the riverway as we prepare to welcome the
Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief |
| 3pm | The Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief arrives in Corn Hill Landing | Welcome Ceremony with speeches, song, and dance |
| 4-6pm | Seneca Chief Open to the Public for Visitor Experience
Riverie Boat Tours Heart Throb String Band Performs |
Take a tour of the inside of Seneca Chief!
$10/Passenger for a short 30 minute Riverie boat tours down the Genesee River. Click the time to book your ticket: |
| 8pm | Fireworks Display | Book tickets for a 2 hour cruise from 6:30-8:30pm to board Sam Patch or Riverie to view the Fireworks Display!
Tickets are $75/passenger and include a glass of champagne and dessert Or join us on shore from Corn Hill Landing! |
SEPTEMBER 28th
ERIE CANAL BICENTENNIAL FLOTILLA
9am – The Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief, Riverie, and Sam Patch depart from 280 Exchange Blvd Rochester NY 14608
12pm – Arrival in Pittsford
2pm – FLOTILLA from Pittsford to Fairport