Tickets for our 2025 summer eco cruises are on sale now! Our Floating Classroom offers public learning cruises each summer, providing a hands-on exploration of water ecology on New Jersey’s largest lake. Aboard this unique vessel, participants conduct experiments, observe lake life up close, and gain a deeper understanding of Lake Hopatcong and its ecosystem. It’s a fun and engaging way to get on the water and connect with the natural world.
Each eco-cruise gives guests a chance to dive into hands-on lake science, from testing water clarity with Secchi disks to examining plankton collected right from the lake. Along the way, participants learn about the local ecosystem, the factors that affect it, and simple actions that help protect it. The experience leaves guests with a deeper understanding of Lake Hopatcong—and a sense of optimism for its future.
Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for children aged 17 and under, and $23 for seniors aged 65 and up. Activities are geared toward guests who are at least 10 years old, but younger guests are welcome to join the cruise. * All minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Please note: In addition to your ticket fee, there is an entrance fee to Hopatcong State Park of $6 per car for New Jersey residents and $10 per car for non-residents.
Cruise tickets are non-refundable unless the Lake Hopatcong Foundation cancels the cruise due to severe weather or low attendance. If a cruise does not meet the minimum capacity, we’ll contact you at least 24 hours in advance to offer a reschedule or a refund.
Parking is available at Hopatcong State Park. DO NOT PARK in the area designated for boat trailer parking only.
A crew member will be stationed in the left corner of the parking lot, near the boat ramp, to direct you to the Floating Classroom.
Guests are encouraged to dress warmly, in layers, and wear sneakers. It is always chillier on the lake than it is on land. The cruises will run RAIN OR SHINE. The boat is covered to provide protection from light weather.
Guests are encouraged to use the park's restroom facilities before boarding, as none are available on the Classroom.
Life jackets are available for all guests and are required for any guests 12 years of age and under.
Monday, July 7, 11 - 12:30 pm - Tickets Available
Monday, July 14, 11 - 12:30 pm - Tickets Available
Monday, July 21, 11 - 12:30 pm - Tickets Available
Monday, July 28, 11 - 12:30 pm - Tickets Available
Monday, August 4, 11 - 12:30 pm - Tickets Available
Monday, August 11, 11 - 12:30 pm - Tickets Available
Monday, August 18, 11 - 12:30 pm - Tickets Available
Monday, August 25, 11 - 12:30 pm - Tickets Available
Reminder: Hopatcong State Park entry fees are not included in your ticket price.
