From transportation to being an economic generator, the Erie Canal has had a significant impact in the region for 200 years. The Erie Canal Cruises are offered daily out of Herkimer, which allow you to cruise the waterway and learn about history.

Jerry Gertz is the longtime captain and owner of the cruises. Gertz, 82, is the owner and has been the captain of the cruises for the last 18 years.

“If they get off this boat, and don’t know everything there is to know about the Erie Canal, I feel bad,” Gertz said.

He leads the daily sightseeing cruises from his “Lil Diamond” vessel that heads four miles east, then back west on the canal. His live and pre-taped narration covers a little history while the tour brings folks through what’s referred to as the “liquid elevator:” Lock 18 in Jacksonburg.

“The boat gets raised and lowered along with the people on it, of course. Twenty feet, and we historically narrate it all the way down, including the Herkimer church, the Fort Herkimer church, which is a historic church; one of the oldest in the state,” said Gertz.

The longtime sailor also loves adding commentary about his personal experiences, as he’s sailed through and around many parts of the country.

Last year, the canal tours were canceled as the locks were under construction. It was a summer when many things were on hold due to COVID-19.

“We lost 89% of our revenue. We lost almost $220,000,” said Gertz.

But now, he couldn’t be happier to have the cruises, and the people, back on board.

“Captain Jerry is totally knowledgeable. He has such an absorbent mind. And the cruise was beautiful, the day is beautiful. It’s great to be on the water, and I would recommend it for anyone,” said passenger Rebecca Allen.

“I love the people. I just love the people,” said Gertz.

Sightseeing cruises on the Erie Canal in Herkimer began in late May and run twice daily through October 11.

For more information on these cruises, visit the Erie Canal Cruises website. For other opportunities to see the sites across other parts of the state, visit the Erie Canalway ‘Explore’ page.