From Saltwater Survivor to Cayuga Legend: The Story of the Cayuga Kraken

May 21
3 min read

There are easier ways to launch a new boat.

We could have ordered something shiny and brand new, slapped a logo on the side, and called it a day. But that’s not really our style.

The Cayuga Kraken has a story.

And like Ithaca itself — a city built between rugged gorges, waterfalls, and generations of hard-working character — this boat was never meant to be ordinary.

A Long Journey From the West Coast

Before it was destined for the Finger Lakes, the future Cayuga Kraken spent years operating in harsh saltwater conditions on the West Coast. By the time she arrived in New York, she had clearly earned her stripes.

The deck was weathered. The hardware was tired. Salt and years of hard commercial use had taken their toll.

To most people, it looked like an old crusty cycle boat nearing the end of its run.

To us?

We saw potential.

We saw the bones of something incredible.

Because underneath the wear and tear was exactly what we needed: a proven commercial vessel with personality, history, and a chance at a second life.

And that’s where the transformation began.

Rebuilding the Kraken

This wasn’t a simple cleanup.

The goal wasn’t just to make the boat usable again.

The goal was to create a floating work of art worthy of operating in one of the most beautiful destinations in New York State.

Cayuga Lake deserves more than just another boat.

Ithaca deserves an experience.

So we got to work.

The first stage of the transformation focused on stripping away years of grime, salt, and wear from the deck and structure. What had once looked tired immediately started showing signs of life again.

Before

Even in the early stages, the difference was impossible to ignore.

What looked worn out on arrival was beginning to look like something entirely new.

The New Identity

Every great vessel needs a personality.

For Ithaca, there was only one name that fit.

The Cayuga Kraken.

Part lake monster. Part party machine. Part floating karaoke-fueled chaos.

The new vinyl graphics are now going on, completely changing the look and energy of the boat.

Gone is the faded saltwater workhorse.

In its place is a bold new flagship built for:

unforgettable lake days,
karaoke on the water,
birthdays,
bachelorette parties,
sunsets,
swimming stops,
and the kind of memories that only happen when you mix great people with Cayuga Lake in the summertime.

After

The transformation is still underway, but the vision is finally becoming reality.

Why Ithaca?

After two successful seasons operating the Seneca Siren on Seneca Lake, one thing became clear:

The Finger Lakes were ready for more.

And there may be no better place for the next chapter than Ithaca.

With its legendary gorges, waterfalls, wineries, breweries, college-town energy, and incredible waterfront, Cayuga Lake is the perfect home for the Kraken.

This isn’t just another charter boat.

It’s a new way to experience Ithaca from the water.

The Kraken Is Almost Ready

The launch countdown has officially begun.

More upgrades are still underway, and we’ll continue documenting the transformation every step of the way as the Cayuga Kraken prepares for her first official voyages.

And the excitement is already building.

Before launch, over 150 boarding passes have already been sold.

Ithaca… we hope you’re ready.

Because the Kraken is coming.

What to Expect Aboard the Cayuga Kraken

🚲 Up to 16 passengers
🎤 Karaoke on the water
🍹 BYOB-friendly
🌮 Bring your own food & snacks
🎉 Private group charters
🌅 Unmatched Cayuga Lake sunsets

Whether you’re planning a birthday, bachelorette party, company outing, or just an unforgettable day with friends, the Cayuga Kraken is built for one thing:

Making memories.

Follow the Transformation

We’ll be sharing behind-the-scenes photos, progress updates, launch announcements, and transformation videos as we get closer to opening day.

Follow along on Facebook and Instagram and watch the Kraken come to life.

👉 Book your future cruise at: