I also forgot to mention the best part of the tour. NY Parks made sure we understood the historical importance of the canal. There where lectures by 19th century experts, visits to significant places along the canal and once while we were setting up our tents they hired a folk singer to seranade us with work songs from the canal era. We were allowed free entry to any canal related museum.

I can not expect another bike touring company to go to such lenths for a tour. When I was on the tour I met several people who take this same tour every year.