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N.Y.C Skyline Tours & Cruises

60 Minute Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Tours

Contact us for more information

Email: [email protected]

Phone(917) 795-6694

Relax and enjoy your narrated  60min  cruise to view the Statue of Liberty. Our yacht will take you within 100 feet of Lady Liberty.   Make use of our  indoor and outdoor seating as we travel along the east river.  Your tour will includes views of New York's famous skyline,  including The Freedom Tower, Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan bridge, Governor's Island, Battery Park, Ellis Island and so much more.   

Please tell us if you are celebrating a Birthday or Engagement so we can make your cruise extra special

This boat does not land on Liberty Island

Price per ticket:  $25.00 

(click green button)

Children under 5 are free

Majestic Harbor Cruise: April 2024

April 1 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 2 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 3 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 4 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 5 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 6 11am 1230 230 430 

April 711am 1230 230 430 630

April 8 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 9 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 10 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 11 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 12 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 13 11am 1230 230 430 

April 14 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 15 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 16 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 17 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 18 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 19 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 20 11am 1230 230 430 

April 21 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 22 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 23 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 24 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 25 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 26 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 27 11am 1230 230 430 

April 28 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 29 11am 1230 230 430 630

April 30 11am 1230 230 430 630

Boarding/Departure Location:299 South Street (Pier 36)

New York City, New York

Once you arrive to Pier 36 walk toward the river.

We dock at Slip 4

GROUPON GUESTS

Please arrive 15min before

sailing time

You do not have to reserve.

Bring your Groupon

the App. 

We will check you in with your

Groupon App

We cannot accept copies of vouchers

We cannot accept screen shots of vouchers

Please download the app before you arrive so we can redeem your vouchers upon boarding

Narrated by an English Speaking Guide

When you arrive to Pier 36 Walk around this building (see photo above) toward the water. Along the Water you will see a fence.  Walk to Gate #3.  We dock at Gate #3.  Currently Pier 36 is decorated with Sunflowers because of the Van Gough exhibit.  They have onsite parking for $36.00.  It is a residential neighborhood so if you drive around you should be able to find free street parking.  I usually find street parking near the pier.  See you soon!!!

Our current sailing schedule is: 

Please refer to schedule above

Hope to see you soon

 The MAJESTIC PRINCESS was designed for entertaining. Spacious decks and panoramic windows provide spectacular views of New York's skyline. 

The Motor Yacht Majestic Princess is 110' and USCG Certified to carry up to 300 passengers. She was designed for sightseeing/entertaining. The vessel is clement control for the comfort of its passengers. The vessel offer in-door and out-seating.

Professional Photography

Chicken Tenders/fries

Nachos and Cheese

DIRECTIONS BY SUBWAY:

F Train to East Broadway Take Rutgers St./Madison St. exit from station - Exit Walk east on Rutgers Street towards the water. Turn left on South Street heading north. Once you approach the Dept of Sanitation (on your right), Pier 36 is adjacent on the north side of Sanitation

DIRECTIONS BY CAR :

From FDR Drive - Southbound: FDR Drive South to Exit 3, towards South St/Manhattan Bridge. Stay straight to go onto FDR Drive. FDR Drive becomes South Street. Pier 36 is located at the intersection of South Street and Montgomery Street

From FDR Drive - Northbound: South Street north (under the FDR highway), past the South Street Seaport (do not go on the FDR Drive). Continue north on South Street (under the Manhattan Bridge, Pathmark on your left), until you see the Department of Sanitation on your right. At the next intersection (South Street and Montgomery Street), turn right at the light for Pier 36. (the entrance for the FDR north will be directly in front of you at the light).

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Sunset Sail - Shearwater

Watch night fall on the city as the sun sets behind the Statue of Liberty from the unbeatable vantage point of the harbor. The perfect way to kick-start your evening.

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Day Sail – Clipper City

Take a step back in time on New York’s only passenger tall ship. Enjoy the sailing experience of a lifetime while taking in the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and more!

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Are you looking for the perfect gift that combines adventure, romance, and breathtaking views? Look no further! Manhattan by Sail is thrilled to introduce our exclusive Gift Certificates, your golden ticket to a magical sailing experience in the heart of New York City.

at North Cove Marina

The Shearwater is a graceful Newport-style schooner built in 1929, perfect for groups up to 49 passengers . Have your wedding, birthday, or corporate event on board this classic, Gatsby-era sailing ship as she makes her way to the Statue of Liberty and around Manhattan, taking in the sights and sounds of the harbor. If your party is larger than 49, consider our larger boat, the tall ship Clipper City.

CLIPPER CITY

The original Clipper City was built as a cargo schooner in 1854, just prior to the Civil War. Rebuilt and refurbished from the original plans which were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution, at 158 feet, the Clipper City is an epic venue to host up to 149 guests on a sailing adventure around New York Harbor. Parties and events on our historic tall ships are absolutely breathtaking.

Your Manhattan by Sail Experience Includes

Sailing is About Prevailing.

At Manhattan by Sail, we’re your venue… and so much more. Today, aboard the Shearwater  and  Clipper City , we share the joy of sailing our beautiful harbor with visitors and New Yorkers alike. Offering an incomparable setting for your outing, we’ve developed into a world-class venue. On board during our specialty sails, you can enjoy the sweetness of live jazz music , local craft beers , spicy performances from some of NYC’s premier burlesque performers, and much more. But some things have remained the same since the beginning: our passion, commitment, and our caring, enthusiastic crew who sail each day with their whole hearts.

At Manhattan By Sail, we welcome you aboard to share in our joyful culture and to join us in falling in love with NYC, over and over again.

This is an experience I highly recommend and I'll definitely do again with friends. I booked this for a corporate group outing. It was a great summer Friday excursion with the best view of the city and statue of liberty you won't get on land. Drinks, lite bites, and the Hudson. If you're visiting NYC - Add this to your Things to Do list. If you live in the city, do yourself a favor and experience it in a new way. You'll leave feeling happy to live in such a majestic city.

Absolutely brilliant. Booked the shearwater lady liberty cruise through my New York Explorer pass so wasn't sure what to expect. When we got there was greeted by informative staff and the boat is truly beautiful a restored 1920s schooner. When on board the staff are lovely, gave us blankets and ponchos as it was slightly chilly and the odd spot of rain. Pointed things of interest out to us while on board and kept the great selection of drinks flowing. Brilliant, would recommend.

If you’re going to do a boat trip to see the Statue of Liberty why wouldn’t you choose a historic sailing vessel rather than one of the uninspiring motor boats? Being on a sailing ship with the sails up really adds to the experience. The crew are friendly and engaging and will encourage you to get involved in raising the sails, if you want to.

What a perfect way to enjoy the Upper New York Bay. Great company and both my girlfriend and myself were amazed that all the other boats were so over crowded and ours was perfect. Best way to see the bay and Statue of Liberty. No horrid motor sounds nice music played and drinks on hand friendly staff. Trust us go with this company and you won’t regret it. All the other boats had a frantic experience but ours was heavenly.

Both the ship and the crew were awesome! We especially liked the freedom to move around the entire ship from start to finish. Also not having it narrated turned out to be a plus - it was much nicer to just have informal talks with any of the crew members - they were all very nice and very knowledgeable. They engage volunteers to help and my son really had a great time helping to hoist the sail!

This boat was recommended by some friends & they were spot-on. Loved every aspect of the cruise & enjoyed having a chat with one of the crew members. Had a few cold beers on board too. By far the best value of anything we did in New York, which we found a very expensive city.

Despite being in the nearby area for the past three years this was my first time doing a sail around NYC. I bought tickets on a whim to surprise my boyfriend on a romantic excursion and it was honestly so much fun. The day was really cloudy and cold, but they provide blankets, which is convenient for those who didn’t come prepared. We purchased tickets for the cider tasting/sail, the drinks were good and we were also provided food. The staff were friendly and accommodating and we got really amazing views of the city, I was very happy with our experience.

This has to be the best way to have an enjoyable sail past Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You can take the incredibly cost-effective Staten Island ferry which zooms past or the organized and rammed tourist boats from Battery Park, which aren’t much slower. Only the clipper yacht passes closely in a duration which gives everyone plenty of time to stare in amazement and get all the photos you need. Our next visit will be with these guys on another one of their sailing tours. A must-do.

Excellent, relaxing cruise around the harbor including a great view of the Statue of Liberty! The weather was perfect and it was a fantastic way to end a hectic day of traveling. My daughter and I enjoyed wine as we sat on the deck and let the gentle breeze overtake us!

We've been on the Shearwater Brunch Cruise 3 times, & once on the Clipper City Beer/Lobster Roll Cruise. Excellent quality food & beverages, friendly & professional staff. I prefer sailing on the Shearwater since it's smaller & I like the more "intimate" experience. Can't say enough good things about Manhattan by Sail & I can't wait to go on another sail!

The Clipper City schooner cruise should be on every NYC visitor's list! We four travelers took a leisurely, exciting, and informative sail around the Statue of Liberty and can't wait to do it again. The captain and crew were personable, professional, and took excellent care of their passengers. It's also really easy to find. What a great experience and it was my 16 year old grandson's very favorite activity during our July trip! It's tops in customer service, communication, and it's TOPS on my to-do list for our next NYC trip!

A friend of ours suggested we try this and it did not disappoint! We had taken a ferry trip last time we were in New York and I have to say the sail boat is definitely the way to go! The staff were all so friendly and work SO hard. Views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan were incredible! A really super experience!

Boarding Locations

North Cove Marina at Brookfield Place New York, NY 10280

GET DIRECTIONS

Pier 17 at 89 South Street New York, NY 10002

Best of NYC

PIER 83, MIDTOWN

The only sightseeing cruise that completely circles Manhattan. See all of NYC's landmarks from temperature-controlled indoor seats or our huge outdoor deck.

• Outdoor Deck Space
• Snacks & full bar
• Photo stop at the Statue of Liberty

Cruises starting Tuesday, April 16

CRUISE SUMMARY

Our World Famous Best of New York Cruise

Experience the only sightseeing cruise in New York City that completely goes around the island of Manhattan in our temperature-controlled, state-of-the-art boats.

During this 2 hour and 30 minute cruise you’ll cruise along all three NYC rivers, pass under 20 bridges and see over 130 of the city’s most iconic landmarks including the Manhattan skyline , Little Island , Hudson Yards , One World Trade Center , Brooklyn Bridge and downtown Brooklyn , Yankee Stadium , the George Washington Bridge and, of course, an up close look at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island !

Our world-famous tour guides tell the story of New York City as you journey around the full island and enjoy the best sightseeing experience NYC has to offer!

Please Note In the rare event that extreme high tides or other occasions out of our control prevent us from circumnavigating the entire island of Manhattan as planned, we'll modify our route to still give you a fantastic 200+ landmarks tour. If you have concerns, please give us a call as early as 9:30 AM the morning of the day you plan to take a cruise (212) 563-3200.

What you'll see

Our flagship cruise with the best views + every NYC landmark

Sit back, relax and enjoy breathtaking views of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty while our award winning tour guides narrate every detail along your route.

Empire State Building

Standing 1,250’ (381m) tall, it was the world's tallest building from 1931 until the World Trade Center was completed in 1972.

Chrysler Building

Classic Art Deco architecture, the building dons gargoyles that depict car ornaments and a spire modeled on a radiator grille.

An extraordinary 1.45 mile-long (2.33 km) elevated park built on an abandoned section of a former railroad.

Statue of Liberty

Standing 305’ (93m) tall, Lady Liberty has welcomed visitors since she was bequeathed to America from France in 1886.

Ellis Island

The busiest US immigrant port processed over 12 million immigrants from 1892 to 1954.

South Street Seaport

The South Street Seaport is a historic area in New York City. It features some of the oldest architecture in downtown Manhattan.

Brooklyn Bridge

The longest suspension bridge when it opened in 1883, its 276’ (84m) high towers are built of limestone, granite and cement.

Manhattan Bridge

Constructed in 1901, the Manhattan Bridge is a suspension bridge, connecting Lower Manhattan with Downtown Brooklyn.

United Nations Headquarters

Designed by an international team of architects, the UN is an international zone with its own fire department and postal service.

Gracie Mansion

This federal-style home, currently the residence of NYC mayors, was once a country estate, an ice-cream parlor and a museum.

Yankee Stadium

In its 85+ year history, this “cathedral to baseball” has hosted 6,581 Yankees regular season home games.

George Washington Bridge

The world’s busiest suspension bridge spans the Hudson River and carries over 103 million vehicles per year.

Onboard Amenities

Our state-of-the-art boats come equipped with almost everything you need for a relaxing and comfortable cruise.

Unparalleled Views Pick a seat on the outdoor deck or enjoy the view from the huge panoramic windows in our temperature-controlled indoor cabins.

Did You Say ... Incredible Outdoor Deck The best way to see NYC and Lady Liberty is "al fresco" - outside in the fresh air, enjoying the cool breezes and the warm sunshine. It doesn't get better than this!

Temperature-Controlled Indoor Space Whether it's hot or cold, rainy or sunny, we have a temperature-controlled indoor deck with plenty of seating for everyone

Onboard Café *Freshly prepared menu of sandwiches, salads and snacks available to purchase.

Refreshing Drinks *Enjoy a full bar serving hot and cold beverages including beer, wine and cocktails.

Free WiFi No need to wait to upload your favorite photos and selfies!

George Washington bridge

Guests Looking at Henry Hudson Bridge

Plan Your Visit

Get ready, Get set, Get Directions to Pier 83

What To Do When You Arrive

• If you purchased Premier Tickets directly from circleline.com, please alert a red-shirted Ambassador and they will help you get through security to get to your seat quickly.
• If you bought standard tickets from circleline.com, Viator, Get Your Guide or Expedia, please go directly to boarding at the entrance to our Pier. Please have your bag open and ready to be checked by our security personnel.
• If you have a CityPASS and you have reserved your seats in advance at citypass.circleline.com , please proceed to directly to security.
• If you have another pass, such as NY Pass, Explorer Pass or Sightseeing Pass, or a voucher, please go to our ticket office to pick up your tickets and proceed to the security line.

Parking at Pier 83

If you're driving to Pier 83 we've got parking for you!

We offer convenient parking just steps away from our boats. We have a parking attendant and security personnel to ensure the safety of your vehicle and we offer covered parking as well.

Our daily rates start at $35.

Our Sightseeing Cruises Are Smoke-Free!

Smoking is not permitted on Circle Line’s regular sightseeing cruises including Liberty Midtown, Liberty Super Express, Statue at Sunset, Landmarks, Best of New York and Harbor Lights.*

Smoking may be permitted in designated areas on Circle Line’s Music Cruises, Bear Mountain Cruises, 4th of July and New Year’s Eve Cruises. Please plan your trip accordingly.

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The 11 best boat tours in NYC

All aboard! Book these NYC boat tours for incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and other iconic landmarks

In all of planet Earth, there is no other skyline quite like that of New York City. Whether by air or by land , the Big Apple’s skyscrapers and landmarks are iconic. But there’s one way of touring NYC that beats out the rest, hands down—by boat.  Whether from the upper deck of a yacht or hunkered down on a speedboat, views from the harbor show NYC at its absolute finest. From the Statue of Liberty to the One World Trade Center, you can take in all the biggest sights without dealing with packed subway cars and endless traffic jams. Below are some of the Big Apple’s biggest and best boat tours.

How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines .

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Best NYC boat tours

1.  Luxury Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise

So this is how to really do an NYC boat tour. Choose which fine dining food option you fancy and then settle into a blissful tour around New York Harbor, with a live pianist your exceptional aural entertainment. And sure, the luxury dining and the music might be pretty good but you wait until you gaze out across the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center from your private table with 360-degree panoramic views. 

Don't miss: The sultry sounds of the onboard jazz pianist who's on a mission to get people dancing.  

2.  Statue of Liberty Express Cruise

Perfect for the sightseer who knows exactly what he or she wants, this Circle Line express tour goes right to the Statue of Liberty – no pit stops this time. Listen to an expert guide point out some lower Manhattan landmarks before pausing for photos right next to Lady Liberty. And since this cruise only takes an hour, it’s easy to fit into even the busiest itinerary.

Don't miss: The perfect photo opp of the famous sculpture and other harbor landmarks. 

3.  New York City Sunset Sailing with Wine Tasting

Here’s one for the schmoozy, romantic vacationers. The NYC sunset sailing with wine tasting gives you the chance to gaze out as the sun drops below Manhattan, seeing NYC’s biggest landmarks (including the Statue of Liberty) all lit up in a golden glow. And to top it all off, you’re on a luxurious sailing boat, which is equipped, crucially, with a full bar. Not that you'll need it after your third cab sauv.

Don't miss: The snacks and cheese that have been expertly paired with the wines. 

4.  Manhattan: Private Sailing Yacht Cruise

Don’t want to share your views of the city skyline? You don’t have to on this private tour of the Hudson River at sunset. It’s your party, so you can bring any food or drinks you like on board. You’ll feel like a high roller as you kick back on your private yacht for the evening.

Don't miss: Chill with your crew on any of the three lounge areas, including the outdoor deck and sun pad. 

5.  Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

How better to get your bearing in a city as enormous as NYC than by circumnavigation? The Circle Line’s two-and-a-half-hour tour does a full loop of Manhattan Island, taking passengers past plenty of the city’s most popular sights in the process. Spanning three rivers and all five boroughs, you’ll even pass within touching distance of Lady Liberty herself. In other words, get your camera ready!

Don't miss: Non-English speakers can download the Circle Line app for a translated commentary. 

6.  New York City: Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise

Get a taste of the Big Apple’s nightlife scene with this happy hour boat tour on the Hudson River. The Alive After Five cocktail cruise has everything you need: a fully stocked bar, a dance floor, and a killer DJ. Did someone say tequila? 

Don't miss:  Views of the Manhattan skyline as the sun goes down and the lights turn on. 

7.  New York Water Taxi Cruises

You can't miss the water taxis, they look just like the car versions: big, bright and yellow. These little beauties cruise round New York Harbor daily, passing major sites like the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. You can stay on and complete the entire loop in 70 minutes, or hop on and off as you please, exploring the greats eats, shops and attractions in NYC's waterside neighborhoods.

Don't miss: They have a team that can help you create a custom route for your journey. 

8.  AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour

The area south of 59th Street is packed with architecturally significant buildings; there’s the Chrysler Building, the Woolworth Building, the Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center, just to name a few. This 90-minute boat tour led by a member of the New York chapter of the American Institute of Architects will cover all of Manhattan’s most significant structures, plus the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty.

Don't miss: Sip complimentary beer, wine, or Champagne from the bar while you learn about infrastructure, parks, and architecture.

9.  Staten Island Ferry

Put your purse away, because the Staten Island Ferry is totally free. That's right, in one of the most expensive cities in the world, you can find a free ride. This old chugger has been going since before any bridges were built, transporting folks from the 'burbs to Manhattan in 25 minutes. Boats leave South Ferry at Battery Park and run 24 hours a day.

Don't miss: The stunning panoramas of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

10.  1920s Schooner Cocktail Sail

Fresh air, ocean waves, Champagne cocktails, and a massive brunch spread of sandwiches, baked goods, fresh bread, fruit and more – it’s fair to say that this midday cruise on the Shearwater really does have it all. Sit back and relax as the crew guides the restored 1929 sailboat out into the harbor. If you’re lucky, the captain will even let you take a turn at the helm.

Don't miss: Each passenger is entitled to four Champagne-based cocktails – make sure you get your fair share! 

11.  Circle Line: Beast Speedboat Ride

Adrenaline junkies will want to book tickets for this supercharged half-hour ride through New York Harbor. The 70-foot speedboat known as the  Beast  zooms toward the Statue of Liberty at 45 miles per hour, kicking up plenty of waves. In fact, the ride can get so intense that guides recommend wearing wetsuits.

Don't miss: The ride is accompanied by a thumping soundtrack to really kick things into high gear.

Keen to beat the summer heat?

Where to go in NYC when you don’t have air-conditioning

• Things to do

When it’s as hot as it is humid in New York City, that leaky window unit just isn’t going to cut it

Want to rent your own boat?

The best boat rentals in NYC

Debating between a two-hour hire or a full-day trip along the Hudson? Choose a boat to start your adventures around NYC

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Take to the water and fall in love with NYC from the decks of one of our classic yachts. Renowned for our hospitality and our beautiful and elegant yachts - you can find respite, romance and refinement on all our excursions.  Learn more »

Architecture Tours

Join us for a round-island tour of Manhattan with the American Institute of Architects (AIANY) as your guide.  This is the most comprehensive and elegant tour of the New York City skyline today. Learn more »

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Host your own private event aboard a classic yacht in New York Harbor.  Office gatherings, client entertainment, weddings, birthdays for 2 to 120 guests across our fleet of 6 elegant USCG certified boats. Learn more »

Classically designed for a contemporary experience….

Join us on Yacht Kingston»

This is the most intimate sightseeing experience in NYC!

NY Harbor Sightseeing Cruises»

Join us aboard one of our classic yachts for a sightseeing cruise perfect for the family!

NYC Sailing Boat Rides»

Sail with us in NY Harbor! Kids Sail Free Monday through Friday from April 22nd to May 24th on all Day Sails!

Join us for Mother’s Day»

Celebrate Mother’s Day with us and join us for a scrumptious Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise

SEE MORE TICKETED EVENTS

Classic Harbor Line: New York City’s Classic Style Charter Boat and Tour Boat Fleet

Dedicated to helping locals and visitors alike enjoy the unique wonders of New York City, Classic Harbor Line hopes for the privilege of escorting you on a relaxing, inspiring, and breathtaking NYC cruise through the waters we proudly call home. Our five classic yachts — the  Schooner  Adirondack  and the  Schooner  America 2.0  (our sailboats),  Luxury Yacht  Manhattan , Yacht  Manhattan II , Yacht  Kingston  and the Yacht Full Moon (our motorized yachts) are reminiscent of the classic boats that cruised the NYC waters in the past two centuries.

Whether buying tickets for one of our New York Harbor sightseeing boat tours to cruise out to see the Statue of Liberty or privately chartering one of our large sailboats or motor yachts for an office outing, you are sure to find yourself on a beautiful boat, surrounded by warm and friendly service, plying through the majestic New York City waterways.

We offer a wide range of ticketed sightseeing boat tours in New York City. Whether you are a fan of cruising on an elegant motor yacht to see the entire New York City skyline with comfort and speed, or if you are inclined to take a more adventurous escape on our swift, double-masted sailboats, you are sure to find a cruise that will suit you with service that treats you like royalty.

We offer a variety of cruises!

NYC Architecture Tours: We collaborate with the American Institute of Architects New York Chapter (AIANY), offering different Architecture sightseeing boat tours around the island of Manhattan. From the original AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour to our brand-new NYC Climate Change Tour, you are sure to learn about the many iconic sights NYC has to offer. Enjoy one of these NYC Harbor cruises aboard our classic-style yachts. Learn More »

NYC Sunset Cruises: Watch the sun set behind the Statue of Liberty on one of our Sunset boat tours. Take in the sun's golden rays as they splash over the skyline of New York City, creating a wonderful collage of colors. These magical NYC sunset harbor tours are aboard our large sailing boats and motor yachts with plenty of space for passengers to move about along with premium customer service. Our NYC Sunset Cruises are relaxing, peaceful, and iconic! Learn More »

NYC Sightseeing Cruise When in NYC, you must do a sightseeing boat tour! Our yachts will bring you to see all of the major iconic sights New York Harbor has to offer. Crowd free, cruise with us in NY Harbor and grab some photos of the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, Ellis Island, Governors Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, and more! Learn More »

NYC Fall Foliage Boat Tour Take to the water and join us for an epic Fall Foliage Boat Tour on the Hudson River. Cruise with us to the Grand Palisades for a sightseeing boat ride to take in the last leaves of fall. This is the perfect leaf-peeping cruise to enjoy a day on the water with friends and family. Don’t miss out on this Hudson River Fall Foliage boat cruise! Learn More »

NYC Holiday Cruises Everyone loves NYC in December! We host holiday shows and cozy sightseeing boat tours aboard our classic boats. Cruise with us on one of our heated yachts decked out in holiday décor and take in the NYC sites of the Statue of Liberty and the New York City skyline. Sit back and relax and enjoy the sounds of holiday jazz music, or grab the family and sing along with us on our Cocoa and Carols Cruise! Learn More »

Private Boat Parties Plan your next private NYC event and rent one of our boats! Our yachts are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a private boat ride with us into NY Harbor as you and your guests take in the sites and sip on cocktails. Learn More »

Schooner America 2.0 »

Offering our most premium sailing experience in New York City, the Schooner America 2.0 is the newest, largest, and most elegant sailing vessel designed for our operation. Added to the fleet in 2010, America 2.0 offers the most exceptional day sailing one can find in New York Harbor. She is the fastest, most refined, and the most comfortable sailing vessel in our fleet and perfect to sail NYC!

The past meets the future aboard Classic Harbor Line’s Schooner America 2.0 . She is modeled after one of the most famous maritime icons of all time, the winner of the first “America’s Cup” of 1851, Schooner America . The “2.0” aspect of the vessel refers to the eco-friendly aspect of her cutting-edge construction by the designers at Scarano Boat Building, of Albany, New York . Rather than finding a diesel-consuming engine room below decks, you find a large battery bank providing electric propulsion. If you peeled away her hull, you find an extremely durable 3-layered composite of a light wood sandwiching an aluminum honeycomb instead a heavy, all wood vessel built from 100’s of trees. In place of a heavy wooden rig aloft, you find carbon-fiber masts, booms, and gaffs. Together, these strengthening and lightening components of construction help America 2.0 sail effortlessly and with less environmental impact.

From hoisting the sails, to serving beverages, to taking the time to answer your questions about the sights you are viewing, our crew aims for you to leave our boats feeling like you were always in great hands, and having made some new New York friends. We offer public trips for individuals, couples, families, and small groups, as well as private boat charters where you can customize the route, experience, and dining options for your guests.

The Yacht Manhattan & Manhattan II»

For power boat fans, the luxurious Yacht Manhattan & Manhattan II are the real gems amongst the New York Harbor boat tours . They are 1920s style, mahogany-trimmed “commuter” yachts that cruise with far fewer passengers than any other Manhattan sightseeing tour boat. Their ticketed harbor cruises average only about 20-100 guests per cruise. They have two regular routes on their ticketed cruises. One of the most unique is a 2.75 hour cruise that encircles the entire island of Manhattan, passing under 18 different bridges, and stopping briefly at the Statue of Liberty. The shorter 1.5 hour cruise is offered regularly during the afternoon, at sunset, and for stellar city lights cruises. This cruise on the Manhattan and Manhattan II captures all the key waterfront sites of the New York Harbor: the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Battery Park, the Financial District Skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, the East River and the United Nations Building, along with the numerous other landmarks of the Upper New York Harbor.

All of these cruises include a complimentary beverage from the teak and mahogany bar within the climate-controlled, sky-lit solarium. You can ride indoors or outdoors in absolute luxury and comfort year round. Aside from the yacht Manhattan’s regular ticketed schedule, you can also take advantage of many unique special event cruises. Each year there is a Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise, a Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise, a series of Fall Foliage boat rides up the Hudson River, a Wine Tasting Series, cruises offering specialty tours of New York Harbor, the only Around Manhattan Architecture Tour, and let us not forget a series of “Full Day Cruises” offering full day excursions to destinations on the Hudson River. Also, look for themed cruises to pop up throughout the year in the special events section of this home page.

Schooner Adirondack »

For the sailing enthusiast, a great way to take advantage of the New York Harbor sights is by sailing, aboard the elegant schooner: The Schooner Adirondack , our 80-foot wooden boat sails daily from Chelsea Piers May through November. She most commonly offers 2-hour day sails and sunset sails throughout the day with guaranteed passes by the Statue of Liberty. The Day Sails are perfect for families and guests interested in seeing the sites. These sails will always feature great views of the Lower Manhattan Skyline and Ellis Island, as well as complimentary beer, wine, Champagne and sodas. Wind and tide permitting, you may find yourself encircling Governor’s Island, or doing a short pass up the East River to get up close to the Brooklyn Bridge. Our Sunset Sail on the Adirondack is great for couples or co-workers looking to unwind after work. Another great NY Harbor sail for the romantic couple or a group of friends looking to have a fun night out on the water is the Schooner Adirondack’s City Lights Sail. This sail is truly magnificent and a local favorite. These sunset sails and city lights sails feature complimentary soda, water, beer, wine, and Champagne.

Yacht Kingston »

Yacht full moon », private charters ».

Private Boat Charters in New York City are an extremely popular choice for corporate entertainment or friends and family gatherings. Classic Harbor Line’s Private Events are perfect for 2 to 100 guests. The Boat Charters on the yacht Manhattan & Manhattan II can be accommodated with a wide range of services including full in-house catering, entertainment, and destination-oriented cruises. Please check out our Private Charters page for more information.

*****Tours not taxable, Food and Beverage served aboard are subject to NYS & NYC sales tax which is included in the cruise fares and beverage prices.

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

Gift certificates, see our calendar of events, private charters.

Sail out into NY Harbor and impress your guests. Step aboard one of our classic vessels for a private charter. These yachts are perfect for Corporate outings, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Team Building and more. Read more »

PUBLIC EVENTS

• Private Yacht Charters
• America 2.0
• Manhattan II
• Architecture
• Romantic Sails/Cruises
• Sightseeing Cruise
• Around Manhattan
• Sunset Sails/Cruises
• Holiday Cruises
• Fall Foliage
• Press/Video
• Buy Tickets
• Contact / Directions
• Our NY Locations
• All Locations
• Information/Rates
• Terms and Conditions
• Meetings & Conferences
• NYC TV, Film, Photo & Fashion Shoots
• Fundraisers & Galas
• Hudson River Cruises
• Tour Operators
• NYC Ferry or Transportation by Boat
• Take to the water and fall in love all over again.
• Accessibility
• Contact Classic Harbor Line: 212-627-1825
• Tickets: 212-627-1825

Copyright © 2024 Classic Harbor Line Chelsea Piers, Suite 103 New York, NY 10011 | Powered by Diedrich RPM.

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SEA THE CITY - NYC

Hot tub boat tour of new york harbor.

NYC HOT TUB BOAT TOURS

Was $449  now starting at $336.

Discover a whole new New York experience. Step aboard the city’s premier and exclusive hot tub boat tour, and see NYC’s iconic landmarks like never before, whether it’s a special occasion or a night out on the town.

User Ages: 18+ (min. age 10+ with parent/legal guardian) Calendar Days: Mon-Sun (TBA) Users Capacity: Up to 20 people Info Flexible Payment Options Now Available

ELEVATE YOUR CRUISE WITH THE STYLE AND COMFORT OF A HOT TUB BOAT

Select your tour.

Select from a range of tour, options including daytime cruises, sunset excursions, and evening outings. Discover the ideal experience that suits you.

Sip and Sail

Bring your own beer, wine, champagne, or hard seltzers (no hard liquor) while cruising and relaxing in the hot tub.

Personalized Marquee Boards

Are you celebrating a birthday or special occasion and would like to include a special message? Enjoy a complimentary personalized marquee board on any individual or private hot tub boat tour! Simply inform us of your desired message during the checkout process.

Professionally Trained Team

Our crew excels in both hospitality and expertise, ensuring your tour is a seamless and delightful experience.

Amenities Onboard

Enjoy the convenience of amenities including bluetooth speakers, coolers, ice, cups, and water. Full bathroom and separate changing room are also available on the boat.

Picture-Perfect Moments

Take stunning photos while on the water, capturing lasting memories aboard our unique Hot Tub Boat with the iconic Statue of Liberty and New York Skyline in the background.

Secure Your Spot: Flexible Payments Options Now Available

For Hot Tub Boat reservations exceeding $1000, you can secure your spot with a 50% deposit at the time of booking. The remaining balance is due 72 hours before your tour time. You have the option to provide another card for the remainder balance, or we’ll automatically charge the balance 72 hours prior to departure using the card you used for the initial deposit.

Enjoy a stress-free booking experience and focus on creating cherished memories aboard our Hot Tub Boat!

AS FEATURED IN:

For media inquiries, high-resolution images, or to schedule a press trip, please contact us at 2 01-335-2732 or by email at [email protected] . We’d love to share our story and provide you with everything you need to feature Sea the City in your publication.

NYC HOT TUB BOAT

Our 40-foot Coast Guard-certified boat is operated by a USCG licensed Master Captain. We launch from the beautiful Liberty State Landing Marina, just minutes away from the heart of New York City. Located across the Hudson River, we offer easy access to Manhattan’s vibrant financial district!

Make every moment feel like a celebration of life »

Elevate to new heights of luxury with a one-of-a-kind experience »

Relax in style and comfort, and on the water in your very own hot tub »

Unwind and escape from your everyday routine »

Want a little more adventure? 

Discover our top-rated Jet Ski tours! Let our tour guides take you for an exhilarating adventure around New York Harbor getting you up close  to some of the best sights NYC has to offer. Find out more about our thrilling Jet Ski tours now!

DISCOVER WHAT OUR GUESTS ARE SHARING

Wow what a way to see NYC. We had such an amazing time jet skiing along the Hudson hitting speeds up to 50mph. Yes it was pretty scary at first but the guides were great keeping an eye on us. We went so far along the Hudson from New Jersey to Brooklyn bridge and around Statue of Liberty. The guides were great at taking photos - we got so many action shots, definitely get the photo package! Such a great experience and something so different to say you’ve done in NYC!

he hot tub boat around Manhattan was one of the most wonderful things I've done. I highly recommend for a special occasion. The water temperature is perfect to hang out in for 90 mins in the cold without it getting too hot to handle. You will be up close to the statue of liberty and right under the Brooklyn Bridge. It's definitely a NYC highlight and I hope to do it again some day!

This was an awesome experience!! We did this for our friends 40th Birthday celebration! Zoey was our host & she was nothing shy of amazing along with the rest of the staff..they had everything we thought we forgot & some. We went on a Friday around 3pm. This was my 1st time, but I will definitely be back again. I highly recommend you try this one here!!

“I’ve sailed with Sea the City on their Hot Tub boats twice now (both on private tours with both tubs reserved, up to 20 people total), and the staff has been kind, understanding, fun, and easy. The first time was in Spring 2021, and the second time was recently in Spring 2023. They are thorough when it comes to a brief and safety rundown at the beginning of the tour, and for the rest of the evening, are completely on top of service when it comes to making sure the coolers are full of drinks, picking up empties, taking group pictures, etc. On this most recent reservation, I had indicated that my group was celebrating a special event, which was the Eurovision Final happening the following day. The staff actually put “Eurovision 2023” on a rainbow light board and took our picture with it. It was so fun and everyone was so surprise in the best way possible.

By far one of the coolest experiences ever! Made extra amazing by the wonderful and attentive staff that truly went above and beyond. Zoe, Kelsey and Captain made my best friend’s bachelorette a truly memorable experience. Can’t recommend this tour enough!

Statue of Liberty Boat Cruise & Walking Tours

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Statue of Liberty boat specialized in sightseeing tours to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island plus ground zero and the 911 memorial pools and ground zero. Operating guided tours of New York City. Sightseeing cruises for 60 minutes and 90 minutes departing from Pier 36 located at 299 South Street directly under the Manhattan Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge. Lady Liberty statue of liberty cruises operate daily. We partner with top landmarks 911 Memorial Museum, One World Trade Observation, The Edge located at Hudson Yard, Top of the Rocks, Metropolitan Museum. We are a charter partner of St Patricks Cathedral located on 5th ave in Rockefeller center.

Reviews from Tripadvisor

Contact info, +1 2125120515, [email protected], 1 battery pl, new york, 10004, usa, useful links.

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NYC Boat Tours Compared

Cruise around manhattan.

This post compares New York City boat tours and cruises to help you choose the best one.

We include cruises around Manhattan, hop-on-hop-off tourist cruises, lunch and dinner cruises, speedboats, sailboats, and more.

As local tour guides, we lead thousands of visitors each week throughout NYC. And some of us narrate on boat cruises as well.

One of the most oft-asked questions we answer has to do with choosing the right boat tour, cruise, ride, (whatever you call it).

We've used our expertise and experiences to help craft this post.

Additionally, we also used tips and opinions from the roughly 250k members of our popular NYC Travel Tips Facebook group .

Our group is comprised of locals, like our tour guides, expats, and regular visitors, as well as newbies to NYC.

You don't need to join the group to search for and read the posts, comments, and suggestions.

Check out the group once you are finished reading this post. A link can be found at the bottom of the page.

Now, on to our analysis.

• Single Trip Cruises
• Hop-On-Hop-Off
• Dinner + Night Cruises
• Speed Boats
• Statue of Liberty Cruises
• Free + Cheap Options

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

NYC BOAT CRUISES

These cruise options are typically short, sweet, and focused on specific areas of the city. You can expect to see a lot of the best landmarks alongside the New York harbor.

Tourist cruises will require you to arrive at a specific time. 

Many of these choices are included for free or at a concession on the New York Pass , New York Sightseeing Pass or Explorer Pass .

Read our guide on whether a tourist concession pass is a good fit for you. 

CIRCLE LINE CRUISES  

Probably the most popular of the cruise service companies, the Circle Line offers 3 different main sightseeing tours around Manhattan, as well as a number of themed tours, such as a sunset tour .

Cruises run daily and run from 1 - 3 hours in length.  

Sightseeing commentary is provided throughout the tours and there is a bar onboard where guests can purchase drinks. 

Where does Circle Line depart from?

All Circle Line boats leave from Midtown Manhattan, 42nd Street on the Hudson River.

The cost of the trip varies depending on which cruise you select.

However, Circle Line Cruises are included for free on the New York Pass , Explorer Pass , and New York Sightseeing Pass , so guests can really save money by taking advantage of one of the tourist passes!  

Does Circle Line go around Manhattan?

Yes, they currently have two different cruises that will take you around Manhattan (more or less).

This company currently has a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read the reviews ).

Although there are some negative reviews, an overwhelming majority of customers felt that the views and commentary provided on their cruise were excellent.

Also, according to members of our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group , premium seating is generally accepted as a necessary thing to purchase.

Liberty Cruise

This 1-hour cruise (which is also referred to as the Statue of Liberty Express) covers the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the One World Trade Center.

This cruise gets very positive reviews .

• Departs several times daily.
• Adult - $31 | Child - $26 
• More information or to book .

Included for free with the purchase of many of the tourist concession passes .

This cruise is also sometimes included as part of a combo package with a Big Bus hop-on-hop-off bus ticket .

If you're interested in visiting Liberty Island, make sure to read our post on Statue of Liberty cruises for more details.

Landmark Cruise  

This 90-minute cruise focuses on Lower and Midtown Manhattan, with the highlights being views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and other notable architecture.  

This cruise also gets very positive reviews .

• Departs 2-3 times daily.
• Adult - $37 | Child - $31 | Senior - $34
• More information and to book . 

Included for free with the purchase of any of the tourist concession

Best of NYC Cruise

This 2.5-hour NYC sightseeing cruise circles around the entire island of Manhattan and includes commentary on the Lady Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Harlem, and Yankee Stadium, among other things.  

This is their flagship tour, and it offers excellent views of the Manhattan skyline.

• Adult - $44 | Child - $37
• Departs 2 - 3 times per day
• More information or to book online .

This cruise is also included for free with the purchase of the  New York Pass  and the NYC Explorer Pass , both tourist concession cards.  

CITY SIGHTSEEING NEW YORK

This company offers a 90-minute Skyline Cruise that departs from Midtown Manhattan on the Hudson River and travels south, past the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge. 

This is actually their hop-on-hop-off cruise, but in this case, you just wouldn't get off.

With an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and Viator ( read the reviews ), it’s clear that the cruises offered by City Sightseeing are pretty popular.

Negative reviews tend to focus on poor customer service, but there are several comments from happy guests suggesting that this isn’t a very big problem.

Skyline Cruise

This 90-minute cruise is the only non-hop-on, hop-off boat tour offered by CitySightseeing.

It can also be booked as a night cruise .

• Boats depart from Pier 78 ( map ) 
• Several departures daily.
• $35 - Adult | $25 - Child

Predominantly a dinner and jazz cruise company in New York City, Hornblower also offers a 90-minute sightseeing tour called the International Sightseeing Cruise that includes views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty.  

This tour departs from South Street Seaport in Lower Manhattan.

Hornblower offers a free app that can be downloaded at home or at the pier that has an audio tour for the ride in 9 languages.

International Sightseeing Cruise

• Several departures Thursday - Sunday
• Tickets are $37 - For adult | $27 - Child 
• More information and to book .

At 3 ½ out of 5 stars  on TripAdvisor, Hornblower has the lowest review rating on our list. Even so, there are far more positive reviews than negative, indicating that most customers enjoy this cruise ship.

Those who didn’t enjoy their experience complained that their boat is getting old and the seating isn’t as comfortable as it once may have been. 

HOP-ON, HOP-OFF FERRY SERVICES

A hop-on, hop-off ferry allows you to travel by water around the city at your leisure.

The main advantage of this service is that you can use it whenever you wish within operational hours.

You won’t be required to arrive at a specific time and plan your day around this boat tour!

Many of these ferries are free with tourist concession passes .

NYC - CITY SIGHTSEEING CRUISE

Unlike their single trip sightseeing cruise, this is a hop-on, hop-off service with several terminals.

This boat makes stops at South Street, DUMBO, the World Financial Center, and Midtown. City Sightseeing also offers twilight and night tours.

They also offer a rainy day guarantee, which allows you to use your boat ticket at a number of popular indoor attractions.

The entire route takes 90 minutes if you do not get off. 

• $35 - Adult | $25 - Child
• Schedule posted below

The cruise service is also usually included for free with the purchase of the Sightseeing Pass and in their multi-day bus passes .  

Ferries run between 9:45 am - 3:45 pm, daily. Tours depart at the following times:

• Pier 78 in Midtown Manhattan  - 9:45 am, 11:45 am, 1:45 pm, 3:45 pm
• Brookfield Place Terminal in Lower Manhattan - 10:20 am, 12:20 pm, 2:20 pm, 4:20 pm

Reviews for this hop-on-hop-off cruise are generally very favorable. Although there were a few complaints, the majority of reviewers were very happy with their trip.

The only significant complaint was about how infrequently the boats run.

NEW YORK WATER TAXI 

Like their competitors, New York Water Taxi offers a hop-on-hop-off boat service that takes 90 minutes in total to complete.

However, you are free to jump off and explore the city at your own pace, hopping back on whenever you wish at several stops throughout the city.

NYWT offers 6 piers to explore compared to the 4 offered by City Sightseeing.

Although this isn’t technically a boat tour, they do provide recorded narration describing some of the sights you’ll see on the cruise.

This company runs about as frequently as similar services.

With a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Viator ( read the reviews ), New York Water Taxi might even be more popular than their competition.  

Ticket Costs:

• $37 - Adult | $26 - Child
• Departure every 30 - 40 minutes from each stop (10 am to 7 pm).

All-Day Access Passes are sometimes available at no extra cost with the New York Pass . This is not currently being offered, but it will likely return to the pass very shortly.

EAST RIVER FERRY  

This commuter ferry is the most economical choice for hop-on-hop-off service.

As the name suggests, this ferry service rides the East River and is a commuter boat, with single-ride tickets costing $4. 

If you’re looking for transportation that will allow you to enjoy a self-guided tour of NYC, this could be one of the most affordable options.

Despite the fact that they aren’t a cruise company, the East River Ferry actually has a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor.

Most passengers are very pleased with this affordable service, indicating that the ferry is an easy way to get around the city.

Find out about the many NYC ferries, by reading our  visitor's guide to riding NYC ferries .

NIGHT AND DINING CRUISES

This section covers evening cruises and we have a special post dedicated to dinner cruises.

There are a lot of different dinner cruises to choose from in New York City. Some offer better meals while others focus more on entertainment.

Whether you’re interested in hearing some great live music while you drift along the water or you want to wine and dine a loved one with a truly romantic experience, there are several great options to choose from.

If you’re curious about which cruise will best fit your desires, please read our post covering the  best dinner cruises in NYC .

In this post, we provide a list of the best dining cruises in the city based on 5 different criteria: lowest price, best dinner, best music, most romantic, and best specialty cruise.

We also include information about how to save money on these services with tourist passes and offer sites, making it easier to get a good deal on your dinner cruise.

Circle Line

If you're looking for a sunset cruise, consider one of these outings.

This company offers a 60-minute Statue by Night Tour. See the Statue of Liberty after dark!

Cruises depart at 7:30 pm (19:30) from Pier 16/South Street Seaport ( map ).

Harbor Lights Tour

There is also a 90 min Harbor Lights Tour which departs just before sunset so you can enjoy the skyline while the sun goes down!

Departs at 7 pm (19:00) from Pier 81 ( map ).

This cruise is well-reviewed ( read the reviews ).

• Adults/$41 | Children/$34

Included for free with the purchase of the New York Pass and the Explorer Pass .

Statue by Night Cruise

• $31 – Adult | $19 – Child
• Departs at 7:30 pm (19:30) from Pier 16/South Street Seaport ( map )

NYC   SPEEDBOATS

There are 2 speedboat companies, which offer guests a bit of a thrill ride as well as a tour!

These speedboats are usually a huge hit with families. If the typical boat tour or cruise doesn’t sound like fun, consider this alternative instead.

Although most of these services are not included on tourist passes, there is at least one speedboat cruise that is offered for free with an attraction pass .

THE BEAST  

Operated by the Circle Line company mentioned above, the Beast travels at 45 mph (73 kph) and gets within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty.

The Beast Speedboat Ride has earned a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( see the reviews ).

Very few people have left negative reviews, indicating that this speedboat tour is a pretty fun experience. 

How much does the Beast NYC cost?

• $30 - Adult | $25 - Child
• Departs every hour on the hour 11 am – 6 pm from Pier 81 ( map ).
• Available Wednesday - Sunday.

Included in the Go City New York Explorer Tourist Pass .

RIB New York

A new and incredible way to experience the New York City skyline by riding a RIB. This “Rigid-hulled Inflatable Boat” is safe, exciting, and perfect for sightseeing.

If you’re interested in a RIB ride in NYC, this company also provides high-speed cruises around the city.

With speeds of up to 50mph, there’s a good chance that you’ll get splashed while seeing such popular sites as the Statue of Liberty, Battery Park, The World Trade Center, and more.

This boat will also slow down near popular landmarks to give guests the opportunity to take photographs.

• Tickets start at $39 per person
• Not currently available due to the pandemic.
• If you're looking for an alternative, the New York Media Boat also offers a speedboat service.

This service is sometimes offered through the New York Sightseeing Pass .

NYC SAILBOAT CRUISES 

If you’re not in the mood for the usual cruise or a ferry ride, consider the more traditional route with a sailboat trip.

These services will allow you to sail around the city and go wherever the wind takes you.

  Ticket prices are a bit higher than some of the other options on our list, but you can also enjoy some of these services for free with various attraction passes .

Manhattan by Sail 

Manhattan by Sail has 2 different types of boats including the Shearwater and Clipper City , and each runs a huge variety of tours.

Sailing adventures include trips near the Statue of Liberty, NYC Skyline sightseeing, and sunset outings around the city.

Manhattan by Sail is a good option for those using a tourist pass, as several different attraction passes usually include this service.

Currently, Manhattan by Sail offers at least one of their cruises on the New York Sightseeing Pass .

• Adult Tickets: $45 and up
• Children Tickets: $25 and up
• More information and to book

Much like their competitors, Manhattan by Sail has received respectable reviews with an overall score of at least 4½ out of 5 stars ( read reviews here ).

Guests note that the prices are very reasonable and they provide excellent service. Customers also report that it’s pretty easy to get around on the boat despite there often being pretty big crowds.

Classic Harbor Line  

There are 3 types of boats available, including the Luxury Yacht Manhattan, the Schooner Adirondack, and the Schooner America 2.0.

Each offers different tours of surrounding sites, as well as a brunch option. You can expect sails at sunset, around the Statue of Liberty and providing views of the NYC skyline.

• Adult Tickets: $60 and up
• Children Tickets: $28 and up

Reviews for this service are pretty good, with most people giving Classic Harbor Line at least 4 ½ out of 5 stars ( read reviews here ).

The only complaints anyone seemed to have were that the boats can get crowded at times.

Aside from those issues, most people report that the views are spectacular and the service is excellent.

What Boat Ride in NYC is Free?

This section is a summary of the various free, and almost free, options for you to get out on the waters of NYC.

Though none of these options are "official" boat tours, each offers guests incredible views of the New York skyline, Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, and more.  

• Staten Island Ferry
• East River Ferry
• IKEA Shuttle Ferry
• Kayaking + Rowb oats

Budget Tip:  If you are planning on purchasing the one of the New York City tourist passes, most have boat tours included in the price. Read our post to see if one of New York tourist passes are for you . 

1.   Staten Island Ferry  

This may be the best known "secret" in the Big Apple. This is a free commuter ferry.

It just so happens that this ferry offers one of the best views of the New York skyline including a pretty close look at the  Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

The ferry departs Lower Manhattan and takes approximately 25 minutes to reach Staten Island, where you could get off and explore or just get back on and return to Manhattan. The ferry departs from Whitehall Terminal.  

The Staten Island Ferry operates 24 hours a day, so consider making this also a fantastic thing to do at night for a sparkling view of the city. 

Riding the ferry before or after our Lower Manhattan Tour  is a great way to spend half a day without spending half your budget!

We also offer this tour as a GPS-enabled audio tour .

2.  East River Ferry  

This is the cheapest boat ride in NYC, after the free Staten Island Ferry.  This is also a commuter ferry and costs the same as a subway, just $4 one way. 

The East River Ferry connects Lower and Midtown Manhattan making stops in Brooklyn and in Queens along the way.

In the summer, the ferry also goes to  Governors Island , located just near the tip of Manhattan.

From start to finish a ride is about 45 minutes.

Riding the ferry will give you great views of Lower Manhattan , the Freedom Tower, the Brooklyn Bridge (you ride right under it), the Manhattan Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge and a lot more.

Read our East River Ferry  post for all the details, schedules, stops and how to buy your ticket.

3. Water Taxi IKEA Shuttle Ferry  

This ferry service runs from Wall Street Terminal to Red Hook in Brooklyn.

It's free on weekends and $5 on weekdays. If you make at least a $10 purchase at IKEA (lunch?), then your weekday ride is free.

It's a great way to get to Red Hook Brooklyn and back without taking the subway.

4. Free Kayaking

Okay, so this option is definitely not a boat tour... but, it's an awesome idea and it's free!  

The Downtown Boathouse , one of the organizations that run the kayak rides is an all-volunteer organization. Donations are accepted.

They have four locations: Pier 26, Governors Island, Pier 40 and Pier 96.  

The Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse also offers free kayaking, where you can kayak underneath the Brooklyn Bridge .

5.  Village Community Boathouse  

Perfect for a more adventurous soul, Village Community Boathouse offers guests the chance to participate in completely free community rowing sessions after dusk from April - November.  

On Sundays they also have an additional rowing session at noon, as well as a variety of other activities intermittently throughout the year.

During the winter, guests can join in for a free boat-building lesson.

Is the Statue of Liberty ferry free?

No. Although there are many ways to save money on this activity, it is not free to visit the Statue of Liberty.

The Statue of Liberty ferry is the only way to reach this island. If you only want to see the landmark from a short distance, consider taking a Statue of Liberty cruise instead.

For more details about this service, please read our post covering how to visit the Statue of Liberty .

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Stephen Pickhardt

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• Complete trip duration: Approx. 2 hours

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