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New York CityCruises & boat tours

Our most recommended New York City Cruises & boat tours

NYC: 1-Hour Cruise Around Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

1. NYC: 1-Hour Cruise Around Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Take a 60-minute boat ride to within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty. Cruise right under the Brooklyn Bridge and see the most famous skyline in the world. Your live English guide will point out the sites as you journey along the river including the Empire State Building, the new Freedom Tower, the Manhattan Bridge, Governor's Island, and more. Make use of both the indoor and outdoor seating, along with large open windows for your viewing pleasure. Get within touching distance of "Lady Liberty" and then move on to Ellis Island to take photos of the famous entry point to New York City. Marvel at the skyline of Manhattan and its famous skyscrapers, including the new One World Trade Center. Glide down both the east and west sides of Lower Manhattan on this roundtrip cruise, and purchase drinks and food from the concession stand aboard the boat. 

NYC: New Year's Eve All-Inclusive Party Cruise 2024

2. NYC: New Year's Eve All-Inclusive Party Cruise 2024

Celebrate the New Year on a once-in-a-lifetime cruise of the Hudson River with the magic of the New York skyline as your backdrop. Drink champagne and take in the enchanting New York City fireworks at midnight. Enjoy a delicious selection of passed hors d'oeuvres (Cheese plates, Crudité, Beef Short Ribs wrapped in Bacon, Blue Cheese Butter Chicken Pops with Buffalo Drizzle, Truffle Mach & Cheese Tarts, and Mini Dauphinois Potatoes au Gratin, Assorted Cookies and Mini Pastries), a premium open bar with beer and wine, plus a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Keep the party going with a live DJ on board and dance until next year. Get ready for the countdown and toast with a glass of champagne. Continue celebrating for an hour after midnight until your cruise returns back to the port.

NYC: New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Fireworks Harbor Cruise

3. NYC: New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Fireworks Harbor Cruise

Countdown to midnight and toast the New Year with unbeatable views of the New Year’s fireworks while you cruise around Manhattan on the Spirit of New York. You and your guests will enjoy a holiday dinner buffet freshly prepared by the chef along with an open bar. Savor a 3-hour New Year's Eve dinner cruise featuring delectable cuisine, elegant décor, and stunning views that make for an unforgettable holiday. Imaginative culinary creations, a sparkling wine toast, and a live DJ combine to create an unforgettable New York experience. While onboard, experience exceptional views of New York City’s iconic skyline, DJ entertainment, and festive décor. The crew will happily take care of the details, leaving you to celebrate New Year’s Eve on the Hudson and East Rivers with your friends and family. Choose your departure point from either Pier 61 or Pier 15. Dinner Buffet Sample Menu SALADS (ALL SALADS ACCOMPANIED BY FRESH BREADS AND BUTTER)CAESAR SALADRomaine Lettuce | Aged Reggiano Parmesan Cheese | Herb Crouton | Traditional Caesar DressingMESCULIN SALAD (G*)(V)(N)Dried Cranberries | Feta Cheese | Sliced Almonds | Orange Champagne Vinaigrette | *Contains NutsKALE QUINOA SALAD (V)(G*)(VG)Quinoa | Roasted Red Pepper | Spinach | Lemon Oregano Vinaigrette MAINPASTA AL FORNO (V)Alfredo Sauce | Panko Parmesan CrustHONEY SESAME CHICKENScallions | Fresno Chilies OVEN ROASTED WHITEFISH (G*)Spicy Tomato | White Bean RaguHAND CARVED PRIME RIB (G*)Spice Rub | Horseradish Crème | Au Jus COMPLEMENTSROASTED BROCCOLI (G*)(V)(VG)Toasted Garlic | Chili FlakesGARLIC MASHED POTATOES (V)Idaho Potatoes | Roasted Garlic DESSERTSEASONAL DESSERT STATION (V)(N)Assorted Cakes | Brownies, Pastries | Seasonal Fruit | *Contains Nuts

NYC: Fall Foliage Oktoberfest Cruise along Hudson River

4. NYC: Fall Foliage Oktoberfest Cruise along Hudson River

Glide under the New York State Bridge, take part in some leaf peeping, and admire mountain views on this 40-mile cruise from NYC. Celebrate the autumn with Octoberfest music and the chance to buy some delicious German food and beers. Head to Pier 83 Midtown in New York and hop aboard a comfortable boat with huge, outdoor decks that are perfect for getting some fall sun, fresh air, and 360-degree views. Set off on your cruise along the famous Hudson River. Pass under two of the most impressive bridges in New York State, the mighty George Washington Bridge and the modern Mario Cuomo Bridge ( Tappan Zee Bridge). Be entertained by fun live music along the way and indulge in some mouthwatering German food and high-quality beer. Reach as north as Hook Mountain, which rises to nearly 800 feet straight up from the Hudson River with sheer cliffs, covered in bright autumn foliage, surrounded by ravens, hawks, ospreys and the occasional bald eagle before turning back to you meeting point in Manhattan.

New York City: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

5. New York City: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

Experience the perfect introduction to New York with a Hop on Hop off Big Bus tour. Relax on an open-top double decker sightseeing bus while listening to insightful and engaging digital commentary. The bus route takes you on a captivating journey through New York's rich history and vibrant modern life, as well as its many memorials and museums. You'll have the opportunity to hop off and explore the city's most iconic historical sites, including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, Broadway, and the One World Trade Center with its 360-degree view of the stunning skyline. Pay tribute to the memory of those lost in the tragic event at the 9/11 Memorial just steps away. The Downtown Loop is a 90 minute circuit, while the Uptown Loop is 75 minutes. Many guests choose to ride a full loop to see the city before deciding where to hop off on the next loop around. Buses arrive every 10-15 minutes on the Downtown Loop and every 30 minutes on the Uptown Loop throughout the day. Explore Lower Manhattan on the Downtown tour, including popular neighborhoods such as the Flatiron District, World Trade Center, Battery Park, SoHo & NoHo, Greenwich Village & East Village, Chelsea, and the Financial District. Wander around Wall St. to see the famous Stock Exchange and Charging Bull. Eat your way through Little Italy and Chinatown, shop at the high-end boutiques in SoHo, or see the open-air observation deck at The Edge in Hudson Yards. Then make your way to the Upper East Side, home to some of New York’s most popular museums. Explore the Frick Collection and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met). The Uptown Loop takes you through Midtown, passing by Grand Central Terminal and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Add a relaxing and scenic cruise around Liberty Island to complete your trip. Enjoy spectacular views of Lady Liberty and many more New York landmarks from a prime position on the Hudson River. Cruises last 1 hour and feature an onboard cafe and full bar, restrooms, outdoor deck space, air conditioning and indoor seating with large windows. Journey through New York on two wheels with an included offer at Unlimited Biking, NYC's premiere bike rental company. Purchase a 1-hour (minimum) bike rental and receive an extra hour free! Or, enjoy $5 OFF per person for any bike tour or Segway tour.

NYC: Statue of Liberty Express Skip-the-Box-Office Cruise

6. NYC: Statue of Liberty Express Skip-the-Box-Office Cruise

Departing from Downtown Manhattan in Battery Park, this express cruise is the fastest way to get up close and personal with the Statue of Liberty and enjoy best views from the water. Enjoy insights onboard from your tour guide with live narration. Begin your cruise experience at Battery Park's Slip 6. Get your souvenir photo with Lady Liberty in the background while you wait. Board the vessel, sit back, and set sail on your round-trip sightseeing cruise. Bask in the panoramic view of downtown New York's celebrated towers, memorials, and Landmarks while you relax on board the state-of-the-art boat.  Cruise right over to see the Statue of Liberty, one of the most iconic symbols in the world. On your way to Lady Liberty, you’ll sail past and learn about Ellis Island, once home to the United States’ busiest immigration station, where approximately 12 million immigrants came through.  You will also see Governors Island, a former military base that has since been redeveloped with a beautiful park for the public to enjoy.

NYC: Hudson River Fall Foliage Yacht Tour

7. NYC: Hudson River Fall Foliage Yacht Tour

Admire the last leaves of fall in all their splendor through the large windowed salon from the ship's heated and enclosed observatory, or while catching the breeze on her bow. Observe New York's most dramatic natural wonders and colorful foliage as the seasons change with a hot beverage in hand. The Kingston offers wrap-around seating, on a small intimate classic yacht with unobscured views for all. The back observatory is covered to protect you from the bright sun but has open windows for you to feel the fresh breeze in your hair. Guests are welcome on the forward deck as well to soak up the sun and to capture fantastic photographs of the city skyline. This is a beautiful autumn cruise out of Chelsea Piers that takes passengers north on the tree-lined, scenic Hudson River. 

NYC: Skyline and Statue of Liberty Night Cruise

8. NYC: Skyline and Statue of Liberty Night Cruise

Enjoy the best views of the New York skyline on this happy hour cruise around lower Manhattan with onboard food options and a covered outdoor dance floor. This 2-level boat has indoor and outdoor decks to make the most of this unforgettable experience. Cruise down the East River, under the Brooklyn Bridge & past South Street Seaport as you head out to the Statue of Liberty for sunset photos. See One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Ellis Island and buildings of all shapes and sizes light up the night sky. There is light commentary to help you identify the many famous buildings and neighborhoods you will see as you cruise along the Hudson River and the East River, on both sides of Manhattan Enjoy a happy hour special, beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks from the cash bar, If you are hungry you can purchase snacks and food options like burgers, chicken fingers, nachos, pasta, hot dogs and hot pretzels. Enjoy the fun music as you dance and mingle on the covered outdoor deck. With a friendly crew and an incredible setting, this happy hour skyline cruise is the perfect way to unwind and experience the magic of New York City at night.

NYC: Circle Line Best of NYC Skip-The-Box-Office Cruise

9. NYC: Circle Line Best of NYC Skip-The-Box-Office Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing cruise of New York Harbor and Manhattan Island as you discover the secrets of the city. You will circle Manhattan, passing 3 rivers, 7 major bridges – including the world-famous Brooklyn Bridge – 5 boroughs, and more than 101 sights in New York’s legendary skyline. Get up close to the Statue of Liberty and see Manhattan just as the great explorers would have seen it at the end of their long ocean journeys. Tour the city by water and see the outer boroughs drift by. Fun and knowledgeable tour guides will bring the city that never sleeps to life, telling fascinating stories about the breathtaking sights as you sail. See it all as you marvel at the best that New York has to offer. Cruise highlights include close-up views of the Statue of Liberty, Randall’s Island, High Bridge, Columbia University, Harlem, Gracie Mansion, South Street Seaport, Brooklyn Bridge, Yankee Stadium, The Cloisters, Grant’s Tomb, and The Little Red Lighthouse.

NYC: Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office

10. NYC: Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office

Experience New York at sunset on a cruise of the harbor, and take in all the sights and lights of Manhattan aboard a climate-controlled boat. Grab your friends, family, and coworkers - or even a random stranger - and embark on an unforgettable journey of the harbor with "Lady Liberty" keeping watch. With a drink in your hand, purchased from the fully stocked bar, feel the breeze on your face and be mesmerized by the shimmering skyline. Get endless photo opportunities to make you an Instagram star as you sail past legendary attractions such as the Statue of Liberty and get perfect views of the Freedom Tower - One World Trade Center, Empire State Building, Pier 54 (Titanic Pier), Battery Park, and more. See where millions of immigrants were processed when they arrived in America at Ellis Island, cruise past Governors Island, the South Street Seaport, and Brooklyn Bridge. Marvel at unrivaled views of the Manhattan Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge, and Chrysler Building, and discover the East Village, United Nations Building, and USS Intrepid Pier from a different perspective. 

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Frequently asked questions about New York City Cruises & boat tours

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New York City boat tours: Everything you need to know

Although we automatically think of the Hudson River when it comes to New York City, the city actually has two more rivers. The East River separates Manhattan from Brooklyn, Williamsburg, and Long Island City, and the Harlem River marks the border with the Bronx borough.

Do you dream of seeing the city from a new angle or are curious to know the location of "Miracle on the Hudson?” Have a look at some suggestions for New York City boat tours to make the most of your time in the Big Apple.

Skyline cruises in New York City

Even if you’re visiting New York for the first time, we bet you’ll be able to point out the most famous buildings. The Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and the One World Trade Center are just some of the well-known landmarks you can spot from the Hudson River.

In the city that never sleeps, you can choose from a variety of boat tours focusing on the iconic skyline. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy the Official NYC Architecture Cruise, where actual architects double as travel guides for three hours. Can you guess how many bridges are around Manhattan? Well, after the cruise, you'll probably be able to name a few more than the Brooklyn Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge, and Queensboro Bridge.

Other skyline-themed cruise options include 60- to 90-minute trips from the East Side to the West Side. All come with plenty of selfie-perfect backgrounds and a guest appearance by Lady Liberty.

Dinner cruises in New York City

Can you imagine having dinner with your own view of New York City? Enjoy a meal of Italian beef meatballs from your private table as the (appropriately named) Spirit of New York cruises along the East and Hudson rivers. Wrap it all up with dessert, drinks on the rooftop lounge, and dancing to the beat of the onboard DJ.

If you’re looking for an authentic sailing experience, climb aboard the 1929 vintage schooner Shearwater. It’s not just a yacht; it’s a floating landmark that will take you on a two-hour sailing and wine tasting expedition around Manhattan. Cheese and snacks are included.

Statue of Liberty cruises in New York City 

A gift from the French in the 1800s became New York City’s most famous attraction. The Statue of Liberty stands for freedom and once stood as a beacon of hope for immigrants arriving on Ellis Island. The best way to see its full glory? On a river cruise with unobstructed views.

But if you want the full experience, choose the Statue of Liberty: Pedestal Express and Ellis Island tour. You’ll get skip-the-line admission to the Statue, the Pedestal, and the Museum, plus live guided tours. 

River taxis in New York City

What color are typical New York river taxis? Yellow, of course. Hop-on Hop-off NYC Water Taxis are a unique and fast way to get to top attractions in one day. Water Taxis stop at Pier 83 (near Hell’s Kitchen), Slip 6 - Battery Place (World Trade Center, 9/11 Memorial, and view to Statue of Liberty), Pier 16 (view to Brooklyn Bridge), and Pier 1 - DUMBO (Brooklyn).

If you prefer a ferry experience, choose a classical hop-on hop-off boat tour around Manhattan. These ferries stop at most of the same places but also include a ticket to see the view from the top of the One World Observatory.

New York City river cruise tips

If you're planning to combine sightseeing on land and the river, look for a cruise that includes access to attractions. A hop-on hop-off option is also a great idea if you’re an active sightseer.

Wear flat, comfortable shoes and pay extra attention when getting off and on the boat. 

In addition to going on river cruises, you can also experience life like a local and catch one of the commuter ferries. The Staten Island Ferry runs 24/7 and since it’s free, it’s also a great alternative if you’re on a tight budget. You’ll get views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan. NYC Ferry and NY Waterway are the two other companies operating commuter ferry routes.


Other Sightseeing Options in New York City

Want to discover all there is to do in New York City? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about New York City

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 6,150 reviews

Версаль шикарный!!! Прекрасное место для посещения!!! Рекумендую!!!

Very organized. Our prebooked tix led us straight to the entrance line where they take your pics for purchase. Concession stand was fast with service. Bathrooms clean. We enjoyed the outdoor seating. Guide was informative. We didn’t go under the Brooklyn bridge which was advertised so that was a lil disappointing cuz I was expecting it. Pier 83 was easy to access from our hotel in Chelsea. We walked from there to Times Square no problem . Love the GetYourGuide app. It had all info I needed before the tour

Excellent experience so far! Mr Roberto and our driver are very polite and friendly, gave us all the essential information we needed! The bus was on time and a stop for breakfast was also programmed! The landscape is breathtaking! I recommend the trip!

The guide and the bus driver both were excellent. Gave us the break we needed and took us to the falls and back on time. They told us about the important land marks along the way

We had a great time. Everyone was helpful and Kevin was a great guide.

Great experience! Boat was a little bit too crowded.