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New York City Cruises & 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: Statue of Liberty Express Skip-the-Box-Office Cruise

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

Departing from Downtown Manhattan in Battery Park, this 50-minute express cruise is the fastest way to get up close and personal with the Statue of Liberty. The best views are definitely from the water and you'll enjoy the insights of your fun, onboard 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: Circle Line Landmarks Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office

3. NYC: Circle Line Landmarks Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office

Take in many of the iconic sites of midtown and lower Manhattan on a semi-circle boat cruise. Enjoy magnificent views of the world's most recognizable skyline and get a close-up look at Lady Liberty and Ellis Island from the water. See the sights with a local tour guide who brings to life the breathtaking sights and the fascinating history behind the Big Apple. Sail down the Hudson River, cruising around the Battery, and up the East River. Pass under the Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Williamsburg Bridges to the United Nations building before heading back to Pier 83, the starting point for your tour.

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

4. 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.

From New York City: Niagara Falls Full-Day Bus Tour

5. From New York City: Niagara Falls Full-Day Bus Tour

Take a day trip by comfortable bus to famous Niagara Falls. Enjoy a smooth round-trip journey, different vantage points to view the Falls, free time in Niagara, and, when in season, a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat. Begin your day with a morning departure from Times Square in Manhattan. Travel by comfortable motorcoach in the company of your guide. Enjoy the scenic landscape of upstate New York on your journey north. Take advantage of the wi-fi on board. The travel time is approximately 7-8 hours, each way, with one rest stop. Experience the adventure, beauty, and natural wonder of Niagara Falls aboard the historic Maid of the Mist boat, or, when the Maid of the Mist is not running, from other observation points such as Gorge Walk. Learn about the interesting history of these mighty waters and enjoy spectacular views of the falls from different vantage points. You will have the opportunity for lunch on your own, souvenir shopping, and exploring the beautiful Niagara Falls State Park. After an unforgettable experience and wonderful memories, relax onboard your comfortable motorcoach for the return to Times Square in Manhattan, arriving back between 11 PM-midnight.

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

6. 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. 

From NYC: 1-Day Niagara Falls Tour with Seasonal Boat Ride

7. From NYC: 1-Day Niagara Falls Tour with Seasonal Boat Ride

Embark on a day trip to Niagara Falls from New York City. Witness the dramatic views of the falls and avoid the hassle of border-crossing traffic and visa checks as this tour visits only the falls on the American side. Head north towards Niagara Falls in the late evening, making one stop along the way. Upon arrival in the morning, have breakfast and relax before traveling to the American side of the falls. Board the famous Maid Of The Mist, bringing you to the Horseshoe Falls, the most spectacular part of Niagara Falls. Continue to other major sights on Goat Island, including Bridal Veil Falls. Tuck into a delicious buffet lunch in the afternoon before your return trip back to Manhattan in an air-conditioned bus, which will arrive in the late evening.

NYC: Luxury Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise

8. NYC: Luxury Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise

Embark on a sightseeing cruise from Manhattan’s Chelsea Piers. Enjoy stunning views of the NYC skyline with a 180-degree sightseeing experience from a boat that is all-glass and includes curved ceilings and walls. Hop aboard the boat at Chelsea Piers and begin your sightseeing adventure. Sail along the Hudson and East rivers, admiring the Manhattan skyline. Spot Freedom Tower and the Empire State Building. Get up-close views of the iconic Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges. Capture pictures of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Gaze out from one of the open-air decks for unobstructed views. Relax in the elegant atmosphere and take advantage of the attentive service as you dine on a brunch, lunch, or dinner prepared by the chef. Listen to a variety of tunes throughout the cruise played by a skilled pianist. Hear fascinating facts about New York’s famous attractions. Dance to piano melodies that include jazz, blues, and Broadway hits. On the dinner cruise, enjoy the added entertainment featuring an acoustic trio of a baby grand piano, upright bass, and jazz guitar. For brunch, enjoy bottomless mimosas while taking in the spectacular views. Sample Brunch Menu Starter (Choice of One)• Beet & Baby Arugula Salad with Feta Cheese, Cherry Tomatoes, Balsamic Vinaigrette• Greek Yogurt & Granola Parfait with Chobani Non-Fat Greek Yogurt, Honey Granola, Fresh Blueberries, and Strawberries Main (Choice of One)• Scrambled Eggs with Nueske's Applewood Triple, Thick Cut Bacon, New Red Potatoes & Cauliflower Hash, Arugula Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette, and Red Onions• Brioche French Toast stuffed with Nutella Cream, Fresh Strawberries, and Maple Syrup• Oven-Roasted Chicken Breast with Rosemary and Thyme with Roasted New Red Potato Salad with Scallions, Haricot Verts, and Creamy Mushroom Sauce Dessert (Choice of One)• Signature Chocolate Cake with Creme Anglaise, Raspberry Coulis, Candied Pecans• Mixed Fruit with Strawberries with Madagascar Vanilla and Orange Cream• New York Style Cheesecake with Lemon Mascarpone Cream, Blueberry Compote Sample Plated Lunch Menu Starter (Choice of One)• Beet & Baby Arugula Salad with Feta Cheese, Cherry Tomatoes, Balsamic Vinaigrette Main (Choice of One)• Root Vegetable Fricassee with Butternut Squash, Cauliflower, Zucchini, Grape Tomatoes, Gremolata, Cauliflower Coconut Cream Sauce• Oven-Roasted Chicken Breast with Rosemary and Thyme with Roasted New Red Potato Salad with Scallions, Haricot Verts, and Creamy Mushroom Sauce Dessert• New York Style Cheesecake with Lemon Mascarpone Cream, Blueberry Compote Sample Plated Dinner Menu Starter (Choice of One)• Beet & Baby Arugula Salad with Feta Cheese, Cherry Tomatoes, Balsamic Vinaigrette• Signature Seafood Chowder with Clams, Idaho Potatoes, Cream Main (Choice of One)• Root Vegetable Fricassee with Butternut Squash, Cauliflower, Zucchini, Grape Tomatoes, Gremolata, Cauliflower Coconut Cream Sauce• Pan Roasted Cod with Rock Shrimp, Crispy Couscous, Lemon Beurre Blanc• Oven-Roasted Chicken Breast with Rosemary and Thyme with Roasted New Red Potato Salad with Scallions, Haricot Verts, and Creamy Mushroom Sauce• Braised Beef Short Ribs with Fresno Pepper Demi-Glace with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Baby Carrots, Broccoli Dessert (Choice of One)• Signature Chocolate Cake with Creme Anglaise, Raspberry Coulis, Candied Pecans• Mixed Fruit with Strawberries with Madagascar Vanilla and Orange Cream• New York Style Cheesecake with Lemon Mascarpone Cream, Blueberry Compote• Humboldt Fog & Belletoile Tripple Cream Brie with Sesame Flat Bread, Strawberries, Fig Preserves

New York City: Sunset Boat Cruise to Statue of Liberty

9. New York City: Sunset Boat Cruise to Statue of Liberty

Embark on a scenic boat cruise at sunset around the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Brooklyn Bridge. Feel the wind in your hair and watch the colors of the sunset take over the dusk sky as you cruise on the calm waters around Manhattan, marveling at the city views from your unique perspective. First, choose a seat either on the outdoor or indoor decks, then sit back and relax as you travel to see the Statue of Liberty. Continue towards Ellis Island, where you have the opportunity to take photos of the famous entry point to New York City with the sunset in the background. Take in views of the Manhattan skyline and its famous skyscrapers, including the One World Trade Center, as you cruise along the east and west side of Lower Manhattan. Listen to your guide as they share information about these iconic sites, including the history of the Empire State Building, Manhattan Bridge, Governor's Island, and more.

Manhattan: Statue and Skyline Cruise aboard the Luxury Yacht

10. Manhattan: Statue and Skyline Cruise aboard the Luxury Yacht

Leave the noise of the city behind and see New York in a new light. Sit back and marvel at the famous skyline from the comfort of the solarium on this gorgeous 80-foot 1920s style yacht. Get up close to The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island on this sightseeing cruise. As you pass by such important sites at Battery Park, the financial district, and South Street Seaport, your captain will provide an informative narration. Cruise the Hudson River and New York Harbor on the Manhattan. The Manhattan provides a turn-of-the-century elegance and comfort, complete with teak decks and mahogany trim. Settle into the spectacular glassed-in observatory on the back deck, equipped with cushioned seating around conversation-friendly tables. The observatory is heated in the winter and air-conditioned in the summer, providing panoramic views in the utmost comfort.

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Frequently asked questions about New York City

What top attractions are a must-see in New York City?

What are the best day trips and excursions from New York City?

The best day trips and excursions from New York City are:

Washington, DC

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

My husband and I had lunch at Harbor Cruise and it was the best experience ever. The food was delicious, all the employees have great costumer services and the drinks are the best

It was amazing..... Great tour Great guide! Beautiful scene! Statue of Liberty was breathtaking!

Wonderful tour and especially the opportunity to visit the gardens, it was unforgettable.

Really great had fun lovely commentary all a bargain cruise everyone should do it

Funny guide and nice visit despite the wind and the cold.