Sightseeing cruises are among the most popular attractions for tourists in New York. These cruises last between 1.5 and 2.5 hours and pass by the most famous landmarks in NYC such as the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building and of course the Statue of Liberty.
Best Suited For: Families, couples, photographers, first-time visitors.
Duration: Typically between 1.5-2.5 hours.
Price Range: 35$-45$.
Best Suited For: Couples, special occasions, romantic evenings, celebrations
Duration: Usually 3 hours
Price Range: 120$-250$.
Statue of Liberty cruises are probably the most popular cruises among tourists in New York. These cruises usually last only about an hour and approach right up to the Statue of Liberty, so you can take close-up photos of the statue. These excursions also pass by Ellis Island along the way.
Best Suited For: Tourists, photographers, families, and sightseeing visitors.
Duration: 50 to 60 min.
Price Range: From 24$.
While it changes from cruise to cruise, these are the main landmarks you can see during most New York cruises:
The routes for New York cruises typically fall into 2 types: Half Island tour and Full island tour. Here are the differences between the two:
A good example of a half island route is the Circle Line Landmarks Cruise, which is considered one of the most popular among travelers in New York.
The Landmarks Cruise is a Half Island tour that starts at Pier 83 and then descends south through the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and One World Trade Center to the Statue of Liberty. From there, the cruise moves north through Ellis Island towards the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge until it reaches the Williamsburg Bridge where it turns around and returns back to Pier 83.
A good example of a full Island route, is the Best of NYC Cruise which is another Circle Line cruise and is also considered one of the most popular and exciting in New York. This is a full island tour that lasts about two and a half hours and also starts at Pier 83.
Like the half island cruise, this cruise also descends south towards the Statue of Liberty and then ascends north, but continues through the Harlem River until it connects back to the Hudson River. From there it descends south back to Pier 83.
The price range for cruise tickets in New York varies depending on the type of cruise and the different companies. Overall, the price range is between $25 and $180 per person.
The cheapest New York Cruises, are the Statue of Liberty cruises, which cost between $25 and $30 per person and include 50-minute or 1 hour tour (varies from company to company). A more expensive option is the sightseeing cruises, which are longer and last between an 1.5-2 hours. The average price for a sightseeing cruise ranges from $30 to $50 per person.
The dinner or lunch cruises are the most expensive cruises in New York. These tours include a full meal and also last longer (usually about 3 hours). The price of these excursions ranges from $120 to $250 per person.
| Cruise Type | Price Range (per person) |
|---|---|
| Statue of Liberty Cruises (50-60 minutes) | $25-$30 |
| Sightseeing Cruises (1.5-2 hours) | $30-$50 |
| Dinner/Lunch Cruises (3 hours) | $120-$250 |
| Overall Price Range | $25-$250 |
You can buy the tickets at the pier, but we do not recommend doing so. The lines at the box office are usually very long, especially during peak seasons, and there is also a chance that the tickets will run out.
Therefore, the best way to book tickets for a cruise in New York is online via the websites of the cruise companies or on major ticket sites such as “Tiqets” or “GetYourGuide“.
The operating hours of the New York cruise ships vary from company to company and depending on the type of cruise you choose. Most cruises operate all days of the week with departures between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM.
The best time of year to cruise the Hudson River in Manhattan is during the spring, summer, and early fall. Winter is considered a less recommended time to cruise in Manhattan, mainly because the temperatures are very low (although the boats also have an enclosed area where you can stay in case of bad weather).
If you are coming during the hot summer months, it is worth considering a cruise at sunset or in the evening, so that you can go outside during the cruise without suffering from the scorching sun.
The best days of the week to cruise New York are usually during the weekdays, primarily between Monday to Thursday. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than during the weekend days, thus, provide a pleasant experience – You’ll find shorter lines, better seating options, and sometimes even lower ticket prices
The late afternoon when the sun is setting is the most popular time of the day to take a cruise along the Hudson River in New York. If you would prefer to have a less crowded time of day, an early morning cruise is perfect for you.
It is recommended to arrive early so that one has a chance to be among the first to board and thereby grab good seats. The starboard side of the ship (when facing the front) is the most ideal location for photography. Also take into consideration the tide times because high tides will shorten the cruise duration due to restrictions on traveling under bridges.
A common dilemma among many travelers to New York is which cruise to choose – a daytime cruise or an evening cruise? Well, one of the best way, which combines both options, is a sunset cruise. This way you can enjoy both the daytime and the evening.
There’s no finer way to appreciate the legendary New York City skyline than on the water. Take a New York cruise and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Manhattan’s iconic landmarks while you relax beyond the reach of the busy streets.
Glide by the Statue of Liberty, pass under the Brooklyn Bridge, and see the imposing silhouette of One World Trade Center from an unusual perspective. A daytime trip to capture city sunlight or an evening cruise to experience the brilliant lights of the city leaves a lifetime impression.
Many cruises offer commentary of the city’s rich history and architecture, and others offer dining options that range from casual buffet tables to gourmet dinners. For residents and visitors alike, a New York cruise offers a different view of America’s finest city and experiences to be remembered for a lifetime.
Yes, the Statue of Liberty Cruises goes by the Statue of Liberty at close enough distance to get good pictures without actually going to the monument itself.
Yes, the majority of cruises include guides narrating stories, anecdotes, and historical facts about New York City during the boat ride.
Yes, the boats are comfortable and have a smooth ride.
Yes, guides direct passengers to the best spots for photo opportunities, especially when cruising by the Statue of Liberty.
A few of the tours may be affected by inclement weather, but they still operate. Sometimes guides will try to reschedule to accommodate the weather.
Most cruise providers do not allow you to bring food and drinks on board. Alternatively, they offer to purchase snacks, food and drinks on board.
Most cruise suppliers allow you to buy a wide variety of snacks, sandwiches, nachos, hot dogs, pretzels, and more on board. For drinks, you will most often find water, tea, coffee, beers, wine, and cocktails. If you will choose Dinner or Lunch cruise, You will get a full course meal.
In most cases, on a regular sightseeing cruise, smoking is prohibited. There are specific cruises where smoking is permitted. This should be checked directly with the cruise line.
Some companies, such as Circle Line, for example, prohibit pets on cruises, but some companies allow it.
