Answer: This is a very common question we get asked quite often. Based on our thorough review of most major cruise companies in New York, there are no assigned seats, and you cannot reserve a specific seat on the boat in advance. Seating is usually on a first come first served basis.   

Some companies, such as Circle Line, offer Premier Seating tickets, which provide access to a more comfortable and private seating area. However, even in that case, you still cannot choose an exact assigned seat like you would on a flight.

That said, based on our experience, you probably will not need to look for an empty seat at all. Most of the time during the cruise, you will want to stand and enjoy the view of the landmarks and the Manhattan skyline, or step outside to the open deck to take the best photos. So for most of the cruise, you probably will not be sitting.