Answer: A half island cruise covers only the southern part of Manhattan and is the most popular and common type of cruise in New York. It usually departs from one of the piers on the west side of Manhattan (depending on the company you choose), sails along the Hudson River, circles the Statue of Liberty, heads up toward the East River, and typically turns back around near the Manhattan Bridge.  

A full island cruise makes a complete loop around all of Manhattan and is longer - usually lasting over two hours. The route begins just like the half island cruise, but once it reaches the East River, it continues north along the Harlem River, reconnects with the Hudson River, and returns to the original departure point.