Private cruises in New York are very different from the rest of New York cruises (like the Sightseeing or Dinner cruises) and much less popular among tourists in the big city. The main reason for that is their very high price which doesn’t fit the budget of most travelers.
On the other hand, if you can afford it, a private boat tour is one of the best ways to cruise in the Hudson and East rivers around Manhattan, giving you much more control over the route, the time, the duration and the departure point while enjoying pleasant cruise without the hassle of crowds.
Most of the private boats in New York accommodate up to 6 people, but you can also find bigger private boats that can carry up to 32 people for large groups. Duration can go from 2 hours to 4 hours and more.
The price range for private boat tours in NYC is very wide, starting from $230 up to $1000. It really depends on the number of visitors, the boat size, duration and other factors. The price includes the service of the captain of course.
Most of the big cruise companies in New York don’t offer private cruises, so you will have to ‘work’ a little bit harder to find a good and decent private tour. A good place to start is ‘Viator‘ where you can find many cruise operators offering private tours. You can see all the important details for each cruise including the price, duration, departure points and book them through their platform.
Another good platform we have found is the ‘GetMyBoat‘ website that shows many different private boat tours at various price points.
This Dream Boat NY cruise is a two-hour private yacht tour with breathtaking views of Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge, and others. It has outdoor and indoor lounge spaces, retractable top, Bluetooth sound system, and bottled water. The price starts at €877.70 per group of up to six people, departing from Chelsea Piers.
This NYCbySEA private luxury boat tour is a unique experience to see New York City’s famous landmarks by water. Cruise under the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and more with a friendly captain at the helm. Tours depart from North Cove Marina and begin at $499.99 per group (2 people max).
New York Harbor Tours offers private boat tours of NYC waterways for 90 minutes from $525 (1-3 persons) or $645 (4-6 persons). See Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan skyline with a Coast Guard-licensed captain. Daily departures from Manhattan and Brooklyn locations. Wonderful alternative to overcrowded tourist boats.
These are the main landmarks you could see during New York private cruise:
What type of boats are private cruises in NYC done in?
Private cruises in New York can range from luxury motorboats to big yachts. There are those with indoor lounges, outdoor decks, and top-of-the-line facilities for a more relaxing time out at sea.
Are private boat tours suitable for special occasions?
Yes! Private cruises are often booked for birthdays, proposals, anniversaries, or even group parties. Most also have special packages that one can order to make it even more personalized.
Where do private boat tours usually depart from?
Private cruises usually leave from marinas in Lower Manhattan, like North Cove Marina or nearby locations along the Hudson River waterfront.
What do I need to bring on a private boat tour?
It’s recommended to pack informal attire, sunblock, a light coat based on the weather, and a camera to capture the scenery. Water or snacks are covered on most tours, but check beforehand.
What is the private boat tour cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is generally provided by most operators up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time, though policies vary. Always review the exact terms when you book.
Are private boat tours suitable for families?
Yes, Private cruises can be a safe and pleasant way for families to see the city by water. Some boats come equipped with safety gear and family-friendly facilities - it’s worth planning ahead based on what your group requires.
