13 Best cruises & boat tours in New York City
Discover the beauty of New York City through cruises and boat tours. These unique excursions offer stunning views of iconic landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. Whether you're seeking a romantic sunset cruise or a daytime sightseeing tour, cruises and boat tours in New York City provide a memorable experience. Come and set sail for an unforgettable adventure.
- 1. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
- 2. City Cruises New York Pier 61 South
- 3. Classic Harbor Line
- 4. City Cruises New York Pier 15
- 5. New York Harbor Tours
- 6. New York Media Boat | Adventure Sightseeing Tours
- 7. NYCbySEA
- 8. The BEAST Speedboat Ride
- 9. City Cruises New York Pier 40
- 10. Statue Cruises
- 11. iBoatNYC
- 12. Event Cruises NYC
- 13. City Cruises New York Pier 78
1. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
Experience NYC's iconic skyline from the water!

A cruise around Manhattan is highly recommended for anyone visiting New York. The experience is nothing short of fantastic, offering stunning views of the city skyline from a unique perspective. The staff on the cruise are friendly and helpful, adding to the overall enjoyment of the trip.
The Harbor Lights tour is a particular highlight, providing a great way to see the city from the water. The boat is kept clean and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all passengers. The commentary provided throughout the tour is both informative and engaging, making it a perfect activity for tourists and locals alike.
2. City Cruises New York Pier 61 South
Experience New York Harbor's splendor with elegance and style.

A memorable fine dining experience was had during a weekend trip to New York to celebrate an anniversary. The cruise, "Bateaux NY," offered a luxurious and stylish setting that delivered on its promise of a special occasion.
The Christmas Dinner onboard "Bateaux NY" was truly unforgettable. Every detail was carefully curated, from the exceptional hospitality and delicious food to the lively music and exquisite beverages. The ship itself was a sight to behold, with well-appointed tables and stunning views of the New York City skyline, including the Brooklyn Bridge, line of skyscrapers, and Liberty Statue through the ship's windows.
3. Classic Harbor Line
Experience New York City from the elegance of classic yachts

A recent schooner cruise along the Hudson River proved to be an unforgettable experience. The stunning views of the surrounding landscape combined with outstanding service made for an exceptional journey.
The Luxury Yacht Sunset Cruise did not disappoint. Guests were greeted by a friendly and courteous staff who went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a great time aboard the ship. The opportunity to witness a sunset from the comfort of a luxury yacht is an experience not to be missed.
4. City Cruises New York Pier 15
Unforgettable NYC skyline views with every cruise

A wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season is by taking a cruise on Christmas Eve. The several hours spent on board offered breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty. The disco was a hit, featuring a wide variety of songs that catered to all ages. Additionally, the bar offered a fantastic selection of cocktails, and the staff was incredibly friendly and attentive.
This cruise was an amazing experience with stunning views of the city. It was made all the more enjoyable by the incredibly friendly and helpful staff, particularly Thomas and Jamal. They went above and beyond to ensure that everyone had a great time. This family-friendly activity is highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience.
5. New York Harbor Tours
Experience NYC from the water like never before.

A sunset cruise is an excellent way to experience the beauty of a city from a different perspective. The warm glow of the setting sun creates a magical atmosphere that highlights the best features of the surrounding area. During the cruise, the crew provided exceptional service with their friendly and professional demeanor, ensuring that all guests were comfortable and well-cared for.
The sights on the sunset cruise were nothing short of breathtaking. From the stunning architecture to the natural scenery, every turn revealed a new and exciting view. The clean and comfortable boat made for an enjoyable ride, perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience. Anyone visiting New York City should highly consider taking a sunset cruise to see the sights in a truly unforgettable way.
6. New York Media Boat | Adventure Sightseeing Tours
Experience NYC's iconic sights from a unique water perspective

This top-rated NYC Harbor Boat Tour offers visitors the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of New York City's most iconic landmarks. With tours departing from North Cove Marina in downtown Manhattan, guests will be taken on a narrated journey to see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and underneath the majestic Brooklyn Bridge. This tour is perfect for all ages and provides an unforgettable perspective of the city's skyline.
For those seeking a more intimate and exclusive experience, this 12-person media boat tour is the perfect choice. Traditionally used by news photographers, this tour offers guests an opportunity to see New York from a entirely new vantage point. With a US Coast Guard licensed captain navigating the Hudson River, guests will enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience as they take in the breathtaking views of the city's most famous landmarks. This tour is not to be missed by anyone looking for an unforgettable New York City adventure.
7. NYCbySEA
Experience NYC's skyline from the water like never before.

A fantastic tour awaits visitors of New York City! The knowledgeable and friendly captain provided a wealth of information about the city's history, making the experience both enjoyable and educational. Guests were able to capture great photos of the city's iconic landmarks and skylines, creating lasting memories of their trip.
For anyone visiting New York City, a boat tour is a must-do activity. The comfortable boat and well-organized tour made for a smooth and pleasant experience for all. Guests were able to see and learn about the city's many notable sights, resulting in a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of NYC. This tour is highly recommended for all tourists looking to make the most of their stay in the Big Apple.
8. The BEAST Speedboat Ride
Experience NYC at maximum speed with twists, turns, and splashes!

A highly recommended experience, thanks to @newyorkertours, was the exhilarating adventure of the NYC duck tour. The excitement started as soon as the vehicle, resembling a hybrid between a boat and a truck, hit the road. The tour guide provided a constant stream of entertaining commentary, bringing the city's rich history to life.
As the tour progressed, the vehicle splashed into the river, transforming the journey into a scenic boat ride. The Statue of Liberty stood tall and majestic in the distance, providing an excellent backdrop for photos. Passengers were encouraged to explore the vehicle's upper deck, where the cool breeze and stunning views of the city skyline made for a truly unforgettable experience. Visitors from Norway and around the world agree that this tour is a must-do activity when visiting NYC.
9. City Cruises New York Pier 40
Experience New York City from the water!

A memorable celebration is guaranteed when selecting the Hornblower for your event. Their attention to detail is exceptional, ensuring a one-of-a-kind experience for all onboard. The captain's consideration for their passengers' photo opportunities is just one example of this dedication to providing excellent service. As the Hornblower cruises by the Statue of Liberty, the vessel slows down considerably, giving everyone ample time to capture fantastic shots of this iconic landmark.
The Hornblower's commitment to making every event special extends beyond just the ceremony or party. Their thoughtful gestures, such as slowing down near the Statue of Liberty, demonstrate their care for their passengers, allowing them to fully enjoy and remember their celebration on the water. Overall, the Hornblower offers a unique and memorable experience for anyone looking to host a special occasion on the water.
10. Statue Cruises
The only official provider for Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tours.

A memorable experience with Statue Cruises was delivered, from the initial booking process to the day of the tour. Tripadvisor's positive reviews led many to choose them over other cruise lines with poor reputations. Indeed, the whole trip went smoothly and efficiently, with staff demonstrating expertise in loading, unloading, timing, and transitions between stops. Furthermore, all staff members were courteous and helpful, adding to the overall positive atmosphere.
The breathtaking sites were matched by equally impressive customer service. When payment issues arose on the site during the booking process for crown tickets, a representative from Statue Cruises in Ireland quickly and courteously resolved the problem. Upon arriving at Battery Park for ticket pick-up, the process was effortless, and staff were both helpful and polite. As visitors boarded the boat, the pleasant demeanor of the staff was immediately noticeable. Even the rangers inside the Statue of Liberty, particularly those in the crown, were accommodating and friendly, enhancing the overall experience.
11. iBoatNYC
NYC's ultimate multi-genre concert and sightseeing destination.

The cruise company in question offers a variety of options for customers, including dinner and sightseeing cruises. One of the highlights of their cruises is the stunning views they provide of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. The company employs experienced and knowledgeable tour guides who provide informative and engaging commentary throughout the cruise.
However, there have been some complaints about the accuracy of their advertising. For example, one customer reported purchasing a ticket for a Taylor Swift themed boat cruise, only to find that the top deck was playing continuous electronic music, with no indication from staff about where the Taylor Swift music could be found. The customer was disappointed to discover that the Taylor Swift songs were only being played on the second floor, which had windows restricting the view and was significantly hotter than the top deck. It is important for the company to ensure that their advertising is accurate and transparent, so that customers can make informed decisions about which cruise to choose.
12. Event Cruises NYC
Experience NYC's beauty from the water with top-tier service

A recent Easter cruise experience provided my family and me with wonderful memories. The atmosphere onboard was lively and engaging, and there was no shortage of activities to keep the children entertained throughout the journey. Among all the crew members, Jerr stood out for his exceptional customer service. His attentiveness and dedication greatly enhanced our experience, making it truly unforgettable.
Event Cruises NYC consistently offers outstanding dinner and brunch cruises in the Tri-State area. With a backdrop of the iconic New York City skyline, these cruises provide an exceptional setting for a fine dining experience. Curated by some of New York City's top chefs, the culinary options onboard range from plated meals to buffet selections, promising a memorable and satisfying gastronomic adventure. Overall, Event Cruises NYC's high-quality service, incredible views, and delectable food make it an excellent choice for any special occasion.
13. City Cruises New York Pier 78
