Book New York Cruises | Sightseeing & Dining Experiences

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A unique New York experience

NYC cruises offer an extraordinary way to take in the sights and skyline of the city from a unique vantage point. Spot the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge from the water giving you a different perspective than from land.

Things to know before booking your cruise tickets

Limited time or first-time visitors: If you're on a time crunch or visiting New York for the first time, a sightseeing cruise is your best option. These cruises take you close to all the iconic landmarks in one go, with 60 and 90-minute cruise options.

Special occasions or relaxation: Celebrating a special occasion or just looking to unwind after a long week? Consider the dining cruises or the Harbor Lights evening cruise.

Looking for something upscale?: The luxury lunch/brunch/dinner cruise glides through the harbor aboard a sleek, state-of-the-art ship featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows, creating an elegant ambiance. Indulge in superior amenities and à la carte dining, a step above the buffet and fixed menu offered on regular dining cruises.

Family-friendly considerations: Kids under 6 are not allowed on the Happy Hour Party Cruise and the Luxury Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Harbor Cruise. If you're traveling with family, consider sightseeing cruises or the regular dining cruise with a buffet.

Convenient boarding points: Choose a cruise with a boarding point that aligns with your itinerary:
-Pier 15 (South New York): Ideal if you plan to visit nearby attractions like One World Trade Center, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Jewish Heritage Museum.
-Pier 83, Pier 78, and Pier 61 (Central New York): These locations are closer to more central attractions like Rockefeller Center, Edge, Vessel, the Intrepid Museum, and Central Park.

Steps to a hassle-free boarding experience

Arrive early: Get to the pier at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time for a hassle-free boarding experience.

Before your cruise: Cross-check your boarding point when you reach the pier.

For your entry: Keep your voucher accessible on your phone during check-in.

Carry your ID: Make sure to keep your identity proof handy.

Ask for assistance: Don’t hesitate to ask the staff at your assigned pier for any help regarding where to go or about wheelchair assistance.

Frequently asked questions about the New York cruises

What are the different types of cruises available in New York?

You can enjoy a variety of cruise experiences in New York, including sightseeing cruises, sunset cruises, and dining cruises. Each of these offers a unique way to explore the city, whether you're capturing daytime photos of landmarks, enjoying a romantic evening at sunset, or indulging in a gourmet meal while taking in the skyline.

What can I expect from a dining cruise in New York?

Dining cruises offer a gourmet experience with freshly prepared meals that include entrées, salads, desserts, and more. Depending on the cruise, you may also enjoy live entertainment. Some cruises offer free-flowing beverages like mimosas or champagne, making them perfect for celebrations.

Are the cruises family-friendly?

Yes, these cruises are family-friendly! Sightseeing cruises are a great way to give your kids an experience of a lifetime. Some cruises have entertainment corners on board too. Most cruises are pram and stroller-friendly.

Do the cruises operate year-round?

Most New York cruises operate year-round, except during severe weather conditions like snowstorms. Sightseeing cruises might have reduced operations during the winter months.

Can I bring food and drinks on the cruise?

Most sightseeing cruises do not allow outside food and beverages on board. However, dining cruises provide meals, and beverages or snacks are available for purchase on most cruises.

Is there any dress code for the cruises?

While there is no strict dress code for most cruises, for dining cruises, wear smart attire like khakis, dresses, button-up shirts, and blouses, to match the more upscale experience. Some of the dining cruises will not allow people in casual jeans, t-shirts, and sandals on board.

Who can purchase alcohol on board?

The legal age to consume alcohol in New York is 21 years. You’ll need to show your valid government-issued ID if you want to buy and drink alcohol on board.

Is there parking available near the cruise departure points?

Parking is available near most cruise departure points, but it is often limited. Take public transport or taxis for ease of access.

Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?

Generally, for domestic cruises like the New York City sightseeing and dining cruises, a passport is not necessary; however, you do need to carry a valid form of identification, like a driver's license.

Is it better to book a New York Cruise in advance?

Yes. The sightseeing cruises are a popular tourist activity in New York and are almost always fully booked. Booking your cruise in advance will ensure you get the time slot you prefer.

Do the cruises depart and end at the same port?

Yes. All your New York cruises will dock at the same port they departed from.

What happens if I'm unable to make it to the cruise?

Your cruise tickets cannot be canceled or rescheduled in case you don’t make it to the cruise and miss it.

From happy customers

Massimiliano

Mar, 2025

+ 2 more

wonderful view of the city with all its lights from a unique point of view compared to other skyscrapers avoided the queue thanks to the tickets purchased in advance

Go City New York Explorer Pass: Choose 2 to 10 Attractions

Jai

India

Feb, 2024

ticketing experice was great, you may like bucket activties which require prior bookings .also, you should clear the message to do booking for each pass, (like 2 bookings for 2 pass) rest .. all experice was great.

Go City New York All-Inclusive Pass: Choose 1 to 10 Days

Cathy

Canada

Nov, 2023

The boat tour was acceptable. However, we were sent to two different boats before finding the right one, despite the indications.

View original review in French

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sightseeing Cruise

Jana

United States

Apr, 2023

Perfect boat ride to see Lady Liberty. Easy on and off, plenty of seating and standing room. Also loved the availability of snacks and drinks on board. Well spent 1.5 hours with my daughter.

Kiara

Sep, 2021

I loved sitting on the outer deck and taking in the sights of the city. And our guide Jacob was amazing. The cruise made me feel like a tourist once again and left me feeling so refreshed. Would definitely recommend if you're wanting to catch a break from the hustle of work!!

Landmarks Cruise: 90 minutes

Aurora

Italy

Nov, 2024

Beautiful experience. The view of the skyline is spectacular. And the staff very helpful. They completely met my needs. Highly recommended! Special thanks to Amy

New York City Downtown & Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise

Luis

Colombia

The boat cruise through downtown NY including the Statue of Liberty is spectacular, and not to mention the ascent to the Summit, that is an otherworldly experience that in most countries can not be lived. The professionalism and punctuality of the officials in charge of the events is impeccable. Congratulations.

View original review in Spanish

Kristin

May, 2025

It was easy to book, easy to execute. Everything went smoothly and ran on time. Views were spectacular. When they tell you the bow is open do not pass it up. I will recommend this to anybody who is visiting NY

Circle Line: Harbor Lights Cruise