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The 11 best boat tours in NYC

All aboard! Book these NYC boat tours for incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and other iconic landmarks

In all of planet Earth, there is no other skyline quite like that of New York City. Whether by air or by land , the Big Apple’s skyscrapers and landmarks are iconic. But there’s one way of touring NYC that beats out the rest, hands down—by boat.  Whether from the upper deck of a yacht or hunkered down on a speedboat, views from the harbor show NYC at its absolute finest. From the Statue of Liberty to the One World Trade Center, you can take in all the biggest sights without dealing with packed subway cars and endless traffic jams. Below are some of the Big Apple’s biggest and best boat tours.

How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines .

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Best NYC boat tours

1.  Luxury Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise

So this is how to really do an NYC boat tour. Choose which fine dining food option you fancy and then settle into a blissful tour around New York Harbor, with a live pianist your exceptional aural entertainment. And sure, the luxury dining and the music might be pretty good but you wait until you gaze out across the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center from your private table with 360-degree panoramic views. 

Don't miss: The sultry sounds of the onboard jazz pianist who's on a mission to get people dancing.  

2.  Statue of Liberty Express Cruise

Perfect for the sightseer who knows exactly what he or she wants, this Circle Line express tour goes right to the Statue of Liberty – no pit stops this time. Listen to an expert guide point out some lower Manhattan landmarks before pausing for photos right next to Lady Liberty. And since this cruise only takes an hour, it’s easy to fit into even the busiest itinerary.

Don't miss: The perfect photo opp of the famous sculpture and other harbor landmarks. 

3.  New York City Sunset Sailing with Wine Tasting

Here’s one for the schmoozy, romantic vacationers. The NYC sunset sailing with wine tasting gives you the chance to gaze out as the sun drops below Manhattan, seeing NYC’s biggest landmarks (including the Statue of Liberty) all lit up in a golden glow. And to top it all off, you’re on a luxurious sailing boat, which is equipped, crucially, with a full bar. Not that you'll need it after your third cab sauv.

Don't miss: The snacks and cheese that have been expertly paired with the wines. 

4.  Manhattan: Private Sailing Yacht Cruise

Don’t want to share your views of the city skyline? You don’t have to on this private tour of the Hudson River at sunset. It’s your party, so you can bring any food or drinks you like on board. You’ll feel like a high roller as you kick back on your private yacht for the evening.

Don't miss: Chill with your crew on any of the three lounge areas, including the outdoor deck and sun pad. 

5.  Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

How better to get your bearing in a city as enormous as NYC than by circumnavigation? The Circle Line’s two-and-a-half-hour tour does a full loop of Manhattan Island, taking passengers past plenty of the city’s most popular sights in the process. Spanning three rivers and all five boroughs, you’ll even pass within touching distance of Lady Liberty herself. In other words, get your camera ready!

Don't miss: Non-English speakers can download the Circle Line app for a translated commentary. 

6.  New York City: Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise

Get a taste of the Big Apple’s nightlife scene with this happy hour boat tour on the Hudson River. The Alive After Five cocktail cruise has everything you need: a fully stocked bar, a dance floor, and a killer DJ. Did someone say tequila? 

Don't miss:  Views of the Manhattan skyline as the sun goes down and the lights turn on. 

7.  New York Water Taxi Cruises

You can't miss the water taxis, they look just like the car versions: big, bright and yellow. These little beauties cruise round New York Harbor daily, passing major sites like the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. You can stay on and complete the entire loop in 70 minutes, or hop on and off as you please, exploring the greats eats, shops and attractions in NYC's waterside neighborhoods.

Don't miss: They have a team that can help you create a custom route for your journey. 

8.  AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour

The area south of 59th Street is packed with architecturally significant buildings; there’s the Chrysler Building, the Woolworth Building, the Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center, just to name a few. This 90-minute boat tour led by a member of the New York chapter of the American Institute of Architects will cover all of Manhattan’s most significant structures, plus the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty.

Don't miss: Sip complimentary beer, wine, or Champagne from the bar while you learn about infrastructure, parks, and architecture.

9.  Staten Island Ferry

Put your purse away, because the Staten Island Ferry is totally free. That's right, in one of the most expensive cities in the world, you can find a free ride. This old chugger has been going since before any bridges were built, transporting folks from the 'burbs to Manhattan in 25 minutes. Boats leave South Ferry at Battery Park and run 24 hours a day.

Don't miss: The stunning panoramas of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

10.  1920s Schooner Cocktail Sail

Fresh air, ocean waves, Champagne cocktails, and a massive brunch spread of sandwiches, baked goods, fresh bread, fruit and more – it’s fair to say that this midday cruise on the Shearwater really does have it all. Sit back and relax as the crew guides the restored 1929 sailboat out into the harbor. If you’re lucky, the captain will even let you take a turn at the helm.

Don't miss: Each passenger is entitled to four Champagne-based cocktails – make sure you get your fair share! 

11.  Circle Line: Beast Speedboat Ride

Adrenaline junkies will want to book tickets for this supercharged half-hour ride through New York Harbor. The 70-foot speedboat known as the  Beast  zooms toward the Statue of Liberty at 45 miles per hour, kicking up plenty of waves. In fact, the ride can get so intense that guides recommend wearing wetsuits.

Don't miss: The ride is accompanied by a thumping soundtrack to really kick things into high gear.

Keen to beat the summer heat?

Where to go in NYC when you don’t have air-conditioning

• Things to do

When it’s as hot as it is humid in New York City, that leaky window unit just isn’t going to cut it

Want to rent your own boat?

The best boat rentals in NYC

Debating between a two-hour hire or a full-day trip along the Hudson? Choose a boat to start your adventures around NYC

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The 9 new york city boat tours with the best views.

Escape the crowded city streets and admire the iconic skyline from the water.

The 9 New York City Boat Tours

Getty Images

Catch a view of New York City's iconic skyline on a boat tour.

Taking a boat tour is a must-do when visiting New York City , as it gives you a full view of the mighty Manhattan skyline and many of its famous bridges and buildings. Whether you're looking for a leisurely kayak trip along the Hudson River or a romantic sunset sail, you'll find a cruise to suit your interests. Consulting both expert opinion and traveler sentiment, U.S. News gathered nine of the best New York City boat tours.

Classic Harbor Line – AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour

Price: Adults from $112; students from $82 Duration: 2.75 hours

Admire some of the city's most significant architecture on this nearly three-hour cruise from Classic Harbor Line. With a member of the American Institute of Architects as your guide, you'll spot towering residential buildings, Little Island at Pier 55 and more. Guides will also discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic will have lasting impacts on cities. Reviewers who enjoy the cruise's quiet, intimate atmosphere describe it as the highlight of their trip and say it offers a unique perspective compared to other boat cruises in the city.

Tickets cost $112 per person or $82 for students ages 12 and older. If you opt to book a nonwindow seat, you'll pay $82 per person (for a maximum of two tour-takers). Tours depart once or twice daily; between January and March, tours only operate Friday to Monday. The company also offers sunset, brunch and jazz cruises.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Circle Line Sightseeing – Best of NYC Cruise

Price: Adults from $49; kids from $40 Duration: 2.5 hours

See all of the Big Apple's top landmarks with this 2.5-hour cruise from Circle Line Sightseeing. The tour, which departs from Pier 83, completely circles Manhattan. During the trip, you'll see the Empire State Building , the Statue of Liberty , the Brooklyn Bridge , Yankee Stadium and more. Reviewers say the tour provides a great overview of the city and describe onboard guides as engaging storytellers. Others note that if there's a high tide you will not be able to do a full circle of Manhattan.

Tours typically depart multiple times daily, though specific times vary depending on the season. Boats are equipped with free Wi-Fi and an onboard cafe. Tickets start at $49 for adults and $40 for kids ages 3 to 12. The company also offers an express cruise to the Statue of Liberty and an evening Harbor Lights cruise, among others.

The BEAST Speedboat Ride

Price: Adults from $32; kids from $25 Duration: 30 minutes

Those who love a good thrill may want to check out The BEAST Speedboat Ride. The boat reaches speeds of about 45 mph as it makes its way from Pier 83 to the Statue of Liberty. Reviewers say the ride is fast and fun and warn you'll likely get wet if you sit in the back.

Tours, which last about 30 minutes, run early May through the end of September and depart hourly from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. You must be at least 40 inches tall to ride, and tickets start at $32 for adults and $25 for children.

New York Media Boat – Adventure Sightseeing Tour

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $75 Duration: 1 hour

Designed for photographers, the Adventure Sightseeing Tour takes riders on a U.S. Navy-designed boat past key city sights like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge and Chelsea Piers, among others. The captain stops the boat multiple times throughout the 60-minute narrated cruise for photo opportunities. Participants praise the informative guides and say the tour is a great option for kids, who are sure to enjoy the thrilling boat speeds. Others say the cruise delivers on its promise of yielding great photos.

Tickets for the tour, which runs multiple times daily, start at $99 for adults and $75 for children 12 and younger. The company also offers private charters.

Manhattan Kayak Company – Skyline Kayak Tour

Price: From $65 Duration: 90 minutes

For a unique perspective of the New York skyline, consider this tour from Manhattan Kayak Company. The Skyline Kayak Tour, designed for kayakers with little to no experience, spends some time teaching you how to kayak followed by a paddle on the Hudson River. The tour includes a few stops so that guides can share information about the city's history. Reviewers say it is a great value and a fun way to see the city.

Tickets cost about $65 per person. Participants must be 12 or older, and kids 12 to 14 must be in a tandem kayak with an adult. Tours depart at varying times and days during the week. Manhattan Kayak Company also offers intermediate and advanced kayak tours, as well as stand-up paddleboard tours.

View & Book Tickets: Manhattan Kayak Company

HornblowerCity Cruises – New York Signature Brunch Cruise

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $90 Duration: 2 hours

This two-hour tour glides by sites like the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center while you enjoy a buffet brunch complete with unlimited mimosas, music, games and open-air decks. Reviewers say the staff is welcoming and they had a great experience.

The tour departs from Pier 61 on Sundays at noon. Tickets start at $105 per adult and $89.90 per child ages 3 to 12. City Experiences also offers a traditional sightseeing cruise of the city.

View & Book Tickets: City Experiences

Manhattan By Sail – Clipper City Day Sail

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $25 Duration: 90 minutes

This 90-minute cruise takes you around the city in the largest tall ship in New York City. The boat offers large decks perfect for enjoying skyline views – as well as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island – as you cruise around the New York harbor. Plus, you can purchase snacks and drinks on board. Reviewers describe the tour as interesting, relaxing and informative and say the crew is personal and professional.

Tours operate weekly, though specific days and times vary. Tickets cost about $60 for adults and $25 for children 12 and younger. Manhattan By Sail also operates a Wine & Jazz cruise, a sunset cruise and more.

Bateaux New York – Luxury Sightseeing Lunch Cruise

Price: Adults from $63; kids from $51 Duration: 2 hours

Enjoy an elegant cruise on a European-style, glass-enclosed boat with Bateaux New York (operated by City Experiences). The two-hour cruise, which takes passengers past top New York City landmarks, also includes a buffet lunch, a DJ and games. Alcohol is available for an additional cost, and casual attire is recommended. Reviewers say the service is excellent, though the food receives mixed reviews.

Ticket prices vary by the day; expect to pay at least $63 for adults and around $51 for kids children ages 3 to 12. Children 2 and younger ride for free. Cruises depart weekly, though specific times and days vary. Bateaux New York also operates brunch and dinner cruises.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Brooklyn Sail – Group Sail

Price: From $80 Duration: 2.5 hours

Climb aboard the Enchantress with just five other passengers for a 2.5 cruise with Brooklyn Sail. During your outing, you'll see Governors Island, Tribeca, the Statue of Liberty and more. Plus, you're welcome to bring your own food and drink (though the company asks you avoid red wine and messy foods). Tour-takers say it's an amazing experience, with many noting it makes a great gift.

Tours depart several times daily, but sailings are limited in the colder months. Ticket prices start at $80 per person. The ship departs from Pier 5 in Brooklyn Bridge Park . Brooklyn Sail also runs private charters and offers sailing lessons.

Interested in more New York City tours? Check out the:

• Best New York City Tours
• Best New York City Food Tours
• Best New York City Bus Tours
• Best Statue of Liberty Tours
• Best New York City Walking Tours

Tags: New York City , Travel , Tours , Vacations , New York Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations , US Vacations

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Best of NYC

PIER 83, MIDTOWN

The only sightseeing cruise that completely circles Manhattan. See all of NYC's landmarks from temperature-controlled indoor seats or our huge outdoor deck.

• Outdoor Deck Space
• Snacks & full bar
• Photo stop at the Statue of Liberty

Cruises starting Saturday, March 30

CRUISE SUMMARY

Our World Famous Best of New York Cruise

Experience the only sightseeing cruise in New York City that completely goes around the island of Manhattan in our temperature-controlled, state-of-the-art boats.

During this 2 hour and 30 minute cruise you’ll cruise along all three NYC rivers, pass under 20 bridges and see over 130 of the city’s most iconic landmarks including the Manhattan skyline , Little Island , Hudson Yards , One World Trade Center , Brooklyn Bridge and downtown Brooklyn , Yankee Stadium , the George Washington Bridge and, of course, an up close look at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island !

Our world-famous tour guides tell the story of New York City as you journey around the full island and enjoy the best sightseeing experience NYC has to offer!

Please Note In the rare event that extreme high tides or other occasions out of our control prevent us from circumnavigating the entire island of Manhattan as planned, we'll modify our route to still give you a fantastic 200+ landmarks tour. If you have concerns, please give us a call as early as 9:30 AM the morning of the day you plan to take a cruise (212) 563-3200.

What you'll see

Our flagship cruise with the best views + every NYC landmark

Sit back, relax and enjoy breathtaking views of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty while our award winning tour guides narrate every detail along your route.

Empire State Building

Standing 1,250’ (381m) tall, it was the world's tallest building from 1931 until the World Trade Center was completed in 1972.

Chrysler Building

Classic Art Deco architecture, the building dons gargoyles that depict car ornaments and a spire modeled on a radiator grille.

An extraordinary 1.45 mile-long (2.33 km) elevated park built on an abandoned section of a former railroad.

Statue of Liberty

Standing 305’ (93m) tall, Lady Liberty has welcomed visitors since she was bequeathed to America from France in 1886.

Ellis Island

The busiest US immigrant port processed over 12 million immigrants from 1892 to 1954.

South Street Seaport

The South Street Seaport is a historic area in New York City. It features some of the oldest architecture in downtown Manhattan.

Brooklyn Bridge

The longest suspension bridge when it opened in 1883, its 276’ (84m) high towers are built of limestone, granite and cement.

Manhattan Bridge

Constructed in 1901, the Manhattan Bridge is a suspension bridge, connecting Lower Manhattan with Downtown Brooklyn.

United Nations Headquarters

Designed by an international team of architects, the UN is an international zone with its own fire department and postal service.

Gracie Mansion

This federal-style home, currently the residence of NYC mayors, was once a country estate, an ice-cream parlor and a museum.

Yankee Stadium

In its 85+ year history, this “cathedral to baseball” has hosted 6,581 Yankees regular season home games.

George Washington Bridge

The world’s busiest suspension bridge spans the Hudson River and carries over 103 million vehicles per year.

Onboard Amenities

Our state-of-the-art boats come equipped with almost everything you need for a relaxing and comfortable cruise.

Unparalleled Views Pick a seat on the outdoor deck or enjoy the view from the huge panoramic windows in our temperature-controlled indoor cabins.

Did You Say ... Incredible Outdoor Deck The best way to see NYC and Lady Liberty is "al fresco" - outside in the fresh air, enjoying the cool breezes and the warm sunshine. It doesn't get better than this!

Temperature-Controlled Indoor Space Whether it's hot or cold, rainy or sunny, we have a temperature-controlled indoor deck with plenty of seating for everyone

Onboard Café *Freshly prepared menu of sandwiches, salads and snacks available to purchase.

Refreshing Drinks *Enjoy a full bar serving hot and cold beverages including beer, wine and cocktails.

Free WiFi No need to wait to upload your favorite photos and selfies!

George Washington bridge

Guests Looking at Henry Hudson Bridge

Plan Your Visit

Get ready, Get set, Get Directions to Pier 83

What To Do When You Arrive

• If you purchased Premier Tickets directly from circleline.com, please alert a red-shirted Ambassador and they will help you get through security to get to your seat quickly.
• If you bought standard tickets from circleline.com, Viator, Get Your Guide or Expedia, please go directly to boarding at the entrance to our Pier. Please have your bag open and ready to be checked by our security personnel.
• If you have a CityPASS and you have reserved your seats in advance at citypass.circleline.com , please proceed to directly to security.
• If you have another pass, such as NY Pass, Explorer Pass or Sightseeing Pass, or a voucher, please go to our ticket office to pick up your tickets and proceed to the security line.

Parking at Pier 83

If you're driving to Pier 83 we've got parking for you!

We offer convenient parking just steps away from our boats. We have a parking attendant and security personnel to ensure the safety of your vehicle and we offer covered parking as well.

Our daily rates start at $35.

Our Sightseeing Cruises Are Smoke-Free!

Smoking is not permitted on Circle Line’s regular sightseeing cruises including Liberty Midtown, Liberty Super Express, Statue at Sunset, Landmarks, Best of New York and Harbor Lights.*

Smoking may be permitted in designated areas on Circle Line’s Music Cruises, Bear Mountain Cruises, 4th of July and New Year’s Eve Cruises. Please plan your trip accordingly.