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Welcome aboard Clipper City for the City Lights Sail, an unforgettable experience offering scenic New York cruises with breathtaking views of the city skyline at night.

As the sun sets, embark on a journey through the sparkling waters of New York Harbor aboard our majestic Clipper City tall ship. Take in iconic landmarks illuminated against the night sky, including the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Relax and unwind as you sail past the glittering lights of the city, accompanied by gentle breezes and the soothing sounds of the water. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable night out, our City Lights Sail is the perfect way to experience New York City from a different perspective.

Book your City Lights Sail with Clipper City and City Sightseeing NY today for an enchanting evening on the water.

Clipper City - City Lights Sail

Meet at Pier 17 at The Seaport in Lower Manhattan, just south of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Operates June - October, Saturdays at 10:00am

Updated schedules at https://www.manhattanbysail.com .

Reservations may only be made online. Reservations cannot be purchased by phone. Credit card required for reservations. To reserve, visit: https://www.manhattanbysail.com/spass . If you cannot reserve online, please go to dockside service desk 30 minutes prior to boarding to be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis. Sail times are subject to change. Please refer to the reservation portal for real-time availability.

New York City Night Time Harbor Cruise, 2 Hours

Cruise the Manhattan Skyline!

Take in the sunset sights on this perfect NYC cruise! As the sun dips its head below the skyline, you’ll experience a slew of Big Apple landmarks!

Description

New your city harbor cruise.

Our New York City Harbor Cruise departs from Pier 83 Midtown at sunset for a 2 hour cruise around  NYC   Harbor taking in ALL the famous landmarks and city lights. Take in the sunset sights on this perfect  New York City Night Cruise . As the sun dips its head below the skyline, you’ll bear witness to a slew of  New York City landmarks aboard a luxury boat with both indoor and outdoor seating. Dozens upon dozens of  NYC sites unveil themselves and offer you big profile-pic potential. Cruise right under The Statue of Liberty, be awed by the world-famous bridges at sea-level and fall under the trance of countless flickering city lights as night falls!

• Take a 2-hour sunset cruise along Manhattan Island!
• Learn all about the  New York architecture from your on-deck guide.
• Enjoy real-time narration in multiple languages via the cruise’s free app.
• Purchase refreshments from the fully-stocked happy hour bar!
• Cruise by the Statue of Liberty.
• Drift past Wall Street and One World Trade Center.
• Watch the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building light the night sky.
• Capture photos of Pier 54, Ellis Island and Governor’s Island.
• Get detailed views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge.
• See the United Nations, USS Intrepid Pier, South Street Seaport and more!

The photo opportunities on our New York City Harbor Cruise guarantee to exceed your expectations. Don’t miss this golden opportunity and book today!

Experience Details

Fitness and experience.

• No experience is necessary.

What is Supplied

• A scenic cruise (approx. 2 hours)
• See NYC landmarks and the Statue of Liberty!
• Professional captain
• Live English narration (plus Skyline Navigator app in Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese, and Mandarin Chinese)

More Information

• Bookings are available daily at 7:00 PM
• Please note boarding is based on a first come-first serve basis. We regularly sell-out so please arrive well in advance to secure a spot.

  Available Dates

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Pier 83, Midtown (New York City)

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City Lights Night Sail – Clipper City

Quick Details

• Map Marker Location: Clipper City
• User Ages: All ages
• Clock Duration: 1 hour & 30 minutes
• Users Capacity: 134 Passengers

Clipper City NYC Harbor Lights Sail

See the world’s most famous skyline light up the night. This city lights cruise is the perfect way to enjoy an evening on the water with friends and family. Sit back and relax as you take in the beautiful sights from the water. Spot iconic landmarks and enjoy the view of New York City lit up at night. Reserve your sail online now.

• Chevron down What to Bring

Please bring a photo ID. On cooler nights, bring warm clothing if you’re prone to getting cold.

• Chevron down FAQs

Check out our FAQs  here .

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• Users 134 Passengers
• Clock 1 hour & 30 minutes
• User Ages 21+

Craft Beer and Music Sail – Clipper City

Set sail with the with an outstanding selection of craft beers and great music aboard the mighty Clipper City!

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NYC Night Cruises

If you’re not into sailing then join us aboard our 1920s style motor yachts. Cruise through NY Harbor at night on our NYC City Lights Cruise with your friends. Sip on wine and have conversations and laughter. As you enjoy your evening you will pass quietly under the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge.  We will cruise out to the Statue of Liberty to catch a glimpse of her standing strong with her torch burning bright. This is the perfect way to impress your out of town guests! It is also the most romantic NYC night cruise perfect for a date. (Photo by Tali Blankfeld). 

City Lights Cruise on Yacht Manhattan

Experience a Romantic New York Sightseeing cruise like never before. Join us aboard our luxurious 1920s inspired motor yacht. Cozy up in the climate controlled observation cabin to take in the iconic sights. Join us for a bright and beautiful New York City Skyline by nightfall during a comfortable and unique NY Harbor Cruise. This romantic cruise is truly one of the most spectacular ways to see NYC! (Photo by Tali Blankfeld). 

Evening Jazz Cruise

Cruise New York City’s famous harbor aboard the luxury 1920s style yacht Manhattan or Manhattan II while listening to live jazz music by the Classic Harbor Line Jazz Trio, The Boat Band! Learn more about our NYC Jazz Cruise !  This is truly the perfect way to start your evening and relax to the soothing sound of the jazz. 

City Lights Sail aboard Schooner Adirondack

Experience New York City lights like you never have on this sail past the bright and beautiful borough of Manhattan. You’ll take in the famous Manhattan skyline as it was meant to be seen — from the water. You will also enjoy spectacular views of Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge lit up by the evening lights.

Classic Cocktails aboard Yacht Manhattan

Enjoy and savor a well-made ‘welcome aboard’ on the house cocktail varied by week! Watch the city pass by while relaxing in your private, partitioned seating area surrounded by large windows. Snap a few shots as we linger in front of the Statue of Liberty, explore the outer decks or stay cozy in your private nook; every vantage point offers the BEST VIEWS OF NYC. Welcome in a new era of 20s cocktails with a Sake Gimlet or a Grapefruit & Rosemary   Rickey. Our sophisticated cocktail menu is packed with creative modern-day spins. A full bar is available to purchase additional drinks by credit card. A specialty cocktail menu is also available!

Live Jazz Sunset Sail

Join us for a magical evening of live jazz aboard the decks of our stunning 105 foot schooner.  Sit back and relax with a glass of Champagne in hand and glide through NY Harbor with the magical sun setting behind the Statue of Liberty.  This sail is perfect for date night or a group of friends looking to do something unique. Enjoy a live Jazz trio from the decks of this elegant schooner.  

City Lights Sail aboard Schooner America 2.0

Board the 105-foot, 1800s styled, Schooner  America 2.0  after dusk to take a tour of the unmatched Manhattan skyline. Bring your favorite companion or a group of friends to enjoy the lights as you sip on champagne in the peaceful late-night breezes of the Harbor. The City Lights sail on America 2.0 is an exquisite choice for an after-dinner event or to finish any day in the city.  (Photo by Tali Blankfeld). 

Sunset Cocktail Cruise on Yacht Kingston

Join us aboard the most intimate classic yachts in town to take in the spectacular New York City Skyline at Sunset! You and only up to 48 other guests will be aboard one of our 1920s style water taxis to zip out on to the Hudson in style! Our identical “mini yacht”, Kingston is the smallest and newest power yacht in the Classic Harbor Line fleet. This is truly the best Sunset Cocktail Cruise in NY Harbor!

PRIDE Fireworks Cruise aboard the Yacht Manhattan

Step aboard yacht Manhattan for the famous Brooklyn Army Terminal fireworks to celebrate PRIDE!  Join us for a magical evening as you sit with amazement and awe as colorful fireworks soar in the sky of NY Harbor.  This annual celebration will end with a bang! Sparkling fireworks soar in the sky for the celebration of PRIDE! Exhale your “oohs and ahs” as you sip on Champagne and cruise through the waters we proudly call home. 100% of your tickets will be donated to HMI! 

Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise

Please join us for this special warm and cozy cruise with your friends, family, and all your loved ones during the Holiday Season. Join us inside the toasty solarium in full holiday decor for a one hour and thirty minute cruise to see the New York City lights. Listen to Holiday songs backed by a live band!  One complimentary drink of Beer, Wine, Champagne or Delicious Hot Cocoa (Spiked if you please), Cookies, and treats for all our guests are included! (**Additional Drinks are available for purchase)   This is a NYC Holiday cruise that you just can’t miss! (Children tickets are available on early departure times) 

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Holiday Jazz Cruise

Join us aboard our luxury Yacht Manhattan II in full holiday decor and join us for our romantic Holiday Jazz Cruise.  Enjoy this 1.5 hour cruise with your loved one and a glass of Champagne in hand.  See the city lights twinkle at night as you cozy up for an evening out in NY Harbor aboard a luxury yacht.  A complimentary beer, wine, hot cocoa (spiked if you please) or champagne from the bar is offered on all trips. Additional drinks are available for purchase.

New York City Lights Holiday Cocoa Cruise

Join us aboard the cozy yachts Manhattan or Manhattan II decked out in Holiday decor!  Get into the holiday spirit during this magical time of year and cruise with us in the grand salons of these yachts filled with rich, heart warming full Holiday decor. 

New Year’s Eve Champagne Tasting Cruise

Celebrate this New Year’s Eve with your special someone or your close and dear friends on Classic Harbor Line’s New Year’s Eve Champagne Tasting Cruise! As you cruise on the Yacht Manhattan II, you will be able to take in all the beauty the New York City skyline has to offer while cozying up and staying warm in our climate controlled observatory. This cruise has limited capacity to create an intimate, comfortable and quiet NY Harbor cruise.

This special tour features the twinkling lights of Manhattan and a selection of special sparkling wines featuring a delicious flight hand selected by our own wine and food expert.

This cruise will have a five flight Champagne tasting and the best spots in NY Harbor for the magical display of Fireworks off the Statue of Liberty! 

Valentine’s Day Champagne Tasting Cruise

Join us in NYC for a Champagne Valentine’s Day Cruise aboard the luxury yacht Manhattan II.  As you cruise on the Yacht Manhattan II, you will be able to take in all the beauty the New York City skyline has to offer while cozying up and staying warm in our climate controlled observatory. This cruise has limited capacity to create an intimate, comfortable and quiet NY Harbor cruise.  This Valentine’s Day Cruise is one of the best date ideas in the city of Manhattan.  This romantic, intimate and breathtaking NYC Cruise is something that you will make a regular annual event on this special day. 

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Sail out into NY Harbor and impress your guests. Step aboard one of our classic vessels for a private charter. These yachts are perfect for Corporate outings, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Team Building and more. Read more »

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Circle Line Cruises

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Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

Circle Line: New York City Landmarks Cruise

Circle Line: NYC Liberty Cruise

Circle Line: NYC Beast Speedboat Ride

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Circle Line Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Most Daily Cruises

See NYC, Lady Liberty, 140 Landmarks

1, 2 or 2.5 hour cruises from Pier 83, located on the west side of Manhattan. Plus, 50 minute cruises departing from Slip 6 in Battery Park

Best of NYC

Our most famous cruise and the only sightseeing experience that completely circles the island of Manhattan.

Guided tour

See the most famous NYC landmarks on both the Hudson and East Rivers, plus breathtaking views of Manhattan’s downtown skyline.

Harbor Lights

See downtown Manhattan, Lady Liberty and all the landmarks along the East River including the Brooklyn Bridge and many more!

Liberty Midtown

An express cruise to the Statue of Liberty from our Midtown pier plus views of downtown NYC, Brooklyn, Ellis Island and more!

Liberty Super Express Downtown

Enjoy our daily Statue of Liberty cruise departing from our Downtown locations at Pier 16 South St Seaport

Statue at Sunset

See the Statue of Liberty & the magnificently illuminated NYC skyline at sunset. Departs from our Downtown location at Pier 16!

Music cruise

NYNJ Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise

New Jersey to Midtown to Downtown & back around! Hop on or off any stop throughout the day & explore all that NYC has to offer.

NYC Summer Nights

See downtown Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty & all the landmarks along the East River including the Brooklyn Bridge and more!

Summer Dance Series

Fall Crazy in Love with NYC Views while you sail to the Statue of Liberty, under the Brooklyn Bridge + along lower Manhattan!

Pawsitively Perfect Pup Cruise

Voted 2-Paws Up, this cruise sails to the Statue of Liberty from our Midtown pier with views of Downtown, Brooklyn + more!

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See NYC's top 5 attractions, hand-picked & packaged together, at a 40% savings – including Circle Line. Visit attractions at your own pace, in any order, over 9-days. Buy CityPASS® online for one easy purchase and instant mobile ticket delivery. Go to citypass.circleline.com to book your visit date and time. CLICK TO LEARN MORE!

MIDTOWN ON THE HUDSON & DOWNTOWN PIER 16

How To Find Us

Two convenient locations.

We happily operate 364 days a year from our Midtown location! Our Downtown location operates the 50 minute Liberty Super Express cruise and Statue at Sunset cruise only.

Champagne City Lights Cruise in NYC: Our Review

The best champagne sunset yacht cruise in nyc.

Add this and other places to your personal travel plan. We will then help you with further suitable suggestions: free of charge and straightaway!

We got the chance to sit back and relax on a beautifully-crafted yacht while sipping champagne and cruise by Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty and Governors Island. Not to forget to mention the views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge.

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Night Cruises in NYC

We had an amazing time onboard the luxurious 1920s inspired motor yacht. Here’s what you can expect during the Champagne City Lights Cruise in New York!

Ticket information

Table of Contents

Our Video Review of the Champagne City Lights Cruise

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Champagne City Lights Cruise in New York City

Combine sightseeing with a romantic evening and step onboard the 1920s inspired boat at Pier 62 (Chelsea Piers – W. 22nd and Hudson River). During the 90-minutes long tour , you’ll get to see iconic NYC sights along the water and most importantly breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline . Especially in the summer, you can admire the most beautiful sunset during this special cruise. There is seating inside the yacht and outside seating as well.

Enjoy a complimentary drink such as beer, wine, champagne or soda to start the night. During your cruise, there is a cash bar available for additional drink purchases. Expect a relaxing atmosphere, smooth music to set the tone for a romantic night out and an excellent crew working on every detail for you to have the best time during the Champagne City Lights Cruise in New York City.

Highlights during this 1.5-hour cruise include

• Stunning views of Battery Park, South Street Seaport, One World Trade Center and the Financial District
• Close-ups of The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island which will be lit up at night
• Views of parts of Brooklyn and Queens and the entire New York City skyline!
• Ride underneath the Manhattan Bridge and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge
• Lean back and enjoy a passive and romantic tourism experience without a tour guide
• The tour runs every Saturday at 5 PM

Tickets for the NYC Champagne City Lights Cruise

Book your tickets for the cruise in advance online to secure your spot on a date of your preference. The cruise is designed for a small group of people which is also why it sells out quickly.

The 16 Absolute Best Cruises in New York

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Harbor Lights Cruise by Circle Line

What you'll do

See the best of the city on this two-hour Manhattan cruise. 

Experience a Harbor Lights Cruise by Circle Line - entry included with the New York Pass®

• Pay nothing at the gate – simply show your pass.
• Enjoy a two-hour evening cruise.
• Your pass gives you access to many more attractions in New York, so don't forget to check them out.

Enjoy gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline as it starts to light up the evening sky.

The two-hour Harbor Lights Cruise tour departs early evening, so you can enjoy that classic New York City skyline as the sun sets

What You'll See on the Harbor Lights Cruise in New York City

As the sun sets and the city that never sleeps begins to glow, the Harbor Lights Cruise in New York City offers an unparalleled view of the iconic landmarks that make this metropolis so famous. The Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the magic of New York City's nighttime skyline. The glowing Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the towering skyscrapers provide a stunning backdrop for a memorable evening of relaxation and wonder.

Sipping on a cocktail and sampling the hors d'oeuvres while drifting along the water, you'll be enchanted by the romance and energy of the city. As you cruise, the knowledgeable tour guides provide fascinating facts and history about the landmarks you'll see, giving you a deeper appreciation of the city's rich culture and history.

The Harbor Lights Cruise NYC is a perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or simply take in the enchanting beauty of New York City. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this cruise will leave you with memories that last a lifetime, and a newfound appreciation for the city's unique and enduring charm.

Know before you go

Getting in:  no reservations necessary. Present your pass at any Circle Line ticket window to receive a boarding pass. Upon presentation, a time and date for the cruise must be selected. Please allow yourself at least 45 minutes and up to 90 minutes in advance during the summer as cruises do sell out during busy periods and for ample ticketing and boarding time.

Please note

• All tours are narrated by professional guides.
• Food, snacks and beverages are available for purchase on board.
• No outside food or drink allowed onboard.
• You can only go on one Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise per day with your New York Pass.

This cruise is available in Spanish, French and Portuguese via audio translation guides. The app is called "Circle Line Sightseeing" and it is free to download and use, available on iTunes and Google Play stores.

Please bring your own personal earbuds to listen to the audio on your devices. The onboard concessions will have wired headphones available for purchase if needed. You may not listen to the tour on speakerphone mode. 

Tip for taking the Harbor Lights Cruise: Circle Line Sightseeing

Download the free Circle Line Skyline Navigator app before your cruise for the best way to enhance your experience. The app translates your cruise content into any of seven languages. Choose to follow along via GPS or take your time discovering on your own. Get it from the  Apple iTunes Store  or the  Google Play Store ​ today.​

For more information visit the Circle Line Sightseeing website.

Where you'll be

Operating hours.

Daily:  7PM

Schedules are subject to change without notice. Please visit the  Circle Line website   for the most up-to-date information. 

Closings & holidays

Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve

(212) 563-3200

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Free cancellation.

Plans can change, we get it. All non-activated passes are eligible for a refund within 365 days of your purchase date.

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The 5 Best NYC Dinner Cruises for Food & Views

W hen you're strolling the streets of Manhattan, it can be difficult to grasp the magnitude of the city, with its skyscrapers and densely packed landmarks. The solution? A boat ride. A breezy sail in New York Harbor can feature everything from an elegant dinner to a live jazz band to tacos and tequila. Read on to discover the top-rated New York City dinner cruise options as determined by travel expert opinion and recent reviews.

City Cruises New York Bateaux Premier Dinner Cruise

Price: From $144

Duration: 3 hours

Standout perk: This all-glass boat delivers panoramic skyline views.

Climbing aboard the Bateaux feels like stepping into a greenhouse, with its glass-enclosed structure and water views in every direction. There are no bad seats on this boat, but as an upgrade you can reserve a window table for the best views of the Hudson River, the East River and the New York Harbor. This cruise is a match for anyone seeking elegance: The tables are covered in crisp white cloths, wine and cocktails are served in sparkling glasses, and a three-course a la carte dinner is served at a relaxed pace (no buffet here).

The Bateaux cruise is an experience to get dressed up for, where the dress code is semi-formal and dinner is accompanied by live music. The sunset can provide the perfect backdrop for pictures, and don't forget to snap a shot of the Statue of Liberty . Children younger than 6 are not permitted on this cruise, so expect a polished, for-adults atmosphere complete with creative cocktails and dancing under the stars. The Bateaux has rightfully earned a reputation for its fresh food; this three-course, plated menu includes several tempting a la carte options from a ravioli starter with crispy pancetta to osso bucco with cauliflower polenta.

Check prices & availability on:

Multi Button Enhancement : NYC Dinner Crusies - City Cruises New York Bateaux Premier Dinner Cruise

City Cruises New York Signature Dinner Cruise

Price: From $109

Duration: 2.5 hours

Standout perk: A live DJ gives this dinner cruise an extra dose of atmosphere.

Looking for a casual night of dining and dancing with the addition of a skyline backdrop? This dinner cruise offers just that. Set sail from Chelsea Piers in a climate-controlled boat along the Hudson and East rivers, admiring New York City landmarks like the Empire State Building . For dinner, indulge in a chef-prepared buffet with a wide range of options from Greek salad to oven-roasted salmon with miso to Caribbean jerk braised pork. If you're bringing a sweet tooth on board, be sure to check out the ample dessert station.

After snapping some pictures on the open-air deck, return to the cabin for cocktails from the cash bar, interactive games and upbeat music from the onboard DJ.

Those traveling with young kids will be pleased to know that infants younger than 3 cruise free – so feel free to bring your little ones along to enjoy the experience with you.

Multi Button Enhancement : NYC Dinner Cruises - City Cruises New York Signature Dinner Cruise

La Barca Cantina

Price: Varies

Duration: 2 hours

Standout perk: You'll find an extensive tequila and mezcal list on board to accompany the Mexican fare.

One criticism of New York dinner cruises is that they don't offer good value for money, but the "taco boat" challenges that critique with ceviche, tacos, churros, cocktails and skyline views for an affordable price. Climb aboard a yacht at Pier 81 to experience a youthful, modern interpretation of a dinner cruise – think: low lighting, couches for lounging and three bars, complete with Latin pop, salsa and dance music playing in the background. Raise a glass while the yacht sails south on the Hudson River to check out world-famous Manhattan skyline views.

La Barca Cantina also offers a bottomless brunch cruise with a DJ, as well as special events.

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Classic Harbor Line NYC Evening Jazz Cruise

Price: From $108

Duration: 1.5 hours

Standout perk: A jazz trio typically featuring a sax, keyboard and drums plays live on board.

Listen to jazz standards aboard a 1920s-style yacht with this fun sightseeing cruise departing from Pier 62 in Chelsea Piers. Choose between kicking back in the climate-controlled cabin or on the open-air deck throughout this evening cruise, which includes views of Manhattan landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Live music is played outside on the deck or inside the salon, depending on the season (and the boat, Manhattan or Manhattan II).

While this cruise doesn't offer dinner, one complimentary alcoholic beverage is included, and a cash bar offers additional drinks and snacks. Listen to music by Duke Ellington, George Gershwin and more as you sail past the twinkling Manhattan skyline. Those traveling in a group should keep in mind: Tickets are slightly discounted for groups of 4 to 16.

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Circle Line New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

Price: From $54

Standout perk: This no-fuss, excellent-value cruise option has drinks and snacks available for purchase on board.

When you're craving panoramic views rather than a three-course meal, choose the Circle Line's Harbor Lights cruise departing from Pier 83. This sightseeing sailing delivers an up-close experience of the Manhattan skyline lights coming to life, while cruising past landmarks including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Chrysler Building . A live guide provides narration and historical context for what you're seeing. As the sun sets behind New Jersey, watch the glow of the sinking sun reflect in the windows of skyscrapers.

Food from the onboard cafe – like salads, sandwiches and snacks – as well as beer, wine and cocktails at the bar are available for purchase. This is an ideal situation for groups with varying levels of hunger and thirst. Sit alfresco in the breeze or indoors in the climate-controlled cabin – it's up to you.

Non-English-speaking guests can download the Circle Line app for narration available in several languages; just be sure to bring your own headset.

Multi Button Enhancement : NYC Dinner Cruises - Circle Line New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jessica Colley Clarke is a New York-based freelance writer. She loves to take visiting family and friends out on the water in the New York Harbor for a fresh perspective on the Manhattan skyline and beyond.

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By David E. Sanger and Edward Wong

David E. Sanger, reporting from Washington, has covered superpower competition for three decades. Edward Wong, reporting from Prague, has long experience as a foreign correspondent and is traveling with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken.

President Biden, in a major shift pressed by his advisers and key allies, has authorized Ukraine to conduct limited strikes inside Russia with American-made weapons, opening what could well be a new chapter in the war for Ukraine, U.S. officials said on Thursday.

Mr. Biden’s decision appears to mark the first time that an American president has allowed limited military responses on artillery, missile bases and command centers inside the borders of a nuclear-armed adversary. White House officials insisted, however, that the authorization extended only to what they characterized as acts of self-defense, so that Ukraine could protect Kharkiv, its second-largest city, and the surrounding areas from missiles, glide bombs and artillery shells from just over the border.

“The president recently directed his team to ensure that Ukraine is able to use U.S.-supplied weapons for counter-fire purposes in the Kharkiv region so Ukraine can hit back against Russian forces that are attacking them or preparing to attack them,” a U.S. official said in a statement issued by the administration. “Our policy with respect to prohibiting the use of ATACMS or long-range strikes inside of Russia has not changed,” the statement continued, referring to an artillery system, provided to Ukraine, that has the capability to reach deep inside Russian territory.

The decision by Mr. Biden was reported earlier on Thursday by Politico.

American officials said that the change in policy went into effect on Thursday.

Though the White House cast the decision as a narrow one, allowing the Ukrainians to strike pre-emptively if they see evidence of preparations for an attack, or in response to a Russian barrage near Kharkiv, the implications are clearly much broader. Until now, Mr. Biden has flatly refused to let Ukraine use American-made weapons outside of Ukrainian borders, no matter what the provocation, saying that any attack on Russian territory risked violating his mandate to “avoid World War III.”

But having reversed his position, even in limited circumstances, Mr. Biden has clearly crossed a red line that he himself drew. And administration officials conceded that if Russia mounted other attacks from inside its territory beyond Kharkiv, the president’s restrictions could be subject to further loosening. “This is a new reality,” one senior official said, declining to speak on the record, “and perhaps a new era” in the Ukraine conflict.

Much may depend on how the Russians react to the change in the next days and weeks — or whether they react at all. Russia has warned that it will respond, in unspecified ways, if the United States shifts policy. Last week, as word of an impending change took place, Russia conducted drills for the forces that move and deploy tactical nuclear weapons, in what appeared to be a signal to Washington.

Russia has repeatedly played the nuclear card in the 27 months since it invaded Ukraine, mostly notably in October 2022, when it appeared the entire Russian military invasion of Ukraine could collapse. Gen. Mark A. Milley, then the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, often talked about the “nuclear paradox,” that the closer the Russians came to losing in Ukraine, the higher the nuclear peril.

But now Mr. Biden’s reversal raises a new question: How will Russia react to strikes that employ American weapons inside its territory? It is impossible to know exactly where President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia will draw his red line. Mr. Putin has not responded to Britain’s decision to ease the restrictions on its weapons, but in the Russian leader’s mind, the United States is a different kind of rival.

Inside the White House, Mr. Biden’s deliberations were very closely held, known only to a very narrow group of aides. But The New York Times revealed last week that Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken had come back from a sobering trip to Kyiv and privately told the president that his 27-month-long ban against shooting American weapons into Russian territory was now placing parts of Ukraine in peril. The Russians, he said, were exploiting the president’s ban and mounting constant attacks from a safe haven just inside the Russian border.

But by that time, Jake Sullivan, the president’s national security adviser, and Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III had already concluded that the geography of the battle around Kharkiv would require an exception to the hard rule that the United States had set against firing into Russia, senior officials said. Ukraine was suffering from what one official called “an artificial line” in the middle of the battlefield that kept them from responding to devastating attacks. Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Austin concluded that it made no sense to restrict the Ukrainians from responding — even while maintaining a ban on using American equipment for long-range strikes deep into Russia.

Some American allies had already gone further. Britain weeks ago allowed Ukraine to use its Storm Shadow long-range missile systems for attacks anywhere in Russia, and France and Germany recently took the same position. So did Jens Stoltenberg, the secretary general of NATO.

From the outside, it appeared that each of those countries was mounting a campaign to get Mr. Biden to change his mind. But American officials insisted that only Britain reached its decision before Washington did, and that by the time the major European allies supported the change, they had been told Mr. Biden was headed in the same direction.

The decision follows weeks of intense behind-the-scenes conversation with the Ukrainians, made more urgent after Russia began a major assault on Kharkiv around May 10.

Three days later, on May 13, Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Austin and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., held one of their regularly scheduled secure video conferences with their Ukrainian counterparts. Once again, the Ukrainians pressed for Mr. Biden to lift U.S. restrictions on firing into Russian territory, arguing that the president’s concerns about escalation were overblown. But now, they said, the issue had become more urgent because the Russians were shelling civilian sites around Kharkiv from inside their border — knowing that the Ukrainians could not fully respond.

After the meeting, officials said, Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Austin and General Brown decided to recommend to the president that he reverse his position. But they kept the decision very close. Two days later, on May 15, Mr. Sullivan conveyed the recommendation to Mr. Biden, who — for the first time — said he was inclined to carve out an exception that would allow the Ukrainians to strike back, even if Russian attacks were coming from just a few miles behind the Russian border. By then, Mr. Blinken was already in Kyiv and had heard the case for a reversal directly from President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The same day as the private meeting with Mr. Sullivan, the president saw Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli, the four-star commander of the U.S. European Command and the supreme allied commander for Europe. He was in Washington for an annual meeting of all the combatant commanders, and told Mr. Biden that he also agreed that the ban on firing into Russia was posing a danger to Ukraine — though he, too, one official said, was concerned about the possible Russian reactions.

Mr. Blinken returned from Kyiv and saw Mr. Biden and Mr. Sullivan on the evening of May 17 in the Oval Office, saying that he emerged convinced that the United States had to alter its stance. It was clear by then that Mr. Biden was in agreement, officials said, but the president insisted that before he issued a formal decision, he wanted a meeting of his national security “principals” to consider the risks. That meeting did not take place until last week, just as news of Mr. Blinken’s change of view leaked out.

White House officials were clearly angry about the leak, and some said they were worried it would tip off the Russians or interfere with the final decision-making. The formal orders did not get conveyed to the Pentagon until earlier this week. Mr. Blinken, who knew the change was coming, hinted at the possibility in Moldova, where he left open the possibility that the United States might “adapt and adjust” its stance because the situation on the ground had changed. But he did not say that the president had already reversed course, and White House officials refused to comment.

Mr. Biden has never publicly commented on the internal debate that led him to change his approach. So it is unclear whether he now believes that the risk of escalation — including nuclear escalation — has declined, or whether the prospect that Ukraine might lose more territory changed his view.

So few members of the National Security Council or the Pentagon knew of the change that a Pentagon spokeswoman, Sabrina Singh, was still defending the old policy on Thursday afternoon in a briefing for reporters. She repeatedly said that there was no change. “The security assistance that we provide Ukraine is to be used within Ukraine, and we don’t encourage attacks or enable attacks inside of Russia,” she said.

But she insisted that Ukraine could be effective by focusing on tactical and operational targets that directly influence the conflict within its boundaries, she said. “So our policy hasn’t changed.”

In fact, it had, days before. No one had told her, defense officials say, that Mr. Austin had already released orders to allow Ukraine to open fire, with American weapons, on military targets over the Russian border. U.S. officials now say they expect that the first counterattacks with American weapons will begin within hours or days.

David E. Sanger covers the Biden administration and national security. He has been a Times journalist for more than four decades and has written several books on challenges to American national security. More about David E. Sanger

Edward Wong is a diplomatic correspondent who has reported for The Times for more than 24 years from New York, Baghdad, Beijing and Washington. He was on a team of Pulitzer Prize finalists for Iraq War coverage. More about Edward Wong

Our Coverage of the War in Ukraine

News and Analysis

The decision by the Biden administration to allow Ukraine to strike inside Russia  with American-made weapons fulfills a long-held wish by officials in Kyiv  that they claimed was essential to level the playing field.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken suggested that Ukraine’s use of U.S.-supplied arms could expand beyond the current limitation  to strikes in the Kharkiv area.

Top Ukrainian military officials have warned that Russia is building up troops near northeastern Ukraine , raising fears that a new offensive push could be imminent.

Zelensky Interview: In an interview with The New York Times, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine challenged the West  over its reluctance to take bolder action.

Tug of War:  Fueled in part by the Ukraine war, tensions have been mounting in former Soviet states like Georgia and Moldova , pitting those favoring closer relations with Russia against those orientated more toward Europe.

Fleeing a War Zone: A 98-year-old Ukrainian grandmother stumbled past corpses and bomb craters  to escape Russia’s attacks.

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