On the entire planet Earth, there is no other skyline like that of New York City. Whether by air or by land, the skyscrapers and iconic sights of the Big Apple are iconic. But there is one way to explore New York that surpasses the others, without a doubt, by boat. Whether from the top deck of a yacht or from a speedboat, the views from the harbor show New York at its best.
From the Statue of Liberty to the One World Trade Center, you can enjoy the main sights without having to deal with crowded subway cars and endless traffic jams. There are many boat tours available in New York City, each offering a unique experience. Below are some of the best and greatest Big Apple boat tours. Perfect for tourists who know exactly what they want, this Circle Line express tour goes directly to the Statue of Liberty, this time without stops.
Listen to an expert guide point out some of lower Manhattan's sights before pausing for photos right next to Lady Liberty. And since this cruise only lasts an hour, it's easy to include it on even the busiest itineraries. Here's one for romantic tourists and charlatans. Sailing around New York at dusk with wine tasting gives you the opportunity to watch the sun set below Manhattan and see New York's most important monuments (including the Statue of Liberty) illuminated with a golden glow.
And to top it all off, you're on a luxurious sailboat, which is crucially equipped with a full bar. Not that you need it after your third taxi. Fresh air, ocean waves, unlimited prosecco, and a huge brunch with bagels, smoked salmon, quiche, fresh fruit, and more: it's fair to say that this midday Shearwater cruise really has it all. Sit back and relax as the crew guides the restored 1929 sailboat to the port.
If you're lucky, the captain will even let you take the helm. When it's both hot and humid in New York City, that leaky window isn't going to work. For more than 75 years, Circle Line has been showing the city from its fleet of ships. This popular service offers a sunset cruise in New York, which shows off the dazzling lights of the city at night. You'll pass by Hudson Yards, Chelsea Piers, One World Trade and the Statue of Liberty.
Circle Line also offers discounts and drinks on board, free Wi-Fi and a narrative of the tour translated into several languages. The menu includes New York State foods and products from New York City suppliers, including fresh bagels and smoked salmon, quiche, chicken sausages, salad, fruit and pastries. We have a few key destinations, many of which offer a combination of snacks, views, shopping, and the authenticity of New York City. This cruise is also included free of charge with the purchase of the New York Pass and the NYC Explorer Pass, both discount cards for tourists. During the tour, led by an expert guide, you'll sail through New York Harbor and pass by some of the main attractions that make the Big Apple so iconic. While neither of these options is an official boat tour, each one offers guests incredible views of the New York skyline, the Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, and more.
Finally, this night cruise is a beautiful nighttime tour of New York Harbor and a great way to see the Manhattan skyline illuminated at dusk. Another fun New York boat tour that you can do as a couple is this cruise with lunch or dinner on the New York Harbor. You won't find a New York Harbor boat tour like this one, and it's one of the best things to do in Manhattan with family or friends. If you're looking for a more casual New York dinner cruise, the New York Signature is a buffet-style dinner cruise for the whole family, and the dress code is professional and informal.
Go back in time and board the Clipper City, the largest sailboat in New York or Shearwater - a classic 1929 schooner - and set sail in New York Harbor. Also before we start I'll tell you that several of these tours are included in The New York Pass and The New York Sightseeing Pass so consider reading our guide to The Best Passes for New York City. As you can imagine this tour would be fun to do in New York City with your friends or partner and it's also included in The New York Pass. This New York boat tour company offers a variety of holiday-themed tourist and holiday cruises on yachts and schooners in The New York Harbor.
The ships depart from Battery Park City in Lower Manhattan and Liberty State Park in New Jersey offering memorable routes through The Skyscrapers Of The Financial District. You'll set sail on this evening cruise through The Big Apple just before sunset so you'll have The Advantage Of Enjoying The Beautiful Views At The Golden Hour And At Dusk.
