Best Boat Tours in New York City
Best NYC Cruises to See the Statue of Liberty, the Skyline, and More
Looking for the best way to see New York City? Get on a boat. From the Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn Bridge, some of the city’s best sights are directly on the water. Boat tours are a delightful and peaceful way to see everything, whether it’s your first trip here or you’re showing friends around.
This guide lists the top boat tours in New York City based on what people have said, how much they cost, and what travelers really adore.
What Are the Benefits of Taking a Boat Tour in NYC?
From the water, the skyline of New York looks different. You don’t get that view from a cab, subway, or double-decker bus. A boat tour allows you time to relax, enjoy the breeze, and take pictures that make people remark, “Wow, where were you?”
And it’s not only for visitors. People from the area also go on these tours, whether it’s for a date, a family getaway, or just to get away from the noise.
Real Travelers Ranked the 7 Best Boat Tours in New York City
1. Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise
- Best for: People who are coming for the first time
- What you’ll see: The NYC skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty
- Departure: Battery Park
- Time: About one hour
- Why we enjoy it: You can go close to Lady Liberty without having to stand in line or take a whole ferry. Great for tight schedules.
2. Private NYC Boat Charter
- Best for: Couples, groups, or private gatherings
- What you get: A full boat, a personal guide, and stops that can be changed
- Departure: Hudson River Marina or Pier 83
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- Why it stands out: It’s your tour. Your music, your speed, and no people. You can bring refreshments, take pictures, and relax.
3. Sunset Cruise in New York City
- Best for: Romantic nights
- What you’ll see: The NYC skyline lit up at sunset
- Departure: Evening trips leave from Pier 15
- Length: About 90 minutes
- Why people like it: The light is great for taking pictures. Most sunset cruises also have beverages and gentle music.
4. 3-Hour Combo Bus and Boat Tour
- Best for: Visitors who want to see both land and water
- Includes: A guided bus tour and a boat trip for one hour
- Departure: Midtown Manhattan
- Time: 3 hours
- What makes it special: It’s two tours in one. You may view the Statue of Liberty by boat and the key sights of the city by land, all in one afternoon. For travelers looking for smaller, more personal bus tours in NYC, Small Bus Tours NYC is another great option to explore.
👉 Click here to see our combo tour
5. Harbor Lights Evening Cruise
- Best for: Looking at the skyline at night
- What’s included: A bar on board, views of the skyline, and the Brooklyn Bridge
- Departure: Piers on the Hudson River
- Time: About 2 hours
- Why it’s great: Everything is peaceful. You cruise past Manhattan with a drink in hand and see the lights come on.
6. Circle Line Landmarks Cruise
- Best for: Sightseeing with a story
- What’s covered: Statue of Liberty, One World Trade, Empire State, bridges
- Time: 1.5 hours
- Departure: Pier 83
- Why people like it: Live narration, good seats, and a schedule that works.
7. Family-Friendly Liberty Boat Ride
- Best for: Kids and grandparents
- What you get: A short trip, amusing narration, and bathrooms on board
- Length: 45 minutes to an hour
- Departure: Lower Manhattan
- Why families love it: Easy to manage, near views, and interesting stories that keep kids captivated.
Why Book With Us?
We’re not a big company with long phone trees and long wait periods. We live nearby. We are familiar with these tours, these waterways, and this city.
What makes our tours stand apart is:
- ✅ Guides who are friendly and know a lot
- ✅ Small groups (no herding cattle)
- ✅ Simple online booking
- ✅ Tours leave on time
- ✅ Affordable choices for any budget
We’ve helped thousands of people visit New York the right way, without stress, congestion, or high ticket prices.
Quick Boat Tour Comparison
| Tour Name | Duration | Price | Includes Statue? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statue of Liberty Sightseeing | 1 hr | $25–$40 | ✅ | First-time visitors |
| Private Charter | 1–2 hrs | $150–$300 | ✅ | Pairs, groups |
| Sunset Skyline Tour | 90 mins | $45–$60 | ✅ | Evening views |
| Combo Bus & Boat Tour | 3 hrs | $69 | ✅ | All-in-one day |
| Harbor Lights Night Tour | 2 hrs | $60 | ✅ | Night skyline |
Plan Your Trip Like a Local
- Departures: Most trips leave from Pier 83, Battery Park, or Pier 15. Check your ticket info.
- When to go: Mornings are less congested. Sunset cruises are lovely.
- What to bring: A light jacket (even in the summer), water, and your camera.
- Accessibility: Most boats are wheelchair-friendly. Check ahead of time if you need to.
- Getting there: Subway is easiest. Parking near docks can be pricey or full.
If you’re also searching for affordable bus tours near me, check out this great list of budget-friendly NYC options.
Questions That Are Often Asked
What’s the greatest boat tour in NYC for first-timers?
Most new visitors choose the Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise. It’s quick, scenic, and easy to fit into your day.
Do boat tours in New York City run all year?
Most of them do, but their schedules could change in the winter. Always check availability during colder months.
Can I plan a private boat ride?
Yes! We offer personalized charters for couples, parties, and even proposals. Just get in touch, and we’ll help you set it up.
How long do the tours last?
It depends. Some go all around Manhattan, while others stay near the harbor. Every tour shows what it includes.
Do I have to print my ticket?
Nope. Just bring your confirmation email on your phone.
Let’s Get You on the Water
Don’t just visit NYC. See it from the water. We have a tour that’s just right for you, whether you want to go on a fast trip or a cruise at night with lights and music.