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 $116; students from $86
Duration: 2.75 hours
Admire some of the city's most significant architecture on this 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.
Tours depart once or twice daily; between January and March, tours only operate Thursday through Sunday. The company also offers sunset, brunch and jazz cruises.
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Circle Line Sightseeing – Best of NYC Cruise
Price: Adults from $47; kids from $38
Duration: 2.5 hours
See all of the Big Apple's top landmarks with this 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. The company also offers an express cruise to the Statue of Liberty and an evening Harbor Lights cruise, among others.
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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 from early May through the end of September and depart hourly from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
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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 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.
Tours run multiple times daily. The company also offers private charters.
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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.
Participants must be 12 or older, and kids 12 to 14 must be in a tandem kayak with an adult. Tourgoers must also weigh less than 225 pounds. Tours depart at varying times Thursday through Tuesday. There is an occasional Wednesday tour during the fall months. Manhattan Kayak Company also offers intermediate and advanced kayak tours, as well as stand-up paddleboard tours.
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City Experiences – New York Signature Brunch Cruise
Price: Adults from $74; kids from $63
Duration: 2 hours
This 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. City Experiences also offers a traditional sightseeing cruise of the city.
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Manhattan By Sail – Clipper City Day Sail
Price: Adults from $60; kids from $35
Duration: 90 minutes
This cruise takes you around the city on 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. Manhattan By Sail also operates a Wine & Jazz cruise, a sunset cruise and more.
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City Experiences – New York Bateaux Premier Lunch Cruise
Price: Adults from $72; kids from $53
Duration: 2 hours
Enjoy an elegant cruise on a European-style, glass-enclosed boat with Bateaux New York (operated by City Experiences). The cruise, which takes passengers past top New York City landmarks, also includes a buffet lunch, a pianist and narration about the city. Alcohol is available for an additional cost, and casual attire is recommended. Reviewers say the service is excellent, though the food receives mixed reviews.
Cruises depart weekly, though specific times and days vary. Bateaux New York also operates brunch and dinner cruises.
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Brooklyn Sail – Group Sail
Price: From $80
Duration: 2.5 hours
Climb aboard the Enchantress with just five other passengers for a 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 to 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. The ship departs from Pier 5 in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Brooklyn Sail also runs private charters and offers sailing lessons.
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