AIA-NY Boat Tour
AIA-NY Boat Tour
5
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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Michael H
New York, United States3 contributions
Jun 2022
The Society for Commercial Archeology chartered Classic Harbor Line’s Manhattan II as part of our “Golden Age of Air Travel Tour” on Sunday, June 19, 2022. We thought “The Around Manhattan Bridge Infrastructure Tour” would compliment our event. The day was spectacular.
The weather was perfect. The crew and Arthur Platt the guide was all wonderful. I can’t thank them all enough. I had a couple in the group who live in NYC and they said they had never seen Manhattan that way and many others had never been around the island. Adam Miller was extremely helpful and patient with us. We planned this event for summer 2020 and postponed it twice due to the Pandemic. We changed the amount of guests at least once. I highly recommend the AIANY Architecture Boat Tours.
The weather was perfect. The crew and Arthur Platt the guide was all wonderful. I can’t thank them all enough. I had a couple in the group who live in NYC and they said they had never seen Manhattan that way and many others had never been around the island. Adam Miller was extremely helpful and patient with us. We planned this event for summer 2020 and postponed it twice due to the Pandemic. We changed the amount of guests at least once. I highly recommend the AIANY Architecture Boat Tours.
Written June 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pthomas156
Newport, RI1,297 contributions
Jan 2023 • Couples
This is a fantastic architect-led tour around the island of Manhattan. You ride comfortably in a beautiful wooden boat with great viewing windows and small food offerings. This was a way to have a fascinating alternate view of this complex island. Our architect/tour guide knew more than you could ever imagine about anything we saw. It was especially interesting to have some industrial views involving bridges and ships and sea walls. A lot of history was learned too — did you know Manhattan used to be very hilly (that’s what its name means)? You’ll see evidence of that on the not-often-viewed north tip where we waited for a swing bridge to let us through. We were so pleased to find the AIA website and its walking tours for our next visit.
Written January 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen B
9 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
We absolutely loved this tour. So beautiful, relaxed and extremely interesting. A lovely comfortable boat and our guide was very very knowledgeable. A really superb way to see the city. Cheese and wine was lovely too.
Written May 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dylan H
Malverne, NY26 contributions
Jul 2018 • Couples
I had done one of these in Chicago. My wife suggested this one while we had family in town. It was fantastic. Boat didn’t bounce around a lot. Most I felt was in he East River near Hell Gate. But even that was not nausea inducing, even for my second trimester wife. Indoor seating, half glass roof. You don’t have to sit outside on even the hottest days. I imagine this could be a 9-10 month activity. Guide was highly knowledgeable. I would do it again with another architect just to hear what they may have to say about different buildings. Service was good aboard as well. They’re not gouging you for drinks, if you’re used to city pricing. My only knock is that there is so much to see, there were many buildings never mentioned. They could absolutely have individual tours covering midtown east or west, downtown east or west.
Written August 8, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
abqfrank29
Albuquerque, NM30 contributions
Mar 2018 • Couples
During a recent visit to New York, we took in many sights and shows. One of the highlights of the trip was taking this three-hour cruise on a yacht to see and hear about the architectural wonders and history of the City.
Some basics are you do need a reservation, board at the Chelsea Piers (62), and you can get there fairly easily by subway as long as you don’t mind a short walk. Light snacks are provided about half-way through the trip and one adult beverage is included in the package. Additional beverages and snacks can be purchased on board. If I remember correctly, they only accept credit cards, but you might want to check on this when getting your boarding pass. As an aside, you might do the High Line before this as you can do both in one day.
We were on the Manhattan II, a beautiful wooden boat. There are windows galore, although they did have water/dirt stains on them. However, since it is on the water so much, I would think this is to be expected. It is very spacious with each party essentially having what might amount to a “private” booth. There are different sized areas to accommodate different sized groups. We had four in our party and were quite comfortable, and still would have been if there had been 6-7 or us. The temperature inside was just right as well with the clouds and wind outside being quite chilly. Our coats came off fairly quickly. Bathroom facilities are available on a lower deck.
There is a docent/guide from the AIA-NY to lead the conversation about the architecture. Ours was quite knowledgeable. He provided the history of the buildings and bridges, what is in store for Manhattan’s future, how the Burroughs have grown, and the history of Manhattan itself. There were quite a few gems of information that even a native New Yorker in our group didn’t know. One will never look at Manhattan and the City as a whole quite the same after this tour. It actually makes it even more larger than life than it already is.
We were able to go around the entire island of Manhattan; this is not always possible due to a train bridge that isn’t always able to be opened, so be forewarned. The start of the tour took us out to Liberty Island and a close-up view of Lady Liberty. The shots of Battery Park, Freedom Tower and the Brooklyn Bridge on the way back in from Liberty Island are spectacular and are worth the price of the tour alone. We then went up the East River, past Roosevelt Island, and along parts of the Island that will definitely surprise you to think it is still Manhattan. Then we cruised between the island and the mainland, being able to stop for a moment to enjoy the quiet while waiting for the train bridge to open. After that, we cruised down the Hudson River, under the Washington Bridge, and along quaint riverside towns on the New Jersey side, ending by seeing some of the new developments happening on the Lower East Side (here you’ll see some modern architectural that may make your jaw-drop—it did mine). Ending back where we started in Chelsea.
Here are some tips that may enhance your tour a little. Get your boarding passes early and try to be the first in line. The very first booth on the right as you enter will give the best views from the side, front and overhead. If taking photos, which of course you’ll do, make sure to press your phone or lens flat against the window glass for best pictures (your camera will more likely focus on the structures and not the glass stains this way). Depending on your mobility, and the weather, your best shots will be out on the bow. This is where I stood, even though it was quite chilly, but there are no obstructions or worries about the glass. Just make sure you have a strap for your camera, and especially your phone, as you don’t want to lose them overboard when hit by the wash of another boat or wave. The yacht will rock, so watch your drinks while inside as they will slide around easily as everything is served in glass stemware or on real plates.
I’ve said a lot, but the bottom line is, this excursion is well worth the price. I am fairly certain you will not be disappointed in doing so.
Some basics are you do need a reservation, board at the Chelsea Piers (62), and you can get there fairly easily by subway as long as you don’t mind a short walk. Light snacks are provided about half-way through the trip and one adult beverage is included in the package. Additional beverages and snacks can be purchased on board. If I remember correctly, they only accept credit cards, but you might want to check on this when getting your boarding pass. As an aside, you might do the High Line before this as you can do both in one day.
We were on the Manhattan II, a beautiful wooden boat. There are windows galore, although they did have water/dirt stains on them. However, since it is on the water so much, I would think this is to be expected. It is very spacious with each party essentially having what might amount to a “private” booth. There are different sized areas to accommodate different sized groups. We had four in our party and were quite comfortable, and still would have been if there had been 6-7 or us. The temperature inside was just right as well with the clouds and wind outside being quite chilly. Our coats came off fairly quickly. Bathroom facilities are available on a lower deck.
There is a docent/guide from the AIA-NY to lead the conversation about the architecture. Ours was quite knowledgeable. He provided the history of the buildings and bridges, what is in store for Manhattan’s future, how the Burroughs have grown, and the history of Manhattan itself. There were quite a few gems of information that even a native New Yorker in our group didn’t know. One will never look at Manhattan and the City as a whole quite the same after this tour. It actually makes it even more larger than life than it already is.
We were able to go around the entire island of Manhattan; this is not always possible due to a train bridge that isn’t always able to be opened, so be forewarned. The start of the tour took us out to Liberty Island and a close-up view of Lady Liberty. The shots of Battery Park, Freedom Tower and the Brooklyn Bridge on the way back in from Liberty Island are spectacular and are worth the price of the tour alone. We then went up the East River, past Roosevelt Island, and along parts of the Island that will definitely surprise you to think it is still Manhattan. Then we cruised between the island and the mainland, being able to stop for a moment to enjoy the quiet while waiting for the train bridge to open. After that, we cruised down the Hudson River, under the Washington Bridge, and along quaint riverside towns on the New Jersey side, ending by seeing some of the new developments happening on the Lower East Side (here you’ll see some modern architectural that may make your jaw-drop—it did mine). Ending back where we started in Chelsea.
Here are some tips that may enhance your tour a little. Get your boarding passes early and try to be the first in line. The very first booth on the right as you enter will give the best views from the side, front and overhead. If taking photos, which of course you’ll do, make sure to press your phone or lens flat against the window glass for best pictures (your camera will more likely focus on the structures and not the glass stains this way). Depending on your mobility, and the weather, your best shots will be out on the bow. This is where I stood, even though it was quite chilly, but there are no obstructions or worries about the glass. Just make sure you have a strap for your camera, and especially your phone, as you don’t want to lose them overboard when hit by the wash of another boat or wave. The yacht will rock, so watch your drinks while inside as they will slide around easily as everything is served in glass stemware or on real plates.
I’ve said a lot, but the bottom line is, this excursion is well worth the price. I am fairly certain you will not be disappointed in doing so.
Written April 9, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brent L
Phoenix, AZ95 contributions
Oct 2019 • Couples
Doug, Architect and our highly skilled tour director was excellent! He seemed to know every building around the city, it history, architect etc. He delivered the information with both skill, charm and a touch of dry humor.
The boat is simply elegant, not overcrowded. The food was light, well prepared. Other boat crew were professional, helpful and friendly.
Highly recommend this tour over the crowded circle line tourist traps.
The boat is simply elegant, not overcrowded. The food was light, well prepared. Other boat crew were professional, helpful and friendly.
Highly recommend this tour over the crowded circle line tourist traps.
Written November 7, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lolabow B
United Kingdom123 contributions
Oct 2019
We went on the beautiful Manhattan 11 on our first day in NY so was great for getting a feel of the place. Luckily the boat was only about half full so it was easy to move from side to side to see all the buildings and sites that were being pointed out by our knowledgeable, if a little dry, AIA guide. It was fascinating to go right around Manhattan Island especially to see the quite rural areas on the Hudson River. I think it was worth the price for the 2.5 hour trip, the guide, the prosecco and substantial snack.
Written October 26, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Malcolm L
Whitby, Canada45 contributions
Sep 2017 • Couples
My wife and I took this tour earlier in September, we both thought it was great! We had a beautiful day (that's right, it actually was not raining) so we were able to sit up front and enjoy the sun while listening to the guy with the big brain tell us about some of the architecture of Manhattan. I'll be honest, the only architect I'm familiar with is Art Vanderlay so I'm not the best person to give an opinion on how good the presentation was. However, i learned a few things I'll tell my friends about and the view of Manhattan from the boat was beyond expectations.
As a Me Top Tip the boat pulls out and heads South towards the Statue of Liberty so if you sit outside try to sit on the left (or Port, for you nautical sorts out there) side of the boat to have continues views of the skyline.
As a Me Top Tip the boat pulls out and heads South towards the Statue of Liberty so if you sit outside try to sit on the left (or Port, for you nautical sorts out there) side of the boat to have continues views of the skyline.
Written September 18, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pricklypoppy
Los Angeles832 contributions
Apr 2014 • Family
This was a well-orchestrated, high quality tour that combined stunning skyline views with an architectural and historical narration given by a working architect. You will linger in front of the Statue of Liberty for lots of picture taking and sail under the Brooklyn Bridge.
This tour is not just for architecture lovers. Some other points of interest included: the little red lighthouse, the Columbia "C", the lunatic asylum on Roosevelt Island, evolution of public housing, Marble Hill, boathouses, and the impact of hurricane Sandy.
My daughter and I took this tour on a Friday afternoon in April. We booked our tickets online by credit card about 3 weeks in advance. There were about 40 people on our tour; not quite full.
I would not hesitate to recommend this tour. For further details read on.
DEPARTURE
The boat leaves exactly at 1:45PM. Boarding started at 1:40. Arrive early. We cut it close by leaving MoMA at 1:00 by train and taxi and we barely made it. If you do not know the city and traffic, allow plenty of time to get to Pier 62.
SEATING
There are two seating areas; inside on padded benches in an all glass surround lounge and outside on the deck where there is limited seating. On our cruise, the seating outside was fluid and everyone moved around. The people on the interior stayed in their seats the entire time. The best place for taking photos is on the bow, port side (since the boat travels in a counterclockwise direction) however, you will want to be on the starboard side when viewing the Statue of Liberty. The best seats on the inside are along the back row.
WHAT TO WEAR/BRING
We wore tennis shoes but you can wear most anything. You need to be able to step onto the boat and down a few stairs. One woman was wearing high heels. If you plan to be outside, soles that grip are best since you can get rocked around a bit.
Camera, hat, windbreaker, sunscreen, cash for tipping (the service is excellent and you may want to tip - most on our cruise did and I wish I had had the correct bills). Note: For photography, I used a 24-70 lens but a 70-200 might have been better.
FOOD/DRINK
A very nice happy hour is served about one hour into the cruise. It consisted of cheese, crackers, lemon loaf, and a fruit salad with melon and berries. The first drink (wine, beer, soda) is included and after that it is no host.
KIDS
Although there were no kids on our boat, I think kids would enjoy this trip. Binoculars might be a fun addition for kids. The narration is definitely adult oriented. Safety is reviewed at the outset of the trip.
SEASICKNESS
I get seasick on some boats but I did not experience any on this cruise. The boat rocks around some but the level, stationery ground is always in sight.
TAXI
Following the cruise, we were able to find a taxi on the main street right away.
This tour is not just for architecture lovers. Some other points of interest included: the little red lighthouse, the Columbia "C", the lunatic asylum on Roosevelt Island, evolution of public housing, Marble Hill, boathouses, and the impact of hurricane Sandy.
My daughter and I took this tour on a Friday afternoon in April. We booked our tickets online by credit card about 3 weeks in advance. There were about 40 people on our tour; not quite full.
I would not hesitate to recommend this tour. For further details read on.
DEPARTURE
The boat leaves exactly at 1:45PM. Boarding started at 1:40. Arrive early. We cut it close by leaving MoMA at 1:00 by train and taxi and we barely made it. If you do not know the city and traffic, allow plenty of time to get to Pier 62.
SEATING
There are two seating areas; inside on padded benches in an all glass surround lounge and outside on the deck where there is limited seating. On our cruise, the seating outside was fluid and everyone moved around. The people on the interior stayed in their seats the entire time. The best place for taking photos is on the bow, port side (since the boat travels in a counterclockwise direction) however, you will want to be on the starboard side when viewing the Statue of Liberty. The best seats on the inside are along the back row.
WHAT TO WEAR/BRING
We wore tennis shoes but you can wear most anything. You need to be able to step onto the boat and down a few stairs. One woman was wearing high heels. If you plan to be outside, soles that grip are best since you can get rocked around a bit.
Camera, hat, windbreaker, sunscreen, cash for tipping (the service is excellent and you may want to tip - most on our cruise did and I wish I had had the correct bills). Note: For photography, I used a 24-70 lens but a 70-200 might have been better.
FOOD/DRINK
A very nice happy hour is served about one hour into the cruise. It consisted of cheese, crackers, lemon loaf, and a fruit salad with melon and berries. The first drink (wine, beer, soda) is included and after that it is no host.
KIDS
Although there were no kids on our boat, I think kids would enjoy this trip. Binoculars might be a fun addition for kids. The narration is definitely adult oriented. Safety is reviewed at the outset of the trip.
SEASICKNESS
I get seasick on some boats but I did not experience any on this cruise. The boat rocks around some but the level, stationery ground is always in sight.
TAXI
Following the cruise, we were able to find a taxi on the main street right away.
Written April 28, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
agent99712
New York City, NY283 contributions
Sep 2019 • Friends
I wrote a review last year and wanted to forward it to an interested friend but I can’t find it. So I won’t rewrite it as all has been said.
Do not miss this tour, just excellent. Can’t wait to do again.
Do not miss this tour, just excellent. Can’t wait to do again.
Written August 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
clani
portland76 contributions
What is the best seat inside and outside of the boat (left side, right side, front...) to get excellent views without craning your neck?
Imspam
Indianapolis140 contributions
It depends on which direction the boat goes. If the boat heads south, sit on the left to see the New York side. We sat in the first booth on the left and were very pleased. By the way, we asked the captain when we boarded which way we were headed.
