city lights cruise on yacht manhattan

Yacht Manhattan

Aiany new york around manhattan architecture boat tour.

During this architecture boat tour of NYC, you will explore new and enduring architecture, engineering marvels, and the revitalized waterfront from the teak decks of Classic Harbor Line’s elegant motor yachts. This fully narrated NYC architecture boat tour is in collaboration with the AIANY (American Institute of Architects New York). The story of NYC’s development is described as a broad overview for visitors but includes deeper insights to satisfy demanding locals. During this New York architecture tour you’ll catch new and alluring sites including Little Island at Pier 55, the Hudson Yards “mega-project”, the continuing ascent of “supertall” luxury residential towers, and join a discussion of how cities might adapt in the post-Covid era.

Continuing education credits available »

Our AIANY Architecture Boat Tour makes a great gift! Purchase a CHL gift card at the link below

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Statue & Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

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Join us aboard these classic style yachts (Manhattan or Manhattan II) for a NYC sightseeing cruise! We have been rated in the top 3 best Architecture boat tours in the USA. So enjoy us aboard for a AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour, or a boat ride out to the Statue of Liberty to snap some selfies and take in the NYC Skyline from the water. The sightseeing cruises on these boats will create memories to last a lifetime. Trying to figure out the most perfect NYC Date idea? Grab your loved one for a romantic sunset cruise or a city lights cruise out in NY Harbor. Manhattan and Manhattan II are inspired by the famous (and infamous) commuter yachts of the Roaring Twenties! These boats were commonplace in NY Harbor — owned by the ultra rich on the shores of Long Island Sound — Oil Barons and Wall Street tycoons outfitted long narrow boats with the ever-so-popular combustion engine. Designed for speed and elegance, the Manhattan and Manhattan II are outfitted with 1000 horse power John Deere Diesels, and will be traveling at safe comfortable “cruising speeds” while you enjoy a glass of award winning champagne, a bountiful Brunch, or perhaps an Architecture Tour.

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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

Sail Experience (Ages 13+)

90 min sightseeing sail, child sail experience (ages 5-12), infant toddler (ages 0-4), 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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• User Ages 21+
• Clock 1 hour & 30 minutes
• Users 134 Passengers

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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City Lights Cruise

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Highlights 🛳️ Board a yacht with panoramic decks (outdoor & heated indoor) 🌇 Admire the one-of-a-kind night view of Manhattan 🎵 Delightful tunes throughout the boat to get you moving General Info 🕒 Times: select during purchase. Boarding takes place 30 minutes before the departure time ⏳ Duration: 2 hours Description Get ready for an unforgettable experience! The New York City lights at night cruise is the best way to see the one-of-a-kind Manhattan night view. You'll sail past numerous iconic landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and more. New York City's glittering night lights and the panoramic view from the ship are second to none. Your city lights NYC cruise is your ticket to magical views, fantastic fun with friends and family, and plenty of photos to share on social media, so book your NYC evening cruise today!

Getting there

Pier 40 at Hudson River Park

353 West Street, New York, 10014

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Champagne City Lights Cruise On Yacht Manhattan

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Night Cruises on Circle Line

Guided Tours Cruising Nightly

See Iconic New York Landmarks In A Whole New Light

You haven’t seen Lady Liberty until you’ve seen her at night! Cruise with Circle Line for a nighttime boat tour of downtown New York. Our award-winning tour guides will narrate the story of New York while you enjoy refreshments and bask in the evening glow of New York harbor. The city’s legendary landmarks truly come to life at night; you don’t want to miss the boat on this unforgettable New York experience.

Circle Line offers two New York night cruise options to fit your schedule.

If you want to see New York at night, both the Statue By Night Cruise and Harbor Lights Cruise are sure to dazzle and delight! Our iconic NYC night cruises offer unparalleled views of the skyline and Statue of Liberty at night. Our evening cruises depart from both midtown and downtown Manhattan, making it convenient for you to decide where you'd like to depart from. Whether you’re looking for a quick family photo op with the Statue of Liberty or romantic views of illuminated New York landmarks, use the list below as your guide and get ready for an unforgettable evening.

If you need help selecting the best nighttime NYC boat cruise experience for you, feel free to contact us for more information. Not sold on touring the city at night? Check out all of our world-famous Circle Line cruises!

• Scenic Cruises

Champagne City Lights Cruise on the Motor Yacht Manhattan

See the Manhattan Skyline in all its Glory on This Hour and a Quarter Sightseeing Yacht Cruise

• • Sip Champagne and Cruise The Hudson River
• • Enjoy the Lights of the New York City Skyline
• • Relax in Style on a 1920s Style Motorized Yacht

Why We Love This Unique Experience

New York City Experience Gifts:  Getting the best views of the Manhattan skyline at night is on everyone's bucket list, so why not get the best seats in the house and relax on a 1920's style yacht while cruising down the Hudson River? With a complimentary drink in hand and the lights of the city in front of you on full display, we can't think of a better way to spend an evening in the Big Apple. Cruise past many of New York's most iconic landmarks and enjoy unparalleled skyline viewing, a unique first date idea or a thoughtful experience gift for New Yorkers!

Check Availability & Book

Experience overview:.

Key points about this tour:

• See all major lower Manhattan lit up at night!
• Offered aboard Manhattan or Manhattan II (1920s inspired yachts)
• No narration of the sights. This is a relaxing, sightseeing affair.
• Seating available in climate controlled cabin or on the outer deck
• Popular for date night!

Experience a New York City Lights cruise like never before! Step aboard a decked-out 1920s inspired motor yacht. As you lounge in the observation cabin to take in the twinkling lights of this famous skyline, enjoy a complimentary beer, wine, champagne or soda on us. A beautiful full bar and specialty cocktails and NY State wines by the bottle are available for purchase.

Sit back and relax on a beautifully-crafted yacht as you cruise by Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Governors Island!

Highlights during this 1.5-hour cruise include:

• Battery Park, South Street Seaport, One World Trade Center and the Financial District
• The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island lit up at night
• Parts of Brooklyn and Queens and the entire illuminated New York City skyline!
• Views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges
• Though this cruise provides excellent sightseeing, it is not narrated, providing a more passive and romantic tourism experience.

What Is Not Included?

Gratuity is not included.

Food is not included

> More Experience Gifts in New York City

Activity FAQs

May i bring food aboard?

Small snacks may be brought onboard. 

May i bring alcohol aboard?

No.  It is unlawful to bring alcohol aboard. There are complimentary soft drinks available on your cruise. 

Is the boat safe?

Yes. Each boat in the fleet is a U.S. Coast-Guard Certified vessel meaning that all related federal regulations are fully adhered to, including having the correct safety equipment and maintaining safety-training for the captains and crew.  

Am i likely to get sea-sick?

It is uncommon for our guests to experience sea sickness, though those who are prone to it are advised to consider preventative measures of their choosing. (i.e sea sickness compression wrist bands, which are available for purchase at check-in)

What is the seating like?

No. Smoking is not allowed at any time.

Are the boats ada accessible?

None of the boats in the Classic Harbor Line fleet are defined as ‘accessible’ by ADA guidelines, nor are the boats required to be due to their low capacity rating.

What is the route and what do we see?

Routes vary slightly.  All cruises and schooner sails will get a view of the lower financial district, Governors Island, Upper New York Harbor, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

Is there a bathroom?

Yes.  

Is there parking and how much is it?

Yes.  There is paid parking available. The price of parking is not included. 

Do you ever cancel due to weather?

Yes.  Occasionally we have to cancel due to weather. The open decks of the schooners (sail boats) make them more susceptible to a cancellation due to rain.  They may also be shut down due to extremely high winds. The motor boats feature enclosed salons and can operate comfortably in wet conditions.  If any of our trips are cancelled due to weather you will be contacted as soon as possible with the contact  information you provided. You will be given the opportunity to reschedule.

Are life jackets available?

Yes. Each of our boats is a U.S. Coast Guard certified passenger vessel and each operates with the required number of life jackets. Each life jacket is a ‘Type 1’ life jacket.  They are bright orange, rigid life jackets that are designed for emergency use and are designed to keep your head afloat at sea.  For the most part, they are not comfortable to wear while sitting on a boat.  The life jackets for children are also ‘Type 1’ life jackets.  If you would like to comfortably wear a life jacket or have one for a child to wear while cruising or sailing with us, we suggest bringing your own. 

Is gratuity included with my ticket?

No, gratuity is not included and is appreciated by the Captain and Crew.

Do your cruises sell out?

Often times they do, so booking early, especially for a weekend, sunset or Saturday evening excursion is highly recommended.

Details & Important Info

Additional experience details & important information.

Cruises take place rain or shine, but within reason

A captain-authorized cancellation or delay may be issued up until departure time if weather is deemed too threatening to the safety or enjoyment of the experience. Extreme high winds, fog, torrential rain, extremely low temperatures, etc. may all contribute to a cancellation decision.

Please be advised that as of December 14th 2020 according to NYS law, all food and beverage consumption must occur outdoors.

Cancellations & Refunds

Reservation changes, cancellations & refunds.

All ticket sales are final and not refundable. Reservations cannot be changed, rescheduled or refunded once confirmed. Reservations may be re-scheduled by the operator of the activity due to reasons such as weather, minimum participation requirements, mechanical issues or other interruptions beyond their control.

All gift certificate sales are final and not refundable. Gift certificates can only be exchanged prior to redemption.

A full list of terms of sale of tickets and certificates can be viewed here .

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Classic harbor line - new york.

Classic Design - Contemporary Experience

New York City’s Classic Style Charter Boat and Tour Boat Fleet

Dedicated to helping locals and visitors alike enjoy the unique wonders of New York City, Classic Harbor Line hopes for the privilege of escorting you on a relaxing, inspiring, and breathtaking cruise through the waters we proudly call home. Our three classic yachts — the Schooner Adirondack and the Schooner America 2.0 (our sailboats), and the Luxury Yacht Manhattan (our motorized yacht) are reminiscent of the classic boats that cruised the NYC waters in the past two centuries.

Whether buying tickets for one of our New York Harbor sightseeing cruises to see the Statue of Liberty, or privately chartering one of our large sailboats for an office outing, you are sure to find yourself on a beautiful boat, surrounded by warm and friendly service, plying through the majestic New York City waterways.

We offer a wide range of ticketed sightseeing New York City Cruises. Whether you are a fan of the cruising on an elegant motor yacht to see the entire New York City skyline with comfort and speed, or if you are inclined to take a more adventurous escape on our swift, double-masted sailboats, you are sure to find a cruise that will suit you with service that treats you like royalty.

Product SKU: US-0018-0016 Google Business Profile: Classic Harbor Line

Manhattan Lights Cruise

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The 6 Best Statue of Liberty Cruises + Tips From a Local

T he best view of New York might not be in the city itself, but from the harbor looking back at the skyline. Sightseeing cruises are a wonderful reminder that Manhattan is, in fact, an island, and getting out on the water offers a breezy cruise in addition to a fresh vantage point.

With a cold drink in hand, you'll see not just the Statue of Liberty , but also other top city landmarks from the Brooklyn Bridge to One World Trade Center. These boat tours allow visitors to zoom out and get a new perspective, then return to Manhattan refreshed by the wind, water, light and sheer size of the skyline.

There are different boat experiences to match every type of traveler, and here are some of the best.

Best Overall: Statue City Cruises

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Price: From $24.50

Duration: At your own pace, with ferries departing every 25 to 30 minutes

Standout perk: Admission to the grounds of Liberty Island and Ellis Island are included in this sightseeing cruise and ferry service to Lady Liberty.

The best overall value and experience belongs to Statue City Cruises, which combines the scenery of a sightseeing cruise with the in-depth experience of an attraction tour. Priority entry included with the ticket saves time at the departure point at The Battery . On board the round-trip ferry service, visitors will experience all the sweeping views of a New York Harbor cruise, including skyscrapers of the Financial District and beyond.

The first stop is Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty. Audio tours in a dozen languages are available so you can go at your own pace. Those interested can continue via boat service to Ellis Island, home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which contains several fascinating exhibits and the chance to look up your ancestors. Explore at your leisure, then utilize the ferry service back to lower Manhattan.

Local tip: Choose a time as early as possible in the morning for this experience. Ferry service and crowds at Lady Liberty grow throughout the day and swell on weekends; a weekday morning is the best choice.

Best for Adults: Manhattan by Sail's Day Sail – Shearwater

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Price: From $60 for adults

Duration: 90 minutes

Standout perk: This cruise provides a true sailing experience on a classic schooner.

Don't be surprised to bump into New Yorkers on the Shearwater, a schooner with tall sails that entices even jaded Manhattanites to go for a ride. Climb aboard this "Gatsby"-era boat, with capacity for 48 people, from the dock at North Cove Marina at Brookfield Place and set out on a sail down the Hudson River and into the New York Harbor. Trade city crowds for the open water with this cruise, complete with a cash bar, that offers up-close views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline.

This experience, conveniently available at different times throughout the day, is a match for adults seeking a more sophisticated sail – think: hip vibe, ample bar, music and an emphasis on service. Several upgrades are available, including sails that offer a wine tasting or live jazz on board. Every sailing offers the chance to snap your photograph with Lady Liberty herself, though you won't be disembarking at Liberty Island.

Local tip: Adults seeking a romantic cruise may want to opt for the Sunset Sail on the Shearwater Classic Schooner.

Best for Families: Circle Line's Liberty Super Express Downtown

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Price: From $29

Duration: 50 minutes

Standout perk: Maximize time with this express cruise, featuring convenient, regular departures.

Families with limited time (or kids with limited attention spans) may appreciate a quick express cruise option. This fast and friendly tour, at just 50 minutes, is a speedy way to get the experience of a boat cruise without it taking a bite out of your day. Hop aboard a boat with Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises – the sister company to New York Water Taxi – and choose between either the open air of the top deck or the temperature-controlled cabin. On a sunny day, the outdoor deck with its sea breeze is the place to be as the boat sails past the Statue of Liberty.

Get unobstructed views of Lady Liberty and snap some family photographs before returning to Pier 16 in the South Street Seaport. Quick, efficient and featuring live narration from a guide, this sightseeing ride is excellent value packed into a short time span.

Local tip: Kids interested in ships may want to visit the South Street Seaport Museum, near the cruise departure point, to see model ships and more.

Read: The Top NYC Dinner Cruises

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Best Budget: Staten Island Ferry

Price: Free

Duration: 25 minutes each way

Standout perk: Get out on the water to see the Statue of Liberty without paying a cent.

The best budget sightseeing cruise isn't a cruise at all, but rather a free mode of local transportation: the Staten Island Ferry. While many of even the most basic harbor cruises start at about $20, this ferry offers a completely free, ticketless cruise in the New York Harbor, bypassing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island along the way. With service every 30 minutes and no reservations or tickets required, the ferry is not only a steal price-wise, but also a convenient option for travelers who don't want to be tied down to a ticketed departure time.

Stand out on deck and admire views of Lady Liberty during this journey that crosses about 5 miles from Whitehall Street at the tip of lower Manhattan to St. George on Staten Island. The only drawback is that you must depart the ferry in Staten Island and reboard for the trip back to Manhattan – a small "price" to pay for a free boat ride in NYC.

Local tip: Visitors will want to avoid rush hour; these commuter boats can be crowded. Choose a time outside commuting rush hour to maximize the peaceful experience.

Best Luxury: Classic Harbor Line's Statue and Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

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Price: From $64 for adults

Duration: 1.5 hours

Standout perk: This intimate cruise on a 1920s-inspired yacht comes with one complimentary drink included.

Board a yacht at Pier 62 in Chelsea for a polished cruise including views of the New York Harbor's top landmark: the Statue of Liberty. Set sail in style aboard a yacht inspired by the roaring '20s, complete with a solarium and open-air decks as well as a climate-controlled cabin. Cruise down the west side of Manhattan and check out views of The Battery, the Financial District, Governor's Island and more.

Of all the available New York City harbor cruises, guests often praise this one for the quality of the staff running the Classic Harbor Line cruises. With an emphasis on service, an intimate group with a maximum of 80 passengers and an onboard stocked bar, this cruise offers a sophisticated option for seeing Lady Liberty.

Local tip: This cruise departs from Pier 62, which is home to a riverfront carousel for kids and a pretty stretch of Hudson River Park. Stop into Chelsea Market for some picnic supplies and relax in the park before your cruise.

Best Sunset Cruise: Circle Line's Harbor Lights

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Price: From $45

Duration: 2 hours

Standout perk: Watch the skyscrapers of the Manhattan skyline flicker to life.

Circle Line offers a variety of cruises with different itineraries. One of the most popular is the Harbor Lights tour, a cruise departing from Midtown Manhattan that includes golden sunset views and a photo stop at the Statue of Liberty. See NYC landmarks like Hudson Yards, Chelsea Piers and One World Trade Center before cruising out into the New York Harbor. You'll get to learn about New York from onboard narration as the itinerary continues past Liberty Island and beneath the Brooklyn Bridge.

While the sun sets and the Manhattan skyscrapers flash to life, relax on the outdoor deck space and visit the onboard bar to purchase beer, wine, cocktails and light snacks. A temperature-controlled cabin is available for hot days. Wi-Fi is free on board and allows for easy posting of sunset photos.

Local tip: This cruise departs from Pier 83 in Midtown Manhattan. Arrive early to visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum at neighboring Pier 86.

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. Colley Clarke used her expertise to write this article.

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