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New York City Cruise Guide: Tickets, Prices, Best Cruises 

What better way to experience New York City, one of the most famous cities in the world, than on a cruise?

NYC cruises are a fantastic way to see the city because they provide breathtaking skyline views and special access to the city’s many attractions.

There is something for everyone in the range of cruises, from dinner cruises to sightseeing trips.

This article will examine the cruise options in New York City and what to anticipate from each one.

What To Expect On a New York City Cruise

New York cruises offer a unique way to explore the city and enjoy its picturesque skyline. 

Visitors can expect a variety of vessels, from luxury liners to traditional wooden ships, and a range of experiences, from family-friendly sightseeing to romantic sunset cruises. 

There is something for everyone, from day cruises that take in the city’s iconic sights to exclusive events and onboard entertainment. 

All cruises include a buffet lunch or dinner, with a range of drinks and snacks available on board. 

The vessels also offer panoramic views of the city and the chance to see landmarks, including

  • The Statue of Liberty
  • The Brooklyn 
  • Manhattan Bridges
  • Ellis Island 
  • The Freedom Tower

Best New York City Cruises

From the romantic skyline views of a dinner cruise to the unique perspective of a kayak adventure, there are plenty of NYC cruises to choose from for a great experience.

Below is the list that provides a selection of the best New York cruises to take to the Big Apple.

Circle Line New York City Harbor Lights Cruise Ticket

The mesmerizing sight is stunning and is a perfect way to end a day of sightseeing or kick off a night on the town.  

On a Circle Line cruise, you can explore the harbor lights up close as the cruise ships chug slowly along the water’s edge. 

You’ll also learn about the history and significance of these iconic sights from the guides’ informative commentary.  

As the sun sinks into the horizon, the white light of the harbor’s bridges and piers starts to glow, then gradually turns a deep red as the sun sets beneath the water. 

Duration: 2 hrs

Ticket Includes:

  • Live narration by Circle Line’s world-famous guides (in English)
  • Free Wi-Fi on board
  • 2-hour sightseeing cruise

Meeting point: 83 North River Piers West 43rd Street and 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA

Ticket Prices:

AgeTicket price
Adult ticket (13 + years)$44
Child ticket (3 to 12 years)$37

Complete Manhattan Island Cruise Ticket

The Complete Manhattan Island Cruise is perfect for all New York City sights and sounds. 

This two-and-a-half-hour voyage starts at Pier 83 on the Hudson River and takes passengers on a relaxing journey around the island, passing iconic landmarks and sites.

The NYC cruise tour takes passengers south along the Hudson River, with views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Brooklyn Bridge. 

The cruise continues around the island’s tip, and passengers can enjoy great views of the Financial District, Battery Park, and the Empire State Building. 

The cruise then heads north along the East River, with views of the United Nations, the Chrysler Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Throughout the cruise, guests can listen to live commentary from knowledgeable tour guides who provide interesting facts and stories about the sites and landmarks. 

Complimentary hot and cold drinks and snacks are available to purchase on board.

Duration: 2 hrs 30 mins

Ticket Includes:

  • 2.5 hour Sightseeing Cruise
  • Live narration by Circle Line’s guides (in English)
  • Free Wi-Fi on board
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Restroom on board
  • Outdoor deck

Meeting point: 83 North River Piers West 43rd Street and 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA

Ticket Price:

Age Ticket price
Adult ticket (13 + years)$44
Child ticket (3 to 12 years)$37

New York City Landmarks Circle Line Cruise

Step aboard the Circle Line Cruise for a relaxing sightseeing cruise of New York City’s iconic landmarks. 

The cruise takes you up and down the Manhattan skyline, giving you a stunning perspective of the city’s many iconic sights. 

You’ll also get close-ups of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge and more. 

Circle Line Cruise is the perfect way to see the city like a local and experience all of New York’s sights.

Duration: 1 hrs 30 mins

Ticket Includes:

  • Live narration by Circle Line’s guides (in English)
  • Free Wi-Fi on board
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Restroom on board
  • Outdoor deck

Meeting point: 83 North River Piers West 43rd Street and 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA

Ticket Price:

AgeTicket price
Adult ticket (13+ years)$37
Child ticket (3 to 12 years)$31

New York Statue of Liberty Cruises

One of the best cruises to try in New York City is the Statue of Liberty Cruises. 

These crises offer the best opportunity to enjoy the city skyline and iconic landmarks from the water. 

Here are some of the best Statue of Liberty Cruise tickets: 

Liberty Cruise New York City ticket

The Liberty Cruise is the perfect way to get a feel for the city skyline and the iconic landmarks that make up New York City. 

The cruise includes a view of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and close-ups of the Manhattan skyline, One World Trade Center and the Empire State Building. 

The cruise also offers glimpses of the riverfront, including the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan.

Duration: 1 hr

Ticket Includes:

  • 1-hour sightseeing cruise
  • Live narration by Circle Line’s guides (in English)
  • Free Wi-Fi on board

Meeting point: 83 North River Piers West 43rd Street and 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA

Ticket Price:

Age Ticket price
Adult ticket (13+ years)$25
Child ticket (3 to 12 years)$20

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island tour: all options ticket

The Statue of Liberty, a renowned emblem of America, is situated in New York Harbor and commemorates the immigrants who arrived at Ellis Island. 

This hassle-free and adjustable NYC cruise tour offers an opportunity to explore the history of Ellis Island and spend as much time as desired at both popular attractions.

Duration: 3 to 5 hrs

Ticket Includes:

  • Round trip ferry ticket for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
  • Access to the new Liberty Island Museum
  • Access to the Immigration Museum at Ellis Island
  • Expert English-speaking guide

Meeting point: New York, NY 10004, USA

Ticket Price:

AgeTicket price
Adult ticket (13 years to 99 years)$79
Child ticket (4 years to 12 years)$75

Statue and Skyline Luxury Yacht 

Marvel at the iconic Statue of Liberty and get close to the breathtaking NYC skyline. 

Enjoy the best views of New York City’s most famous landmarks from the luxury of the 1920s-style yacht. 

Take in the skyline views of the Empire State, Chrysler and the Woolworth buildings, the Freedom Tower and more on this relaxing cruise. 

Remember to explore the waters around Ellis Island, Battery Park and Governor’s Island and watch the sunset as you sail back.

Duration: 1.5 hrs

Ticket Includes:

  • 90-minute cruise
  • One drink

Meeting point: Chelsea Piers across from West 22nd Street and the Hudson River

Ticket Price:

Age Ticket price
Adult ticket (15 to 99 years)$64
Child ticket (3 to 14 years) $28
Infant ticket (2 years and younger)$14

New York City Sunset Cruise Ticket

Sunset cruises in New York City are the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing. 

Enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic skyline, the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. 

Relax and unwind while taking in the city’s spectacular skyline at sunset. 

Experience the beauty and tranquility of the harbor on this memorable cruise.

Duration: 1.5 hrs

Ticket Includes:

  • 1.5-hour yacht sunset cruise
  • One drink

Meeting point: Chelsea Piers

Ticket Price:

AgeTicket price
Adult ticket (99 years and younger)$86

New York City Dinner Cruises 

Explore New York City in a unique way with a dinner cruise – the perfect combination of sightseeing and a delicious meal! 

Below is the list of our best New York City dinner cruises:

Manhattan Skyline With Buffet Dinner Cruises  

Take in New York City’s iconic skyline on an evening NYC Boat cruise, all while enjoying dinner and music from a live DJ! 

Marvel at key landmarks, including Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building. 

Alongside world-famous sights, you can enjoy an all-you-can-eat dinner with unlimited non-alcoholic drinks.

After dining, get ready to dance on the upper deck to tunes spun by the DJ.

Duration: 2 hr 30 mins

Ticket Includes:

  • NYC sightseeing cruise
  • 3-course buffet dinner
  • Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks
  • Coffee or tea
  • Live DJ

Meeting point: 299 South St, NY 10002, New York

Ticket Prices:

Age Ticket price
Adult ticket (99 years and younger)$170

Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Buffet River Cruise ticket

Take in the sights of the world-famous New York skyline and listen to live music as you cruise the Hudson and East Rivers waters. 

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island with the Spirit of New York. 

Enjoy an extensive buffet with various hot entrees and sides and a full dessert bar. 

Enjoy a memorable dining experience while taking in the beauty of the Big Apple.

Duration: 2 to 3 hrs

Ticket Includes:

  • Cruise on the Spirit of New York
  • Buffet lunch, brunch, or dinner (based on the option selected)
  • Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea
  • Onboard DJ

Meeting point: Pier 61 Chelsea Piers, West 23rd St.

Ticket Prices:

Age Ticket price
3-Hour Dinner Buffet Cruise on the Spirit, Adult ticket (13 to 99 years)$189
3-Hour Dinner Buffet Cruise on the Spirit, Child ticket (3 to 12 years)$189
2-Hour Lunch Buffet Cruise on the Spirit, Adult ticket (13 to 99 years)$104
2-Hour Lunch Buffet Cruise on the Spirit, Child ticket (3 to 12 years)$83
2-Hour Brunch Buffet Cruise, Adult ticket (13 to 99 years)$138
2-Hour Brunch Buffet Cruise, Child ticket (3 to 12 years)$118
Infant ticket (2 years and younger)$0

Weekend Holiday Brunch Cruise Ticket

Experience a memorable weekend holiday brunch cruise around the iconic Manhattan skyline. 

Enjoy a sumptuous 3-course prix fixe brunch served at your private table as you take in the breathtaking 360-degree views of the famous sights. 

Soak in the beauty of the iconic skyscrapers, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge as you relax and indulge in an unforgettable brunch cruise.

Duration: 165 minutes

Ticket Includes:

  • Brunch
  • One drink

Meeting point: Chelsea Piers, on Pier 62, located at West 22nd Street and the Hudson River.

Ticket Prices:

AgeTicket price
Adult ticket (15 years to 99 years)$155
Child ticket (3 years to 14 years)$78
Infant ticket (2 years and younger)$20

From New Jersey: New York City Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise ticket

Experience a unique and unforgettable way to experience the city with a buffet lunch or dinner cruise from New Jersey to New York City. 

Enjoy 360-degree views from the observation decks while cruising the East and Hudson Rivers.

And view the incredible landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. 

Dine on an extensive buffet featuring fresh, delicious cuisine. 

Sip on complimentary drinks from the full-service bar and savor the unmissable views of the New York City skyline.

Duration: 2 to 3 hrs

Ticket Includes:

  • 2-hour lunch or dinner cruise on the Spirit of New Jersey
  • Onboard DJ
  • Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea

Meeting point: Lincoln Harbor Marina, 1500 Harbor Blvd

Ticket Price:

AgeTicket price
Adult ticket (13 years to 99 years)$194
Child ticket (3 years to 12 years)$194
Infant ticket (2 years and younger)$0

Harbor Cruise with Brunch Buffet from Pier 15 ticket

Experience breathtaking views of New York City on a Harbor Cruise with Brunch Buffet from Pier 15. 

Enjoy a delicious buffet of freshly prepared dishes from various cuisines while you soak in the panoramic views of the city on the open-air observation decks. 

Listen to the top hits with onboard DJ entertainment, snap photos of the Statue of Liberty, and dine comfortably on the fully enclosed and climate-controlled dining decks. 

Make the most of your experience and enjoy New York City’s sights.

Duration: 2 hrs

Ticket includes:

  • 2-hour cruise
  • Buffet brunch
  • Coffee, hot tea, and iced tea

Meeting point: City Cruises

Ticket Prices:

AgeTicket price
Adult ticket (13 years to 99 years)$111
Child ticket (3 years to 12 years)$90
Infant ticket (2 years and younger)$0

Why Do A New York City Cruise

A New York City cruise offers a unique perspective of the iconic metropolis. 

Sail along the Hudson River and witness the city’s stunning skyline, including landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. 

These cruises provide an unparalleled vantage point for capturing incredible photos and creating lasting memories. 

Moreover, they offer a relaxing and enjoyable way to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods while enjoying top-notch dining and entertainment options. 

A New York City cruise promises a one-of-a-kind experience that showcases the city’s grandeur and charm from the water.

FAQs About New York City Cruises

1. What cruise lines leave from New York City?

The cruise lines departing from New York City include Carnival, Norwegian, Disney, Cunard, Silversea, Oceania Cruises, and Viking and MSC Cruises. 

These cruise lines offer a variety of itineraries with destinations ranging from the Caribbean to Europe and more.

2. Where do cruise ships depart from in New York City?

Cruise ships from New York City typically depart from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal or the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. 

Both terminals offer convenient access to the city’s attractions and amenities, including Broadway shows, iconic landmarks, and world-class cuisine. 

Passengers can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city before embarking on their cruise.

3. Where do the cruise ships dock in New York City?

Cruise ships sailing to and from New York City typically dock at one of the three main cruise ports located in the city – 

• The Manhattan Cruise Terminal
• Brooklyn Cruise Terminal
• Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, New Jersey

Each offers a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and entertainment, as well as convenient transportation options to allow passengers to explore the city.

4. Where is the cruise port in New York City?

The cruise port in New York City is located on the west side of Manhattan at Pier 88 on the Hudson River.

5. Where is the cruise ship terminal in New York City?

The cruise ship terminal in New York City is located at 711 12th Avenue on the West Side of Manhattan.

6. Where do carnival cruise ships dock in New York City?

Carnival cruise ships typically dock at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, located at 711 12th Avenue in New York City.

7. What is the best 3-day cruise from New York City?

A 3-day cruise from New York City is a great way to see the city from a unique perspective. 

On board, travelers can relax and enjoy the many amenities of a cruise line, such as dining, entertainment, and activities. 

During the day, travelers can explore the city’s many attractions, take in the historical sights, and enjoy the local cuisine. 

Passengers can enjoy live entertainment, dancing, and other activities at night. 

A 3-day cruise from New York City is the perfect way to experience the city and make lasting memories.

8. How far is Boston to New York City cruise port?

The Boston to New York City cruise port is approximately 212 miles apart. 
Depending on the route, it can take 4 to 5 hours to travel between the two ports. 

The route along the Atlantic coast offers stunning views of the ocean and the nearby cities, making it a popular option for cruise passengers.

9. What airport is closest to the New York City cruise port?

The closest airport to the New York City cruise port is Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), which is approximately 17 miles away. 

EWR offers a variety of international and domestic flights, making it a convenient option for travelers embarking on a cruise.

Featured Image : Stock photos by Vecteezy

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