A Guide to New York City Dinner Cruises
Discover the magic of enjoying a delicious meal aboard a cruise with the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge as your companions.
Dinner cruises in New York City can cater to various occasions, from family celebrations to romantic dates.
Indulge in amazing cuisines, ranging from gourmet dinners to buffet feasts, while soaking in New York landmarks’ breathtaking views.
Whether you’re a local seeking a unique evening or a visitor eager to explore the city in style, New York City Dinner Cruises offers a great experience.
Read along to find out about the best New York City dinner cruises.
How To Book A New York City Dinner Cruise
Dinner Cruises in New York are popular and the tickets might go sold out during the tourist seasons.
You can book your New York City Dinner Cruise tickets online or at the ticket booths.
We recommend you book your dinner cruises in New York online in advance.
Online tickets are easy to purchase and save the hassle of standing in queues.
Moreover, you do not have to search for ticket booths and secure your entry from the comfort of your room.
Also, online New York City dinner cruise tickets are cheaper than offline tickets. You can find a variety of New York Dinner Cruises online.
You don’t have to do much while trying to book tickets for dinner cruises in New York.
Log onto the ticket website. Choose a New York City dinner cruise ticket that suits you best. Select the required dates and the time slot to buy the ticket.
Make the payment and once your payment is through, you will get the ticket in your email.
When you get to the meeting point for your cruise, just show your dinner cruise tickets and you will be good to go.
New York City Dinner Cruise prices
Depending on the amenities chosen and the type of cruise, your New York Dinner Cruise prices will vary.
A Bateaux New York Premier Dinner Cruise will cost $174 for all visitors over six years of age.
A classic 2.5-hour dinner cruise on the Hudson and the East River will cost $188 for all visitors over three years.
If you are looking for a flexible option with multiple choices, then the Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Buffet River Cruise, starting at $83 per person, is your best option.
For a New York City Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise ticket, you will be shelling out $194 per person.
Best Dinner Cruises in New York
There are several dinner cruises in New York for you to choose from. We have scoured the internet and compiled a list of the best dinner cruises in New York.
Here are a few top-notch dinner cruise experiences in New York for you to try:
Bateaux New York Premier Dinner Cruise
On this dinner cruise, marvel at New York City’s iconic skyline in the evening, all while enjoying dinner and music from a live DJ.
You will watch key landmarks, like the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building pass you by.
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: 3 hours
Meeting point: Chelsea Piers
Ticket Includes:
- 3 hours NYC sightseeing cruise
- 3-course buffet dinner
- Live band
- Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks
Ticket Prices:
| Age | Ticket price |
|---|---|
| Adult ticket (6+ years) | $174 |
Classic New York City Dinner Cruise
Experience breathtaking views of New York City on a Harbor Cruise with a dinner buffet and DJ.
On this harbor cruise, you enjoy a delicious buffet of freshly prepared dishes from various cuisines.
Savor your food in the panoramic views of the city on the open-air observation decks, with live music playing in the background.
Make the most of your experience and enjoy New York City’s sights.
Duration: 2.5 hours
Meeting point: 61 Chelsea Pier
Ticket includes:
- 2.5-hour cruise on the Hudson and East River
- Dinner Buffet
- Unlimited coffee, hot tea and iced tea
- DJ Entertainment
Ticket Prices:
| Age | Ticket price |
|---|---|
| Adult ticket (13 years to 99 years) | $188 |
| Child ticket (3 years to 12 years) | $188 |
| Infant ticket (2 years and younger) | Free |
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 and snap enough photos of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
You will be treated to 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 hours
Meeting point: Pier 61 Chelsea Piers, West 23rd St.
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
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 |
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.
On this water journey, you will see 360-degree views from the observation decks while cruising the East and Hudson Rivers.
Watch out for the incredible landmarks like the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, etc.
Dine on an extensive buffet featuring fresh, delicious cuisine and sip on complimentary drinks from the full-service bar.
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Meeting point: Lincoln Harbor Marina, 1500 Harbor Blvd
Ticket Includes:
- 2-hour lunch or dinner cruise on the Spirit of New Jersey
- Onboard DJ
- Unlimited coffee, hot tea and iced tea
Ticket Price:
| Age | Ticket price |
|---|---|
| Adult ticket (13 years to 99 years) | $194 |
| Child ticket (3 years to 12 years) | $194 |
| Infant ticket (2 years and younger) | $0 |
Why Should You Try A Dinner Cruise in New York
Doing a Dinner Cruise in New York is a fantastic idea for a memorable and scenic experience.
Picture yourself enjoying a delicious meal while cruising along the Hudson River or East River, surrounded by the city’s dazzling lights.
It’s a unique way to see iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.
Whether you’re a local looking for a special night out or a tourist, a Dinner Cruise offers a perfect blend of good food and breathtaking sights.
These cruises cater to various occasions, making them suitable for romantic dates, family celebrations or a fun evening with friends.
If you want to add a touch of magic to your time in New York City, a Dinner Cruise is a delightful choice that combines great food with the charm of the city’s skyline.
What To Expect On a Dinner Cruise In New York
When on a dinner cruise in New York, you are guaranteed a delightful blend of flavors and scenic wonders.
As you step aboard, anticipate a warm welcome and breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
The cruise offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for various occasions, from romantic dates to family gatherings.
Culinary delights await, with menus featuring a range of options, from gourmet dishes to diverse buffets.
Expect a feast for your taste buds as you enjoy a leisurely dinner against the backdrop of twinkling city lights.
Live entertainment often accompanies the experience, enhancing the festive ambiance.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your dinner cruise in New York City today.
What To Wear On The Dinner Cruise in New York
When preparing for a Dinner Cruise in New York, dress comfortably yet stylishly to suit the occasion and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Opt for smart-casual attire—think dress shirts, blouses or a nice dress paired with slacks or a skirt.
While there’s no strict dress code, consider the atmosphere of the cruise and add a touch of elegance if you’re in the mood.
Bring a light jacket or shawl, as the weather can vary, especially in the evening.
Comfortable shoes are a good choice, especially if you plan to explore the ship’s decks.
Remember, the goal is to feel relaxed while savoring your meal and enjoying the stunning cityscape.
So, dress in a way that allows you to fully enjoy the magical experience of a New York City Dinner Cruise.
Tips for getting the most out of your dinner cruise
For a fantastic time on your New York dinner cruise, follow these easy tips:
- Book your cruise early to get the desired date and time, especially during busy times.
- Show up early so you can board calmly and find a great seat with the best views.
- Bring your camera or phone to capture the amazing city views and make memories.
- Wear nice casual clothes to feel comfortable and enhance your experience.
- Enjoy the tasty food on the cruise, including local specialties.
- Have fun with the entertainment, like music, dancing or cultural performances—it makes the experience even better.
- Chat with other guests to make new friends and make your cruise more enjoyable.
- Relax and enjoy the boat’s gentle rocking while taking in the views.
- Consider a dinner cruise for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries—it adds a magical touch.
- Be sure to return to the dock on time, especially if you have other plans afterward.
FAQs
1. What do you wear on a dinner boat cruise?
Opt for smart casual attire for a dinner boat cruise to balance comfort and style.
Consider a nice dress or dress shirt paired with slacks or a skirt. Bring a light jacket for cooler evenings and comfortable shoes for ease of movement on the boat.
2. How long is the best of NYC cruise?
The cruise duration varies depending on the cruise company and specific tour package.
Dinner cruises in New York typically last around 2 to 2.5 hours.
3. Can you wear jeans to dinner on a cruise?
Many cruises have a casual dress code that allows passengers to wear jeans to dinner.
However, it’s advisable to check the specific cruise line’s dress code policy, as some upscale or formal dining venues on certain cruises may have different requirements.
4. Can I wear shorts to dinner on a cruise?
Generally, many casual dining areas on cruise ships permit shorts during dinner.
However, do check the cruise line’s guidelines for clarity.
5. Where do cruise ships leave from NYC?
Cruise ships in New York City typically depart from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, located on the west side of Manhattan.
But some ships may depart from elsewhere, so don’t forget to check your meeting point while booking your ticket.
6. What cruise goes around New York?
Several cruises offer scenic tours around New York City.
All thecruises provide stunning views of the skyline, the Statue of Liberty and other landmarks.
7. What’s the best time to cruise?
The best time to cruise depends on personal preferences and destination.
The spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds for New York City cruises.
Avoiding extreme winter or summer temperatures is advisable. Consider specific cruise itineraries and local weather patterns when planning your trip.
8. What is the cheapest month to cruise?
The cheapest month to book your New York cruise tickets would be the lean period of January to March.
9. Do I need a passport for a cruise?
It is recommended that everyone taking a cruise from the United States have a passport.
However, some “closed-loop” cruises may not require a U.S. passport.
Featured Image : Stock photos by Vecteezy