New York · NYC SIGHTSEEING CRUISES

The 15 Best NYC Sightseeing Cruises

63 tours  ·  from $16

An hour past Liberty, two hours of harbour lights, or the full circle of Manhattan with a guide. The 15 below compare route, length, price and whether there is a bar on board.

New York City: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island with Ferry - Starting at Liberty State Park in Jersey City
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New York City: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island with Ferry

1.Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island with Ferry

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 18,683 reviews · 5 hours · from $19Our pick

Take a round-trip ferry from Liberty State Park in Jersey City to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Explore both museums at your own pace with audio guides in 12 languages. The $19 ticket includes ferry service and museum entry, but not the pedestal or crown.

“We had a wonderful time at Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. We started the day at Lady Liberty learning about the history of the statue. We were lucky enough to experience it snowing while at Liberty Island. We headed to Ellis Island, it was easy to move around and learn the history of the immigration. The ferry was very full on the crossing from NY to Liberty Island and from Ellis Island back to NY, but it is a fast ferry trip so it was bearable.”

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NYC: Circle Line 2h Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office - Finding the Circle Line terminal and choosing your seat
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NYC: Circle Line 2h Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office

2.Circle Line 2h Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 8,222 reviews · 2 hours · from $45

Cruise New York Harbor for two hours with guides such as Alexis, George, David, or Andy sharing city stories and building facts. You will pass within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty, glide under three bridges, and see Lower Manhattan at night from indoor cabins or the open deck.

“it was amazing my family loved it. truly amazing and unforgettable experience.. tour guide on-board was unbelievable...”

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NYC: Circle Line 2.5 Hour Best of NYC Boat Cruise - Leaving Pier 83 and finding your place onboard
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NYC: Circle Line 2.5 Hour Best of NYC Boat Cruise

3.Circle Line 2.5 Hour Best of NYC Boat Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 7,268 reviews · from $39

Circle Manhattan from Pier 83 on a 2.5-hour Circle Line cruise. Your English-speaking guide points out bridges, boroughs, Yankee Stadium, the Brooklyn Bridge, and more than 100 sights. You get close to the Statue of Liberty, with outdoor decks, heated or cooled cabins, Wi-Fi, and audio guides in eight additional languages.

“Apart of seeing all the sights I’d love the guide: She had funny stories to tell. And even was singing for us, too.”

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NYC: Statue of Liberty Express Skip-the-Box-Office Cruise - Starting at Pier 16 in South Street Seaport
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NYC: Statue of Liberty Express Skip-the-Box-Office Cruise

4.Statue of Liberty Express Skip-the-Box-Office Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 4,873 reviews · 50 min · from $24

Cruise from South Street Seaport past One World Trade Center, the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and Governor’s Island before pausing near the Statue of Liberty. You get live English commentary, indoor and outdoor seating, Wi-Fi, restrooms, and a nine-language audio guide.

“Debbie was a great guide keeping us entertained while providing us with all the information about the various locations we visited”

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NYC: Circle Line 1.5-Hr Landmarks Skip-The-Box-Office Cruise - Pier 83 and the practical start
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NYC: Circle Line 1.5-Hr Landmarks Skip-The-Box-Office Cruise

5.Circle Line 1.5-Hr Landmarks Skip-The-Box-Office Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 4,778 reviews · 1h 30m · from $34

Cruise from Pier 83 around Lower Manhattan and up the East River, with close views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, One World Trade Center, Midtown, and three major bridges. A live English guide adds stories, while an audio app covers eight other languages.

“We had a great experience. Smooth ride & really enjoyed seeing part of New York City up close!”

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NYC: Circle Line "The Beast" Midtown/Downtown Speedboat Ride - Choosing Midtown or Downtown
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NYC: Circle Line “The Beast” Midtown/Downtown Speedboat Ride

6.Circle Line “The Beast” Midtown/Downtown Speedboat Ride

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 4,259 reviews · 30 min · from $34

Ride Circle Line’s 70-foot jet-powered speedboat from Midtown or Downtown, reaching up to 45 mph on a 30-minute harbor run. Expect live narration, music, skyline views, and a close Statue of Liberty stop. You may get soaked, so arrive early and leave large bags behind.

“The Beast was great. Me and my husband like fast extreme sports and this was just enough speed to give you a nice thrill but safe enough for anyone just looking for a fun ride. Slowed down and got very close to the Statue of Liberty. It was just so fun. Not expensive. We rarely do the same things when we are in the city because there’s so much to experience but we will absolutely do again and do this with our family.”

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NYC: Starship Landmark 90 Minute Sightseeing Cruise - Starting at Pier 78 in Hudson River Park
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NYC: Starship Landmark 90 Minute Sightseeing Cruise

7.Starship Landmark 90 Minute Sightseeing Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 3,666 reviews · 1h 30m · from $34

Cruise the Hudson and East Rivers from Pier 78, passing Hudson Yards, Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Lower Manhattan. Expect lively English commentary from guides such as Molly, Darius, and Al, indoor and outdoor decks, restrooms, snacks, and a complimentary digital photo.

“Great informative tour. We decided to upgrade to VIP. We received a $30 voucher to spend at the bar, including 2 tickets for 2 free snacks, chips, popcorn etc. On top of that. Access to the roof deck, professional pictures & access to the VIP area. The whole thing was really great and good value. Justin & Molly our guides were great!”

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Circle Line: 2.5hr - Complete Manhattan Island Cruise - Choosing your seat before the boat leaves
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Circle Line: 2.5hr – Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

8.Circle Line: 2.5hr – Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 3,488 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $34

Take a 2.5-hour Circle Line cruise around Manhattan from Pier 83. Expect Hudson and East River views, close looks at the Statue of Liberty, live English narration, outdoor decks, onboard snacks, and guides such as Alexis or Postcard Tim, depending on the sailing.

“It was a 2.5 hour cruise up and down the Hudson and East River. Postcard Tom was excellent pointing out the points of interest on either side. Great tour!”

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NYC: Circle Line 1-Hr Statue of Liberty Skip-The-Line Cruise - Leaving Pier 83 and finding your place
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NYC: Circle Line 1-Hr Statue of Liberty Skip-The-Line Cruise

9.Circle Line 1-Hr Statue of Liberty Skip-The-Line Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 3,342 reviews · from $27

Take Circle Line’s one-hour harbor cruise from Pier 83, with live English commentary and audio in eight additional languages. Sail close to the Statue of Liberty, pass Ellis Island and One World Trade Center, and enjoy indoor cabins or the outdoor deck. Guides such as David, Michael, and Andy are known for lively storytelling.

“Very organized. Our prebooked tix led us straight to the entrance line where they take your pics for purchase. Concession stand was fast with service. Bathrooms clean. We enjoyed the outdoor seating. Guide was informative. We didn’t go under the Brooklyn bridge which was advertised so that was a lil disappointing cuz I was expecting it. Pier 83 was easy to access from our hotel in Chelsea. We walked from there to Times Square no problem . Love the GetYourGuide app. It had all info I needed before the tour”

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Circle Line: 2hr - New York City Harbor Lights Cruise - Manhattan’s illuminated towers
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Circle Line: 2hr – New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

10.Circle Line: 2hr – New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,859 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $45

Cruise New York Harbor for two hours with a live English guide, indoor and outdoor seating, Wi-Fi, restrooms, and close views of Lady Liberty. Arrive early for the best seats. Guides such as Andy, Alex, George, and Dave have been praised for lively commentary, while food and drinks are sold onboard.

“We took a cruise from pier 83, it was very cold so not ideal to go outside apart from nipping out a couple of times. Lots of indoor seating and windows were clear so you could see everything. Your guide was very informative. Highlight was being so close to the Statue of Liberty at night. Easy walking from Times Square area.”

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Circle Line: New York City Statue of Liberty Super Express Cruise - From the bridges into New York Harbor
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Circle Line: New York City Statue of Liberty Super Express Cruise

11.Circle Line: New York City Statue of Liberty Super Express Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,625 reviews · 50 minutes (approx.) · from $24

Board at Pier 16 in South Street Seaport for a fast 50-minute harbor cruise past the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and Lady Liberty. Guides such as Debbie and Tim bring the ride to life with history and humor. You get close photos, but no island landing.

“Tour guide provided by Viator was excellent. Extremely knowledgeable, very humorous, and very well-spoken!”

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Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry - Starting at Battery Park and Castle Clinton
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Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry

12.Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,189 reviews · 2 to 4 hours (approx.) · from $59

Meet your English-speaking guide at Battery Park, cross New York Harbor by ferry, tour Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty Museum, then choose a quick return or continue to Ellis Island. Guides such as Joseph, Joe, Christian, and Charlie have been praised for clear stories and helpful pacing.

“Joe was awesome! He gave us great history of the Statue of Liberty and Elllis Island! We never felt rushed, he made sure we had plenty of time to take photos and even told us the best locations!”

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Starship Landmark 90 Minute Sightseeing Cruise - Lady Liberty and the harbor photo stop
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Starship Landmark 90 Minute Sightseeing Cruise

13.Starship Landmark 90 Minute Sightseeing Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,073 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $34

Cruise the Hudson from Pier 78 for 90 minutes, passing Lady Liberty, Ellis Island, One World Trade Center, Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, and South Street Seaport. Expect live narration, a snack bar, photo opportunities, and guides such as Darius or Molly on some departures.

“If you don't have VIP you have to go below deck and the windows are filthy. If you go in the winter, or rain, there is no chance of getting photos without braving the elements. This tour is informative, but really just an overpriced Ferry. Might as well get on the free ferry and see all the same buildings, and landmarks. This tour also features a "professional" photographer and says you get a "free" picture. You cannot get a free picture in front of the statue. It's Only free if it's in front of other landmarks. Bad advertising. Not worth the money.”

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Statue of Liberty & NYC Skyline Cruise - Freedom Liberty Tour - Boarding at Pier 78 and finding your place
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Statue of Liberty & NYC Skyline Cruise – Freedom Liberty Tour

14.Statue of Liberty & NYC Skyline Cruise – Freedom Liberty Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 1,499 reviews · 1 hour 15 minutes (approx.) · from $34

Take a 75-minute English-language cruise from Pier 78 past Lady Liberty, Ellis Island, Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge, Dumbo, and Hudson Yards. Guides such as Kevin, Michael, Molly, and Fred have earned praise for lively commentary. WiFi, restrooms, snacks, drinks, and a free post-cruise shuttle are included.

“This cruise was a great way to see and hear the highlights of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty up close - all in a little over an hour. Boarding was simple and well organized. Kevin, our emcee, was fabulous! I highly recommend this cruise and Kevin's commentary, emphases, and infectious inclusive patriotism. A fun cruise!”

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NYC: Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise Skip-the-Line Ticket - Leaving Pier 16 and finding the boat
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NYC: Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise Skip-the-Line Ticket

15.Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise Skip-the-Line Ticket

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,397 reviews · from $24

Sail 90 minutes from Pier 16 toward the Statue of Liberty, passing the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan as daylight fades. Choose an open-air deck or climate-controlled cabin, buy drinks from the onboard bar, and use the optional audio guide. Debbie is a particularly engaging host on some departures.

“Good price for what is offered, amazing view, punctual, and staff well-prepared. I recommend and would definitely do it again.”

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New in NYC Sightseeing Cruises

★ 4.7#1 Six Hour Bus Tour and Boat Ride By The Statue of LibertyFrom $2196 reviews
★ 4.0NYC Combo: Statue of Liberty Cruise, St Patrick’s Cathedral & Moma entranceFrom $998 reviews
★ 4.5New York Harbor Brunch CruiseFrom $139106 reviews
★ 5.0See It All New York City Walking and Boat Guided TourFrom $79132 reviews
★ 5.0Statue of Liberty Cruise aboard a Classic SailboatFrom $60129 reviews
★ 5.0New York City Sailboat Day Cruise to the Statue of LibertyFrom $60152 reviews
★ 4.5Statue of Liberty Day Sail with Onboard BarFrom $71150 reviews
★ 3.5New York City Skyline and Statue of Liberty CruiseFrom $29161 reviews
★ 4.5Circle Line: 1.5hr New York City Statue of Liberty Sunset CruiseFrom $24167 reviews
★ 5.0Statue of Liberty Speedboat Tour – from Chelsea PiersFrom $60182 reviews
★ 4.9Statue of Liberty Day Sail on the Schooner AdirondackFrom $60182 reviews
★ 4.5City Cruises New York Signature Lunch CruiseFrom $84206 reviews
★ 3.5Circle Line: 8-hr Bear Mountain Oktoberfest CruiseFrom $84207 reviews
★ 4.6Guided Bus and Walking Tour with Staten Island FerryFrom $79209 reviews
★ 5.0New York Sunset Schooner Cruise on the Hudson RiverFrom $90221 reviews

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Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tours39Statue of Liberty Cruises8NYC Skyline and Architecture Tours17Sailing10NYC Helicopter Tours15
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