The 19 Best 4th of July Cruises in NYC 2023 – The Ultimate Guide
Guaranteed views of the spectacular fireworks
If you’re spending the 4th of July in New York, a fireworks cruise may be the best way to celebrate it. NYC’s 4th of July cruises guarantee you a relaxed evening with unobstructed views of the fireworks. No need to go through the hassle of securing a spot in the crowded areas.
Are you in a hurry? Here you can 👉 compare all 4th of July cruises, these are 👉 my personal recommendations and here you find 👉 all details of the 4th of July cruises.
The 4th of July cruises are very popular and the number of seats are limited – the tickets sell out very quickly!
All 4th of July Cruises in NYC at a glance
Want a quick overview of available 4th of July cruises? Then check out my comparison here:
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Type |
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Type | Hors d'oeuvres & Fireworks | Buffet & Fireworks | Dinner Fireworks Sightseeing | Buffet Lobster Dinner & Fireworks | Dinner Buffet & Fireworks | Brunch | Buffet & Fireworks | Hors d’oeuvres menu & Fireworks | Dinner & Fireworks | Light Dinner & Fireworks | Buffet Dinner & Fireworks | Dinner Cruise & Fireworks | Fireworks Viewing Cruise | Buffet & Fireworks | Dinner & Fireworks | Light Dinner & Fireworks | Light Dinner & Fireworks |
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Duration | 4.25 hours | 4:30 hours | 4:00 hours | 4:30 hours | 4 hours | 2 hours | 3:30 hours | 3 hours | 4:30 hours | 5 hours | 4:00 hours | 5 hours | 5 hours | 5 hours | 5 hours | 5-6 hours | 2 hours |
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Food |
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Food | Dinner Buffet | Mexican Buffet | 6-Course-Menu | Buffet Lobster Dinner | American BBQ Buffet | 3-course-menu | Delicious mini sandwiches in buffet style | Prix fixe light hors d’oeuvres menu | Dinner | Classic summer dishes | July 4th themed buffet | Buffet | finger foods and snacks available for purchase, or bring your own | Finger food buffet dinner | buffet style menu | Buffet | Buffet |
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Drinks |
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Drinks | Open Bar | Open Bar | 3 Alcoholic Beverages Unlimited Softdrinks | Open Bar | Open Bar | Bottomless mimosas | Open bar access incl. beer & wine | Open Bar (beer, wine, Champagne & soft drinks) | Open Bar | Beer, wine & softdrinks | Beer, wine, and soft drinks | Premium Open Bar | non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase | Open bar | Available for purchase | Beer, wine & softdrinks | Cash Bar |
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Departure | 6:15 pm from Pier 62 (arrive 30 minutes earlier) | 5:45 PM from Pier 81 | 7:00 PM from Pier 78 | 5:45 PM from Pier 81 | 7:00 pm from Pier 81 | 12:00 pm from Pier 36 | 7:00 pm from Pier 36 | 7:00 pm from Pier 62 | 5:30 pm from Pier 17 | 6 pm from Pier 83 | 6:00 pm from Pier 83 | 5 pm from Pier 40 | 5:30 pm from Greenpoint Terminal Market | Liberty Harbor Marina | 5:00 pm from Pier 36 | 5 pm from Pier 36 | 5:30 pm from 299 South St |
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Price |
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Price | $698 | $339 | from $390 | from $312 | $309 | $179-$199 | from $199 | $598 | from $550 | from $269 | from $269 | $206 | $299 | $259 | $367 | $259 | $269 |
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Which 4th of July cruise in New York is the best?
We have tried many cruises over the years. Some, unfortunately, were disappointing and way too expensive for what you got (so these are not represented in my best list).
We can personally recommend these two 4th of July cruises:
- the 4th of July Macy’s Fireworks on Schooner Adirondack
- 4th of July Fireworks on Clipper City Tall Ship
We always had a great time on these boat tours.
Details on each 4th of July cruise in NYC
If you are still unsure of which 4th of July fireworks cruise is the best pick for you and your party, you can find more information on each 4th of July Fireworks Cruise in NYC below. Please note that the fireworks are typically launched around 9 pm.
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01
Tacos and Tequila July 4th Fireworks Party Cruise
Cruise in Hell's Kitchen
In the mood for tacos and tequila? Then come aboard La Barca and celebrate the 4th of July with Mexican food while admiring the festively lit skyline and enjoying a great view of the fireworks! A DJ will provide the music and in addition to the buffet with Mexican delicacies, there will be an open bar with drinks.
In total, you’ll be out on the water for 4.5 hours. Note that the minimum age is 21.
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02
4th of July Cruise aboard Louisa of the Seas
Cruise in Hell's Kitchen
If you want to celebrate the 4th of July in New York City with a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, come aboard the Louisa of the Seas! This 4-hour cruise on the Hudson River will not only give you a great view of the Manhattan skyline and some of the city’s most beautiful sights, but also of the 4th of July fireworks!
Chef Thiago has created a special 6-course menu for this evening, including lobster and BBQ. The price also includes three alcoholic beverages and unlimited soft drinks, tea and coffee. Live music and entertainment will also be provided. You don’t want to miss this unique experience!
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03
4th of July Fireworks Cruise on Kingston
Cruise in Chelsea
If you want to admire the 4th of July fireworks from a classic yacht, come aboard the Kingston! There’s a covered area in the middle part of the ship, while you’ll have an unobstructed view of the sky from the forward and rear decks.
On this cruise there is a standard open bar with wine, beer, champagne and soft drinks. You’ll also be served a delicious menu of light appetizers. The menu includes delicacies like lobster roll and shrimp skewers, as well as vegetarian options like roasted vegetables with aioli. For dessert, you can look forward to delicious cheesecake!
On this three-hour cruise, you’ll not only get a breathtaking view of the beautiful New York skyline, but you’ll also get to see the famous Macy’s 4th of July fireworks.
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04
4th of July Cruise on Horizon's Edge Yacht
Cruise in Hell's Kitchen
If you want to spend the American Independence Day in a special way, come aboard the mega-yacht Horizon’s Edge! This family-friendly luxury cruise features an open bar as well as a sumptuous BBQ buffet with American dishes. Dance to the sounds of the live DJ and take in the view of the stunning Manhattan skyline. During the tour you can see New York’s most famous landmarks before finally admiring Macy’s famous 4th of July fireworks.
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05
New York City Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise with Lobster Dinner
Cruise in Hell's Kitchen
Grab a front row seat for New York City’s fireworks display on this Fourth of July cruise with lobster dinner. Get an up-close look at the Manhattan skyline while digging into a buffet-style dinner with an open bar. A DJ will spin tunes on board to keep the party mood going.
- New York City Fourth of July fireworks cruise with lobster dinner
- Delight in superior views of the fireworks display on this fun, casual cruise
- Enjoy an open bar and gorgeous vistas of the Manhattan skyline
- Dance the night away as DJs spin the latest hits and quintessential party songs
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06
Celebrate 4th of July on the Cornucopia Majesty Yacht
Cruise in Hudson Square
Celebrate America’s Independence Day on the Cornucopia Majesty and be part of an unforgettable 4th of July Fireworks Party. During the 4-hour cruise, you can not only enjoy the view of New York City’s skyline with a tasty drink in your hand, but also dance to the music of a live DJ. All ages are welcome to celebrate the 4th of July on this boat and feast on American specialties at the lavish dinner buffet.
The highlight of this cruise is certainly Macy’s big 4th of July fireworks show, which you can admire with a front-row view.
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07
Serenity Yacht Cruise
Cruise in Hudson Square
Come on board of the Serenity Yacht and watch the 4th of July fireworks. While the live DJ entertains you, you can enjoy the Premium Open Bar to drink something and enjoy the view of the spectacular Manhattan skyline. Since this is a family-friendly cruise, non-alcoholic beverages are of course available for those under 21. Small appetites can be satisfied at the dinner buffet.
This 4th of July cruise departs from Pier 40 near Houston Street subway station.
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08
Enjoy breathtaking views on the Cornucopia Princess Yacht
Cruise in Hudson Square
The 4th of July Cruise on the Cornucopia Princess Yacht is a family friendly event. There is an open bar that also offers a selection of non-alcoholic beverages for all guests under 21 years old. You can satisfy your small appetite at the dinner buffet while the live DJ provides some music. On the Cornucopia Princess, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the New York skyline and later you can enjoy Macy’s famous 4th of July fireworks from the front row.
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09
4th of July Macy's Fireworks Cruise on Manhattan
Cruise in Chelsea
On this 3.5 hour cruise on the Manhattan, you’ll not only have a stunning view of Macy’s famous 4th of July fireworks, but you’ll also have a spectacular view of the New York City skyline. Aboard this 1920s-style luxury yacht, you can celebrate the American Independence Day with a delicious prix fixe menu of light hors d’oeuvres. Beverages like champagne, wine, beer and soft drinks are available at the open bar.
Don’t miss this festive cruise and book your ticket today!
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10
Macy's July 4th Fireworks Viewing Cruise from Brooklyn
Cruise in Greenpoint
Celebrate Independence Day with the best views of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks on a fun harbor boat ride departing from Brooklyn just 40 minutes from Times Square by Subway.
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11
4th of July Macy's Fireworks on Schooner America 2.0
Cruise in Chelsea
Celebrate American Independence in a very special way and come aboard the Schooner America 2.0! This ship is a tribute to the original America, which was built in New York in the 1800s. During the boat ride, you’ll have a spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline, which is festively lit in celebration of the 4th of July. Later you will be able to see Macy’s famous 4th of July fireworks on the East River.
Of course, food and beverages will be provided. Drinks (soft drinks, beer, wine & champagne) are available at the open bar and for dinner there is a delicious prix fixe menu. There are vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetables with balsamic glaze, as well as delicious beef Wellington and tasty shrimp skewers. For dessert, you can choose between apple pie and blueberry cheesecake.
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12
Bateaux New York 4th of July Fireworks Dinner Cruise
Cruise in ChelseaOur Highlight
Come aboard the Bateaux New York, a fully glass-enclosed, luxury dining cruise for your Fourth of July celebrations! A five-hour upscale dining cruise on the Hudson River includes a delicious three-course plated dinner with attentive table side service. Take in the panoramic, breathtaking views of the infamous New York City skyline and the Fireworks Display (weather permitting). Sit back, relax, enjoy your spectacular meal and the live acoustic quartet musical entertainment, and celebrate the United States of America!
- Live Music
- Dinner
- Alcoholic Beverages
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13
July 4th New York City Fireworks Cruise
Cruise in Lower East Side
Celebrate July 4th on this New York City Fireworks Cruise. Depart for the evening to the beats of a live DJ. Enjoy a buffet style menu featuring pasta, finger foods, chicken, salad, desserts and more! Sip on an alcoholic beverage from our onboard cash bar. Grab the festive party favors provided as the firework show begins. Your cruise will return once the fireworks end.
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14
4th of July NYC Fireworks Cruise
Cruise in Lower East Side
Aboard Liberty Belle to celebrate this Independence Day in New York City. Celebrate sailing the waters and enjoy the Macy’s Spectacular Fireworks Show. All tickets include open bar and a delicious dinner. Live DJ playing top hits will keep you this Independence Day memorable along with your favorite drink. Enjoy the show of the July 4th fireworks. This is a NYC Dance Cruise. Aboard and sip your favorite drink, eat delicious food, dance and enjoy! You will get a 3-Hour premium open bar, food, and complimentary party favors. VIP Tickets include priority boarding and a reserved table at private lounge with a bottle of MOET to cheer this Independence Day. Enjoy the views of Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, One World Trade Center and more! This is a great experience to celebrate in style. Treat yourself into this unforgettable experience.
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15
July 4th New York City Fireworks Cruise with Buffet and Live DJ
Cruise in Lower East Side
Celebrate July 4th on this New York City Fireworks Cruise. Depart for the evening to the beats of a live DJ. Enjoy a buffet style menu featuring pasta, finger foods, chicken, salad, desserts and more! Sip on an alcoholic beverage from our onboard cash bar. Grab the festive party favors provided as the firework show begins. Your cruise will return once the fireworks end. What’s Included:
- July 4th New York City Fireworks Cruise
- Buffet Style Menu featuring pasta, chicken, salad, finger foods, dessert and more!
- Live DJ Music
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16
Circle Line 4th of July Evening Cruise
Cruise in Hell's Kitchen
Circle Line is a very well-known sightseeing cruise operator in New York and also offers one of the best 4th of July cruises. The cruise includes a light dinner with classic summer dishes and great drinks. Most importantly, however, you will enjoy guaranteed views of the fireworks, particularly from the outdoor deck space.
What you’ll get:
- light dinner
- drinks
- live DJ
- guaranteed views of the 4th of July fireworks
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17
4th of July Fireworks on Clipper City Tall Ship
Cruise in The Battery
See New York City’s 4th of July Fireworks from the deck of a tall ship for the ultimate visibility and photo ops. Help the crew raise the sails and navigate the ship, or just sit back and enjoy the show. Each year’s fireworks show consists of more than 40,000 shells exploding above the East River for a brilliant display celebrating the nation’s birth. Buy tickets in advance to avoid the last-minute scramble for 4th of July plans!
- Food and beverages included
- Best possible vantage point for fireworks show
- See the NYC skyline from the water
- Open bar throughout the cruise
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18
NYC July 4th Macy's Fireworks Family Friendly Festive Boat
Cruise in Lower East Side
Your cruise will have a live DJ on 2 floors and 2 dance floors. There will be 4th of July giveaways, a light buffet, a cash bar, and fun toys for the children. While waiting for this spectacular show in the sky, you’ll see famous landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Freedom Tower, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the NYC skyline. As the boat docks getting ready for the show, the DJ will have music to dance to for full family fun.
Macy’s has been hosting a 4th of July fireworks show in NYC since 1958. The Brooklyn Bridge and the East River are the new stars of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, the largest fireworks show in the United States. You’ll have front-row seats to the fireworks show, as special firing platforms will be set up along the span and about 50,000 pounds of fireworks are set to launch!
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19
NYC 4th of July Brunch Cruise
Cruise in Lower East Side
This 4th of July brunch cruise is one of the newest boat tours where you can celebrate the Independence Day of the USA in a wonderfully relaxed way. The ship has three different decks where you can combine sightseeing with brunch. The icing on the cake is the live DJ on board who will entertain you on this tour from George Washington Bridge to Brooklyn Bridge.
You like luxury?
Then treat yourself and your friends or family with a private 4th of July Cruise! With up to 6 people, you can watch Macy’s fireworks on the 4th of July on a private boat tour. A bottle of champagne is included and you’ll get a souvenir video of your evening at the end.
FAQ
What is the route of the boat tours?
The number of 4th of July cruises in New York can be quite overwhelming. That’s why we have created a table for you that features the best 4th of July fireworks cruises in NYC. This way, if you want to spend the country’s birthday on a cruise, you can easily make a decision. The location for the 4th of July fireworks has not yet been confirmed. The fireworks cruises, however, will all adjust their route according to the locations of the fireworks!
Which 4th of July cruise in NYC is the cheapest?
The cheapest 4th of July cruise starts at around $199.
Where do the 4th of July cruises depart from in New York?
The departure point depends on the operators: the three main ones depart from Chelsea Piers on the Hudson River at Pier 61/62, from Battery Park and from Pier 36 in the Lower East Side. However, there are also Queens and Jersey City as departure locations.
Is there a dress code?
No. Only the Bateaux 4th of July Cruise requires an elegant or dressy-casual attire (cocktail wear or dressy-casual attire is appropriate and dressy jeans are acceptable although casual jeans, t-shirts, athletic shoes and foam flip flops are discouraged).
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Would LOVE to see the 4th of July fireworks in New York!!! My wife and I have never been there. Need to get a information on Hotels or places to stay to get a great view of the show!!!!