Classic Harbor Line in NYC: The 20 Best Tours in 2024

Taking Classic Harbor Line boat tours in New York City is still an insider secret. For me, this boat tour operator is my absolute favorite! Compared to Circle Line Cruises (which are undoubtedly also great!) the tours with Classic Harbor Line are even better and more personal.

One of their highlights are the ships themselves; there are several wooden boats made in the style of 1920s yachts (they are called Manhattan, Manhattan II, and Kingston) and the sailing ships named America 2.0 and Adirondack. One thing I can promise you:

THE ATMOSPHERE IS UNIQUE AND REALLY SPECIAL!

What can you expect? Wonderful sailing tours towards the Statue of Liberty, sunset cruises, boat tours with live jazz, wine tastings and much more. They even offer tours out of New York City towards the Hudson Valley.

I’ve taken almost all of the tours they offer, so if you have any questions about them, feel free to contact me!

What boat tours are available from Classic Harbor Line? A comparison of the best!

For me, a boat tour is an essential part of every trip to New York City. There is hardly a more relaxing way to enjoy the skyline, which is stunning to see during the day, at sunset, and at night, when the moon and the illuminated buildings are reflecting in the water. It doesn‘t get any better.

After taking classic Circle Line Cruises on my first few visits (they are included with almost all New York sightseeing passes), I wanted to try something new; that’s how Classic Harbor Line came to my attention. If you’re looking for something really special that’s off the beaten path, Classic Harbor Line cruises are perfect!

You can see the most popular sailing and boating tours here in my table – there’s more below!

Name
Very popular
My Tip
Start
Chelsea Piers / Pier 62
Chelsea Piers / Pier 62
Chelsea Piers / Pier 62
Chelsea Piers / Pier 62
Chelsea Piers / Pier 62
Chelsea Piers / Pier 62
Duration

2.75 hours

2 hours

1.5 hours

1.5 hours

2 hours

1.5 hours

When?
Day
Day
Evening/Night
Evening/Night
Sunset
Day
1 Drink incluced`
Price

$112

$68

$96

$118

$108

$64

Steffen Kneist Loving New York
My tip

Which Cruise Is The Best?

It was very difficult to pick the best, because all of them were amazing. However, if I had to settle on four, they would be these:

  1. The 2-Hour Day Sail to Statue of Liberty on America 2.0 – it is my number one choice of all boat tours in New York.
  2. The Sunset Sail Aboard a Schooner.
  3. The Live Jazz City Lights Sail and
  4. The Around Manhattan: Official NYC Architecture Cruise that takes you once around the island of Manhattan.

OK, one more I have to mention: during Christmas time, the Manhattan Holiday Yacht Cruise with Jazz, Cocoa & Carols is incredible!

Sightseeing with Classic Harbor Line: All Routes

Routes of the Sailing Tours and the Statue & Skyline Cruise

The different boat tours take you along these sights – as you can see, some routes are identical, they are just sailed at different times of the day.

Classic Harbor Line Routes
Classic Harbor Line Routes

Route of the architecture boat tour

The special thing about this tour is that it leads once completely around the island of Manhattan. I have done it myself and was surprised what the lesser known north side has to offer!

Classic Harbor Line Route of the architecture cruise
Classic Harbor Line: Route of the Official Architecture Cruise

All Classic Harbor Line Cruises in New York City

Here I have compiled all the boat tours, in which you will find special tours for Valentine’s Day, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve!

  1. 01

    Classic Harbor Line: Evening Jazz Cruise on the Yacht Manhattan

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    From one of our absolute favorite boat tours in New York there is also a Jazz Cruise. You are on board a luxury yacht in the style of the 1920s, which has a wonderful charm and is not to be compared with the big sightseeing ships. The jazz cruise starts at the Chelsea Piers and takes you along the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty and the harbor of New York. On the way you can enjoy a wonderful view of the New York skyline and smooth jazz at the same time.

    And the best part? The first drink is included in the price of the Jazz Cruise!

  2. 02

    Classic Harbor Line: Architecture Yacht Cruise

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    The architecture boat tour takes you around Manhattan in 2.5 hours. On a 30 meter long wooden ship in the style of the 1920s you can relax and learn a lot of interesting facts about the many small and large buildings of the city. The tour is super-relaxing and the price includes a drink (vino, soft drinks) and small snacks.

  3. 03

    Classic Harbor Line: Champagne City Lights Cruise

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    We had an amazing time onboard the luxurious 1920s inspired motor yacht. Combine sightseeing with a romantic evening and step onboard the 1920s inspired boat at Pier 62 (Chelsea Piers – W. 22nd and Hudson River). During the 90-minutes long tour, you’ll get to see iconic NYC sights along the water and most importantly breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Especially in the summer, you can admire the most beautiful sunset during this special cruise. There is seating inside the yacht and outside seating as well.

  4. 04

    Classic Harbor Line: Sunset Yacht Cruise

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    Aboard the Manhattan 2, built in the style of a 1920s yacht, this wonderful boat tour takes you from Chelsea Piers south down the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor. I love the atmosphere here because it feels much more intimate and personal compared to the larger tourist boats. You can sit both inside and outside, enjoying a drink included in the price and of course the sunset. Fantastic!

  5. 05

    2-Hour Day Sail to Statue of Liberty on America 2.0

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    This sailing tour is one of the most enjoyable boat tours I’ve ever done in New York! On board on this 105-foot schooner you sail from the Chelsea Piers to the Statue of Liberty and can always see the beautiful skyline of Manhattan and New Jersey. Included in the price is a drink and guaranteed a lot of fun. 

  6. 06

    Classic Harbor Line: Sunset Sail

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    See the spectacular New York City sunset from the water aboard a beautiful 80-foot sailing ship. Sail past the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Battery Park, and enjoy a unique view of the iconic skyline with a complimentary glass of champagne.

  7. 07

    Skyline Brunch Cruise Around Manhattan

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    Skyline Brunch Cruise Around Manhattan
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    This brunch cruise is one of the most beautiful boat tours in New York. You sit aboard a 1920s-style ship with lots of wood and even more glass. The provider has several wonderful boat tours in the program, of which we have already tried four (and all were great!).

    Start at Pier 62 at Chelsea Piers – this is where you board. First you start towards the George Washington Bridge, then turn south to the Statue of Liberty, New York Harbor and the Brooklyn Bridge. You can enjoy the view of the New York skyline and have a delicious brunch with New York specialties. The first drink (even champagne!) is even included in the price.

  8. 08

    Live Jazz City Lights Sail

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    Live Jazz City Lights Sail
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    This 90-minute live jazz sail is one of the best NYC sails I’ve ever done. You’ll sail from Chelsea Piers to New York Harbor, always with the beautiful skyline and Statue of Liberty in view. What you can expect on the Live Jazz City Lights Sail and why you should definitely do it, I’ll tell you in my report!

  9. Cruises for special events

    Valentine’s Day

    My tip: Here you can find my guide to Valentine’s Day in New York.

  10. 09

    Classic Harbor Line: Romantic Valentine's Day Champagne Cruise

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    Celebrate Valentine’s Day in style with a romantic champagne cruise on Classic Harbor Line in New York City. Set sail on a luxury yacht and take in the breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge.

    As you cruise along the Hudson River, you and your loved one will be treated to a selection of fine champagne and delicious hors d’oeuvres, served by the friendly and attentive staff. You’ll also have the opportunity to dance to live music or simply relax and enjoy each other’s company as you take in the stunning views.

    This unforgettable experience is the perfect way to celebrate your love and create lasting memories with your special someone. Book your tickets now for the Classic Harbor Line Valentine’s Day Champagne Cruise and make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.

  11. Fall Foliage Cruises by Classic Harbor Line

  12. 10

    New York City Fall Foliage Brunch Cruise

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    The New York City Fall Foliage Brunch Cruise is one of the best boat tours you can take in New York in the fall. You’ll see an incredible amount of nature as you make your way up the Hudson River – that was something that really surprised me personally. On top of that, this Fall Foliage Brunch Cruise takes place on a very beautiful 1920’s style ship. The atmosphere is really great!

    The ship takes you from Pier 62 towards Palisades Park and the George Washington Bridge. You will pass the last part of Manhattan on your right with the Upper West Side and Harlem and go under the impressive George Washington Bridge, the only bridge that connects the state of New Jersey with the state of New York. And on your left you will be able to admire Palisades Park in New Jersey. 

  13. 11

    Classic Harbor Line: Afternoon Fall Foliage Lunch Cruise

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    Come aboard the luxury yacht Manhattan II and experience this fall cruise on a 1920s-style boat. The tour departs from Chelsea Piers and then heads north on the Hudson River. Sights include the Hudson River Valley, Palisades Park and the George Washington Bridge. 

    The price includes a delicious menu consisting of soup, salad, sandwich and fall-themed cookies, as well as a complimentary beverage (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Other drinks are available for purchase at the bar.

  14. 12

    Grand Palisades Fall Foliage Yacht Tour

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    On this tour you are on board the Manhattan, a beautiful boat in the style of the yachts of the 1920s. Lots of wood and glass await you and you can either enjoy the view of the colorful autumn leaves in the heated salon or go out on the outside deck.

    The cruise starts at Chelsea Piers, not far from Hudson Yards. Afterwards, you can relax and cruise north along the Hudson River. On the way you can enjoy the view of the New York skyline and the ride under the George Washington Bridge.

    On your left and right you will see the forested banks of the Hudson River.You will be surprised how many colorful autumn leaves you will see.  And the best part? The price of the 2.25-hour cruise even includes a free drink!

  15. 13

    Hudson River Fall Foliage Afternoon Sail

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    If you’re looking for a relaxing boat tour where you can experience fall in New York in a very special way, check out this 3.5-hour sailing tour.

    You’ll be aboard the Schooner Adirondack or Schooner America 2.0, which depart from Pier 62 at Chelsea Piers. It’s a leisurely sail from here toward the George Washington Bridge and the famous “Palisades” rock formations. Your destination? The Hudson Valley! 

    On this autumnal sailing cruise you can enjoy the beautiful fall colors and just have a good time on board. I love sailing tours because it feels like a vacation on vacation to me. And in the fall, this one is one of my absolute favorites!

  16. 14

    Grand Palisades Fall Foliage Yacht Tour

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    On this tour you are on board the Manhattan, a beautiful boat in the style of the yachts of the 1920s. Lots of wood and glass await you and you can either enjoy the view of the colorful autumn leaves in the heated salon or go out on the outside deck.

    The cruise starts at Chelsea Piers, not far from Hudson Yards. Afterwards, you can relax and cruise north along the Hudson River. On the way you can enjoy the view of the New York skyline and the ride under the George Washington Bridge.

    On your left and right you will see the forested banks of the Hudson River.You will be surprised how many colorful autumn leaves you will see.  And the best part? The price of the 2.25-hour cruise even includes a free drink!

  17. Classic Harbor Line Christmas & New Year’s Eve Cruises

  18. 15

    Classic Harbor Line: Sunset & Holiday Cocoa Cruise

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    If you’re on a very special boat tour this holiday season, you’ll want to take a closer look at the Sunset & Holiday Cocoa Cruise. You will experience the sunset in a relaxed and festive atmosphere. For me, it is one of the absolute most beautiful tours you can do!

  19. 16

    Classic Harbor Line: Holiday Jazz Cruise Aboard Classic Motor Yacht

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    This Holiday Jazz Cruise aboard a 1920’s style luxury yacht is one of my absolute favorite tours in New York. The ship has a wonderful charm and cannot be compared to the big sightseeing ships. Holiday Jazz Cruise starts at the Chelsea Piers and takes you along the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty and the harbor of New York. On the way you can enjoy a wonderful view of the New York skyline and smooth jazz at the same time.

  20. 17

    Classic Harbor Line: Manhattan Holiday Yacht Cruise with Jazz, Cocoa & Carols

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    Why not spending time on a Christmas Holiday Cruise during Christmas in New York? Both locals and NYC visitors love the amazing Christmas Cruises New York City has to offer.

    My favorite holiday cruise is the New York City Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise. The Jazz Band on board is fun and so talented which makes the New York City Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise even more entertaining. Relax in the heated main observation cabin, join in the caroling, and admire the city through the glassed-in observatory on the 1920s style yacht.

  21. 18

    Classic Harbor Line: Manhattan Holiday Yacht Cruise with Jazz, Cocoa & Carols (Statue & Skyline Holiday Cocoa Cruise)

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    Make yourself comfortable on the old yacht from the 1920s and get into the Christmas mood during the Cocoa & Carols Holiday Cruise. This boat tour at Christmas time is one of my absolute favourites. It starts from Pier 62 (Chelsea Piers) on a beautifully decorated yacht. On the way through New York Harbor and the Hudson River, breathtaking views of the New York skyline, the One World Trade Center, Governors Island, the Brooklyn Bridge and of course the Statue of Liberty are guaranteed.

  22. 19

    Classic Harbor Line: New Year's Eve Champagne Pairing Cruises (Pre-Dinner)

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    From Classic Harbor Line’s New Year’s Eve Champagne Pairing Cruises, there are several options to choose from right now.

    On this 90-minute pre-dinner Champagne & Cheese Pairing, you can enjoy three coordinated varieties of cheese and Champagne. And it’s aboard the Manhattan as well as the Manhattan II. Just amazing!

  23. 20

    Classic Harbor Line: New Year's Eve Champagne Pairing Cruises (Post-Dinner)

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    From Classic Harbor Line’s New Year’s Eve Champagne Pairing Cruises, there are several options to choose from right now.

    This is the 90-minute Post-Dinner Champagne & Dessert Pairing, where you’ll enjoy two coordinated desserts and Champagne. What I find  unique about this cruise is the vessel itself: the cruises will be hosted aboard a grand 1920s inspired yacht!


FAQ

What is Classic Harbor Line in New York?

Classic Harbor Line is a New York boat tour operator that offers various sailing and sightseeing cruises in and around Manhattan and out of New York City. They also have cruises in Boston, Key West and New Port.

What can you do near Classic Harbor Line?

All boat tours in New York City start at Chelsea Piers. From here you can relax and explore the High Line, visit the Chelsea Market or go to one of the many galleries and exhibitions in Chelsea.

How long do the boat tours of Classic Harbor Line NYC last?

Classic Harbor Line boat tours last between 1.5 and 3.5 hours.

Nummer
Classic Harbor Line Cruise:
Duration
Interested?
1.
2-Hour Day Sail to Statue of Liberty on America 2.0
2 hours
2.
Sunset Sail Aboard a Schooner
2 hours
3.
Live Jazz Sunset Sail in NY Harbor
2 hours
4.
Evening Jazz Cruise on the Yacht Manhattan
1.5 hours
5.
Statue and Skyline Cruise aboard the Luxury Yacht
1.5 hours
6.
Sunset Yacht Cruise
1.5 hours
7.
City Lights Yacht Cruise
1.5 hours
8.
Around Manhattan: Official NYC Architecture Cruise
2.75 hours

Where can I buy tickets for the Classic Harbor Line?

You can buy tickets for the Classic Harbor Line boat tours here.

Where do the Classic Harbor Line boat tours depart from?

The boat tours start at the Chelsea Piers not far from the High Line. The best way to get there is to take the subway A C E to “23rd St”. From there you can walk to your destination in ten minutes.

Profilbild Steffen Kneist
About the author

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide. Also check out my hotel finder for New York!

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