21 AMAZING Summer Cruises from NYC (UPDATE 2024)

What could be better than taking in the city from the water on a warm summer day in New York City? For us, it’s an absolute highlight every time we visit, and definitely a great summer activity in New York City that you shouldn’t miss.

We’ve taken all of these sailing tours (some even have live jazz music!) and cruises ourselves, so you’ll get real testimonials from us and a wonderful impression of the tours.  As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us!

Wenn du den Explorer Pass kaufst (hier ist die offizielle Seite), vergiss nicht meinen Code LNYOffer für ein paar zusätzliche Rabatte 🙂

Boat And Sailing Tours You Will Love

They are my personal highlight! There is hardly anything more relaxing than sailing through the harbor of New York, seeing the Statue of Liberty and the skyline!

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    01 2-Hour Day Sail to Statue of Liberty on America 2.0

    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. 

  2. Champagne City Lights Cruise NYC

    02 Classic Harbor Line: Champagne City Lights Cruise

    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.

  3. Circle Line - Harbor Lights Night Cruise

    03 Circle Line - Harbor Lights Night Cruise

    The Harbor Lights Cruise by Cricle Line is an amazing way to see the NYC from the water. As the lights start to sparkle across the Hudson and East Rivers at dusk you see the beauty of the city at night from a whole different angle.

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    04 Classic Harbor Line: Architecture Yacht Cruise

    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.

  5. New York Premier Lunch Cruise

    05 Bateaux Lunch Cruise

    This boat tour with lunch on board the Bateaux New York will take you from the Hudson River to the East River, which means you will see all the major buildings of the NYC skyline. And of course, the Statue of Liberty is included! Since the atmosphere on the Bateaux Lunch cruise is a bit more formal, guests are asked to wear long pants and no shorts or hot pants or flip flops.

  6. Circle Line - New York Landmarks Cruise

    06 Circle Line - New York Landmarks Cruise

    This Circle Line cruise will take you past NYC’s most famous attractions and landmarks. You will head past the Statue of Liberty, the One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, amd much much more. If you are looking to explore Manhattan from the water and learn some of the history of NYC at the same time, this is definitely the cruise for you. At a lenght of approximately 1.5 hours, this cruise will take you half way around the Island of Manhattan as well as once around the Statue of Liberty for the ultimate photo opportunity.

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    07 Classic Harbor Line: Evening Jazz Cruise on the Yacht Manhattan

    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!

  8. Skyline Brunch Cruise Around Manhattan

    08 Skyline Brunch Cruise Around Manhattan

    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.

  9. New York Spirit Lunch Cruise

    09 Spirit: Lunch Cruise

    Relax on a comfortable boat as it cruises around New York Harbor and Manhattan on this relaxing 2-hour afternoon cruise that includes an all-you-can-eat buffet and DJ’ed music. Get great views and a different perspective on the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and the Empire State Building. And indulge in the delicious buffet lunch while doing it. Upgrade the afternoon to receive a welcome glass of champagne in a souvenir glass, a table for your party size, and access to a platinum open bar.

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    10 Spirit: Dinner Cruise with Buffet

    Get a totally different and exciting perspective on New York: from a fun dinner cruise that floats around New York Harbor and Manhattan offering stunning views of the city and some of the world’s most famous landmarks, from the Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn Bridge to the Empire State Building. Indulge in a delicious buffet dinner and then groove to the onboard DJ’ed music being spun. Add this dinner cruise to your New York itinerary today!

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    11 60-Min Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sunset Cruise

    You start at the South Street Seaport right next to New York’s most famous bridge – the Brooklyn Bridge. From there, you will make a leisurely drive to the southern tip of Manhattan and you will be in the Port of New York where you can see the Statue of Liberty for the first time. On the way there you can also clearly see the new highest building in the evening skyline: the One World Trade Center.

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    12 Staten Island Ferry

    One of New York’s most popular tourist attractions is the Staten Island Ferry, which commutes between the southern tip of Manhattan and Staten Island. The crossing is free of charge! The 5 mile journey takes about 20-25 minutes and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the skyscrapers and the Statue of Liberty.

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    13 Classic Harbor Line: Architecture Yacht Cruise

    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.

The Best Dinner Cruises in Summer

Dinner cruises are very popular – and rightly so! You’ll see the illuminated skyline of the Hudson River, East River, and New York Harbor while enjoying a delicious meal and drinks!

These are the best dinner cruises in NYC this summer:

  1. 01

    Bateaux NYC Dinner Cruise: The most romantic Dinner Cruise on a glass boat

    Cruise in Chelsea
    bateaux dinner cruise
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    Forget trying to snag a hard-to-get reservation at New York’s hottest restaurants du jour. Instead, indulge in a delicious 3-course dinner during the cruise on an all-glass boat around New York City that offers you an up-close look at the Statue of Liberty and other famed sites. As a live pianist plays relaxing music for you, take in the immense view of one of the world’s great cities, and enjoy a delicious pre-set dinner by the on-board executive chef. Upgrade to enjoy a romantic or first class VIP experience including a private table and French sparkling wine.

  2. 02

    Spirit: Dinner Cruise with Buffet

    Cruise in Chelsea
    dinner cruise nyc
    Add to myNY added

    Get a totally different and exciting perspective on New York: from a fun dinner cruise that floats around New York Harbor and Manhattan offering stunning views of the city and some of the world’s most famous landmarks, from the Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn Bridge to the Empire State Building. Indulge in a delicious buffet dinner and then groove to the onboard DJ’ed music being spun. Add this dinner cruise to your New York itinerary today!

4th of July Boat Tours

The 4th of July is Independence Day in the USA, and is celebrated with a massive fireworks display. From the water, you’re guaranteed a front-row seat; that’s why they’re so popular!

  1. tacos and tequila 4th July cruise

    01 Tacos and Tequila July 4th Fireworks Party Cruise

    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.

  2. July 4th Fireworks | NYC Sightseeing Cruises & Restaurant

    02 4th of July Cruise aboard Louisa of the Seas

    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

    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

    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.

  5. New York City Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise with Lobster Dinner

    05 New York City Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise with Lobster Dinner

    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

    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

    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

    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.

  9. New York City Manhattan July 4th Independence day fireworks show with skyline over Hudson River viewed from New Jersey

    09 4th of July Macy's Fireworks Cruise on Manhattan

    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!

  10. Macy

    10 Macy's July 4th Fireworks Viewing Cruise from Brooklyn

    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

    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.

  12. Steffen Kneist Loving New York

    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.

    TICKETS

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    12 Bateaux New York 4th of July Fireworks Dinner Cruise

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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
  19. NYC_July_4th_Macy_s_Fireworks_Family_Friendly_Festive_Boat

    18 NYC July 4th Macy's Fireworks Family Friendly Festive Boat

    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!

  20. 4th of July Brunch Cruise

    19 NYC 4th of July Brunch Cruise

    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.


My Personal Recommendations

Steffen Kneist Loving New York

What is the best boat tour in NYC in the summer?

Personally, I have three different favorite tours. First of all, I very much enjoy the sunset sailing tour to the Statue of Liberty.

Next is the sailing tour with live jazz – it doesn’t get much better than that in my opinion.

And if you’re looking for a dinner cruise that’s more than worth the price, there’s nothing better than the Bateaux Dinner Cruise.

FAQ

Where do the boat tours start in summer?

Most boat tours depart from Chelsea Piers (Pier 61/62) and some from Pier 42, both on the Hudson River.

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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