New York Holiday Cruise: Cocoa, Carols & Statue of Liberty Views

Summary

Sing carols sip cocoa see the statue on a warm yacht night

You’ll board a heated yacht in New York City for a holiday cruise filled with live jazz carols, homemade cookies, and spiked cocoa as you glide past Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. With assigned seating in the grand salon and friendly hosts leading singalongs, you’ll share laughter and city views that linger long after you step back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the faint sound of laughter drifting over the Hudson — not the city’s usual noise, but something softer, almost like you could feel it in the cold air. We’d just boarded the Yacht Manhattan II near Battery Park and right away, there was this smell of cinnamon and chocolate (the cookies are honestly too good). The grand salon was warm, glass fogging up a little from all our breath and the spiked hot cocoa — I didn’t expect to feel so instantly at home on a boat full of strangers. Our host, Jamie, handed out drinks with that kind of New York energy that’s both hurried and friendly.

There was a jazz trio tucked by the windows playing “Let It Snow,” and people started singing along — some shy at first, but then louder as we passed Manhattan’s Financial District all lit up. Jamie pointed out Ellis Island off to our left; I tried to picture my great-grandfather coming through there, but mostly I just felt grateful for being here now. The wind outside was sharp if you stepped onto the outer deck (I did anyway, for photos), but inside it was just warmth and music and clinking mugs. The Statue of Liberty looked smaller than I remembered from land — but somehow more real when you’re floating right there beside her.

I shared a table with two sisters from Queens who insisted I try their family’s “secret” cookie recipe (they’d snuck them in — don’t tell). We talked about old Christmases in Brooklyn while the boat circled slowly near One World Observatory. At some point someone started harmonizing “Jingle Bells” in Spanish and everyone sort of joined in without thinking. It wasn’t perfect singing, but it felt good. The city skyline behind steamed-up glass is something I still think about sometimes — especially that moment when everything went quiet for just a second before another song began.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Holiday cruise with city sightseeing

• Arrive 15-30 minutes early to check-in
• Board Yacht Manhattan or Manhattan II
• Enjoy spiked hot cocoa and homemade cookies
• Listen to live jazz band and sing carols
• Cruise past Financial District and Battery Park
• Pass by Ellis Island
• View and photograph Statue of Liberty up close
• Relax in heated grand salon or outer deck

Top questions

How long is the NYC Cocoa & Carols Holiday Cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes from departure to return.

Does the cruise go past the Statue of Liberty?

Yes, you'll get an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty during the cruise.

Is food or drink included on this holiday cruise?

Your ticket includes one complimentary drink (like spiked hot cocoa) plus an assortment of holiday cookies.

Are seats assigned on board?

Yes, everyone gets comfortable assigned seating in the heated grand salon; tables may be shared with dividers depending on group size.

Is there an outdoor deck for sightseeing?

Yes, both Yacht Manhattan boats have an outer deck for sightseeing and taking photos.

Can children join this New York holiday cruise?

Children are welcome but must have their own ticket and be accompanied by an adult.

What time should I arrive for check-in?

Please arrive 15-30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check in at the ticket booth.

Are pets allowed on board?

No pets are allowed; only service animals that perform manual tasks may board.

What’s included

Your evening includes one complimentary drink (like spiked hot cocoa), an assortment of homemade holiday cookies, cozy assigned seating in a heated grand salon aboard Yacht Manhattan or Manhattan II, live jazz carols led by local hosts as you pass Ellis Island and get close to the Statue of Liberty — all with plenty of time to enjoy both indoor warmth and fresh air out on deck before returning to shore.