New York: Statue of Liberty & Skyline Yacht Cruise

Summary

Manhattan skyline and statue of liberty by classic yacht with open deck or cozy salon

You’ll ride a vintage-style yacht past Manhattan’s west side, sipping your complimentary drink as you pass Ellis Island and circle close to the Statue of Liberty. From the open deck or comfy salon, you’ll catch unexpected views—and maybe feel that hush when city noise fades behind you.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wonder if the Statue of Liberty looks different when you’re actually gliding past her, wind in your face? I didn’t think much about it until we boarded this old-school 1920s-style yacht down at the Hudson. There was this faint smell of varnished wood mixed with coffee—someone’s thermos, maybe. Our guide, who had that classic New Yorker way of talking fast but still making you feel welcome, pointed out Ellis Island right as a seagull swooped by. I tried to snap a photo but got mostly sky and my own thumb. Typical.

The Manhattan skyline just sort of sneaks up on you from the water. It’s not like seeing it from a rooftop bar or walking along 10th Avenue—it’s bigger, quieter somehow. People around us were murmuring in Spanish and French, trading stories about their first time in New York. The glassed-in cabin was warm (thank God for that in March), but I kept wandering out to the bow because there’s something about feeling the cold river air on your cheeks while you watch those towers slide by. You know?

We cruised close enough to Lady Liberty that you could see the folds in her robe—closer than I expected for a sightseeing cruise from Manhattan. Someone near me whispered something about “freedom” in Italian; I just kind of stood there holding my free drink (ginger ale, nothing fancy) and thinking how weirdly quiet it felt out there compared to Midtown. The whole thing lasted about 90 minutes but honestly felt shorter—maybe because I kept getting distracted by little things: boat horns echoing off the water, kids laughing at seagulls chasing our wake, someone’s scarf whipping around like a flag.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — New York Harbor sightseeing cruise

• Board 1920s-style yacht
• Cruise along Hudson River
• View Manhattan skyline
• Pass Ellis Island
• Cruise alongside Statue of Liberty

Top questions

How long is the Statue of Liberty & skyline cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Is there an indoor area on the boat?

Yes, there is a climate-controlled glass-enclosed observation cabin.

Are drinks included on this New York sightseeing cruise?

One complimentary beverage is included per guest.

Does the cruise get close to the Statue of Liberty?

Yes, the boat cruises alongside for great photo opportunities.

Is this cruise suitable for families with children?

Yes, children can join with an adult and infants can ride in strollers.

Are service animals allowed onboard?

Service animals are permitted on board; emotional support animals are not.

Can I bring my own alcohol onto the yacht?

No, guests are not permitted to bring alcohol onboard.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the departure point.

What’s included

Your ticket covers a 90-minute cruise around New York Harbor aboard a vintage-style yacht with both open-air and glass-enclosed seating options; enjoy one complimentary beverage as you pass Manhattan’s skyline, Ellis Island, and circle close to the Statue of Liberty before returning to shore.