NYC: Statue of Liberty Speedboat Ride & Harbor Thrills

Summary

Fast-paced harbor ride with music, close-up statue views and laughter

You’ll rocket across New York Harbor on a wild speedboat ride toward the Statue of Liberty, with music blasting and comic guides keeping things lively. Expect plenty of spray (don’t wear your best clothes), quick photo stops by Lady Liberty herself, and a lot of laughter echoing over the water. It’s one of those NYC moments that sticks with you long after your shirt dries.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to second-guess myself before we were buckled in at Pier 81, wind already tugging at my hair. The BEAST crew—one guy in neon shades, another with a grin like he’d seen everything—cracked jokes while checking our seatbelts. I could smell river water and sunscreen in the air. As soon as they hit the throttle, my stomach did that little rollercoaster jump. It’s loud, but not in a bad way—just engines and people yelling over the music (something old-school hip hop, I think). I didn’t expect to laugh so much right off the bat.

We tore across New York Harbor at what felt like cartoon speed—45 mph is no joke when you’re this close to the water. Spray hit my face (definitely should’ve worn something less absorbent), but honestly? That was half the fun. Our guide shouted out random facts about Manhattan’s skyline between sharp turns—he called them “free hair rinses.” When we slowed near the Statue of Liberty, everyone got quiet for a second. The city looked weirdly small from out there. Someone behind me said it was their first time seeing Lady Liberty up close; I realized it was mine too, at least from this angle.

The crew nudged us to take photos—“Don’t drop your phone!”—and tossed in a few more jokes about “The Pool” seats (I still don’t know if that’s real or just something they say to mess with you). Heading back, my shirt stuck to my back and I could taste salt on my lips. Not glamorous but kind of perfect for a summer afternoon. My friend kept replaying one turn in her head; she swears she almost flew out of her seat (she didn’t). We stumbled off grinning and dripping wet, ready for fries from the BEAST’ro nearby. So yeah… if you want dry shoes, maybe skip it—but you’ll miss out.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — High-speed NYC harbor speedboat ride

• Board the BEAST speedboat
• Race across New York Harbor at 45 mph
• Stop near Statue of Liberty for photos
• Listen to crew share fun facts

Top questions

How long does the NYC BEAST speedboat ride last?

The ride lasts approximately 30 minutes from departure to return.

Do you get wet on The BEAST speedboat ride?

Yes, expect to get wet during the ride due to splashes and spray.

Where does The BEAST speedboat depart from?

The BEAST departs from Pier 81 in New York City.

Is there an age or height requirement for The BEAST?

You must be at least 40 inches (102 cm) tall; children under 18 need an adult.

Does The BEAST stop at the Statue of Liberty?

The boat stops near the Statue of Liberty for photos but does not dock or let passengers disembark.

Are food and drinks allowed on board The BEAST?

No, outside food and drinks are not permitted on board.

Is pickup included for The BEAST speedboat ride?

No hotel pickup is included; guests must arrive at Pier 81 at least 30 minutes before departure.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers or those with health issues?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes a 30-minute high-speed boat ride across New York Harbor with comic local guides at the helm, seatbelts and handrails for safety, nonstop music pumping through speakers, plus access to Pier 81’s BEAST’ro where you can grab food or drinks after drying off—all just steps from Midtown Manhattan.