From a free ferry to a luxury yacht: 10 exciting cruises around New York waters

Looking at New York City from the water is a great way to see the city's skyline. SecretNYC reveals the best excursions you can book.

New York's two main rivers, the Hudson and East Rivers, offer incredible water excursions that are simply stunning. These boat cruises allow you to see the city from all angles, and some even offer live entertainment, delicious food, and unique events. The best way to book a cruise is in our material.

1. Circle Line's “Best of NYC” Cruise

This Circle Line pleasure boat excursion stands out. She's number one on our list! The 2 hour 30 minute cruise circles the island of Manhattan and offers unobstructed views of more than 130 of the city's most iconic landmarks.

On the subject: Dining on the Water with City Views: 8 Best NYC Cruises

For example, you will see a panorama of Manhattan, Little Island, Hudson Yards, World Trade Center, Brooklyn Bridge, Yankee Stadium! The boats are equipped with the latest technology, climate controlled, and the guides are some of the most knowledgeable in the whole city!

You can book tickets here.

2. City Cruises' Bateaux New York Premier Brunch Cruise

How about a cruise around New York and a delicious brunch?! This 2,5-hour cruise from City Cruises includes a three-course brunch, panoramic views of the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, a live DJ, and more!

You can book tickets here.

3. Liberty Cruise's Statue of Liberty Tour

The Statue of Liberty is undoubtedly one of New York's favorite landmarks. This excursion on a pleasure boat will allow you to get up close and personal with Lady Liberty! There are both standard and premium excursion options. The boat departs from Pier 36 several times a day. If you're looking for an excursion with the best view of the Statue of Liberty, choose this option.

You can book tickets here.

4. Manhattan by Sail's Clipper City Ride

Want to cruise around New York on a sailboat?! Clipper City can carry 134 passengers! The boat departs from Pier 17 in the city center. Special cruises include sunset jazz, golden hour cocktail sails, wine tasting cruises and more.

You can book tickets here.

5. Circle Line's The Beast Speedboat Ride

This Circle Line cruise is for adrenaline junkies. It's a 30-minute speedboat ride through New York City waters. The tour begins at Pier 83 on the Upper West Side. The boat rushes through the waters of New York, making all sorts of twists and turns along the way.

This thrilling jet-powered ride takes you all the way to the Statue of Liberty! This excursion opens the 2024 season on May 4th!

You can book tickets here.

6. Circle Line's Landmarks Cruise

You'll be able to see all the attractions on your bucket list on this no-frills boat tour. It starts and ends at Pier 83 in midtown Manhattan. The 90-minute cruise takes you along the west side, overlooking Hudson Yards and Little Island. Amenities include an incredible outdoor observation deck, onboard cafe, free Wi-Fi and more!

You can book tickets here.

7. New York Media Boat's Private Boat Tour

Make your dream of luxury come true with a private yacht tour around New York City with New York Media Boat! Private yacht charters are expensive, but there's nothing quite like taking in the 360° views of New York City with a hand-picked crew. Trips typically last 60 minutes and the group consists of a maximum of 12 passengers. Prices for private boat tours range from $550 to $1100 per hour depending on the number of people in the group.

You can book tickets here.

8. New York Water Taxi Cruises

New York Water Taxi provides a hop on, hop off service. It allows you to explore all the sights of New York as efficiently as possible! Daily ferry service connects Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Jersey City. This walk is the perfect way to explore the city and also take in the waterfront views!

You can book tickets here.

9. Staten island ferry

The free ride is operated by the New York City Department of Transportation and runs through its harbor between Manhattan and Staten Island in about 25 minutes.

This is a great option if you want to explore a different area or want to ride for free.

10. NYC Ferry

The NYC Ferry operates almost like a subway system, but through water! There are 6 permanent routes, as well as one seasonal route, connecting 25 ferry piers in all five boroughs. The cost of the service is $4 per trip. This is the perfect way to take a boat tour on your own, especially in the summer! Expect an open deck, bar and ports throughout the city!