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10 Top Boston Harbor Cruises

Venture on the water to explore Beantown's waterfront, maritime history and more.

Courtesy of City Cruises by Hornblower

Take in stunning city views from the water.

Boston is the most populous city in New England – and for good reason. This Massachusetts metropolis may host modern shopping, dining and cultural attractions, but Boston is built upon a rich American tapestry created over the centuries that's still visible in its quaint neighborhood streets and stone houses. The city's historic harbor along the Massachusetts Bay set the scene for a significant portion of Boston's story; once the site of Revolution-era protests like the Boston Tea Party, this body of water is now primarily used for revelry. No visit to Massachusetts' capital city would be complete without some time on Boston Harbor.

If you're planning to spend some time in Beantown during the warmer months, consider boarding a schooner for an hour or two of sightseeing, or head out on a boat you can pedal or sail yourself. Cruises on the harbor offer a range of historical tours, romantic dinners on the water, unique brunches with friends or even the chance to spot some endangered whales. Whether you opt for a tall ship or a smaller, more eco-friendly vessel, soak in city views and enjoy your time on the water with the following top Boston Harbor cruises.

Boston Harbor City Cruises by Hornblower

Hornblower's City Experiences brand offers a wide variety of land-based and on-the-water tours, which includes City Cruises. While the brand has greatly expanded over the past century to 125 U.S. cities and more than 100 countries, it all began with Boston Harbor Cruises, founded in 1926.

Today, Boston Harbor City Cruises encompass a range of ways to see the city from the water. You can book a brunch, lunch or dinner cruise on a dining vessel like the 600-passenger Boston Odyssey; time your sailing for sunset; or plan a big outing for a holiday such as the Fourth of July. Dare to ride Codzilla, a thrilling speed boat designed to leave slow-paced sightseeing tours in its wake. Zoom around the harbor for around 45 minutes at up to 40 miles per hour – and since you likely will get wet, ponchos are available on board. This 70-foot harbor boat, complete with a toothy paint job, also boasts an original soundtrack.

If you're looking for a different kind of enjoyment with a little less aquatic adrenaline, Boston Harbor City Cruises partners with the New England Aquarium for a series of spectacular whale watching trips. From Boston's Central Wharf, you'll head to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, one of the world's most active marine sanctuaries. Whales in the region include humpbacks, minke whales, the endangered right whales and more. You can also try to spot sea birds, dolphins and other marine life – but if you don't see whales on your cruise, a free ticket will be offered to you for a future whale watching trip.

See more of Boston: Things to Do | Hotels

Classic Harbor Line Boston

Courtesy of Classic Harbor Line Boston

With a fleet that includes schooner Adirondack III and motor yacht Northern Lights, Classic Harbor Line is a great choice for a Boston Harbor cruise. Join a guided sightseeing tour or charter your own yacht for the day; the schooner is designed for 40 people or less, while the motor yacht can accommodate just under 150 guests. Classic Harbor Line offers themed cruises, if your interest is piqued by either an adults-only nighttime City Lights sailing (perfect for couples) or a cruise that pairs a day of harbor islands and lighthouses – including the country's oldest – with a picnic lunch. The two-hour sunset cruise aboard Northern Lights is accompanied by the nightly cannon fire from the USS Constitution , also known as "Old Ironsides" – the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat, built in 1794.

If you want to sail Boston Harbor with a cold beer, you can't go wrong with Sails & Ales, a special themed cruise created in partnership with the local favorite Harpoon Brewery. Sail along the waterfront at sunset past sights like Independence Fort as your Harpoon representative explains beermaking techniques. You'll sip four flagship or seasonal beers plus one cider. A ticket for a future free tour of the brewery is included, and you'll know exactly where it is because this cruise sails right past it.

Boston Green Cruises

Right on Rowes Wharf behind the Boston Harbor Hotel, Boston Green Cruises has a fleet of three vessels: the 350-passenger Sir Winston and two low-emissions boats known as Beach Cat, a 44-foot catamaran that seats 30 people, and Zulu. Boston Green Cruises, which calls itself Boston Harbor's first eco-friendly fleet, offers a 60-minute, fully narrated sightseeing tour for all ages that covers the city's marquee waterfront sights. A 90-minute sightseeing cruise is also on offer on one of the company's smaller ships and includes time passing the historic locks along the Charles River. If you're looking for the ultimate intimate Boston Harbor cruise, consider a private charter, which can run anywhere from two to eight hours. Be aware that in the event of inclement weather, cruises will be rescheduled but not refunded, per company policy. Past Boston Green Cruise participants have said the captain they sailed with was friendly and knowledgeable, providing a great history lesson on the harbor.

Massachusetts Bay Lines

Courtesy of Massachusetts Bay Lines

Massachusetts Bay Lines, referred to locally as Mass Bay Lines, offers sightseeing tours and private charters in Boston Harbor – but also floating concerts and DJ sets you can experience with up to 379 of your closest new friends. Beyond traditional sightseeing tours and music cruises, Mass Bay also hosts a handful of themed options. Once per month from May through October, you can take part in a two-hour Full Moon Cruise, which sets sail under the lunar light of a full moon and the city lights of Boston in the background. Passengers 21 and up may choose to celebrate New Year's Eve or Independence Day by cruising in the city known as the birthplace of the American Revolution: The adults-only sailings on Dec. 31, July 3 and July 4 mark the occasions with a cash bar, dancing and a prime place to watch the fireworks. Dog owners will be happy to know Mass Bay even welcomes one four-legged friend per each adult ticket on its Dog Days of Summer sailings – but you're not required to bring a pooch, so if you're simply a dog lover looking to see the sights, head down to Rowes Wharf.

Cycleboat Boston

Courtesy of Cycleboat Boston

If you've walked around Beantown but still want to get some steps in – even on the water – consider booking a sightseeing harbor cruise that you can pedal. Cycleboat Boston lets you ride on bike seats and cycle your way through Boston Harbor to help propel the boat, but it's not required if you'd rather relax in the lounge. Tours focused on U.S. history cover the Boston Tea Party Ships , Bunker Hill Monument and the Charlestown Navy Yard, among other local sites. Pedal along during the day, by night or at sunset; the morning cruises encourage mimosas, but you must provide valid ID and bring your own beverages (with coolers and ice provided). Recent reviews rave about the captain and first mate and say if you're not looking for much of a workout you can just sit back and have fun.

Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships

Courtesy of Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships

Board a schooner from the Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships and sail Boston's historic harbor in fitting style. Your two-hour tour begins by embarking the 125-foot Liberty Clipper at Long Wharf, or you can opt for a more intimate, 90-minute experience on the Liberty Star, which is less than half the size of the Liberty Clipper. Tickets and drink tickets can be purchased ahead online or during your cruise; otherwise, you can bring your own snacks and bag lunches.

The fleet sails Boston Harbor from June through September, offering sunset cruises, history sailings and evening cocktail cruises where the rum never stops flowing (with group discounts available for parties of four). Sailing enthusiasts may want to join the Sail Through Time Cruise, which documents the history of some of Boston's most famous sailing ships, as well as the people who lived and worked on them; you can enjoy this fact-filled day on the water with a docent from Boston by Foot as your guide and even help hoist the sails. Passengers appreciate the serenity of seeing the city from a new perspective.

Boston Electric Boats

@urbanophoto | Courtesy of Boston Electric Boats

India Wharf was one of the largest commercial wharves in the Port of Boston during the 19th century, and today the India Wharf Marina, just a short walk from the aquarium, hosts boats for rental or charter through Boston Electric Boats. Those seeking a self-guided Boston Harbor cruise will be pleased to take advantage of the Be Your Own Captain Rental, available for two hours at a time. No experience or boating license is necessary to pilot the boat – though the company will make sure you're comfortable before you set off – and up to 11 people can sail along with you.

If you'd rather leave the steering to someone else, a Captain Provided Charter accommodates up to six passengers, allowing you to take in the breeze and enjoy any refreshments you may have brought. The boat's canopy provides shade, while the open deck is perfect for basking in the sun; the enclosure windows can be opened or closed to adjust for the weather. These electric boats are more eco-friendly with no fuel odors and a quiet motor. Boaters have commented that preset GPS routes make piloting the boats much easier, and a top speed of 6 miles per hour keeps the ride safe and relaxing.

Boston Harbor Islands Ferry

Beginning in May, a ferry service provided by Boston Harbor City Cruises connects downtown Boston to the Boston Harbor Islands. This transport gives a unique chance to experience some of the wilder elements of Boston's seaways, with ferries that run to Spectacle Island, Georges Island and Thompson Island during the warmer months.

On Thompson Island, accessible only on weekends, you'll get a brief orientation to start your visit; on Saturdays, a National Park Service ranger hosts a guided walk to explore the island ecosystems, including salt marsh, beaches, meadows and forest. Spectacle Island is a 114-acre island perfect for a day of hiking and swimming, with an accessible lifeguarded beach and occasional weekend jazz concerts. Georges Island offers up the history, as it houses the Civil War-era Fort Warren; ranger-led tours are available.

Charles Riverboat Company

The Charles Riverboat Company was founded in 1990 and remains a family-run business whose five vessels now carry more than 50,000 passengers per year. The company believes that whether you're a visitor or a local, seeing the city from the water is a spectacular experience that all will enjoy. Guided historic sightseeing cruises feature Harvard University, modern skyscrapers like the Prudential Building and more. Learn about the architecture and building design of landmarks along the harbor and Charles River on the two-hour Architecture Cruise.

As you might expect, many of the Charles Riverboat offerings focus on its namesake river, which flows into Boston Harbor, whether you want to see fall foliage, hear haunted tales or simply enjoy a cocktail at sunset with live music on the Charles River. The company also has a booming charter business for graduations, engagements, retirements and other special celebrations, with recent customers citing extraordinary service from staff.

Boston Duck Tours

If you can't choose between tours on land and boat, you don't have to. It's nearly impossible to visit Boston and not run into one of its renowned duck tours. This type of amphibious automobile was originally created as a military vehicle under the code name "DUKW," and now these boat-bus hybrids can transport tourists in and out of the water. To cap off your city visit, venture slightly beyond Boston Harbor with this cruise along the Charles River.

The vehicles used today by Boston Duck Tours are uniquely designed to roll past city sights like Boston Common , the Old North Church and the Fanueil Hall Marketplace before or after launching into the Charles River for views of the Cambridge and Boston skylines. This Boston boat experience is unlike any other, led by beloved "conDUCKtor" guides: You might meet Duck Tracy, Florence Waters or Professor Quackenstein, who will regale you with their own take on Boston's top attractions. A lighthearted but thorough excursion through city history, Boston Duck Tours has won many accolades. Past customers remember these unique tours as one of the best parts of their visit – and as a special draw for kids, the tour guides may allow children to briefly steer the boat in the water for a particularly memorable experience.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Boston Tours
• The Top Things to Do in Rhode Island
• The Top River Cruise Lines
• The Top Statue of Liberty Cruises
• The Top NYC Dinner Cruises

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Boston Harbor Cruises

If you’re planning on sailing in Boston Harbor, be sure you’re booking with Liberty Fleet! Massachusetts’ favorite sailing ship operator, we’re sure to impress! Try one of our daytime Boston Harbor sailing tours, or try a sunset sail! Whatever you’re looking for on your seafaring adventure, Liberty Fleet is the way to go!

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• Hour Glass 1.5 Hours

Boston Harbor Day Sail

Come out for a day sail adventure in Boston Harbor aboard our classic schooner, the Liberty Star.

• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Boston Harbor Sunset Sail

If Boston is best seen from the water, then by far the best time to see it is during a sunset cruise on a classic Boston tall ship!

Mimosas and Brunch

What a way to celebrate the weekend! Enjoy a lovely two hour sail on Boston Harbor with unbeatable views of the city. Your ticket includes complimentary tea, coffee, and

• Hour Glass 3 hours

Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise

Join the fun on Boston’s tall ships for a July 4th celebration cruising along Boston Harbor.

Boston Harborfest Fireworks Cruise

Celebrate HarborFest week with a BANG aboard the Liberty Star.

Annual USS Constitution Turnaround Sail

The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. Celebrate liberty by sailing beside the venerable “Old Ironsides”!

Private Charters

Passengers are welcome to help raise the sails or simply sit back and enjoy the fresh harbor air with unbeatable views of historic Boston.

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Boston Harbor Sunset Cruises

Home » Tours & Cruises » Boston Harbor Sunset Cruises

Sunset Cruise in the Boston Harbor

Enjoy the fresh air and escape the heat, see amazing views of Boston’s beautiful skyline and the historic USS Constitution as the sun sets behind the city. As evening sets in, sunset colors fade to a twilight sky and the city comes alive with lights. Our 90-minute sunset cruise will highlight popular and famous scenes of Boston Harbor from both past and present. Snacks, and cold beverages including water, juice and soda; as well as a full bar, are available on every boat.

Dates and Pricing

Weekends only until mid-June

Start times vary as the sun sets earlier each week. Click “Buy Tickets” to see start times for the specific day.

(Ages 18-59)

Students (13-17 with valid ID) / Seniors (60 and up) / Military (with valid ID)

(Ages 6-12)

(Ages 5 and Under)

• *Plus 10% service charge.

Contact Information

• 60 Rowes Wharf Boston MA 02110

Book Direct Online

Tickets may also be bought at the Wharf, Ferry Terminal Center.

Non-refundable, can be rescheduled with 24 hours notice. Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded. You may reschedule your tickets (subject to availability) only if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Activity takes place rain or shine. The activity runs regardless of weather conditions. In the rare situation where the seller is forced to cancel the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule to another time (subject to availability).

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Boston Harbor Cruises

Boston Harbor Cruises has been introducing visitors to the Boston Harbor since 1926. Today they are New England’s oldest and largest cruise company. Boston Harbor Cruises offers Whale Watching , Sightseeing, Lighthouse, and Sunset Cruises, in addition to fast ferries for private functions and general entertainment. Boston Harbor Cruises also runs The Landing, Boston’s only fully outdoor patio bar and a great spot to enjoy drinks and the view of the Boston harbor. There’s no reason to trek to Boston’s Historic Ballpark when you can catch a Red Sox game on TV from the waterfront!

Experience the excitement of observing the ocean’s most magnificent creatures on one of Boston Harbor Cruises’ 3 or 5-hour whale watching cruises. Boston Harbor Cruises offers Boston’s only three-hour whale watch, which gets you to and from the whales in less time and gives you more time to watch. Researchers from the Whale Center of New England, the foremost authority on the region’s whale population, narrate all of the trips.

Boston Harbor Cruises also offers various sightseeing harbor cruises, which attract longtime residents and visitors alike. The sightseeing cruises are informative, entertaining, and relaxing. Take the USS Constitution Cruise and visit “Old Ironsides” in the Charlestown Navy Yard, or the Historic Sightseeing Cruise, which takes you to various Boston landmarks in the inner and outer harbor. See some of the most striking views of Boston on the Charles River and Locks Tour, or enjoy the spectacular sunset or lighthouse cruises.

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Lighthouse Tours

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Experience the historic lighthouses of Boston Harbor on our special two-hour narrated cruise.

Voyage through maritime history with a special three-lighthouse tour featuring close-up views of Long Island Light, Graves Light, and Boston Light – America’s first light station.

Delve into history as you travel to the edge of Boston Harbor on an exciting 2-hour cruise and encounter three iconic lighthouses, and enjoy onboard narration provided by Boston Harbor Islands park staff and volunteers from the United States Coast Guard. Learn about the maritime traditions of Boston Harbor, enjoy unforgettable views of the park and city, and experience one of the most unique and historically significant ports in the country.

Trip Details

Tours depart from the Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center on the Rose Kennedy Greenway (across from the Marriott Long Wharf Hotel and next to the Greenway Carousel) . Please arrive *at least* 30 minutes prior to departure for check-in. A Park Ranger will guide visitors to the dock 15 minutes prior to departure.

Groups of 25 or more may inquire about our discount pricing by emailing [email protected] .

Please Note

There is is no public access to Little Brewster Island or Boston Light due to ongoing maintenance following winter storms. Weather and sea conditions can occasionally force cancellations. Please check your email or voicemail before arriving for your trip.

Food and water are not available on the boat. Plan to bring your own food and drink. Alcoholic beverages, smoking, and vaping are not permitted on the cruise.

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Tickets on sale for New England Aquarium’s whale watching cruises in Boston

• Updated: May. 15, 2024, 11:52 a.m. |
• Published: May. 15, 2024, 11:52 a.m.

The New England Aquarium's annual whale watching season is kicking off on Thursday, May 16. New England Aquarium

• David Cifarelli | [email protected]

People visiting Boston are in for a “whale of a time” this summer as tickets for the New England Aquarium ’s (NEAQ) 2024 whale watching are on sale now.

The NEAQ’s annual whale watching season, which is in partnership with Boston Harbor City Cruises (BHCC), is launching Thursday, May 16. The cruises last 3-4 hours and give guests an up-close experience with whales and ocean life off the coast of Massachusetts by heading to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary.

“The start of whale watching season is our favorite time of year here at BHCC,” Bob Lawler, BHCC’s general manager and regional vice president, said in a statement. “Together with the New England Aquarium, we’re thrilled to continue to provide the unique opportunity for Boston-area residents and visitors to see and learn about whales in their natural habitat.”

The cruises’ high-speed catamarans have outdoor viewing decks and indoor spaces with large windows, so guests can get an ocean view from practically anywhere on the boat.

Passengers can also learn about whales from NEAQ naturalists, who serve as guides on the whale watching cruises. Drinks and snacks can be purchased onboard as well.

“At the New England Aquarium, we aim to inspire everyone to form a deeper connection to the ocean and take action to protect it,” New England Aquarium President and CEO Vikki N. Spruill said in the statement. “Education is at the core of our mission, and these whale watches provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the wonders of our blue planet first-hand.”

BHCC will be running multiple whale watch cruises a day. Cruises leave from Boston’s Central Wharf, which is located next to the aquarium. A schedule of upcoming cruises and ticket availability can be found online .

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The Yacht Northern Lights

April 3, 2016 by [email protected]

Take a cruise on Northern Lights , a Turn-of-the-Century inspired yacht that is available daily to take guests on cruises through Boston Harbor to see Boston’s iconic waterfront sites and monuments. Northern Lights measures 110-feet in length along her waterline and expands to a 28-foot beam. She was built with a beautiful mahogany bar, ceiling accents, ceiling trim, and railings.

Comfortable seating is available in the interior, first floor, climate-controlled cabin, while bench seating is provided on our open bow and covered top deck, which offers un-obscured views of Boston Harbor and the skyline! Guests are welcome on the forward deck to soak in the sun and score fantastic photographs of all the Boston Harbor sites from the water! This stunning yacht is perfect for families, romantic dates or a friendly gathering. Northern Lights can hold up 149 guests on any of our cruises. However, it is only suitable for up to 130 guests on a private cocktail or dinner event. Take in the sights of Boston, Massachusetts, on a sightseeing cruise that will keep you wanting to come back for other events! Whether you join us for on of our daytime cruises or Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise you will not be disappointed! Jump aboard and cruise in elegance to view the sights with glass of wine or beer.

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Northern Lights is the newest vessel to join the Classic Harbor Line fleet and will be splashing the waters of Boston Harbor in the Summer of 2016.

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Mon.–Fri.: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Weekends: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Please note: We strongly encourage purchasing tickets in advance to guarantee entry, as we do sell out on weekends.

PRESS RELEASE

New england aquarium whale watch in partnership with boston harbor city cruises kicks off 2024 season.

BOSTON, MASS. (May 15, 2024) – The New England Aquarium Whale Watch in partnership with Boston Harbor City Cruises (BHCC) will kick off another season of cruises beginning May 16, 2024, giving guests an up-close experience with whales and ocean life off the coast of Massachusetts.

*PHOTOS AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD HERE, WITH CREDIT TO BHCC*

New England Aquarium naturalists serve as guides onboard the whale watch cruises as passengers see the wildlife in Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a feeding ground for many whale, dolphin, and bird species. Passengers have the opportunity to learn about these marine animals and their behaviors from the naturalists who set sail daily.

“The start of whale watching season is our favorite time of year here at BHCC,” said Bob Lawler, BHCC’s General Manager and Regional Vice President. “Together with the New England Aquarium, we’re thrilled to continue to provide the unique opportunity for Boston-area residents and visitors to see and learn about whales in their natural habitat. Each year, we welcome thousands of passengers aboard for an experience they’ll never forget, and we look forward to another spectacular season ahead. Out of a shared goal to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic right whales, long-time partners BHCC and the Aquarium delayed the start of the New England Aquarium Whale Watch until the right whales had migrated north out of Cape Cod Bay.”

“At the New England Aquarium, we aim to inspire everyone to form a deeper connection to the ocean and take action to protect it. Education is at the core of our mission, and these whale watches provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the wonders of our blue planet first-hand,” said New England Aquarium President and CEO Vikki N. Spruill.

Departing from Boston’s Central Wharf, the whale watches run three to four hours on high-speed catamarans with outdoor viewing decks and indoor spaces with large windows. A full bar is available onboard along with light snacks for purchase. BHCC has also taken steps toward reducing single-use plastics onboard whale watch vessels, including the removal of plastic water bottles.

Backed with 7 years of experience at BHCC and a degree in Marine Biology, Linnea Mayfield starts the 2024 season in her new role as Head Naturalist. “I’m super excited to get back out to Stellwagen Bank and see familiar flukes,” she reports. “Each year, one of my favorite questions is how much do whales eat? My answer always gets wows because it’s 1 million calories a day! That’s the equivalent of a human eating 16 Oreos a minute, every minute, 24 hours a day!” Linnea is available for expert commentary and trip guidance upon request.

BHCC will be running multiple whale watch cruises a day. To see the schedule and learn more, visit the New England Aquarium Whale Watch on CityExperiences.com: New England Aquarium Whale Watch in Partnership with Boston Harbor City Cruises

MEDIA CONTACTS :

Darren DeLuca, Boston Harbor City Cruises – [email protected] ; 603-489-7624

Pam Bechtold Snyder, New England Aquarium – [email protected] ; 617-686-5068

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The 6 Best Statue of Liberty Cruises + Tips From a Local

T he best view of New York might not be in the city itself, but from the harbor looking back at the skyline. Sightseeing cruises are a wonderful reminder that Manhattan is, in fact, an island, and getting out on the water offers a breezy cruise in addition to a fresh vantage point.

With a cold drink in hand, you'll see not just the Statue of Liberty , but also other top city landmarks from the Brooklyn Bridge to One World Trade Center. These boat tours allow visitors to zoom out and get a new perspective, then return to Manhattan refreshed by the wind, water, light and sheer size of the skyline.

There are different boat experiences to match every type of traveler, and here are some of the best.

Best Overall: Statue City Cruises

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Price: From $24.50

Duration: At your own pace, with ferries departing every 25 to 30 minutes

Standout perk: Admission to the grounds of Liberty Island and Ellis Island are included in this sightseeing cruise and ferry service to Lady Liberty.

The best overall value and experience belongs to Statue City Cruises, which combines the scenery of a sightseeing cruise with the in-depth experience of an attraction tour. Priority entry included with the ticket saves time at the departure point at The Battery . On board the round-trip ferry service, visitors will experience all the sweeping views of a New York Harbor cruise, including skyscrapers of the Financial District and beyond.

The first stop is Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty. Audio tours in a dozen languages are available so you can go at your own pace. Those interested can continue via boat service to Ellis Island, home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which contains several fascinating exhibits and the chance to look up your ancestors. Explore at your leisure, then utilize the ferry service back to lower Manhattan.

Local tip: Choose a time as early as possible in the morning for this experience. Ferry service and crowds at Lady Liberty grow throughout the day and swell on weekends; a weekday morning is the best choice.

Best for Adults: Manhattan by Sail's Day Sail – Shearwater

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Price: From $60 for adults

Duration: 90 minutes

Standout perk: This cruise provides a true sailing experience on a classic schooner.

Don't be surprised to bump into New Yorkers on the Shearwater, a schooner with tall sails that entices even jaded Manhattanites to go for a ride. Climb aboard this "Gatsby"-era boat, with capacity for 48 people, from the dock at North Cove Marina at Brookfield Place and set out on a sail down the Hudson River and into the New York Harbor. Trade city crowds for the open water with this cruise, complete with a cash bar, that offers up-close views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline.

This experience, conveniently available at different times throughout the day, is a match for adults seeking a more sophisticated sail – think: hip vibe, ample bar, music and an emphasis on service. Several upgrades are available, including sails that offer a wine tasting or live jazz on board. Every sailing offers the chance to snap your photograph with Lady Liberty herself, though you won't be disembarking at Liberty Island.

Local tip: Adults seeking a romantic cruise may want to opt for the Sunset Sail on the Shearwater Classic Schooner.

Best for Families: Circle Line's Liberty Super Express Downtown

Button Enhancement : Button - Circle Line's Liberty Super Express Downtown

Price: From $29

Duration: 50 minutes

Standout perk: Maximize time with this express cruise, featuring convenient, regular departures.

Families with limited time (or kids with limited attention spans) may appreciate a quick express cruise option. This fast and friendly tour, at just 50 minutes, is a speedy way to get the experience of a boat cruise without it taking a bite out of your day. Hop aboard a boat with Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises – the sister company to New York Water Taxi – and choose between either the open air of the top deck or the temperature-controlled cabin. On a sunny day, the outdoor deck with its sea breeze is the place to be as the boat sails past the Statue of Liberty.

Get unobstructed views of Lady Liberty and snap some family photographs before returning to Pier 16 in the South Street Seaport. Quick, efficient and featuring live narration from a guide, this sightseeing ride is excellent value packed into a short time span.

Local tip: Kids interested in ships may want to visit the South Street Seaport Museum, near the cruise departure point, to see model ships and more.

Read: The Top NYC Dinner Cruises

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Best Budget: Staten Island Ferry

Price: Free

Duration: 25 minutes each way

Standout perk: Get out on the water to see the Statue of Liberty without paying a cent.

The best budget sightseeing cruise isn't a cruise at all, but rather a free mode of local transportation: the Staten Island Ferry. While many of even the most basic harbor cruises start at about $20, this ferry offers a completely free, ticketless cruise in the New York Harbor, bypassing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island along the way. With service every 30 minutes and no reservations or tickets required, the ferry is not only a steal price-wise, but also a convenient option for travelers who don't want to be tied down to a ticketed departure time.

Stand out on deck and admire views of Lady Liberty during this journey that crosses about 5 miles from Whitehall Street at the tip of lower Manhattan to St. George on Staten Island. The only drawback is that you must depart the ferry in Staten Island and reboard for the trip back to Manhattan – a small "price" to pay for a free boat ride in NYC.

Local tip: Visitors will want to avoid rush hour; these commuter boats can be crowded. Choose a time outside commuting rush hour to maximize the peaceful experience.

Best Luxury: Classic Harbor Line's Statue and Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

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Price: From $64 for adults

Duration: 1.5 hours

Standout perk: This intimate cruise on a 1920s-inspired yacht comes with one complimentary drink included.

Board a yacht at Pier 62 in Chelsea for a polished cruise including views of the New York Harbor's top landmark: the Statue of Liberty. Set sail in style aboard a yacht inspired by the roaring '20s, complete with a solarium and open-air decks as well as a climate-controlled cabin. Cruise down the west side of Manhattan and check out views of The Battery, the Financial District, Governor's Island and more.

Of all the available New York City harbor cruises, guests often praise this one for the quality of the staff running the Classic Harbor Line cruises. With an emphasis on service, an intimate group with a maximum of 80 passengers and an onboard stocked bar, this cruise offers a sophisticated option for seeing Lady Liberty.

Local tip: This cruise departs from Pier 62, which is home to a riverfront carousel for kids and a pretty stretch of Hudson River Park. Stop into Chelsea Market for some picnic supplies and relax in the park before your cruise.

Best Sunset Cruise: Circle Line's Harbor Lights

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Price: From $45

Duration: 2 hours

Standout perk: Watch the skyscrapers of the Manhattan skyline flicker to life.

Circle Line offers a variety of cruises with different itineraries. One of the most popular is the Harbor Lights tour, a cruise departing from Midtown Manhattan that includes golden sunset views and a photo stop at the Statue of Liberty. See NYC landmarks like Hudson Yards, Chelsea Piers and One World Trade Center before cruising out into the New York Harbor. You'll get to learn about New York from onboard narration as the itinerary continues past Liberty Island and beneath the Brooklyn Bridge.

While the sun sets and the Manhattan skyscrapers flash to life, relax on the outdoor deck space and visit the onboard bar to purchase beer, wine, cocktails and light snacks. A temperature-controlled cabin is available for hot days. Wi-Fi is free on board and allows for easy posting of sunset photos.

Local tip: This cruise departs from Pier 83 in Midtown Manhattan. Arrive early to visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum at neighboring Pier 86.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jessica Colley Clarke is a New York-based freelance writer. She loves to take visiting family and friends out on the water in the New York Harbor for a fresh perspective on the Manhattan skyline and beyond. Colley Clarke used her expertise to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

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• The Top Boston Harbor Cruises
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