Circle Line Cruises

circle line city cruise new york

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circle line city cruise new york

Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

circle line city cruise new york

Circle Line: New York City Landmarks Cruise

circle line city cruise new york

Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

circle line city cruise new york

Circle Line: NYC Liberty Cruise

circle line city cruise new york

Circle Line: NYC Beast Speedboat Ride

circle line city cruise new york

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Nick G

CIRCLE LINE CRUISES (New York City) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

circle line city cruise new york

10 Best Boat Tours In NYC To Book Right Now

Checking out New York City via the water is the best way to see skyline views, and here's the best tours to book!

Corey Fuller

With spring officially here and summer looming soon, it’s almost time to get out on NYC waters and explore the city! New York’s two main rivers, the Hudson River and East River are chalk full of incredible boat tours that are simply amazing. The cruises allow you to check out the skyline from every angle, and some even have live entertainment, special meals, and one-of-a-kind events.

If you’re looking for your next adventure to explore NYC the best way—via boat—here’s the best NYC boat tours to book right now.

1. Circle Line’s “Best of NYC” Cruise

circle line city cruise new york

This Circle Line boat tour separates itself in a class of it’s own…and there’s a reason it’s number 1 on our list! The 2 hour and 30 minute cruise goes completely around   the island of Manhattan , offering unobstructed views of over 130 of the city’s most iconic landmarks including the  Manhattan skyline ,  Little Island ,  Hudson Yards ,  One World Trade Center ,  Brooklyn Bridge ,  Yankee Stadium , and more! Their boats are state-of-the-art and climate controlled, and they have some of the most knowledgable tour guides in the whole city!

🛥️ Book your tickets to this boat tour here!

2. City Cruises’ Bateaux New York Premier Brunch Cruise

Three people eating on a boat

How about a cruise of NYC and a delicious brunch ?! This 2.5 hour cruise (brought to you by City Cruises) includes a chef-prepared 3-course plated brunch on the water with bottomless mimosas , panoramic views of the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty , a live DJ , and so much more! It’s truly an experience that will impress a date, your family, or even your work crew!

3. Liberty Cruise’s Statue of Liberty Tour

circle line city cruise new york

The Statue of Liberty is undoubtedly one of our favorite attractions in NYC, and this boat tour will bring you up close and personal with Lady Liberty! With both standard and premium tour options, the 75 minute adventure departs from Pier 36 multiple times per day. If you’re looking for a boat tour with the best view of the Statue of Liberty , go for this option.

4. Manhattan by Sail’s Clipper City Ride

circle line city cruise new york

Fancy riding on a boat cruise around NYC in… a sailboat ?! The Clipper City is the largest tall ship in New York City at 158 feet long and has the capacity to bring 134 passengers on a ride! The nostalgic-feeling ride departs from Pier 17 downtown, and takes passengers all around the New York Harbor. They also have special cruises too like sunset jazz cruises, golden hour cocktail sails, wine tasting cruises, and more .

5. Circle Line’s The Beast Speedboat Ride

circle line city cruise new york

This Circle Line cruise is for the adrenaline junkies…and it’s a 30 minute speedboat ride through NYC waters like never before. Starting at Pier 83 on the Upper West Side, “The Beast” rips through NYC waters with all kinds of twists, turns, and splashes along the way . The jet-powered thrill ride can get up to 45 mph, and will take you on a whipping and winding tour all the way out to the Statue of Liberty! “The Beast” opens for the 2024 season on May 4th !

6. Circle Line’s Landmarks Cruise

circle line city cruise new york

Check off all the landmarks from your bucketlist with this no frills boat tour that starts and ends at Pier 83 in midtown Manhattan. The 90 minute cruise will bring you down the west side, with peeks of Hudson Yards  and  Little Island before wrapping around downtown and heading up the East River. Amenities include an incredible outdoor viewing deck, an onboard café, free Wifi, and more!

7. New York Media Boat’s Private Boat Tour

circle line city cruise new york

Live out your luxury dreams with a private boat tour of NYC with New York Media Boat! Their private boat charters come at a steep price, but there’s nothing quite like taking in the 360° NYC views with a hand-selected crew. Rides are typically 60 minutes long and group sizes can range upwards to 12 passengers. Prices for private boat tours range from $550-$1100/ hour based on group size.

8. New York Water Taxi Cruises

circle line city cruise new york

New York Water Taxi provides a “hop on, hop off”-type of service that makes it easy for you to sightsee all different parts of NYC as efficiently as possible! Their daily ferry service connects Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Jersey City all together, making it the perfect way to explore the city…and also catch some waterfront views too!

9. Staten Island Ferry

NEW YORK CITY - AUG. 27: Staten Island Ferry on August 27, 2017 in New York City, NY. Staten Island Ferry is a passenger ferry service operated by New York City Department of Transportation

We’re going to let you on our secret little FREE boat tour of NYC …the Staten Island Ferry! The fare-less journey is operated by the New York City Department of Transportation, and runs a 5.2 mile route through the New York Harbor between Manhattan and Staten Island in about 25 minutes . Whether you’re looking to explore a different borough for a day, or want to ride for free on the water, it’s our favorite hidden gem!

10. NYC Ferry

View of outside outdoors in NYC New York City Brooklyn Bridge Park by east river, cityscape skyline at day sunset, skyscrapers, buildings, tour boat, people, tourists

Similarly to the Staten Island Ferry, the NYC Ferry acts almost as subway system via the water! There are 6 routes, as well as one seasonal route, connecting 25 ferry piers across all five boroughs . The fare is $4 per ride and it’s the perfect way to have a do-your-own-boat-tour, especially during the summer! They have an open air deck, a bar on deck, and ports all over the city!

circle line city cruise new york

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Circle Line Cruises

circle line city cruise new york

  • See all photos

circle line city cruise new york

Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

circle line city cruise new york

Circle Line: New York City Landmarks Cruise

circle line city cruise new york

Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

circle line city cruise new york

Circle Line: NYC Liberty Cruise

circle line city cruise new york

Circle Line: NYC Beast Speedboat Ride

circle line city cruise new york

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Margot C

Circle Line Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

CitySights

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circle line city cruise new york

Experience the only sightseeing cruise in New York City that completely circumnavigates the island of Manhattan.

You’ll cruise along all three NYC rivers, pass under 20 bridges and see over 130 of the city’s most iconic landmarks including the full Manhattan skyline, the impressive One World Trade Center, the growing Brooklyn waterfront, the legendary Yankee Stadium, beautiful Gracie Mansion, the stately George Washington Bridge and, of course, an up close look at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island!

All from the comfort of our state-of-the-art boats.

Our world-famous tour guides tell the story of New York City as you journey around the full island and enjoy the best sightseeing experience NYC has to offer!

Circle Line - Boats

Circle Line Best of NY Cruise (2.5 Hours)

Pier 83. West 42nd Street and 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States

Departures daily at 10:00 am and 1:30 pm

Present your e-ticket at our ticket kiosk to pick up your tickets and proceed to the boarding queue.

Circle Line now offers a mobile translation app available in both iTunes (Apple) and Google Play stores. The app is called "Circle Line Sightseeing" and it is free to download and use. This app will provide non-English speaking guests with a guided tour experience for the Best of NY Cruise. Current languages include Spanish, French, and Portuguese. They will be adding German, Italian, and Chinese later this summer.

Please note if you need to modify your reserved time and date reach out to the call center at 1-212-445-0848

Please note that outside food and beverages on board the boat are strictly prohibited. Concession is available on board for food and drinks.

Copyright © The Sightseeing Pass / City Sights 2024

Circle Line Cruise in NYC: The 6 Best Tours in 2024

Circle Line Cruise in NYC: The 6 Best Tours in 2024

Image of author Steffen

Circle Line in New York is the oldest and largest provider of boat tours, giving tourists a grand view of the city since 1945. With their distinctive green and white paintwork and red accents, the boats can be seen from afar and are an integral part of the harbor of New York City. There are several boat tours from Circle Line that you can choose from while visiting New York City.

You should also read these articles

  • The Best Cruises in New York
  • Classic Harbor Line Tours

In this post, I will show you all the Circle Line tours, tell you about my personal favorites, and share budget tips, with which you may be able to go on a Circle Line cruise completely free of charge.

I have taken all the boat tours several times during my many visits to New York City, so if you have any questions, feel free to contact me!

Table of Contents

A Comparison of the Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

I love experiencing New York City from a boat; there’s hardly a better way to enjoy New York City and its iconic skyline. Except for one tour, Circle Line cruises depart from Pier 83 on the Hudson River and take you at least as far as the Statue of Liberty . Along the way, you’ll see the Hudson Yards with The Edge, the Empire State Building , the new SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, the Chrysler Building, and the incredible One World Trade Center.

Be sure to plan a boat tour in New York City – it’s worth it!

If you want to get a quick overview of the different boat tours offered by Circle Line New York, just check out my chart. Here I have linked not only the duration of the trip, but also the tickets. You can find the schedule for each Circle Line tour below (important for your travel planning!).

My budget tip: many of the Circle Line boat tours are included in the New York Sightseeing Passes! With this article, you will be able to compare the different New York City passes.

Steffen Kneist Loving New York

Which is The Best Circle Line Cruise of NYC?

First , all routes have their charm and each one offers you a unique view of the New York City skyline. If I were to recommend two, it would be the Harbor Lights Cruise and the Best of New York tour. Why? On the first tour, you will experience New York at night with all its illuminated buildings and reflections on the water – I never get enough of that!

On the Best of New York tour , which takes you all the way around Manhattan, you will see many familiar sights and even more unexpected sides of New York – it’s totally worth it!

The best thing about these tours? They are both included in the popular New York Sightseeing Passes. With them, you can easily save up to 60% on tours & attractions!

Another tip: check out Classic Harbor Line’s boat tours – they’re also some of my favorites!

Sightseeing with Circle Line Cruises

The different boat tours take you along these attractions; as you can see, the routes of the Landmarks Cruise and the Harbor Lights Cruise are identical. One of them is operated during the day and the other one during the evening.

Routes of the Landmarks Cruise, Harbor Lights Cruise and the Statue-Cruises

Circle Line Routes

Route of Best of NYC Full Island Cruise

Circle Line Route Best-Of

These are the Best Circle Line Cruises in New York

I have compiled all the boat tours, including the 2023 schedules here:

Circle Line - Harbor Lights Night Cruise

01 Harbor Lights Tour

The Harbor Lights Tour by Circle Line is one of the most popular tours on a boat. You will experience New York from its most beautiful side: when you leave at dusk, the city changes bit by bit and shines. The harbor cruise gives you a great view of the New York skyline at night.

Duration: 2 hours

Departure: 7:00 pm

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02 Circle Line Best of NYC Cruise (2,5h)

Following three rivers, passing seven major bridges, and all five boroughs of New York, this tour will take you completely around the island of Manhattan so you can see more than 25 of the city’s world-famous landmarks. Because this Circle Line boat tour is one of the most popular tours, you should book the tickets online in advance.

Be sure to sit on the left – that way you’ll be on the Manhattan-facing side!

Duration: 2.5 hours

Circle Line - New York Landmarks Cruise

03 Circle Line Landmarks Cruise (2,5h)

This 1.5-hour boat tour is one of the most booked tours and is simply called “The Best of Manhattan” tour by the operator “Circle Line”. Here you can enjoy the skyline of the city with its striking skyscrapers and get very close to landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty or the Brooklyn Bridge.  By the way, this boat tour of Circle Line NYC used to be called “Semi-Circle”, because it only goes around half of Manhattan Island.

Duration: 1.5 hours

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour-180315142610007

04 Statue of Liberty Cruise (Liberty Midtown)

If you can’t spend much time in New York, this tour is perfect for you. It starts in Midtown Manhattan and takes you to the most famous landmark of the city – the Statue of Liberty. On the way to the statue, you will learn many interesting stories about the city’s landmarks and get a lot of information about its history.

Duration: 1 hour

Circle_Line__Liberty_Super_Express_Downtown

05 Circle Line: Liberty Super Express Downtown

The New York City Statue of Liberty Super Express Cruise is the fastest way to see Lower Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty, and the only Circle Line tour that doesn’t depart from Pier 83 on the Hudson River. If you’re short on time or you’re just cruising downtown Manhattan with the Financial District and want to decide on a boat tour on the spur of the moment, this boat tour is perfect!

It starts at Pier 16 at the South Street Seaport on the East River not far from the Brooklyn Bridge. From here, the Liberty Super Express Downtown will take you to the southern tip of Manhattan and then to the Statue of Liberty. There you stop just before Liberty Island, so you can take the perfect photo of the Statue of Liberty.

Duration: 50 minutes

BEAST Speedboat Tour

06 BEAST Speedboat Ride

In summer, it’s “Hold on tight!” time again. The fastest racing boat with turbine drive accelerates to over 70 kilometers per hour in just a few seconds and is guaranteed to make your stomach tingle. This fast-paced experience takes place in front of the New York skyline and is great fun. ATTENTION: Children must be at least 1 m in height to ride. “The Beast” does not ride in the rain!

Duration: 30 minutes

Circle Line boat tours for special events

In addition to the classic sightseeing tours, there are boat tours for many special events. I have compiled the most important and most beautiful of them in individual articles, in which you will find boat tours for the 4th of July in New York, Christmas Cruises , and New Year’s Eve boat tours .

What is Circle Line in New York?

Circle Line is the best known and largest provider of boat tours in New York. Most of the boat tours start at Pier 83 on the Hudson River. On board, you will see sights like the Empire State Building, the One World Observatory, or the new SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.

What can you do near Circle Line NYC 42nd St?

After your boat tour, walk south along the Hudson River. After 15 to 20 minutes you will reach the Hudson Yards. Either walk along the High Line or visit the observation deck named The Edge.

How long do Circle Line NYC boat tours last?

Circle Line boat tours last between 50 minutes and 2.5 hours:

Where can I buy the tickets for the Circle Line boat tours?

You can buy tickets for the Circle Line boat tours here.

Where do the Circle Line boat tours depart from?

The boat tours depart from Pier 83 on the Hudson River. You can’t miss the building with its distinctive green and white coloring. The best way to get there is to take the subway A C E N Q R W to “42 St – Port Authority Bus Terminal” or 7 to “34 Street-Hudson Yards Subway Station.” You can also walk from Times Square, which takes about 20 minutes.

The Best Cruises in New York

The 16 Absolute Best Cruises in New York

Classic Harbor Line Tours

Classic Harbor Line in NYC: The 20 Best Tours in 2024

Profilbild Steffen Kneist

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

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circle line city cruise new york

Welcome aboard the Circle Line Landmark Cruise, your ticket to a memorable 1.5-hour journey through the heart of New York City! With New York Sightseeing, you'll embark on an unforgettable cruise experience, taking in the city's most iconic landmarks along the way.

You’ll undoubtedly recognize Lady Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, but your expert guide will add to your knowledge of the city by pointing out other places along the way such as the ‘Titanic’ Pier, USS Intrepid and Wall Street as he weaves them all into the fascinating narration about Midtown and Lower Manhattan.

Perfect for both locals and visitors alike, the Circle Line Landmark Cruise offers a convenient and scenic way to explore the best of New York City. With multiple departure times and easy online booking, securing your spot on this captivating cruise has never been simpler.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to see the Big Apple from a whole new perspective. Book your Circle Line Landmark Cruise with New York Sightseeing today!

Up to 10% off tickets!

Pier 83 (West 42nd Street & 12th Avenue)

Photo Opp on Circle Line Landmark Cruise

Circle Line Landmark Cruise (1.5 hours)

No reservations required. We recommend arriving 30-45 minutes ahead of departure time to secure the best possible seats.

Tour Length: 90 Minutes

Departure Times: Jan 1 - Mar 18: Daily: 12:00pm Mar 19 – Dec 31: Daily: 12:30pm & 3:00pm

+1 (212) 445-7599

GO Airlink NYC, 700 Rockaway Turnpike, Lawrence, NY 11559, United States

Copyright © NewYorkSightseeing.com 2024

circle line city cruise new york

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

Button Enhancement : Button - Statue City Cruises

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

Button Enhancement : Button - Manhattan by Sail's Day Sail – Shearwater

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

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

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

Button Enhancement : Button - Classic Harbor Line's Statue and Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

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

Button Enhancement : Button - Circle Line's Harbor Lights

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:

  • The Top Statue of Liberty Tours
  • The Top Observation Decks in New York City
  • The Top New York City Tours
  • The Top Boston Harbor Cruises
  • The Top River Cruise Lines

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

Statue of City Cruises boat with the Statue of Liberty in the background.

New York Cruise Lines

WELCOME ABOARD

New York Cruise Lines:  Leading marine-based tourism, transportation, dining and entertainment since 1945. 

New York Cruise Lines is an industry-leading maritime sightseeing, entertainment, dining and transportation company. Since our founding in 1945, we have delighted over 85 million guests from around the globe. We currently maintain and operate a fleet of over 25 state-of-the-art boats from our offices in midtown Manhattan, in the heart of the Hudson River Park.

Circle-Line boat with the NYC skyline in the background.

CIRCLE LINE CRUISES

America’s Favorite Boat Ride offers world-renowned tour guides paired with spectacular views of NYC and the Statue of Liberty. One of the only tours to offer a complete loop around Manhattan, custom-designed boats have massive windows, snack bars and a choice of both on-deck and in-cabin seating. 

circle line city cruise new york

NEW YORK WATER TAXI

NYC’s leading marine-based private transportation company. New York Water Taxi provides contract transportation services to corporations and municipalities on its modern fleet, as well as providing private charters for weddings, film shoots, parties and other events.

New York Water Taxi logo

NORTH RIVER LOBSTER COMPANY

New York City’s only floating lobster shack, North River Lobster Company sails from Midtown all day long during the summer, offering a fantastic variety of food, beer, wine, cocktails, and FUN! Grab a delicious lobster roll or a bucket of beer and enjoy the spectacular views from 3 sun-drenched decks.

North River Lobster Company logo

LA BARCA CANTINA

Eat tacos…on a boat! New York’s first and only floating Mexican restaurants is a fiesta on the Hudson. Come enjoy Mexican street food like tacos and ceviche, frozen drinks and a huge list of fine mexcal and tequila. 

circle line city cruise new york

THE BEAST SPEEDBOAT RIDE

New York City’s only rollercoaster on the water! The Beast is a high-speed, 30-minute, jet-powered thrill ride twisting, turning and skimming its way from Midtown Manhattan to the Statue of Liberty and back. It’s loud, wet, wild and incredibly fun. 

The Beast logo

Meet the NYCL leadership team.

CRAIG KANARICK, Chief Executive Officer

CRAIG KANARICK

Chief Executive Officer

Craig Kanarick joined New York Cruise Lines in October, 2017, after a long career as a serial entrepreneur. Best known as the co-founder and former Chairman of industry-pioneering digital firm Razorfish, he served as the CEO of Mouth Foods immediately before coming to NYCL. He received degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and the MIT Media Lab.

circle line city cruise new york

Chairman of the Board

Mr. Banks has a long history in public service, most notably as Chief of Staff and Deputy Director of Finance for The Council of the City of New York. His 16 years of government service spanned portions of the Koch, Dinkins, Giuliani, and Bloomberg administrations. Subsequently, he entered the private sector and had a distinguished 13-year career as Vice President of Government and Community Relations for Con Ed. In 2015, he was appointed President of the Real Estate Board of New York, serving until 2019. He joined the Board of New York Cruise Lines one year ago. Mr. Banks graduated from City University of New York-Baruch College.

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circle line city cruise new york

Liberty Midtown

PIER 83, MIDTOWN

Fastest way to see Lady Liberty from Midtown! Enjoy a guided tour with spectacular views of the NYC skyline and dozens of landmarks along the way.

  • Photo stop at the Statue of Liberty
  • Extra large windows
  • Snacks & full bar

Cruises starting Wednesday, May 1

circle line city cruise new york

WHAT YOU'LL SEE

NYC Landmarks and the Statue of Liberty

Sit back, relax and enjoy breathtaking views of NYC and the Statue of Liberty while our award winning tour guides narrate every detail along your route.

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

Standing 1,250’ (381m) tall, it was the world's tallest building from 1931 until the World Trade Center was completed in 1972.

Chrysler Building

Chrysler Building

Classic Art Deco architecture, the building dons gargoyles that depict car ornaments and a spire modeled on a radiator grille.

High Line

An extraordinary 1.45 mile-long (2.33 km) elevated park built on an abandoned section of a former railroad.

One World Trade Center

One World Trade Center

Built to memorialize the Twin Towers, the 1,776’ (541m) “Freedom Tower” is the tallest building in the Western hemisphere.

Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty

Standing 305’ (93m) tall, Lady Liberty has welcomed visitors since she was bequeathed to America from France in 1886.

Ellis Island

Ellis Island

The busiest US immigrant port processed over 12 million immigrants from 1892 to 1954.

The fastest way to see the Statue of Liberty from midtown Manhattan

Glide down the Hudson river passing the colossal Hudson Yards , the towering One World Trade Center and the inspiring High Line Park , before passing the spectacular tip of southern Manhattan and ultimately cruising only a few feet away from the magnificent Statue of Liberty .

Get your camera ready because you'll be yards away from some of the best selfies and photos of your life. And you won't miss a thing as our award-winning tour guides narrate the story of New York City as you sit back, relax and luxuriate in the comfort of one of our state-of-the-art boats.

Onboard Amenities

Our state-of-the-art boats come equipped with almost everything you need for a relaxing and comfortable cruise.

Unparalleled Views Pick a seat on the outdoor deck or enjoy the view from the huge panoramic windows in our temperature-controlled indoor cabins.

Did You Say ... Incredible Outdoor Deck The best way to see NYC and Lady Liberty is "al fresco" - outside in the fresh air, enjoying the cool breezes and the warm sunshine. It doesn't get better than this!

Temperature-Controlled Indoor Space Whether it's hot or cold, rainy or sunny, we have a temperature-controlled indoor deck with plenty of seating for everyone

Onboard Café *Freshly prepared menu of sandwiches, salads and snacks available to purchase.

Refreshing Drinks *Enjoy a full bar serving hot and cold beverages including beer, wine and cocktails.

Free WiFi No need to wait to upload your favorite photos and selfies!

Bronx Class Boat Drone Shot NYC Skyline

Plan Your Visit

Get ready, Get set, Get Directions to Pier 83

What To Do When You Arrive

  • If you purchased Premier Tickets directly from circleline.com, please alert a red-shirted Ambassador and they will help you get through security to get to your seat quickly.
  • If you bought standard tickets from circleline.com, Viator, Get Your Guide or Expedia, please go directly to boarding at the entrance to our Pier. Please have your bag open and ready to be checked by our security personnel.
  • If you have a CityPASS and you have reserved your seats in advance at citypass.circleline.com , please proceed to directly to security.
  • If you have another pass, such as NY Pass, Explorer Pass or Sightseeing Pass, or a voucher, please go to our ticket office to pick up your tickets and proceed to the security line.

Pier 83 Circle Line Building

Parking at Pier 83

If you're driving to Pier 83 we've got parking for you!

We offer convenient parking just steps away from our boats. We have a parking attendant and security personnel to ensure the safety of your vehicle and we offer covered parking as well.

Our daily rates start at $35.

Spend Less, Experience More with CityPASS

One easy purchase saves 40% on admission to NYC’s top 5 attractions, including a Circle Line cruise. Visit the attractions at your own pace, in any order, over a 9-day period. Buy CityPASS tickets online for instant mobile delivery, then go to . Go to My CityPASS App to book your visit date and time. LEARN MORE

Our Sightseeing Cruises Are Smoke-Free!

Smoking is not permitted on Circle Line’s regular sightseeing cruises including Liberty Midtown, Liberty Super Express, Statue at Sunset, Landmarks, Best of New York and Harbor Lights.*

Smoking may be permitted in designated areas on Circle Line’s Music Cruises, Bear Mountain Cruises, 4th of July and New Year’s Eve Cruises. Please plan your trip accordingly.

IMAGES

  1. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

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  2. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

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  3. Circle Line Best of New York Cruise Tour

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  4. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise, New York City

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  5. Circle Line Best of NYC Cruise Review

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  6. Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

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VIDEO

  1. New York Circle Line Harbor 🛳️ Cruise

  2. NYC CIRCLE LINE LANDMARKS CRUISE EXPERIENCE

COMMENTS

  1. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

    World-famous NYC boat tours & cruises with the most daily departures from New York City Harbor; every NYC cruise features a close-up view of the Statue of Liberty. Skip Navigation, go to Content ... at a 40% savings - including Circle Line. Visit attractions at your own pace, in any order, over 9-days. Buy CityPASS® online for one easy ...

  2. Best of NYC

    Our World Famous Best of New York Cruise. Experience the only sightseeing cruise in New York City that completely goes around the island of Manhattan in our temperature-controlled, state-of-the-art boats.. During this 2 hour and 30 minute cruise you'll cruise along all three NYC rivers, pass under 20 bridges and see over 130 of the city's most iconic landmarks including the Manhattan ...

  3. New York City Manhattan Waterfront Circle Line Cruise 2024

    Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. 83 North River Piers West 43rd Street and, 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA. Open in Google Maps. Departure Point: Tour departs from Pier 83, New York Address: Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises Pier 83 West 42nd Street New York, NY 10019.

  4. Circle Line: New York City Landmarks Cruise

    New York City, New York. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour in Spanish. 7. from $59.99. New York City, New York. New York: 60-Minute Landmarks Cruise Check in at Boat. from $37.00. New York City, New York. NYC: Statue of Liberty Night Cruise and Skyline.

  5. CIRCLE LINE CRUISES (New York City)

    1-2 hours. Journey around New York City by water on this sightseeing cruise that takes you from the Hudson River to the East River …. Free cancellation. from. £36. per adult. Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise. 790. Audio Guides.

  6. Circle Line Harbor Cruises

    Circle Line Best of NY Cruise (2.5 Hours) Pier 83. West 42nd Street and 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States. Departures daily at 10:00am and 1:30pm. Present e-ticket at our ticket kiosk to pick up your tickets and proceed to the boarding queue. Explore New York City from the water with our Circle Line Best of NY Cruise.

  7. 10 Best Boat Tours In NYC To Book Right Now

    Source / Circle Line. With spring officially here and summer looming soon, it's almost time to get out on NYC waters and explore the city! New York's two main rivers, the Hudson River and East River are chalk full of incredible boat tours that are simply amazing. The cruises allow you to check out the skyline from every angle, and some even have live entertainment, special meals, and one ...

  8. NYC: Circle Line Best of NYC Skip-The-Box-Office Cruise

    Full description. Enjoy a relaxing cruise of New York Harbor and Manhattan Island as you discover the secrets of the city. You will circle Manhattan, passing 3 rivers, 7 major bridges - including the world-famous Brooklyn Bridge - 5 boroughs, and more than 101 sights in New York's legendary skyline. Get up close to the Statue of Liberty ...

  9. NYC Landmarks Boat Tour

    Smoking may be permitted in designated areas on Circle Line's Music Cruises, Bear Mountain Cruises, 4th of July and New Year's Eve Cruises. Please plan your trip accordingly. Take this 1.5 hour guided NYC Landmarks cruise to see Hudson Yards, the World Trade Center, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Wall Street, bridges & more.

  10. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises Discount Tickets

    Contact Information & Hours. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises - Pier 83 Midtown. West 42nd St. and 12th Ave. New York, NY 10036. View Map. (212) 563-3200. circleline.com. For schedule and hours visit circleline.com or call (212) 563-3200. Please note the Liberty Super Express departs from Pier 16, South Street Seaport.

  11. Circle Line Cruises

    13,645 reviews. #16 of 149 Boat Tours & Water Sports in New York City. Boat Tours. Closed now. 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM. Write a review. See all photos. About. New York's oldest and largest provider of scheduled and chartered sightseeing and special event cruises, Circle Line is recognized as one of the most famous boat rides in the world.

  12. Circle Line New York Harbor Cruises

    Our world-famous tour guides tell the story of New York City as you journey around the full island and enjoy the best sightseeing experience NYC has to offer! HIGHLIGHTS. MORE INFORMATION. Circle Line Best of NY Cruise (2.5 Hours) Pier 83. West 42nd Street and 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States. Departures daily at 10:00 am and 1:30 pm.

  13. New York City Manhattan Waterfront Circle Line Cruise 2023

    Some of the best views of New York City's iconic skyline are from the water. This extended cruise goes all the way around Manhattan Island, affording views of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, and more. While on-board, learn about the history of the island through live commentary or purchase drinks and snacks.

  14. The 6 Best Circle Line Cruises in New York City in 2024

    The Harbor Lights Tour by Circle Line is one of the most popular tours on a boat. You will experience New York from its most beautiful side: when you leave at dusk, the city changes bit by bit and shines. The harbor cruise gives you a great view of the New York skyline at night. Duration: 2 hours. Departure: 7:00 pm.

  15. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

    The Circle Line Cruise in New York City is an amazing way to explore the city from a unique perspective. Offering unparalleled views of some of Manhattan's most iconic landmarks, Circle Line Sightseeing takes you on a luxurious cruise around the island with plenty of stops for sightseeing and shopping along the way. As one of the largest ...

  16. Circle Line Landmark Cruise

    Tour Length: 90 Minutes. Departure Times: Jan 1 - Mar 18: Daily: 12:00pm. Mar 19 - Dec 31: Daily: 12:30pm & 3:00pm. Departure Location: Pier 83 (West 42nd Street & 12th Avenue) Experience the Circle Line Landmark Cruise, a 1.5-hour sightseeing journey through New York's iconic landmarks. Book your cruise now!

  17. New York City Manhattan Waterfront Circle Line Cruise 2024

    Meeting point. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. 83 North River Piers West 43rd Street and, 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA. Open in Google Maps. Departure Point: Tour departs from Pier 83, New York Address: Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises Pier 83 West 42nd Street New York, NY 10019.

  18. Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

    London Natural History Museum. San Diego Zoo Safari Park. British Museum. Xcaret. Aquarium of the Pacific. Antelope Canyon. 2024 Tours & Sightseeing in New York City: Check out 2497 reviews and photos of the Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise. Book now from $52!

  19. Harbor Lights

    PIER 83, MIDTOWN. See the most beautiful view in the world - the NYC skyline. As darkness grows, the City lights emerge, revealing the most spectacular sparkling skyline. The Best Of NYC cruise will not be able to go all the way around the island of Manhattan until Wednesday, 5/1. To rebook or request a refund, please email [email protected].

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

    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 ...

  21. New York Cruise Lines

    New York Cruise Lines is an industry-leading maritime sightseeing, entertainment, dining and transportation company. ... CIRCLE LINE CRUISES. ... New York City's only rollercoaster on the water! The Beast is a high-speed, 30-minute, jet-powered thrill ride twisting, turning and skimming its way from Midtown Manhattan to the Statue of Liberty ...

  22. Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

    Departure Point: Tour departs from Pier 83, New York Address: Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises Pier 83 West 42nd Street New York, NY 10019 Directions: • Exchange your voucher for a boarding pass at the Circle Line Ticket WindowDIRECTIONS By Subway (Metro): • 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, A, C, E, N, or R train to Times Square 42nd Street • B, D, F, or Q train to 5th Avenue and 42nd Street, • 4, 5, or ...

  23. Statue of Liberty Cruise

    Smoking may be permitted in designated areas on Circle Line's Music Cruises, Bear Mountain Cruises, 4th of July and New Year's Eve Cruises. Please plan your trip accordingly. The fastest, most comfortable cruise to the Statue of Liberty from Midtown. See Lady Liberty and Ellis Island up close with incredible photo opps along the way!