Blog

As winter turns into spring, there is no better time to hit the water in and around New York City. New York is essentially surrounded by water, and boat trips are one of the best ways to see what the Big Apple has to offer.

Whether you’re looking for a unique culinary experience, an unforgettable afternoon with friends, or simply fancy exploring Manhattan’s extensive ferry network – there is a boat tour for everyone in New York City.

Best for Food

Love food? Why not make a reservation on the water? Dinner cruises help you to kill two birds with one stone, providing you with a great meal while you take in the city’s best sights. There are plenty of different dining cruises to choose from, with one of the most popular being the Brunch Cruise, offering three courses, bottomless mimosas, and a private table with unbeatable panoramic views.

On a Budget

Not all boat cruises have to break the bank. In fact, there are plenty of budget tours to enjoy in the city – including those that go to the Statue of Liberty. Surprisingly, tickets for the Liberty Cruise start at under $20 per person while still getting up close and personal with Lady Liberty, the Manhattan Skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center.

If you’re looking for a real budget boat experience, jump on one of the local ferries. The ferry costs the same price as the subway, $2.75 per person for a one-way fare, and there are six different routes to choose from. For the ferry with the best views, jump on the (completely free) Staten Island Ferry, which travels directly across the New York Harbor and past the Statue of Liberty.

Luxury Experience

Celebrating a special occasion while you’re in NYC? A private boat ride is one of the most exclusive ways to see New York – and you’ll feel like a millionaire for an afternoon. Luxury private hires usually host up to six people, and the high-speed powerboats take you to all the city’s top destinations from the comfort of your own small yacht.

Date Night

Planning a special date night during your trip to New York? What could be more romantic than dinner on a boat as the sun sets on the Manhattan Skyline behind you? Dinner cruises provide a unique and romantic evening you’ll never forget.

Family Fun

Bringing the kids along? Boat rides can be kid friendly too and a great day out for all the family, but boat tours aren’t the only way to hit the water with your little ones in tow. From kayaking to racing model sailboats and rowboats to Italian-style gondolas, the opportunities are endless.

Friends

Some of the best vacations happen with friends, and if you’re visiting the Big Apple with your group of best friends, the Alive After Five is a great way to spend the evening. This two-hour cruise has its own DJ, a fully stocked bar with snacks (additional cost with general admission), and tours all the city’s most popular sites, including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan Skyline.

Thinking of visiting New York this spring? The Hotel Beacon is located just a couple of blocks from the Hudson River, Central Park, and the East River – some of the city’s best spring highlights.