circle line cruise hours

Circle Line Cruises

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Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

Circle Line: New York City Landmarks Cruise

Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

Circle Line: NYC Liberty Cruise

Circle Line: NYC Beast Speedboat Ride

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.

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

Circle Line Cruises

• See all photos

Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

Circle Line: New York City Landmarks Cruise

Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

Circle Line: NYC Liberty Cruise

Circle Line: NYC Beast Speedboat Ride

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.

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

Circle Line Best of NYC Cruise Review

Cross under 20 bridges and see all five boroughs of New York City

Godsfriendchuck/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 4.0

Since 1945, Circle Line has shown visitors New York City from the city's major waterways. The three-hour Full Island Cruise offers visitors a chance to circumnavigate the entire island of Manhattan, and see many of New York City's popular attractions , including the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island , South Street Seaport and the Empire State Building .

About Circle Line's Best of NYC Cruise

Circling Manhattan on the Full Island Cruise is a great way to get an overview of the layout of Manhattan and New York City. It's no wonder that over 60 million passengers have ridden on Circle Line's various cruises -- they offer a unique and manageable way to get an overview of New York City's many attractions.

Throughout the three-hour cruise, a tour guide narrates through the boat's speaker system, pointing out important landmarks, sharing trivia and highlighting some of the history of New York City. The trip includes a closeup pass of the Statue of Liberty -- perfect for picture taking, and for many visitors on a short visit this is a great opportunity to view the popular attraction as part of a larger tour. Seeing downtown Manhattan from the water is truly remarkable, as is discovering the northern reaches of Manhattan, which are surprisingly lush and green.

Three-hours is a bit on the long side to be on the boat -- though there is plenty of space for walking about, children might be happier on the shorter 2-hour semi-circle cruise.

Attractions Featured on Circle Line's Best of NYC Cruise

• Jacob Javits Center
• World Financial Center
• Battery Park
• Ellis Island
• Statue of Liberty
• Wall Street
• South Street Seaport
• Brooklyn Bridge
• Empire State Building
• Chrysler Building
• United Nations
• Roosevelt Island
• Gracie Mansion
• Yankee Stadium
• Palisades of New Jersey
• George Washington Bridge
• Grant's Tomb
• Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument
• Passenger Ship Terminal
• The Intrepid

Essential Information about the Circle Line's Best of NYC Cruise

• The sightseeing cruise leaves from Pier 83 between 42nd and 43rd Streets at 12th Avenue
• Mass Transit to Circle Line Pier : A/C/E, 1/2/3, N/R/Q, 7 or S to 42nd St./Times Square - change to the M42 or M50 Bus running along 42nd Street which will take you to the 42nd Street Pier
• Circle Line's Full Island Cruise is available with The New York Pass and CityPass for a $5 upgrade.
• Circle Line Payment : Cash and Major Credit Cards
• Circle Line's Full Island Cruise Schedule - cruises are offered daily throughout the year, with more options during the summer and just a single sailing during the colder winter months
• During peak times tickets sell out, especially if you have your heart set on a particular cruise, so plan to arrive early to buy your tickets or be flexible about the cruise you go on.
• The ship is not designed to accommodate handicapped people -- there are narrow stairs down to the bathrooms, etc., but the crew will do what they can to accommodate you.

Helpful Tips for Circle Line's Full Island Cruise

• Concessions, including beer and wine, are available on board, but you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. The souvenir mug with free refills of soda is a good value.
• They begin boarding the boat about 30 minutes before departure -- you'll want to arrive in time to buy your tickets (which could take 15 minutes, especially on weekends and school breaks) to be near the front of the line. The most desirable seats are along the left-hand side of the boat, as that is the side closest to Manhattan throughout the ride.
• Wear sunscreen if you plan to sit outside or stand at the bow of the boat -- despite the breeze, you can get quite a bit of sun.
• After the cruise departs, they open up the bow of the boat for standing room only -- it's worth checking out the view from there, despite the crowds.
• Bathrooms on board tend to be cleanest early in the trip -- plan accordingly.
• You can book tickets online . You also will need to exchange the ticket voucher for a boarding pass in the ticketing line once you arrive, so there's really no advantage to buying your tickets online.

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Embark on an enchanting journey with our Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise, where you'll witness the stunning beauty of New York City's skyline illuminated at night. During this 2-hour scenic cruise, you'll glide along the shimmering waters of the harbor, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Brooklyn Bridge, all aglow with lights.

Have a relaxing evening outside, admiring the stunning evening lights of New York's celebrated towers, memorials, and landmarks. Narrated by informative and entertaining guides, this evening tour aboard NYC's most iconic and state-of-the-art boat is an unforgettable experience.

Sail down the Hudson River passing the colossal Hudson Yards, impressive Chelsea Piers, and the towering One World Trade Center, before rounding the spectacular tip of southern Manhattan and ultimately cruising only a few feet away from the magnificent Statue of Liberty.

Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise (2 Hours)

Seats are first-come, first-serve so arrive early! Boarding! Select your perfect seat, inside or out.

Tour Length: Two Hours

Departure Time: Daily at 7:00pm. Please arrive 45 minutes in advance

Departure Location: Pier 83, West 42nd Street & 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10019

Present passes at our ticket kiosk to pick up your tickets and proceed to the boarding queue

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Welcome aboard the Circle Line Landmark Cruise - your ticket to an unforgettable 1.5-hour journey through the heart of New York City. Set sail on the waters of the Hudson River and East River as you soak in breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, One World Trade Center, and more.

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.

With comfortable seating, spacious decks, and unbeatable photo opportunities, the Circle Line Landmark Cruise is the perfect way to experience the magic of NYC from the water.

Book your cruise tickets with CitySightsNY today and embark on an adventure you'll never forget!

Get up to 10% off!

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

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 © CitySightsNY.com 2024

We're Here to Help

Directions and parking, how do i get there (directions).

We have two convenient locations: Midtown (Pier 83, West 42nd Street and 12th Avenue) and Downtown (Pier 16, South Street Seaport).

We happily operate 364 days a year from our Midtown location!

Our Downtown location operates the 50 minute Liberty Super Express cruise and Statue at Sunset cruises only.

Please confirm your departure location on your ticket before heading to the Pier.

MIDTOWN | PIER 83

• Take the 1, 2, 3, 7, A, C, E, N, Q or R train to Times Square 42nd Street; train B, D, F to 5th Avenue and 42nd Street, or 4, 5, 6 train to 42nd Street Grand Central Station. Follow directions below for the bus or walk 5 avenues west to Pier 83 (about 1 mile or 1.6km).
• From 42nd Street take the M42 bus going West, directly to the Circle Line Pier. From 49th Street take the M50 bus directly to the Circle Line pier.
• Parking available at Circle Line Sightseeing, Pier 83, W 42nd Street. ($35 before 3pm weekdays and $40 after 3pm weekdays and $40 for all weekends)

DOWNTOWN | PIER 16 South Street Seaport

• Take the 2, 3, 4, 5, J, Z or M train to Fulton Street; A, C, or E train to Broadway-Nassau. Walk East on Fulton Street to Water Street and the South Street Seaport.
• Pier 16 parking is available at 167 Front St. Edison ParkFast

RESERVATIONS AND TICKETING

Where will my cruise depart from.

We recommend double checking the name of your cruise and pier location to make sure you arrive at the correct pier for departure. For directions to Pier 83 or Pier 16 please see the directions section.

Pier 83 Cruises

• Best of New York
• Liberty Midtown
• Harbor Lights
• Specialty Themed Dog Cruises & Dance Cruises
• Bear Mountain
• New Year's Eve

Pier 16 Cruises

• Liberty Super Express
• Statue at Sunset (seasonal)

How does our Ticket Pricing work?

Circle Line uses a dynamic pricing approach to setting ticket prices. What does this mean? It means that you will find our tickets priced lower during times with less demand, like Monday through Thursday and during the colder months of October through February. We do this because our boats have a limited capacity. We weren't the first to come up with this idea: this comes from airlines and hotels.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

No, but a reserved Ticket guarantees your seat on board. Bypass the box office line and go straight to the security line to enter our Pier area. We are not able to accept reservations from Attraction Pass partners, except via CityPass.

Pier 83: The CityPASS for the Liberty Midtown Cruise and the Landmarks Cruise must be redeemed directly on the CityPASS app, my.citypass.com/product/new-york . For the Best of NYC Cruise and the Harbor Lights, please visit citypass.circleline.com .

The C3 and C-All passes for the Liberty Midtown Cruise must be redeemed directly on the CityPASS app, my.citypass.com/product/new-york . For the Landmarks Cruise, the Best of NYC Cruise and the Harbor Lights, please visit citypass.circleline.com.

CityPASS guests may upgrade to Premier on site when available. Premier seating is not available for upgrade in advance with the CityPASS.

Pier 16 The CityPASS for the Liberty Super Express must be redeemed in person at Pier 16, located at 89 South Street. We recommend arriving 45 minutes prior to the chosen departure. The pass cannot be redeemed online in advance.

What is Premier?

Premier tickets provide an upgraded VIP experience with early boarding and comfortable seating. Because Circle Line boats sail year round, Premier seating on ALL cruises during cold winter months are located INDOORS ONLY.

• Please note for Best of New York cruises, premier seating is indoor YEAR ROUND.

When available, you can select Premier Tickets during checkout.

Note: Premier seating on ALL our ships is on the 2nd deck. Guests unable to climb stairs will not be able to take advantage of premier seating options.

If I have a CityPASS, how do I reserve my place on a cruise?

First, purchase CityPASS online for immediate, paperless mobile ticket delivery. Next, CLICK HERE to reserve your cruise date & time. CityPASS guests without an advance reservation can also reserve at our ticket office. If you have your mobile ticket on your phone, please arrive 30 minutes before departure and go directly to security and the boarding line. To reserve your seat using CityPass, please go to citypass.circleline.com.

If I have an Attraction Pass (GoCity Pass, New York Pass, Explorer Pass, or Sightseeing Pass), how do I reserve my cruise ticket(s)?

These pass holders can't reserve on our website in advance. Instead, please arrive at Pier 83/Pier 16 45-minutes prior to departure time to exchange your pass for tickets. You may also come to our Pier 83/Pier 16 ticket office up to 2 days prior to your desired cruise time to get your tickets.Passes can only be redeemed at the same location as the chosen departure. Subject to availability .

May I change my ticket(s) to a different cruise?

Yes! If you wish to change your reserved ticket purchased online, just come to the box office to exchange it for any cruise of equal or lesser price. If the new cruise has a greater price than the one you have already purchased, you'll need to simply pay the difference between the two cruises.

How much are children's tickets?

Children under 3 ride FREE! Please ask at the box office for an infant ticket. We offer discounts for children 3 - 12 years old. Please check specific cruises on our website or ask at the box office.

Do you offer discounts?

We do have select discounts available for students, military, & New York City residents. Please see our Discounts Page for all details on discounts.

Do you offer packages for Groups?

Yes! We offer amazing packages, food and drink menus for groups of every size. Check out our Groups & Charters page for more information.

Can you accommodate schools and camp groups?

We sure can! A Circle Line cruise is fun and educational. Learn more here, we'd be delighted to help you.

Can I charter an entire boat?

YES. YOU. CAN. Visit our Groups & Charters page for more information or call us at (212) 630-8885 and one of our expert advisors will help you create an unforgettable event.

RESCHEDULING AND CANCELLATIONS

What is your refund policy.

All ticket sales are final. There will be no refunds for bad weather, tardiness, unforeseen route modifications, or any other reason except in the extremely rare instance where we must cancel the cruise entirely.

If you've planned your trip and miss the boat, we’ll make certain you don’t miss out with a one-time courtesy invitation to reschedule your cruise within 90 days of the original event date instead. Reschedules are only made possible for guests with daily sightseeing cruise tickets and do not apply to specialty cruises or holiday events (see excluded cruises below).

To reschedule your cruise, please provide the following information in an email to [email protected]

• Order Number:
• Cruise Name:
• Desired Reschedule Date & Time:

Special cruises NOT available for rescheduling; 4th of July, New Year's Eve, Bear Mountain, Dog Cruises & all Dance Cruises.

You can expect to receive confirmation within 24 hours of receiving your completed email. Please visit our cruise page prior to your selection for any updates or changes to our schedule.

If you do not have a barcoded ticket that was emailed to you by Circle Line or by a third-party seller, you most likely have a "voucher" or a Pass that needs to be exchanged at our box office for a ticket. Please arrive 45 minutes prior to departure to do this. If you our cruise is sold out, which happens infrequently, you may request a refund directly from the third party. Circle Line can't issue refunds sold by our third party.

We do not make reservations for our cruises except for groups of 15 people or more . There is a first come first serve policy for groups of less than 15 people on all of our regular sightseeing cruises.

BOARDING AND ON BOARD EXPERIENCE

Boarding information.

Boarding begins 30-minutes before departure, but please arrive 45-minutes to 1-hour prior to departure to allow time for obtaining boarding passes and heading through security.

Do I need to print my tickets?

No. But please make sure that your tickets are available on your mobile phone. If you received an email from us with tickets as a PDF attachment, we just need to be able to scan the barcode in the ticket.

Accessibility

Guest that require the use of a standard wheelchair will have access to the first level of our vessels.

Guests utilizing electric wheelchair/scooters would not be able to board our Liberty Super Express/Statue at Sunset due to the narrow width of the gangway for boarding. Standard wheelchairs are permissible.

Guests utilizing an electric wheelchair/scooter will be able to board. The Pier 83 gangways allow enough clearance for boarding. Our highly trained and experienced marine team are available to provide the proper equipment to assist with safe & easy boarding and deboarding.

*Note: Premier seating is only on 2nd and 3rd levels depending upon the vessel.

Translation App

Our Translation app is available on smart phone devices. Languages include Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, & Chinese. Listen to a guided audio tour in the language of your choice as you sail down the Hudson to see all of NYC’s famous buildings and landmarks from the water. This audio tour will automatically advance as the boat moves so all you have to do is select your language and press play. It only works while you’re moving on the water.

Download the app through Google Play Store or Apple Store . Guests are encouraged to bring their own headphones/earbuds as not to disturb fellow passengers. Transcripts are also available through the app.

Will your cruises leave on time?

Yes! Our boats typically depart exactly when scheduled. PLEASE leave enough time for traffic and transit delays and plan to arrive early. If you do miss your cruise, you will be able to reschedule. However, we do not issue refunds for tardiness. Please see the rescheduling section for more details.

What kind of concessions are available on board?

Our standard items include hot dogs, pretzels, nachos, an assortment of fresh sandwiches and salads, assorted breakfast items (during morning cruises), coffee/tea/soda/bottled water and full bar including beer, wine and cocktails.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

No outside food or beverages are allowed on board our boats. We do, however, have a full snack bar and beer, wine and cocktails on board.

How close do the boats get to the Statue of Liberty?

All of our sightseeing boats cruise within yards (meters) of Lady Liberty for an absolutely incredible view. You’ll feel like you’re actually on the island!

Does the Best of NYC Cruise actually circumnavigate Manhattan?

Yes! The Best of NYC Cruise circles the entire island of Manhattan and offers the most comprehensive tour available. There are however, occasions out of our control when we cannot fully circumnavigate the island due to high tides. If you have concerns, please give us a call as early as 9:30 AM the morning of the day you plan to take a cruise (212) 563-3200 .

Is smoking allowed on the boat?

Smoking is not permitted on Circle Line’s regular sightseeing cruises including Liberty, Statue of Liberty Express, Statue by Night, 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.

Are the boats pet friendly?

Sorry, animals are not permitted on the Circle Line boats, except for certified service animals.

Please note For the safety of our staff, other guests and the service animal, our boats are not an ideal environment for training service animals. Our boats are closed spaces where passengers and animals can’t disembark in case a situation deteriorates, therefore we unfortunately can’t accommodate service animals that are in training.

WHAT WILL I SEE ON MY CRUISE?

Please see individual cruise pages for cruise routes and highlights, but note that all of our sightseeing cruises take you close to the Statue of Liberty for incredible photos and selfies.

Who owns Circle Line?

Circle Line is owned and operated by New York Cruise Lines .

Customer Service & General Inquiries

Phone: (212) 563-3200 , 7 days a week, 9:00AM - 7:00PM

Email us: [email protected]

We're happy to answer any of your questions!

For more info or to get started, just fill out this form .

We're here to help

A form to get to customer service

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise – 2024 Insider’s Guide

Sweeping views of Manhattan and Lady Liberty, sun-soaked sojourns across the Hudson River and Brooklyn Bridge scenery come together for one awesome aquatic adventure. Uncover even more of the beauty of the Big Apple when you reserve a Circle Line Cruise.

Follow along to learn everything you need to know about Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises .

Whether you are obsessed with architecture and can’t wait to scope out the Empire State Building or have a more romantic rendezvous in mind, Circle Line offers several classic and special event cruises.

Delight in the fireworks and festivities of the fourth of July, or sample seasonal beers and themed food specialties on a Spring Fling Day Cruise. 

However you decide to marvel at the majesty of New York City, Circle Line Cruises has you covered.

About Circle Line Cruises

Wondering what’s so special about Circle Line Cruises? It’s more than just your typical sightseeing ferry NYC! As New York’s oldest and largest provider of scheduled and chartered sightseeing cruises, Circle Line has over 75 years of experience.

An unparalleled attraction ideal for tourists and locals alike, every Circle Line Tour is professionally narrated. Sea-worthy explorers can rest easy knowing the Circle Line only utilizes the most modern fleet for all Circle Line tours. Built for both comfort and style, these top-of-the-line ships ensure every passenger’s safety and enjoyment.

Their world-class fleet was designed for sightseeing and makes perfect vehicles for many popular events, including entertainment cruises, happy hours, charters, and more. Glimpse at the Empire City’s most storied landmarks as you revel in the history and culture of this iconic island.

Whether you choose to book premier seating Circle Line or standard seating, you will appreciate unobstructed views of the Lady Liberty and other iconic Circle Line landmarks. Circle Line Cruise premier seating is available on Tripster!

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

Dreaming about the Top of the Rock, or have you been craving the historic vistas of Liberty and Ellis Island? Whatever your Big Apple fantasy, Circle Line Cruises has a multitude of options to assuage even the most discerning travelers.

Cover the best of the Empire City in 24 hours or less when you book a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise:

Best of NYC Cruise

Is it your first time encountering the magic of Manhattan? Gaze upon the most breathtaking attractions and awe-inspiring city skyline views when you opt for a Best of NYC Cruise . This 2.5-hour watery escapade is the classic cruise that put the Circle Line on the map. Many would agree that this is the best Circle Line Cruise Manhattan NY.

Sit back, relax and snap away as you cruise past over 130 of the city’s most renowned landmarks, from semi circle line cruises to full circle tours. This comprehensive cruise presents it all, from spellbinding cityscapes of One World Trade Center to the legendary Yankee Stadium. Indeed, this is the only NYC cruise that completely circumnavigates the island of Manhattan and features all three rivers.

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Departing from the Midtown West Pier 83 at West 42nd Street, this expertly narrated cruise dives deep into the story and origins of the world’s most famous city. Appreciate the Manhattan skyline during your trip!

Keep those peepers peeled as you won’t want to miss the panoramic pleasure of passing:

• The Empire State Building
• The Chrysler Building
• The High Line
• The Statue of Liberty
• Ellis Island
• South Street Seaport
• Brooklyn Bridge
• Manhattan Bridge
• United Nations Headquarters
• Gracie Mansion
• George Washington Bridge

Landmarks Cruise

Got slightly less time, but still want to see it all? Ideal for architecture lovers, the Circle Line Landmarks Cruise packs all the best of Lower Manhattan, Midtown, and the East Rivers into one arresting adventure.

Related Post: 3 Days in New York City This Fall

Soak in the scenic spectacles of One World Trade Center, Ellis Island, DUMBO, South Street Seaport, and more on this 1.5-hour excursion. Listen up as your award-winning tour guides regale you with fascinating facts, stories, and historical know-how regarding the city’s most recognizable sights. 

Feast your eyes on heavenly highlights such as:

• Empire State Building
• Chrysler Building
• Statue of Liberty
• Williamsburg Bridge

Liberty Midtown Cruise

Got your heart set on getting up close and personal with the big lady in green? Discover the dazzling gravitas of the Statue of Liberty when you reserve your very own seat on the Liberty Midtown Cruise , also known as Circle Line Liberty Cruise Standard. You can also choose Circle Line premier seating for a more comfortable trip.

Cozy up inside your luxurious cruise vessel, or take in the splendor of Lady Liberty ‘al fresco’ from the incredible outdoor deck. This one-hour cruise contains a scenic passing of the sprawling Hudson Yards, One World Trade Center, and the High Line Park.

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History buffs will be in true heaven as you effortlessly glide just feet away from Manhattan’s most iconic statue. Grab that phone or camera, as you’ll need to document this once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity. 

Swing by the tip of Southern Manhattan, and don’t forget to take in:

Harbor Lights Cruise

Looking to impress a special someone? Pull out all the stops and pump up the enchantment when you ditch the daylight for an awe-inspiring evening cruise. The Harbor Lights Cruise is an unparalleled way to observe NYC’s most charming landmarks and institutions. This is the best island cruise in Manhattan! 

Grab a cocktail or glass of wine from the onboard bar as you settle in for a scintillating night of towers, parks, and memorials. Swoon over Chelsea Piers and the Williamsburg Bridge before enjoying the exquisite visual of an orangey-red fiery orb disappearing behind the silhouette of Lady Liberty. 

Related Post: NYC After Dark: The Top Things to Do in NYC at Night

This informative 2-hour cruise also features stops at:

• One World Trade Center

Spring Fling Day Cruise

Feeling the fresh florals and sunshine of NYC in the Spring? Appreciate even more of the great outdoors when you plan for a full 30-mile cruise up the heavenly Hudson River. The Spring Fling Day Cruise is a 4.5-hour river cruise to the 800-foot tall Hook Mountain.

Raise a glass of vernal lager or ale as you regale in the rousing melodies of Americana and Country Rock. Spot the famed Sing Sing Prison, cruise on by the rugged Hudson River Palisades, and appreciate the legacy of Lyndhurst Mansion.

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Amateur birders will be pleased with the diverse array of avian species that populate this picturesque area, including ravens, hawks, ospreys, and the occasional Bald Eagle. 

Other incredible Spring Fling Day Cruise Highlights include:

• The George Washington Bridge
• The Tappan Zee bridge
• The Little Red Lighthouse
• The Cloisters
• Lyndhurst Mansion
• The Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse

July 4th Fireworks Cruise

Celebrate the red, white, and blue with the best view in Manhattan when you soak in electrifying fireworks from the middle of the East River. There’s no better way to reign in Independence Day than with a July 4th Fireworks Cruise . Then, stuff yourself silly with a summer buffet of fried chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, and mac ‘n cheese. Or crack open a cold one as you enjoy the open bar offerings of beer, wine, and soda.

Set sail for an evening of extraordinary patriotic pleasure as you spend 5 hours spotting the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge , One World Trade Center, and the Statue of Liberty. Later on, as the sunlight disappears, prime yourself for a gasp-inducing display of colors and lights as you witness the dazzling drama of New York City’s 4th of July Fireworks Celebration. 

Related Post: NYC in 3 Days: How to See the Big Apple in 72 Quick Hours

*Currently, Circle Line Cruises has no New Years’ Eve Cruise schedule, but please check their website and social media channels for the most up-to-date information.

Like your sightseeing with a side of screaming? Hold on to your hat, and prepare for some high-speed hijinks when you dare to conquer the Beast . This thrilling attraction is the Empire City’s only jet-powered speed boat attraction. Steel your nerves as you experience the full power of this 1400 BHP-horsepower monster.

Achieve racing speeds up to 45 mph as you zip through the Hudson River and sweep by the Statue of Liberty. Leave the electronics at home as there’s a high chance you will be SOAKED!

Know Before You Go:

Can’t wait to begin your water-bound tour of Brooklyn, Manhattan, and more? Before you kick off your Circle Line Sojourn, there are some essential things to note:

• Circle Line asks that you arrive 30-45 minutes before your departure time to allow enough time for box office check-in and boarding
• No outside food or beverages are allowed on Circle Line Cruises, but there are concessions and a full bar onboard the ship for additional purchase.
• There are two types of seats to choose from, Circle Line premier vs standard seat. There is a clear difference between Circle Line premier seating vs standard. Premier seats are inside with air conditioning and windows. In addition, premier seats are cushioned while the Circle Line standard seating are non-cushioned.
• All Circle Line Cruises operate rain or shine.
• Every Circle Cruise ship features a temperature-controlled indoor deck and free wifi
• Circle Line Cruises always depart from Pier 83 on West 42nd Street
• Pier 83 is easily accessible by public transit or driving 
• Circle Line provides convenient parking just steps away from their boats for $30
• Always look out for new cruises! Bear Mountain Cruise is a must-not-miss!

What to Bring

Bubbling over with excitement to score those Battery Park or Manhattan Bridge views? Then, ensure your Circle Line Cruise is nothing but smooth sailing when you come prepared. 

For a fuss-free adventure, we highly recommend packing the following items:

• Camera/phone
• Portable Battery Pack
• Light Jacket/rain Jacket dependent on weather
• Hand Sanitizer
• Extra cash for onboard purchases
• Circle Line Cruise tickets

Museums, monuments, and memorials, oh my! The City that Never Sleeps is packed to the brim with premier attractions and sights. Change up your staid sightseeing routine when you reserve a riveting Circle Line Cruise.

Since 1945 Circle Line has set the gold standard for NYC sightseeing cruises. With their voracious appetite for adventure and unquenchable attention to customer service, every Circle Line Cruise delivers an unforgettable experience.

Savor epic Statue of Liberty views, fall for the charm of the Chrysler Building, or ogle the inspiring architecture of High Line Park. Trade in your next matinee or movie night for the amorous appeal of the Harbor Lights, or commemorate our country’s birth with the best fireworks display to view.

Ready to discover the dynamic appeal of the Big Apple? Book America’s Favorite Boat Ride today!

Tell Us, What’s Your Favorite Circle Line Cruise?

Leave us a comment below!

Written by Isis Maya Nissman

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...

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Welcome aboard the Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise, where you'll experience the enchanting beauty of New York City's skyline illuminated at night! With New York Sightseeing, embark on a memorable 2-hour journey along the Hudson River.

Have a relaxing evening outside, admiring the stunning evening lights of New York's celebrated towers, memorials, and landmarks. Narrated by informative and entertaining guides, this evening tour aboard NYC's most iconic and state-of-the-art boat is an unforgettable experience.

Sail down the Hudson River passing the colossal Hudson Yards, impressive Chelsea Piers, and the towering One World Trade Center, before rounding the spectacular tip of southern Manhattan and ultimately cruising only a few feet away from the magnificent Statue of Liberty.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise offers a unique perspective of the city that's not to be missed. With convenient departure times and easy online booking, securing your spot on this magical cruise is simple.

Up to 10% off tickets!

Pier 83, West 42nd Street & 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10019

Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise (2 Hours)

Seats are first-come, first-serve so arrive early! Boarding! Select your perfect seat, inside or out.

Tour Length: Two Hours

Departure Time: Daily at 7:00pm. Please arrive 45 minutes in advance (March 11 - December 30th)

Departure Location: Pier 83, West 42nd Street & 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10019

Present passes at our ticket kiosk to pick up your tickets and proceed to the boarding queue

+1 (212) 445-7599

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

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