nyc river cruise

Best of NYC

PIER 83, MIDTOWN

The only sightseeing cruise that completely circles Manhattan. See all of NYC's landmarks from temperature-controlled indoor seats or our huge outdoor deck.

• Outdoor Deck Space
• Snacks & full bar
• Photo stop at the Statue of Liberty

Cruises starting Thursday, April 11

CRUISE SUMMARY

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 skyline , Little Island , Hudson Yards , One World Trade Center , Brooklyn Bridge and downtown Brooklyn , Yankee Stadium , the George Washington Bridge and, of course, an up close look at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island !

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!

Please Note In the rare event that extreme high tides or other occasions out of our control prevent us from circumnavigating the entire island of Manhattan as planned, we'll modify our route to still give you a fantastic 200+ landmarks tour. 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.

What you'll see

Our flagship cruise with the best views + every NYC landmark

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

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

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

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

Statue of Liberty

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

Ellis Island

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

South Street Seaport

The South Street Seaport is a historic area in New York City. It features some of the oldest architecture in downtown Manhattan.

Brooklyn Bridge

The longest suspension bridge when it opened in 1883, its 276’ (84m) high towers are built of limestone, granite and cement.

Manhattan Bridge

Constructed in 1901, the Manhattan Bridge is a suspension bridge, connecting Lower Manhattan with Downtown Brooklyn.

United Nations Headquarters

Designed by an international team of architects, the UN is an international zone with its own fire department and postal service.

Gracie Mansion

This federal-style home, currently the residence of NYC mayors, was once a country estate, an ice-cream parlor and a museum.

Yankee Stadium

In its 85+ year history, this “cathedral to baseball” has hosted 6,581 Yankees regular season home games.

George Washington Bridge

The world’s busiest suspension bridge spans the Hudson River and carries over 103 million vehicles per year.

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!

George Washington bridge

Guests Looking at Henry Hudson Bridge

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.

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.

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.

We are closed for the season. Thank you to all of our customers, hope to see you next spring!

Hudson Cruises, Inc.

Hudson river boat tours in ny, a scenic trip you'll love.

With more than 20 years of experience in the tourism industry, Captain Guy ensures that locals and visitors alike enjoy their adventure on the Hudson — so much so that Hudson Cruises, Inc. was featured in USA Today’s Travel Tips as one of their top three “Dinner Cruises in the Hudson River Valley.”

From public cruises to a private charter cruise, we offer it all. Enjoy a scenic trip or start a new tradition with old friends aboard our vessels. We offer weekly sightseeing cruises.

More Hudson Experiences

Private cruises.

Learn More »

TripAdvisor's #1 Tour in Hudson, NY

We loved this two hour cruise. It was very comfortable and informative and the crew were helpful and friendly. They also have very convenient hours and great views!

What a wonderful boat ride and a a beautiful day. We really enjoyed seeing the eagles and the beautiful foliage. Great narration about the Hudson River.

The captain was knowledgeable and welcoming. We loved the trip on the boat. We got a good vantage point from which to view the Hudson River and we were able to see historic sites like Olana from the boat.

Our cruise was informative and relaxing. The staff was helpful and the scenery was awesome. Many birds were pointed out along the ride, as well as focal points along the Hudson River.

We had a ball! Our crew was wonderful and it was a wonderful day on the river! Highly recommend for a lovely afternoon with friends and family.

• Hudson River Cruises

Call for more info 212-627-1825 Get started with our online form

February 9, 2016 by Meghan

Stop in any one of these fantastic towns and enjoy some time away.   Visit one of the many museums or galleries, enjoy antiquing, or visit local shops, wineries and fine eateries.   Your Hudson River Valley visit will be bookended by a glorious cruise through the most beautiful River Valley on the east coast. Cruise along and enjoy the twists and turns and panoramic views of nature at its best.  On your trip north you may enjoy a plentiful three course brunch or on your way heading south enjoy a scrumptious lunch put together by our executive Chef.  Whatever town you choose or whatever menu you pick you will want to make this an annual event with your guests.  

Hudson Valley Tourism

Albany Tourism

Columbia County Tourism

Dutchess Tourism

Orange County Tourism

Putnam County Tourism

Ulster County Tourism  

If you are not interested in chartering one of our vessels privately then you can always purchase tickets for our Full Day Cruise to Bear Mountain and back.  Click here for more information. 

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The 11 best boat tours in NYC

All aboard! Book these NYC boat tours for incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and other iconic landmarks

In all of planet Earth, there is no other skyline quite like that of New York City. Whether by air or by land , the Big Apple’s skyscrapers and landmarks are iconic. But there’s one way of touring NYC that beats out the rest, hands down—by boat.  Whether from the upper deck of a yacht or hunkered down on a speedboat, views from the harbor show NYC at its absolute finest. From the Statue of Liberty to the One World Trade Center, you can take in all the biggest sights without dealing with packed subway cars and endless traffic jams. Below are some of the Big Apple’s biggest and best boat tours.

How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines .

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Best NYC boat tours

1.  Luxury Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise

So this is how to really do an NYC boat tour. Choose which fine dining food option you fancy and then settle into a blissful tour around New York Harbor, with a live pianist your exceptional aural entertainment. And sure, the luxury dining and the music might be pretty good but you wait until you gaze out across the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center from your private table with 360-degree panoramic views. 

Don't miss: The sultry sounds of the onboard jazz pianist who's on a mission to get people dancing.  

2.  Statue of Liberty Express Cruise

Perfect for the sightseer who knows exactly what he or she wants, this Circle Line express tour goes right to the Statue of Liberty – no pit stops this time. Listen to an expert guide point out some lower Manhattan landmarks before pausing for photos right next to Lady Liberty. And since this cruise only takes an hour, it’s easy to fit into even the busiest itinerary.

Don't miss: The perfect photo opp of the famous sculpture and other harbor landmarks. 

3.  New York City Sunset Sailing with Wine Tasting

Here’s one for the schmoozy, romantic vacationers. The NYC sunset sailing with wine tasting gives you the chance to gaze out as the sun drops below Manhattan, seeing NYC’s biggest landmarks (including the Statue of Liberty) all lit up in a golden glow. And to top it all off, you’re on a luxurious sailing boat, which is equipped, crucially, with a full bar. Not that you'll need it after your third cab sauv.

Don't miss: The snacks and cheese that have been expertly paired with the wines. 

4.  Manhattan: Private Sailing Yacht Cruise

Don’t want to share your views of the city skyline? You don’t have to on this private tour of the Hudson River at sunset. It’s your party, so you can bring any food or drinks you like on board. You’ll feel like a high roller as you kick back on your private yacht for the evening.

Don't miss: Chill with your crew on any of the three lounge areas, including the outdoor deck and sun pad. 

5.  Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

How better to get your bearing in a city as enormous as NYC than by circumnavigation? The Circle Line’s two-and-a-half-hour tour does a full loop of Manhattan Island, taking passengers past plenty of the city’s most popular sights in the process. Spanning three rivers and all five boroughs, you’ll even pass within touching distance of Lady Liberty herself. In other words, get your camera ready!

Don't miss: Non-English speakers can download the Circle Line app for a translated commentary. 

6.  New York City: Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise

Get a taste of the Big Apple’s nightlife scene with this happy hour boat tour on the Hudson River. The Alive After Five cocktail cruise has everything you need: a fully stocked bar, a dance floor, and a killer DJ. Did someone say tequila? 

Don't miss:  Views of the Manhattan skyline as the sun goes down and the lights turn on. 

7.  New York Water Taxi Cruises

You can't miss the water taxis, they look just like the car versions: big, bright and yellow. These little beauties cruise round New York Harbor daily, passing major sites like the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. You can stay on and complete the entire loop in 70 minutes, or hop on and off as you please, exploring the greats eats, shops and attractions in NYC's waterside neighborhoods.

Don't miss: They have a team that can help you create a custom route for your journey. 

8.  AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour

The area south of 59th Street is packed with architecturally significant buildings; there’s the Chrysler Building, the Woolworth Building, the Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center, just to name a few. This 90-minute boat tour led by a member of the New York chapter of the American Institute of Architects will cover all of Manhattan’s most significant structures, plus the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty.

Don't miss: Sip complimentary beer, wine, or Champagne from the bar while you learn about infrastructure, parks, and architecture.

9.  Staten Island Ferry

Put your purse away, because the Staten Island Ferry is totally free. That's right, in one of the most expensive cities in the world, you can find a free ride. This old chugger has been going since before any bridges were built, transporting folks from the 'burbs to Manhattan in 25 minutes. Boats leave South Ferry at Battery Park and run 24 hours a day.

Don't miss: The stunning panoramas of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

10.  1920s Schooner Cocktail Sail

Fresh air, ocean waves, Champagne cocktails, and a massive brunch spread of sandwiches, baked goods, fresh bread, fruit and more – it’s fair to say that this midday cruise on the Shearwater really does have it all. Sit back and relax as the crew guides the restored 1929 sailboat out into the harbor. If you’re lucky, the captain will even let you take a turn at the helm.

Don't miss: Each passenger is entitled to four Champagne-based cocktails – make sure you get your fair share! 

11.  Circle Line: Beast Speedboat Ride

Adrenaline junkies will want to book tickets for this supercharged half-hour ride through New York Harbor. The 70-foot speedboat known as the  Beast  zooms toward the Statue of Liberty at 45 miles per hour, kicking up plenty of waves. In fact, the ride can get so intense that guides recommend wearing wetsuits.

Don't miss: The ride is accompanied by a thumping soundtrack to really kick things into high gear.

Keen to beat the summer heat?

Where to go in NYC when you don’t have air-conditioning

• Things to do

When it’s as hot as it is humid in New York City, that leaky window unit just isn’t going to cut it

Want to rent your own boat?

The best boat rentals in NYC

Debating between a two-hour hire or a full-day trip along the Hudson? Choose a boat to start your adventures around NYC

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Hudson River-Independence

Enjoy the changing colors on this fantastic Fall Foliage cruise, roundtrip from the ‘City that Never Sleeps’ – New York City! The Hudson River will be your guide, cruising North along the landscape of New York. Through the Catskill Mountains, you’ll dock in some of the oldest towns in America, while the world is framed by glorious reds, oranges and yellows! The Hudson River Valley is well known for its Autumn colors for good reason. Immerse yourself in the history of this scenic region – from the American Revolution, presidential mansions, and historic artists, to the Legends of Sleepy Hollow in Tarrytown – Autumn is an amazing time to visit the Hudson River.

Ports of call: Albany, Kingston, West Point, Sleepy Hollow, New York City

Cruise Details

or call 800.578.1479

*Per person/double occupancy. Special single rates apply where listed. Excludes port fees. Itineraries may operate in reverse.

Your Itinerary

1 Embark in New York City, NY Enjoy a delightful day of cruising along the Hudson River to West Point.

2 Catskill, NY Steeped in history and tradition, the United States Military Academy at West Point offers visitors the opportunity to walk on the grandiose grounds once trekked by some of the nation’s greatest generals, like Patton, Eisenhower and MacArthur. Founded in 1802 by an act of Congress, the Academy has been of significant military importance to America since Revolutionary days. Tour the West Point Museum and Cadet Chapel and view magnificent vistas of the Hudson Valley from atop the campus grounds.

3 Albany, NY The picturesque region of what is today the city of Albany was discovered by Henry Hudson in 1609 on a failed attempt to find a quick passage to China for the Dutch East India Company. Today the capital city of New York state welcomes visitors with majestic architecture and grand views of the beautiful Hudson River Valley. Be sure to explore the New York State Museum and the newly renovated State Capitol building, originally built in the late 1800’s.

4 Kingston, NY/Hyde Park, NY With the invention of the steamboat in 1807, the Hudson River became a waterway of leisurely travel with literally hundreds of vessels making their way up and down the picturesque passage. Originally the capital of New York in the late 1700’s, today Kingston preserves the maritime heritage of the Hudson River at the Hudson River Maritime Museum. Kingston is also located in an area of the Hudson River often referred to as “Millionaires Row” – with palatial estates and grand mansions reminiscent of the mid-1800’s when wealthy New York businessmen began buying property in the beautiful valley for summer retreats.

5 West Point, NY The US Military Academy at West Point offers visitors the opportunity to walk on the hallowed grounds once traversed by some of the nation's greatest generals.

6 Sleepy Hollow, NY The riverside town of Sleepy Hollow is forever immortalized in the works of one of the country’s first great writers, Washington Irving. The author found inspiration in the tales and scenery of the Hudson Valley as the basis for “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and “Rip Van Winkle.” Today Washington Irving’s country home, Sunnyside, is a Registered National Historic Landmark and welcomes visitors with legends and lore.

7 New York City, NY Discover the sights, sounds and history of this extraordinary city! From South Street Seaport to Central Park and the Museum of Natural History, New York encapsulates the culture and spirit of America. Explore the Big Apple on your own, or join a narrated tour of the city’s biggest landmarks.

8 Disembark in New York City, NY End your journey where it began in the vibrant city of Manhattan. Reflect upon your wonderful adventure as you begin your travels home. Or, stay an extra day or two to explore more.

Map & Gallery

Cabin Categories

*Prices may vary due to seasonality

Onboard Experience

The American Cruise Line fleet of ships are the newest and most environmentally friendly small ships in the US. The cruise line prides itself on their hospitable staff, and that you’ll be graciously received no matter which ship you cruise on. The large staterooms with interior entrances ensure you have a relaxed, private area to watch the river from, or visit any of the many onboard lounges. Daily entertainment will be brought onboard, including musicians, historians and naturalists.

Regionally-Inspired Menus

American Cruise Lines uses fresh, local ingredients to show off the culinary glory of the region you’re cruising in. On the Mississippi River, that could mean Andouille Gumbo, a po’boy with red beans and rice, and bourbon pecan pie. In New England, you could find Littleneck clam ceviche on the menu followed by a spiced apple pudding with maple whipped cream. In the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find fresh fish on the menu, including shrimp bisque or Dungeness Crab cake, and a marionberry cheesecake that’ll make your mouth water! Your ship will provide you with a list of all the locally-sourced ingredients when you unpack.

Eagle Society

Once you’ve cruised aboard any American Cruise Line ship, you are an Eagle Society member. It’s free to be a member, but your loyalty to American Cruise Lines is greatly rewarded. You’ll receive Eagle Society luggage tags, and member-only gifts when you board each cruise. After 3 cruises, you’ll receive complimentary premium shore excursions. After 10 cruises, you’ll get a complimentary 11th cruise. There are special Eagle Society cruise dates every year. Plus all Eagle Society member benefits can be used when booking with USA River Cruises, plus you’ll still be eligible for our loyal customer benefits as well.

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Tour Updates & Safety Information

Hudson River Cruises is excited to continue our almost 40-year tradition of sightseeing cruises on the historic Hudson River. The health and well being of our guests and crew members is our number one priority. Our policies are designed to keep everyone safe, while also allowing for an enjoyable experience.

• All unvaccinated guests over the age of 2 are requested to wear a facial mask while indoors on the vessel.

We are running at up to full capacities which does not allow for much distancing on a passenger vessel. Please bring your mask if you are uncomfortable in what could be a crowded environment or if you are unvaccinated.

More Questions?

Call 843-277-9337 or email us . Live support office hours are 7 days a week 8am-5pm

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Holiday Sale Big Savings

2024 cruising season begins in may.

Your list of top things to do in the Hudson Valley has to include a sightseeing cruise on the Hudson River! Enjoy clear views of historic Hudson River lighthouses, waterfront mansions, and other notable sites aboard the Rip Van Winkle II.

Looking for a fun weekend evening activity? Look no further! Share a unique experience with family and friends and dance the night away aboard a DJ Dance or Live Music cruise on the Hudson River!

Make your next special occasion stand out! Whether celebrating a class reunion, birthday party, anniversary, graduation party or any other special occasion, a cruise down the historic Hudson River makes it truly unforgettable.

Planning a group tour? We’re the Hudson Valley tourism experts! For over 35 years, we've shared our love and knowledge of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson Valley with residents, visitors, and groups of all types.

THE HUDSON VALLEY'S PREMIER SIGHTSEEING EXPERIENCE

Featuring guided tours, live music, dinner & more.

For over 35 years, Hudson River Cruises has provided passengers a first-hand view of the historic shoreline from the decks of the Rip Van Winkle II. From our location in the heart of the Hudson River Valley in Kingston NY, we provide a delightfully unique opportunity to explore this scenic shoreline.

As you relax on the cool shaded deck of the Rip Van Winkle II, visit our beverage & snack bars for tasty refreshments. Your experienced guide will point out millionaires' sumptuous estates, picturesque Hudson River lighthouses and quaint, sleepy villages surrounded by the natural beauty of vineyards, orchards and scenic preservation sites.

Our Sightseeing Tour Route

Experience the Hudson Valley like never before aboard a Hudson River Cruise. Explore the Tour Route Below!

GOURMET DINNER & CRUISE

Add a premium dinner package to your sightseeing experience.

You can’t find a more romantic setting in the summer than on the historic Hudson River! Add a Dinner Package to your 2:30 Cruise and enjoy a delicious dinner at Mariner's Restaurant after your Sightseeing Cruise.

Live Music Cruise

Enjoy live music along the scenic hudson river.

If you love music outdoors in the summertime, a Hudson River Cruise with live music is a must-do experience! You’ll cruise along the scenic shores of the Hudson River as you take in the sights, sounds, and summer vibes.

A TOP THING TO DO IN THE HUDSON VALLEY

The top-rated sightseeing experience on the hudson river.

Looking for the most relaxing, fun way to spend an afternoon in the Hudson Valley? Grab your friends and family and come aboard the Rip Van Winkle II for the ultimate sightseeing experience.

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TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR SUNSET CRUISE!

Enjoy a delicious meal and fun voyage on the hudson river.

Come Aboard and Enjoy a Sunset Sightseeing Cruise as we cruise past the Rondout and Espous Lighthouses!

Elevate Your Next Event with a Private Charter

Make your next private event or special occasion unique and memorable with a cruise on the Rip Van Winkle II. From corporate events to weddings and everything in between — a Hudson River Cruise is sure to exceed the expectations of any group gathering.

Unique Private Events

With room for up to 300 passengers and views unlike any other, the Rip Van Winkle II is the ultimate event venue in the Hudson Valley. From weddings and rehearsal dinners to birthdays and anniversaries, a private cruise on the Hudson will make your next event unforgettable!

Unforgettable Group Tours

From educational school field trips to tourism excursions, a Hudson River Cruises group tour is the best way to experience the Hudson Valley. Bring your group aboard the Rip Van Winkle II for an afternoon or evening of fun!

Gift Certificates

Gift the experience of a day or evening cruise on the Hudson River aboard the Rip Van Winkle II. Hudson River Cruises’ gift certificates are the perfect solution for making any special event or occassion a truly unique and memorable experience.

What People Are Saying About Hudson River Cruises

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FDNY boat operating at ‘unsafe speed’ during pleasure cruise caused visiting Belgian firefighter’s death: Coast Guard

T he reckless operation and “unsafe speed” of an FDNY fireboat on a pleasure cruise to the Statue of Liberty caused the death of a visiting Belgian firefighter, according to the findings of a Coast Guard probe obtained by The Post.

The deadly collision with a private fishing boat on the night of June 17, 2022 occurred because the lone firefighter piloting the Marine 1 Bravo zoomed along the East River at a top speed of 28 mph – giving the operator of the chartered vessel “Honcho,” — which was going at most 6 mph– just two seconds to react, according to a 28-page Coast Guard’s report.

The joy ride on an FDNY fireboat meant for medical emergencies also lacked a mandatory “lookout” to help spot danger. The FDNY pilot failed to use radar to detect other vessels, the report says.

No one on the fireboat saw the crash coming.

In addition, the NYC Fire Department had no formal protocol for approving unofficial “sightseeing tours” requested by department members for friends and family, the investigation found – a fatal flaw since corrected following a review by the city Department of Investigation.

The visiting firefighter, Johnny Beernaert, 54, died of “blunt force injuries” to the head and neck when the bow of the fishing boat rammed into the fireboat’s cabin, the report says.

The Honcho pilot spotted the FDNY boat approaching “from approximately 30 yards at a high rate of speed,” but “assumed … it would course correct.” 

The four survivors of the fireboat told investigators the crash occurred “without any indication that they were about to hit anything.”

Beernaert could not be revived.

“He died in his wife’s arms,” said Paul Hofmann, an attorney for Beernaert’s widow, Heidi Vermandel, who accompanied him on the cruise.

“It was supposed to be the best trip of their lives. It was the greatest disaster,” he added.

 “It caused huge disruption and pain to a lovely family.” 

Beernaert, a sergeant in the Belgium army and father of 20-year-old twins, had planned to retire in a year but continue working as a firefighter, paramedic and rescue diver.

Vermandel is suing both NYC and New York City Boat Tours in Brooklyn federal court.

In court papers filed Tuesday, New York City Boat Tours indicated the Coast Guard’s bombshell findings could move the case to private mediation for possible settlement.

The tragedy occurred after retired FDNY captain Stephen Lonergan showed up at the Marine 1 pier in Manhattan at 9 p.m. and asked to take the fireboat on a cruise with visiting firefighter Johnny Beernaert and both their wives.

The Marine 1 commanding officer on duty,  who is not identified in the report, approved the “impromptu excursion,” the report says – apparently without consulting higher-ups.

The officer assigned firefighter Thomas Waller , also unnamed in the report, to pilot the ride alone.

According to FDNY marine rules, the fireboat must be manned by three operators–  one officer (a lieutenant or captain) and two firefighters, including one to serve as a lookout.

Waller told investigators he “assumed” that Lonergan and the Beernaert would substitute as lookouts – a big mistake, the report says. 

Beernaert was unresponsive after the blow to his head. Lonergan tried CPR to revive him, to no avail.

He was pronounced dead at Bellevue Hospital. The others were treated for minor injuries.

The fireboat circled the Statue of Liberty, while the guests snapped photos, then headed to the Brooklyn Bridge to take more photos.

Bright lights along the shore at nearby Brooklyn Bridge Park and “dense traffic congestion” on the waterway likely hindered Waller’s ability to see the Honcho, the report says. 

But Waller could have avoided the crash if he was traveling at a “slower speed,” it states.

The pilots of both vessels tested negative for alcohol and dangerous drugs.

The Coast Guard concluded by blasting the FDNY’s routine practice of letting higher-ups or VIPs use the fire boats for pleasure cruises.  

“Sightseeing tours like the one undertaken on the night of the casualty were something that was commonly done when requested by FDNY associated persons for entertainment, without any impediment or oversight,” the report says.

The FDNY did not immediately return messages Saturday. 

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Barge strikes bridge in oklahoma, shutting down highway — days after baltimore key bridge disaster.

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The Oklahoma State Patrol said Saturday that it closed a highway south of Sallisaw after a barge struck a bridge over the Arkansas River.

Troopers closed South US Highway 59 about 1:25 p.m. after receiving word of the incident and diverted traffic from the area, state patrol spokesperson Sarah Stewart said.

The bridge, which crosses the Arkansas River where it enters the Robert S. Kerr Reservoir, will remain closed until it can be inspected, she said.

There were no reports of injuries on the highway or the barge, Stewart said.

It was not immediately known what caused the barge to hit the bridge.

The news came as engineers worked Saturday to lift a section of twisted steel from the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland after it crumpled into the Patapsco River as a massive cargo ship crashed into one of its main supports.

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What You Need To Know About Cruise Operator Viking’s IPO

SOPA Images / Contributor / Getty Images

Key Takeaways

• Cruise operator Viking Holdings generated $4.7 billion in revenue last year, the company revealed in a Friday filing with the SEC, ahead of its planned debut on the New York Stock Exchange under the "VIK" ticker.
• While the cruise line has not disclosed the number of shares that will be offered or their pricing, Barron's estimated Viking's IPO could be valued at over $10 billion.
• Cruise stocks have started to rebound after reporting strong results amid a surge in demand as the industry works to recover from the billions in losses suffered during the pandemic.

Viking Holdings, the parent company of the Viking cruise line, filed an F-1 form Friday with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) ahead of its planned initial public offering (IPO) that revealed the company made $4.7 billion in revenue in 2023.

Viking, which said Friday that it plans to debut on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker "VIK," initially announced plans to pursue an IPO in February. While the cruise line has not disclosed the number of shares that will be offered or their pricing, Barron's estimated Viking's IPO could be valued at over $10 billion.

Viking's Business Metrics Show Growing Revenue

The cruise line generated $4.7 billion in revenue in fiscal 2023, compared to $3.18 billion in 2022, and $625.1 million in 2021. Viking posted a $1.86 billion loss last year, largely because of a refinancing program it undertook through private placement , a way to raise capital without undergoing an IPO.

Adjusting for those one-time losses, Viking said it reported earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) of about $1.09 billion for 2023.

Viking's luxury cruise business is divided between 80 river vessels and nine ocean ships, along with two expedition ships and a chartered river ship that operates in the Mississippi river. The cruise line expects to receive 18 new river ships by 2028, and six new ocean cruise liners by 2026.

Cruise Stocks Climb on Surge in Demand

In what could be a promising sign for Viking's debut, some cruise stocks have started to reverse losses suffered during the pandemic, with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings ( NCLH ), Royal Caribbean Group ( RCL ), and Carnival Corp. ( CCL ) recently reporting record bookings.

As of Friday's close, Norwegian shares have gained 45% over the past 12 months, while Carnival shares have surged 55%, and Royal Caribbean shares more than doubled in value over the same period.

Securities and Exchange Commission. " FORM F-1 REGISTRATION STATEMENT ."

Viking Holdings. " VIKING FILES REGISTRATION STATEMENT WITH SEC FOR PROPOSED INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING ."

Viking Holdings. " VIKING ANNOUNCES CONFIDENTIAL SUBMISSION OF DRAFT REGISTRATION STATEMENT FOR A PROPOSED INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING ."

Barron's. " Cruise Operator Viking’s IPO Could Be Valued at Over $10 Billion ."

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Advertisement

How the Key Bridge Collapsed in Baltimore: Maps and Photos

By Weiyi Cai ,  Agnes Chang ,  Lauren Leatherby ,  Lazaro Gamio ,  Leanne Abraham and Scott Reinhard

On Tuesday, a major bridge in Baltimore collapsed into the water seconds after it was struck by a cargo ship, sending vehicles on the bridge into the river below. The ship lost power and issued a mayday call shortly before it hit the bridge.

The ship, a 948-foot-long cargo vessel called Dali, was about a half hour into its journey toward Colombo, Sri Lanka, when it hit a main pillar of the bridge. All crew members are safe, according to the ship’s owners.

Follow our live coverage .

A mayday call from the ship gave officials enough time to stop traffic at both ends of the bridge. The waters where the bridge collapsed are about 50 feet deep. By Tuesday morning, six construction workers who had been fixing potholes on the bridge remained missing as divers and other emergency workers on boats and helicopters continued to search for them. Two others had been rescued, and one was in the hospital.

Francis Scott

Patapsco River

The ship left the Port

of Baltimore around

1 a.m. on Tuesday.

Where impact occurred

Direction of the ship

The ship hit the

bridge at 1:28 a.m.

The ship hit the bridge at 1:28 a.m.

Where impact

Source: Spire Global

The New York Times; satellite image by Google Earth

The lights of the ship flickered on and off as it lost power in the minutes before the ship changed bearing and hit the bridge.

Ship approached from

the Port of Baltimore

Road repair crews

Ship changed heading

as it neared pillar

Ship hit pillar

Southern and central spans

of bridge began to collapse within

seconds of impact

Northern span began to

collapse seconds later

Within 30 seconds of impact,

the central part of bridge had

entirely collapsed.

Source: StreamTime Live via YouTube

Timestamps are from StreamTime Live video.

The New York Times

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was opened in 1977 and carried more than 12.4 million vehicles last year. The bridge was one of the three major ways to cross the Patapsco River and formed part of Baltimore’s beltway.

The Port of Baltimore is a major trade hub that handled a record amount of foreign cargo last year. It is an especially important destination — the nation’s largest by volume last year — for deliveries of cars and light trucks.

Ship impact

To Chesapeake Bay

Sources: Maryland Port Administration, OpenStreetMap, MarineTraffic

Note: Ship positions are as of 2:46 p.m. Eastern time.

Overall, Baltimore was the 17th biggest port in the United States in 2021, ranked by total tons, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The bridge collapse brought marine traffic there to a standstill, with seven cargo or tanker ships stranded in the harbor as of Tuesday afternoon.

Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of emergency for Maryland and said that his office was in close communication with Pete Buttigieg, the U.S. transportation secretary. The White House issued a statement saying that President Biden had been briefed on the collapse.

Erin Schaff/The New York Times

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