Forget the Double Decker Bus! See New York on a Boat Tour Instead
With much of New York City surrounded by water, there’s no better way to experience its overall majesty than by boat
Whether you just want to snap some vacation photos or immerse yourself in city lore, you’ll find boat tours in NYC to make your trip truly memorable.
Savor the Architecture
Learn all about New York's fascinating skyline from your architect tour guide on Classic Harbor Line’s Architecture Cruises that depart from the Chelsea Piers (62 Chelsea Piers, NY). Relax in climate-controlled comfort aboard a 1920s-style yacht while you discover details about the city’s infrastructure and historic monuments. Or, snack on free appetizers as you circle Manhattan on the AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour. For more specific architectural aspects of the city, choose a tour that focuses on the harbor’s bridges, the industrial waterfront or Lower Manhattan.
Feel the Thrill
If the fast pace of the city alone doesn’t get your heart racing, head out to see the sights aboard a 70-foot speed boat. Circle Line's The Beast zips along the Hudson River at speeds of up to 45 mph, giving you thrills as it twists, spins and bucks its way past the Chelsea Docks and Lower Manhattan. You’re likely to get wet, but don’t leave your camera behind—you’re going to want it when the boat stops just 100 feet from the Statue of Liberty for a unique photo opportunity.
Hop On, Hop Off
If you find yourself wanting to stop and experience the sights you’re seeing, a hop-on, hop-off tour provides an ideal solution. Hop aboard a City Sightseeing New York boat tour and then hop off at four stops around the city and explore on foot. You’ll spend 90 minutes on the water listening to your knowledgeable guide fill you in on points of interest. Hop off at sights that include Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge, South Street and the World Financial Center (Vessey St., NY).
See the City at Sunset
Take an evening boat tour to see the city sparkle with lights as the sun goes down. Enjoy a warm summer evening aboard the Clipper City, New York's largest operating tall ship. Depart from the south end of Battery Park and approach the Statue of Liberty as the sun sets, letting you capture dramatic vacation photos. During cold weather, City Sights NY’s Statue by Night tour keeps you in climate-controlled comfort while you watch the sun go down and the lights come up over the harbor.
Do It Yourself
If you’re a rugged individualist who likes to do your own thing, a self-guided boat tour might be the perfect way to spend time on the water. Take in the sights aboard the Staten Island Ferry, East River Ferry or New York Water Taxi. Use your favorite NYC sightseeing app to fill you in on the details or book a pay-what-you-want tour guide through Free Tours by Foot to meet a local guide who will show you around.
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