new york yacht club summer cruise

New York Yacht Club Cruise

by Warrior Sailing Team

The 161st New York Yacht Club Cruise will take place in early August. The long standing tradition for club members is a voyage from New York City to Newport, Rhode Island. This year they will have a stopover on Fisher’s Island with a lay day to enjoy the sights.

Look for our vessels to be joining the fleet this year. These will be hard to miss. Metolius, Cloverleaf and Tortuga will all be joining the fleet for this summertime adventure.

Learn more about vessel sponsorship.

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New York Yacht Club

Stories from the New York Yacht Club

New York Yacht Club 37 West 44th Street New York, NY 10036-6643 (212) 382-1007

Website: http://www.nyyc.org/

The Isle of Wight in the Solent has long been the epicenter of yachting in England. In 1851, a schooner painted black arrived there looking to win races. This was the yacht America, owned by John Cox Stevens, the first commodore and other members of the New York Yacht Club.

NEW YORK YACHT CLUB BECOMES NSHOF FOUNDING MEMBER

These nine individuals agreed to form the New York Yacht Club, with Stevens to serve as commodore.  With much enthusiasm for their accomplishment, the group further agreed to assemble their yachts three days later and cruise to Newport, Rhode Island.

A summer cruise among New York Yacht Club members has been an annual event ever since, with the exceptions of 1861, 1898, and the war years of 1917-1920 and 1941-1945. In 1998, the club celebrated the 100th anniversary of its first cruise to Maine.

A rich and storied history of the New York Yacht Club is available on their website:

http://www.nyyc.org/about/history-heritage

BACK TO YACHT CLUB STORIES PAGE

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Located on 37 West 44th Street, the New York City Yacht Club is a private social and yachting club founded by a prominent New Yorker named John Cox Stevens. Originated on July 30th, 1844, the original purpose of the club was simple: to race sailing yachts. Today, the club is composed of over 3,000 members dedicated to both yacht racing and design. As one of New York’s most elite social clubs, membership to the NYYC is very exclusive which makes photos hard to come by, but we were able to get a look inside the stunning club. 

The club was first started during an outing on Steven’s own yacht Gimcrack with eight friends. On that boat, anchored in New York Harbor, the group developed their idea to form the NYYC. They designated Stevens as commodore, and three days later, announced their launching of a yacht club cruise to Newport, Rhode Island : the beginning of the historical connection between these two cities. In 1845, the NYYC’s first clubhouse was built on land granted by Stevens in Hoboken, NJ, in close proximity to the Hudson River.

The opening of the Gothic-styled clubhouse was followed by the club’s first regatta. This turned into the club’s first tradition of the “Annual Regatta,” occurring every year with exception of a few drastic events in American history: the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, World War I and II. Today, the NYYC is looking on its 163rd Annual Regatta.

A few years after the opening of the NYYC, Stevens and other club members bought the schooner-yacht America. In 1851, they sailed it to the Isle of Wight in the Solent- a hotbed for yachting in England . They entered a free-for-all around the Isle of Wight, of which they won the Royal Yacht Squadron’s “Hundred Guinea Cup,” further solidifying their title’s as founders of the NYYC. The trophy of the race was donated to the NYYC in 1857, renaming it the “ America’s Cup .” It was meant to be used as a challenge cup for honorable racing between nations. From this point forward, NYYC boats won 81 of 93 races held at the club, often regarded as the longest winning streak in all sports.

Around 1898, member Commodore J. Pierpont Morgan donated three lots on West 44th Street to build an entirely new clubhouse. Now 116 years old, the building was constructed in the beaux-arts style by Whitney Warren and Charles D. Wetmore. It first opened in 1901, and is most renowned for its Model Room and library. A number of races and traditions followed the establishment of the new clubhouse, including the Disabled World Sailing Championship, the Rolex IMS Offshore World Championship, and the Rolex Transatlantic Challenge. Today, the NYYC remains one of the oldest and most exclusive yacht clubs in the world.

Next, read 10 of NYC’s Oldest Historic Private Clubs and check out Behind the Scenes Look at the Wavertree Ship at South Street Seaport .

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The Holy Grail, the Fountain of Youth, the perfectly equitable rating formula for racing sailboats. Three things not yet discovered. But that didn’t, and won’t likely ever, stop Indiana Jones, Juan Ponce de León, and sailors around the world—respectively—from trying.

In 2020, the New York Yacht Club turned to ORC to handicap its performance racing fleet. This summer will mark the Club’s third season with the rule, which is administered by the Offshore Racing Congress. The ORC Rule is managed in the United States by the Offshore Office of US Sailing. The registration numbers for the ORC fleet for the upcoming 168th edition of the New York Yacht Club’s Annual Regatta speak to the rule’s growing acceptance in the United States. With two weeks remaining until the first start of North America’s oldest annual regatta on Friday, June 10, the ORC fleet stands at 40 boats, ranging in length from 33 to 74 feet.

What is ORC? What changes are in store for 2022? 

“The first Annual Regatta in 1846 utilized an early handicap formula to score the boats and so has every non-wartime edition since,” says Peter Cummiskey, the event chair for the regatta. “It’s never easy to get sailors to embrace a new rating rule, so we’re very pleased to see how many boats are lining up to compete under ORC. We anticipate some great racing.” The New York Yacht Club’s Annual Regatta was first sailed on the Hudson River on July 16 and 18, 1846. A similar competition the previous year was called a Trial of Speed. With a few exceptions for world wars and other global crises, the event has been held every year since. For the majority of its existence, the Annual Regatta was raced on waters close to New York City. Since 1988, however, the event has been sailed out of the Harbour Court clubhouse in Newport, R.I., and has settled into the current three-day format, which includes a race around Conanicut Island on Friday, two days of buoy or navigator-course racing on Saturday and Sunday and nightly social activities on the grounds of the historic Harbour Court mansion. The 168th Annual Regatta is sponsored by Hammetts Hotel, Safe Harbor Marinas and Helly Hansen. The return of the Maxi 72 class to the Annual Regatta for the first time since 2016 will add a shot of speed and glamour to the regatta. Three of the 72-foot ocean thoroughbreds will compete in this year’s Annual Regatta. Hap Fauth’s Bella Mente program has been mainstay on the maxi yacht circuit for well over a decade and has recorded plenty of significant victories. But at Les Voiles de St. Barths in April, it was Jim Swartz’s Vesper (above) that had the edge in a two-boat battle, winning four of five races. George Sakellaris’ Proteus will join that duo for the Annual Regatta. “It’s incredibly exciting,” says Swartz. “Match racing Bella Mente in big seas at St. Barths was as fun as it gets. Adding a third player will take it to the next level.”

In the other classes, the speeds may be lower, but the fleets will be bigger, and the competition equally as intense. Among the newcomers to ORC this year is John Brim, who will hit the line with his Italia 11.98 Rima98, which he acquired earlier this spring. Brim is no stranger to handicap racing, having owned a 48-footer, 60-footer and a 55-footer, each of which he raced under the IMS and IRC rules more than a decade ago. Of late, he’s focused on one-design racing—on standard windward-leeward courses—in the J/70 and IC37 classes. Last summer, during the New York Yacht Club’s Annual Cruise, he realized maybe he was missing something. “I remembered the fun of going point-to-point,” says Brim. “I realized that has been a missing dimension because I’d been sailing the last eight years in J/70s and a couple of years the IC37s. I said, ‘This is fun.’ It was fun to also compute who won at the end of the day using the ORC handicaps. It was something different after many, many years of one-design sailing.”

Brim is also excited that the boat (a sister ship is at left) will allow him to sail with a largely amateur crew. “It’s not a full-on race boat,” he said. “I’m going to back to where I used to be and I’m looking forward to it.” Brim maintains his ambitions for the season are modest. But the Italia brand does have a reputation for success under ORC, so no one should be surprised to see Rima98 competing for class honors at the Annual Regatta. At the Alexela 2021 ORC World Championship in Tallinn, Estonia, last August, Italia 11.98 yachts finished second, sixth and ninth in the 62-boat Class C fleet.

Racing in the 168th Annual Regatta begins on Friday, June 10, with a race around Conanicut Island starting. Two days of buoy or navigator-course racing will follow on June 11 and 12.

• 167th Annual Regatta
• New York Yacht Club

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40 AMAZING Summer Cruises from NYC (UPDATE 2024)

What could be better than taking in the city from the water on a warm summer day in New York City? For us, it’s an absolute highlight every time we visit, and definitely a great summer activity in New York City that you shouldn’t miss.

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• Our Guide To Summer in New York
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We’ve taken all of these sailing tours (some even have live jazz music!) and cruises ourselves, so you’ll get real testimonials from us and a wonderful impression of the tours.   As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us!

Wenn du den Explorer Pass kaufst ( hier ist die offizielle Seite ), vergiss nicht meinen Code LNYOffer für ein paar zusätzliche Rabatte 🙂

Table of Contents

Boat And Sailing Tours You Will Love

They are my personal highlight! There is hardly anything more relaxing than sailing through the harbor of New York, seeing the Statue of Liberty and the skyline!

01 2-Hour Day Sail to Statue of Liberty on America 2.0

This sailing tour is one of the most enjoyable boat tours I’ve ever done in New York! On board on this 105-foot schooner you sail from the Chelsea Piers to the Statue of Liberty and can always see the beautiful skyline of Manhattan and New Jersey. Included in the price is a drink and guaranteed a lot of fun. 

02 Classic Harbor Line: Champagne City Lights Cruise

We had an amazing time onboard the luxurious 1920s inspired motor yacht. Combine sightseeing with a romantic evening and step onboard the 1920s inspired boat at Pier 62 (Chelsea Piers – W. 22nd and Hudson River). During the 90-minutes long tour, you’ll get to see iconic NYC sights along the water and most importantly breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Especially in the summer, you can admire the most beautiful sunset during this special cruise. There is seating inside the yacht and outside seating as well.

03 Circle Line - Harbor Lights Night Cruise

The Harbor Lights Cruise by Cricle Line is an amazing way to see the NYC from the water. As the lights start to sparkle across the Hudson and East Rivers at dusk you see the beauty of the city at night from a whole different angle.

04 Classic Harbor Line: Architecture Yacht Cruise

The architecture boat tour takes you around Manhattan in 2.5 hours. On a 30 meter long wooden ship in the style of the 1920s you can relax and learn a lot of interesting facts about the many small and large buildings of the city. The tour is super-relaxing and the price includes a drink (vino, soft drinks) and small snacks.

05 Bateaux Lunch Cruise

This boat tour with lunch on board the Bateaux New York will take you from the Hudson River to the East River, which means you will see all the major buildings of the NYC skyline. And of course, the Statue of Liberty is included! Since the atmosphere on the Bateaux Lunch cruise is a bit more formal, guests are asked to wear long pants and no shorts or hot pants or flip flops.

06 Circle Line - New York Landmarks Cruise

This Circle Line cruise will take you past NYC’s most famous attractions and landmarks. You will head past the Statue of Liberty, the One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, amd much much more. If you are looking to explore Manhattan from the water and learn some of the history of NYC at the same time, this is definitely the cruise for you. At a lenght of approximately 1.5 hours, this cruise will take you half way around the Island of Manhattan as well as once around the Statue of Liberty for the ultimate photo opportunity.

07 Classic Harbor Line: Evening Jazz Cruise on the Yacht Manhattan

From one of our absolute favorite boat tours in New York there is also a Jazz Cruise. You are on board a luxury yacht in the style of the 1920s, which has a wonderful charm and is not to be compared with the big sightseeing ships. The jazz cruise starts at the Chelsea Piers and takes you along the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty and the harbor of New York. On the way you can enjoy a wonderful view of the New York skyline and smooth jazz at the same time.

And the best part? The first drink is included in the price of the Jazz Cruise!

08 Skyline Brunch Cruise Around Manhattan

This brunch cruise is one of the most beautiful boat tours in New York. You sit aboard a 1920s-style ship with lots of wood and even more glass. The provider has several wonderful boat tours in the program, of which we have already tried four (and all were great!).

Start at Pier 62 at Chelsea Piers – this is where you board. First you start towards the George Washington Bridge, then turn south to the Statue of Liberty, New York Harbor and the Brooklyn Bridge . You can enjoy the view of the New York skyline and have a delicious brunch with New York specialties. The first drink (even champagne!) is even included in the price.

09 Spirit: Lunch Cruise

Relax on a comfortable boat as it cruises around New York Harbor and Manhattan on this relaxing 2-hour afternoon cruise that includes an all-you-can-eat buffet and DJ’ed music. Get great views and a different perspective on the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and the Empire State Building. And indulge in the delicious buffet lunch while doing it. Upgrade the afternoon to receive a welcome glass of champagne in a souvenir glass, a table for your party size, and access to a platinum open bar.

10 Spirit: Dinner Cruise with Buffet

Get a totally different and exciting perspective on New York: from a fun dinner cruise that floats around New York Harbor and Manhattan offering stunning views of the city and some of the world’s most famous landmarks, from the Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn Bridge to the Empire State Building. Indulge in a delicious buffet dinner and then groove to the onboard DJ’ed music being spun. Add this dinner cruise to your New York itinerary today!

11 60-Min Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sunset Cruise

You start at the South Street Seaport right next to New York’s most famous bridge – the Brooklyn Bridge. From there, you will make a leisurely drive to the southern tip of Manhattan and you will be in the Port of New York where you can see the Statue of Liberty for the first time. On the way there you can also clearly see the new highest building in the evening skyline: the One World Trade Center.

12 Staten Island Ferry

One of New York’s most popular tourist attractions is the Staten Island Ferry, which commutes between the southern tip of Manhattan and Staten Island. The crossing is free of charge! The 5 mile journey takes about 20-25 minutes and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the skyscrapers and the Statue of Liberty.

13 Classic Harbor Line: Architecture Yacht Cruise

The best dinner cruises in summer.

Dinner cruises are very popular – and rightly so! You’ll see the illuminated skyline of the Hudson River, East River, and New York Harbor while enjoying a delicious meal and drinks!

These are the best dinner cruises in NYC this summer:

Bateaux NYC Dinner Cruise: The most romantic Dinner Cruise on a glass boat

Forget trying to snag a hard-to-get reservation at New York’s hottest restaurants du jour. Instead, indulge in a delicious 3-course dinner during the cruise on an all-glass boat around New York City that offers you an up-close look at the Statue of Liberty and other famed sites. As a live pianist plays relaxing music for you, take in the immense view of one of the world’s great cities, and enjoy a delicious pre-set dinner by the on-board executive chef. Upgrade to enjoy a romantic or first class VIP experience including a private table and French sparkling wine.

Spirit: Dinner Cruise with Buffet

4th of july boat tours.

The 4th of July is Independence Day in the USA, and is celebrated with a massive fireworks display. From the water, you’re guaranteed a front-row seat; that’s why they’re so popular!

01 Tacos and Tequila July 4th Fireworks Party Cruise

In the mood for tacos and tequila? Then come aboard La Barca and celebrate the 4th of July with Mexican food while admiring the festively lit skyline and enjoying a great view of the fireworks! A DJ will provide the music and in addition to the buffet with Mexican delicacies, there will be an open bar with drinks.

In total, you’ll be out on the water for 4.5 hours. Note that the minimum age is 21.

02 Ultimate NYC 4th of July Fireworks Cruise Aboard the Hornblower Infinity

This will probably be the biggest 4th of July party of your life: Experience an unforgettable July 4th celebration with exclusive front-row views of the spectacular NYC fireworks display, set against the iconic backdrop of the New York City skyline. Delight your palate with a gourmet dinner buffet featuring an array of delectable options while sipping on beverages from the premium open bar. Groove to the rhythm of live music and entertainment provided by a talented DJ, ensuring an evening filled with excitement and memories to cherish.

03 4th of July Cruise aboard Louisa of the Seas

If you want to celebrate the 4th of July in New York City with a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, come aboard the Louisa of the Seas! This 4-hour cruise on the Hudson River will not only give you a great view of the Manhattan skyline and some of the city’s most beautiful sights, but also of the 4th of July fireworks!

Chef Thiago has created a special 6-course menu for this evening, including lobster and BBQ. The price also includes three alcoholic beverages and unlimited soft drinks, tea and coffee. Live music and entertainment will also be provided. You don’t want to miss this unique experience!

04 4th of July Fireworks Cruise on Kingston

If you want to admire the 4th of July fireworks from a classic yacht, come aboard the Kingston! There’s a covered area in the middle part of the ship, while you’ll have an unobstructed view of the sky from the forward and rear decks.

On this cruise there is a standard open bar with wine, beer, champagne and soft drinks. You’ll also be served a delicious menu of light appetizers. The menu includes delicacies like lobster roll and shrimp skewers, as well as vegetarian options like roasted vegetables with aioli. For dessert, you can look forward to delicious cheesecake!

On this three-hour cruise, you’ll not only get a breathtaking view of the beautiful New York skyline, but you’ll also get to see the famous Macy’s 4th of July fireworks.

05 4th of July Cruise on Horizon's Edge Yacht

If you want to spend the American Independence Day in a special way, come aboard the mega-yacht Horizon’s Edge! This family-friendly luxury cruise features an open bar as well as a sumptuous BBQ buffet with American dishes. Dance to the sounds of the live DJ and take in the view of the stunning Manhattan skyline. During the tour you can see New York’s most famous landmarks before finally admiring Macy’s famous 4th of July fireworks.

06 4th of July Family Friendly Fireworks Cruise on Liberty Belle

Experience the world-famous 4th of July NYC fireworks up close on an exclusive party boat. On board the Liberty Belle, you can sip cocktails at the bars, dance to the best hits from a live DJ and enjoy the view of the New York skyline from the open decks. The Liberty Belle departs from Pier 36 at 7:30 pm (boarding starts an hour before!) and tickets start at just $199.

07 New York City Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise with Lobster Dinner

Grab a front row seat for New York City’s fireworks display on this Fourth of July cruise with lobster dinner. Get an up-close look at the Manhattan skyline while digging into a buffet-style dinner with an open bar. A DJ will spin tunes on board to keep the party mood going.

• New York City Fourth of July fireworks cruise with lobster dinner
• Delight in superior views of the fireworks display on this fun, casual cruise
• Enjoy an open bar and gorgeous vistas of the Manhattan skyline
• Dance the night away as DJs spin the latest hits and quintessential party songs

08 Celebrate 4th of July on the TOP RATED Cornucopia Majesty Yacht

Celebrate America’s Independence Day on the Cornucopia Majesty and be part of an unforgettable 4th of July Fireworks Party. During the 4-hour cruise, you can not only enjoy the view of New York City’s skyline with a tasty drink in your hand, but also dance to the music of a live DJ. All ages are welcome to celebrate the 4th of July on this boat and feast on American specialties at the lavish dinner buffet.

The highlight of this cruise is certainly Macy’s big 4th of July fireworks show, which you can admire with a front-row view.

09 Enjoy a luxurious 4th of July Fireworks Cruise on Atlantis Yacht

Celebrate the American Independence Day In Style Aboard A Luxurious Yacht! Experience a unique event by enjoying Macy’s Fireworks Spectacular from the comfort of a luxurious yacht that offers breathtaking views and a great atmosphere. This event is suitable for the whole family, with enough space for you to make the most of every moment. Indulge in a delicious buffet dinner and unlimited drinks throughout the cruise. The yacht offers a prime location with views of the skyline and fireworks – an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.

10 Serenity Yacht Cruise

Come on board the Serenity Yacht NYC and watch the 4th of July fireworks. While the live DJ entertains you, you can enjoy the Premium Open Bar to drink something and enjoy the view of the spectacular Manhattan skyline. Since this is a family-friendly cruise, non-alcoholic beverages are of course available for those under 21. Small appetites can be satisfied at the dinner buffet.

This 4th of July cruise departs from Pier 15 (78 South Street at Fletcher Street).

11 Enjoy breathtaking views on the Cornucopia Princess Yacht

The 4th of July Cruise on the Cornucopia Princess Yacht is a family friendly event. There is an open bar that also offers a selection of non-alcoholic beverages for all guests under 21 years old. You can satisfy your small appetite at the dinner buffet while the live DJ provides some music. On the Cornucopia Princess, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the New York skyline and later you can enjoy Macy’s famous 4th of July fireworks from the front row.

12 4th of July Macy's Fireworks Cruise on Manhattan

On this 3.5 hour cruise on the Manhattan, you’ll not only have a stunning view of Macy’s famous 4th of July fireworks, but you’ll also have a spectacular view of the New York City skyline. Aboard this 1920s-style luxury yacht, you can celebrate the American Independence Day with a delicious prix fixe menu of light hors d’oeuvres. Beverages like champagne, wine, beer and soft drinks are available at the open bar.

Don’t miss this festive cruise and book your ticket today!

13 4th of July Fireworks Cruise on Timeless Yacht

Come aboard the Timeless Yacht Cruise on July 4th and celebrate America’s Independence Day on the water. Starting at just $199 per person, you’ll get this 4-hour boat cruise with views of Macy’s famous 4th of July fireworks. The event is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Boarding begins at 6:30 p.m. at Pier 36.

14 Macy's July 4th Fireworks Viewing Cruise from Brooklyn

Celebrate Independence Day with the best views of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks on a fun harbor boat ride departing from Brooklyn just 40 minutes from Times Square by Subway.

15 4th of July NYC Party Cruise on Harmony Yacht

The 4th of July Party on the Harmony Yacht is an event for the whole family! Boarding begins at 6:30 pm at the Skyport Marina (E 23rd St). There will be a delicious dinner buffet and an open bar. A live DJ will provide entertainment on board and of course, you’ll have a great view of Macy’s 4th of July fireworks. Tickets are starting at $149 per person.

16 4th of July Macy's Fireworks on Schooner America 2.0

Celebrate American Independence in a very special way and come aboard the Schooner America 2.0! This ship is a tribute to the original America, which was built in New York in the 1800s. During the boat ride, you’ll have a spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline, which is festively lit in celebration of the 4th of July. Later you will be able to see Macy’s famous 4th of July fireworks on the East River. 

Of course, food and beverages will be provided. Drinks (soft drinks, beer, wine & champagne) are available at the open bar and for dinner there is a delicious prix fixe menu. There are vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetables with balsamic glaze, as well as delicious beef Wellington and tasty shrimp skewers. For dessert, you can choose between apple pie and blueberry cheesecake.

17 The Ultimate 4th of July Dinner Cruise on the Emerald Princess

Experience an evening of luxury aboard the Emerald Princess with an open bar and dinner buffet featuring a delectable array of passed appetizers, drinks, and buffet selections. Indulge in the comfort of reserved seating available for all guests while enjoying live entertainment provided by an onboard DJ, who will keep the atmosphere lively with family-friendly hits to dance the night away. As the ship sails towards prime viewing spots, revel in the anticipation of witnessing the spectacular Macy’s NYC Fireworks Show, offering an unparalleled view of the dazzling display against the city skyline.

18 Bateaux New York 4th of July Fireworks Dinner Cruise

Come aboard the Bateaux New York, a fully glass-enclosed, luxury dining cruise for your Fourth of July celebrations! A five-hour upscale dining cruise on the Hudson River includes a delicious three-course plated dinner with attentive table side service. Take in the panoramic, breathtaking views of the infamous New York City skyline and the Fireworks Display (weather permitting). Sit back, relax, enjoy your spectacular meal and the live acoustic quartet musical entertainment, and celebrate the United States of America!

• Alcoholic Beverages

19 July 4th New York City Fireworks Cruise

Celebrate July 4th on this New York City Fireworks Cruise. Depart for the evening to the beats of a live DJ. Enjoy a buffet style menu featuring pasta, finger foods, chicken, salad, desserts and more! Sip on an alcoholic beverage from our onboard cash bar. Grab the festive party favors provided as the firework show begins. Your cruise will return once the fireworks end.

20 4th of July NYC Fireworks Cruise

Aboard Liberty Belle to celebrate this Independence Day in New York City. Celebrate sailing the waters and enjoy the Macy’s Spectacular Fireworks Show. All tickets include open bar and a delicious dinner. Live DJ playing top hits will keep you this Independence Day memorable along with your favorite drink. Enjoy the show of the July 4th fireworks. This is a NYC Dance Cruise. Aboard and sip your favorite drink, eat delicious food, dance and enjoy! You will get a 3-Hour premium open bar, food, and complimentary party favors. VIP Tickets include priority boarding and a reserved table at private lounge with a bottle of MOET to cheer this Independence Day. Enjoy the views of Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building , One World Trade Center and more! This is a great experience to celebrate in style. Treat yourself into this unforgettable experience.

21 July 4th New York City Fireworks Cruise with Buffet and Live DJ

Celebrate July 4th on this New York City Fireworks Cruise. Depart for the evening to the beats of a live DJ. Enjoy a buffet style menu featuring pasta, finger foods, chicken, salad, desserts and more! Sip on an alcoholic beverage from our onboard cash bar. Grab the festive party favors provided as the firework show begins. Your cruise will return once the fireworks end. What’s Included:

• July 4th New York City Fireworks Cruise 
• Buffet Style Menu featuring pasta, chicken, salad, finger foods, dessert and more! 
• Live DJ Music

22 Circle Line 4th of July Evening Cruise

Circle Line is a very well-known sightseeing cruise operator in New York and also offers one of the best 4th of July cruises. The cruise includes a light dinner with classic summer dishes and great drinks. Most importantly, however, you will enjoy guaranteed views of the fireworks, particularly from the outdoor deck space.

What you’ll get:

• light dinner
• guaranteed views of the 4th of July fireworks

23 4th of July Fireworks on Clipper City Tall Ship

See New York City’s 4th of July Fireworks from the deck of a tall ship for the ultimate visibility and photo ops. Help the crew raise the sails and navigate the ship, or just sit back and enjoy the show. Each year’s fireworks show consists of more than 40,000 shells exploding above the East River for a brilliant display celebrating the nation’s birth. Buy tickets in advance to avoid the last-minute scramble for 4th of July plans!

• Food and beverages included
• Best possible vantage point for fireworks show
• See the NYC skyline from the water
• Open bar throughout the cruise

24 NYC July 4th Macy's Fireworks Family Friendly Festive Boat

Your cruise will have a live DJ on 2 floors and 2 dance floors. There will be 4th of July giveaways, a light buffet, a cash bar, and fun toys for the children. While waiting for this spectacular show in the sky, you’ll see famous landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Freedom Tower, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the NYC skyline. As the boat docks getting ready for the show, the DJ will have music to dance to for full family fun. 

Macy’s has been hosting a 4th of July fireworks show in NYC since 1958. The Brooklyn Bridge and the East River are the new stars of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, the largest fireworks show in the United States. You’ll have front-row seats to the fireworks show, as special firing platforms will be set up along the span and about 50,000 pounds of fireworks are set to launch!

25 NYC 4th of July Brunch Cruise

This 4th of July brunch cruise is one of the newest boat tours where you can celebrate the Independence Day of the USA in a wonderfully relaxed way. The ship has three different decks where you can combine sightseeing with brunch. The icing on the cake is the live DJ on board who will entertain you on this tour from George Washington Bridge to Brooklyn Bridge.

My Personal Recommendations

What is the best boat tour in NYC in the summer?

Personally, I have three different favorite tours. First of all, I very much enjoy the sunset sailing tour to the Statue of Liberty .

Next is the sailing tour with live jazz – it doesn’t get much better than that in my opinion.

And if you’re looking for a dinner cruise that’s more than worth the price, there’s nothing better than the Bateaux Dinner Cruise .

Where do the boat tours start in summer?

Most boat tours depart from Chelsea Piers (Pier 61/62) and some from Pier 42, both on the Hudson River.

Our Guide to Summer in New York

The 35 best things to do this summer in nyc in 2024.

The 16 Absolute Best Cruises in New York

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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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.

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New York Yacht Club’s Annual Regatta will showcase strong ORC Fleet

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Text: New York Yacht Club Photos: Paul Todd/OutsideImages.com, Alexela ORC Worlds 2021/Felix Diemar

The Holy Grail, the Fountain of Youth, the perfectly equitable rating formula for racing sailboats. Three things not yet discovered. But that didn’t, and won’t likely ever, stop Indiana Jones, Juan Ponce de León, and sailors around the world—respectively—from trying.   In 2020, the New York Yacht Club turned to ORC to handicap its performance racing fleet. This summer will mark the Club’s third season with the rule, which is administered by the  Offshore Racing Congress . The ORC Rule is managed in the United States by the  Offshore Office of US Sailing . The registration numbers for the ORC fleet for the upcoming 168th edition of the New York Yacht Club’s Annual Regatta speak to the rule’s growing acceptance in the United States. With two weeks remaining until the first start of North America’s oldest annual regatta on Friday, June 10, the ORC fleet stands at 40 boats, ranging in length from 33 to 74 feet.

What is ORC? What changes are in store for 2022?  How can I succeed? Click  here  for a Q&A with NYYC Rating and Measurement Rules Committee Chair Ed Cesare 

“The first Annual Regatta in 1846 utilized an early handicap formula to score the boats and so has every non-wartime edition since,” says Peter Cummiskey, the event chair for the regatta. “It’s never easy to get sailors to embrace a new rating rule, so we’re very pleased to see how many boats are lining up to compete under ORC. We anticipate some great racing.”

The  New York Yacht Club’s Annual Regatta  was first sailed on the Hudson River on July 16 and 18, 1846. A similar competition the previous year was called a Trial of Speed. With a few exceptions for world wars and other global crises, the event has been held every year since. For the majority of its existence, the Annual Regatta was raced on waters close to New York City. Since 1988, however, the event has been sailed out of the Harbour Court clubhouse in Newport, R.I., and has settled into the current three-day format, which includes a race around Conanicut Island on Friday, two days of buoy or navigator-course racing on Saturday and Sunday and nightly social activities on the grounds of the historic Harbour Court mansion. The 168th Annual Regatta is sponsored by Hammetts Hotel, Safe Harbor Marinas and Helly Hansen. The return of the  Maxi 72 class  to the Annual Regatta for the first time since 2016 will add a shot of speed and glamour to the regatta. Three of the 72-foot ocean thoroughbreds will compete in this year’s Annual Regatta. Hap Fauth’s  Bella Mente  program has been mainstay on the maxi yacht circuit for well over a decade and has recorded plenty of significant victories. But at Les Voiles de St. Barths in April, it was Jim Swartz’s  Vesper  (above) that had the edge in a two-boat battle, winning four of five races. George Sakellaris’  Proteus  will join that duo for the Annual Regatta. “It’s incredibly exciting,” says Swartz. “Match racing  Bella Mente  in big seas at St. Barths was as fun as it gets. Adding a third player will take it to the next level.” In the other classes, the speeds may be lower, but the fleets will be bigger, and the competition equally as intense. Among the newcomers to ORC this year is John Brim, who will hit the line with his Italia 11.98  Rima98 , which he acquired earlier this spring. Brim is no stranger to handicap racing, having owned a 48-footer, 60-footer and a 55-footer, each of which he raced under the IMS and IRC rules more than a decade ago. Of late, he’s focused on one-design racing—on standard windward-leeward courses—in the J/70 and IC37 classes. Last summer, during the New York Yacht Club’s Annual Cruise, he realized maybe he was missing something.  “I remembered the fun of going point-to-point,” says Brim. “I realized that has been a missing dimension because I’d been sailing the last eight years in J/70s and a couple of years the IC37s. I said, ‘This is fun.’ It was fun to also compute who won at the end of the day using the ORC handicaps. It was something different after many, many years of one-design sailing.”

Brim is also excited that the boat (a sister ship is at left) will allow him to sail with a largely amateur crew. “It’s not a full-on race boat,” he said. “I’m going to back to where I used to be and I’m looking forward to it.” Brim maintains his ambitions for the season are modest. But the Italia brand does have a reputation for success under ORC, so no one should be surprised to see  Rima98  competing for class honors at the Annual Regatta. At the Alexela 2021 ORC World Championship in Tallinn, Estonia, last August, Italia 11.98 yachts finished second, sixth and ninth in the 62-boat Class C fleet.

Racing in the 168th Annual Regatta begins on Friday, June 10, with a race around Conanicut Island starting. Two days of buoy or navigator-course racing will follow on June 11 and 12.

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Yacht Manhattan or Manhattan II

Call to order 212-627-1825

-->AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour -->

Explore NYC’s new and enduring architecture, engineering marvels and the revitalized waterfront from the teak decks of Classic Harbor Line’s elegant motor yachts. The “Around Manhattan’s” insightful tour narration is eloquently shared by AIANY (American Institute of Architects) members.  The story of NYC’s development is described as a broad overview for visitors yet includes deeper insights to satisfy demanding locals. Catch new and alluring sites including Little Island at Pier 55, the Hudson Yards “mega-project”, the continuing ascent of “supertall” luxury residential towers and join a discussion of how cities might adapt in the post-Covid era. Continuing education credits available »

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-->Statue and Skyline Sightseeing Cruise -->

Experience a New York Sightseeing cruise like never before. Join us aboard our 1920s inspired motor yacht and take in the iconic sights that NY Harbor has to offer. This is a wonderful cruise to treat out of town guests to see the sites and is a perfect sightseeing cruise for children. Sit back and relax on this elegantly crafted boat as you cruise by Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, and have the whole view of NY Harbor. 

-->Sunset Cruise on Yacht Manhattan -->

Experience a beautiful New York City sunset and the illuminated cityscape during a comfortable and unique NYC Harbor sunset cruise through the Hudson and NY Harbor. Sit back and enjoy the gorgeous 360-degree view of the island from the open decks or the glass observatory of this Gatsby-esque 1920s style yacht. (Photo by Tali Blankfeld).

-->Around Manhattan Brunch Cruise -->

Join us for our famous leisurely weekend brunch! Our “cruisine” is packed with delicious foods & fresh baked goods! Our brunch is a three-course prix fixe menu served in a hybrid fashion of both ‘family style’ and buffet.  Guests are treated to a complimentary Bloody Mary or Mimosa as well! You can also purchase a brunch beverage package if you please. View the sites and cruise with us around the island of Manhattan from the yacht Manhattan’s  climate controlled, glass observatory.

-->Evening Jazz Cruise -->

Cruise New York City’s famous harbor aboard the luxury 1920s style yacht Manhattan or Manhattan II while listening to live jazz music by the Classic Harbor Line Jazz Trio, The Boat Band! Learn more about our NYC Jazz Cruise !  This is truly the perfect way to start your evening and relax to the soothing sound of the jazz. 

-->AIANY Climate Change and Architecture Tour -->

The best way to understand the many facets of climate change in New York City is by traveling along its waterways….Join us aboard Yacht Manhattan or Manhattan II for the *AIANY Climate Change Tour: Resiliency, Sustainable Architecture and the Future of NYC * and learn about how climate change is affecting our city and people, and the actions NYC is taking to mitigate pending threats and reduce its carbon footprint. This tour will address the pressing need for sustainable design and greater resiliency, delving into how New York City is reducing fossil fuel consumption, strengthening its natural habitats, and reimagining its transportation infrastructure. The tour will also explore the importance of the environmental justice movement in New York City. (Offered on Fridays!) Continuing education credits available »

-->City Lights Cruise on Yacht Manhattan -->

Experience a Romantic New York Sightseeing cruise like never before. Join us aboard our luxurious 1920s inspired motor yacht. Cozy up in the climate controlled observation cabin to take in the iconic sights. Join us for a bright and beautiful New York City Skyline by nightfall during a comfortable and unique NY Harbor Cruise. This romantic cruise is truly one of the most spectacular ways to see NYC! (Photo by Tali Blankfeld). 

-->Classic Cocktails aboard Yacht Manhattan -->

Enjoy and savor a well-made ‘welcome aboard’ on the house cocktail varied by week! Watch the city pass by while relaxing in your private, partitioned seating area surrounded by large windows. Snap a few shots as we linger in front of the Statue of Liberty, explore the outer decks or stay cozy in your private nook; every vantage point offers the BEST VIEWS OF NYC. Welcome in a new era of 20s cocktails with a Sake Gimlet or a Grapefruit & Rosemary   Rickey. Our sophisticated cocktail menu is packed with creative modern-day spins. A full bar is available to purchase additional drinks by credit card. A specialty cocktail menu is also available!

-->Champagne & Cheese Pairing Cruise -->

Bubbles, Bites & New York City Sights! As you cruise on the Yacht Manhattan II or Yacht Manhattan, you will be able to take in all the beauty the New York City skyline has to offer while relaxing in our grand observatory. This cruise has limited capacity to create an intimate, comfortable and quiet NY Harbor cruise.

-->AIANY Industrial Waterfront Tour into Freshkills Park -->

Cruise the active, vibrant waterway of the Kill Van Kull and into the heart of Freshkills Park of Staten Island on one of our luxury yachts. The AIANY & planners of the Freshkills Park host this special Classic Harbor Line tour. This is the only water tour available to the public into the Freshkills waterway. Officially closed in 2001, Freshkills has embarked on a 30-year project to be transformed into the largest city park in NYC! Continuing education credits available »

-->Around Manhattan Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise -->

Treat mom to the elegant yacht she deserves! Bring her aboard the Manhattan II for a leisurely weekend brunch! Our brunch is a **three-course prix fixe menu served in a hybrid fashion of both ‘family style’ and buffet.** A complimentary Bloody Mary or Mimosa is included! We’ll cruise all the way around the entire island — seeing all the major sites including the Statue of Liberty!

-->Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise aboard Luxury Yacht Manhattan II -->

Join us for a 4th of July celebration aboard the 1920s style luxury yacht  Manhattan II.   This vessel offers you great views of the Macy’s July 4th Fireworks, Statue of Liberty and NYC skyline, from its forward open air deck, or its glassed-in skylight observatory.  Enjoy a delicious prix fixe light hors d’ oeuvres menu along with a standard open bar (Beer, Wine, Champagne and Soft Drinks) Enjoy the best view in NYC for the famous Macy’s Fireworks!

-->Fall Foliage Brunch Cruise aboard Yacht Manhattan -->

Climb aboard the  Manhattan , our cozy, elegant 1920s style yacht as we travel northbound on the Hudson River in style!  Admire the last leaves of fall in their splendor through the skylights of our ship’s heated and enclosed observatory. Observe New York’s most dramatic natural wonders and colorful foliage as the seasons change. Our brunch is a **three-course prix fixe menu served in a hybrid fashion of both ‘family style’ and buffet.**: freshly made New York bakery and pastry, salmon and lox, Chef’s seasonal salad with an Autumn twist, a roasted ham and more.  Includes a complimentary bloody Mary, mimosa, beer, wine or champagne. 

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-->Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise -->

Please join us for this special warm and cozy cruise with your friends, family, and all your loved ones during the Holiday Season. Join us inside the toasty solarium in full holiday decor for a one hour and thirty minute cruise to see the New York City lights. Listen to Holiday songs backed by a live band!  One complimentary drink of Beer, Wine, Champagne or Delicious Hot Cocoa (Spiked if you please), Cookies, and treats for all our guests are included! (**Additional Drinks are available for purchase)   This is a NYC Holiday cruise that you just can’t miss! (Children tickets are available on early departure times) 

-->Holiday Jazz Cruise -->

Join us aboard our luxury Yacht Manhattan II in full holiday decor and join us for our romantic Holiday Jazz Cruise.  Enjoy this 1.5 hour cruise with your loved one and a glass of Champagne in hand.  See the city lights twinkle at night as you cozy up for an evening out in NY Harbor aboard a luxury yacht.  A complimentary beer, wine, hot cocoa (spiked if you please) or champagne from the bar is offered on all trips. Additional drinks are available for purchase.

-->Statue & Skyline Holiday Cocoa Cruise -->

Don’t let the cold scare you! Join us aboard one of our classic, climate controlled yachts, decked out in holiday decor and cruise with us into NY Harbor.  Take in the most famous skyline in the world and get an up close view of the Statue of Liberty.  This is one of NYCs Best Holiday Sightseeing Cruises!  Intimate and cozy, you are sure to enjoy your time out with us and make it a memorable experience. This is truly the best Statue and Skyline Holiday Sightseeing Cruise in NY Harbor!

-->Urban Naturalist Tour: Fall Foliage of the Grand Palisades -->

Admire the Palisades of the Hudson River through the skylights of our ship’s heated and enclosed observatory, or while catching the breeze on her bow. Observe New York’s most dramatic natural wonders and foliage as the seasons change. This is a spectacular season for cruising the Hudson River, north of NYC, will be a true delight for you and your guests. **Narrated Tour – hosted by Urban Naturalist!** Enjoy an exciting narration of the geology and ecology of this epic waterway!

-->Around Manhattan Holiday Brunch Cruise -->

You will find her warm, cozy, and spectacularly decorated within the main cabin — sure to bring you and your guests into the Spirit of the Season!  This around-Manhattan holiday-themed brunch cruise is packed with a bountiful holiday-themed menu. Our brunch is a **three-course prix fixe menu served in a hybrid fashion of both ‘family style’ and buffet. Expect fresh baked bagels, gingerbread muffins, cinnamon-apple pastries, seasonal fruit, spiced-glazed ham, harvest-mix salad, stuffed quiches, gluten-free waffle station with all the fixings, turkey sausage, spicy Bloody Marys, Mimosas, juices, coffee and tea. See Holiday activities we host! 

-->Sunset & Holiday Cocoa Cruise -->

Experience a beautiful New York City sunset and the illuminated cityscape during a comfortable and unique NYC Harbor sunset cruise through the Hudson River. Get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the grand salon of the Manhattan Yachts in their rich full Holiday decor while taking in NYC skyline during this magical time of year.

-->New Year’s Eve Champagne Tasting Cruise -->

Celebrate this New Year’s Eve with your special someone or your close and dear friends on Classic Harbor Line’s New Year’s Eve Champagne Tasting Cruise! As you cruise on the Yacht Manhattan II, you will be able to take in all the beauty the New York City skyline has to offer while cozying up and staying warm in our climate controlled observatory. This cruise has limited capacity to create an intimate, comfortable and quiet NY Harbor cruise.

This special tour features the twinkling lights of Manhattan and a selection of special sparkling wines featuring a delicious flight hand selected by our own wine and food expert.

This cruise will have a five flight Champagne tasting and the best spots in NY Harbor for the magical display of Fireworks off the Statue of Liberty! 

-->New Year’s Day Brunch Cruise -->

Happy Holidays! Come cruise into the New Year with us.  You will enjoy our warm, cozy, and spectacularly decorated main cabin – which is sure to bring you and your guests into the Spirit of the Season.  This round-Manhattan New Year brunch cruise is packed with a bountiful holiday-themed menu!  Sit back and enjoy the gorgeous 360-degree view of the island from the climate-controlled and enclosed back-deck observatory of these 1920s style motor yachts. 

-->Military History Tour of New York Harbor -->

In honor of our National Holiday Weekends, Classic Harbor Line and Turnstile Tours have teamed up to offer a special series of Naval Harbor History Tours! Join us on Memorial Day Weekend for a special, in-depth tour of our rich harbor-related war history.  This special 2.5-hour tour will explore the military history of New York Harbor from the Revolutionary War to today, with special emphasis on the role of the port in World War II. We will visit historic military sites, monuments, fortifications and see historic and modern fighting ships up close (especially during Fleet Week).

-->Fourth of July Cruise aboard Yacht Manhattan -->

Join us for the 4th of July celebration on board the 1920s style luxury yacht Manhattan . This vessel offers you great views of the fireworks, Statue of Liberty, and NYC skyline from its forward open air deck or its glass observatory. Enjoy a delicious prix fixe light hors d’ oeuvres menu along with a standard open bar (Beer, Wine, Champagne and Soft Drinks) Enjoy the best view in NYC for the famous Macy’s Fireworks aboard this classic yacht!

-->The Holy Cocoa & Carols Holiday Cruise: Traditional Christmas Music & Hymns -->

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from Classic Harbor Line!  Please join us for this special warm and cozy cruise tailored for friends, family, and all your loved ones during the Holiday Season. Step inside this toasty solarium in full holiday decor for a 1.5 hour cruise to see the New York City lights.  Delicious Hot Cocoa, Cookies, and treats for all our guests are included! Sit back and enjoy the show & the sites (Musically-talented groups are our special hosts for each of these cruises!)

-->PRIDE Fireworks Cruise aboard the Yacht Manhattan -->

Step aboard yacht Manhattan for the famous Brooklyn Army Terminal fireworks to celebrate PRIDE!  Join us for a magical evening as you sit with amazement and awe as colorful fireworks soar in the sky of NY Harbor.  This annual celebration will end with a bang! Sparkling fireworks soar in the sky for the celebration of PRIDE! Exhale your “oohs and ahs” as you sip on Champagne and cruise through the waters we proudly call home. 100% of your tickets will be donated to HMI! 

-->Urban Naturalist Tour: Abandoned Islands of the East River at Sunset -->

Join us aboard the luxury yacht Manhattan II or Manhattan– our cozy, elegant, 1920s-style yacht — as we travel past abandoned islands rich with history and modern day wildlife! Embark on a journey of discovery aboard our classic yacht, as we navigate the scenic New York Harbor waterways from Chelsea Piers to the hidden gems of Belmont Island, Roosevelt Island, Mill Rock, and North and South Brother Islands. Join us for a captivating 3-hour cruise through the heart of our city, where history and nature converge in breathtaking harmony. On this adventure, our expert guide and renowned Urban Naturalist, Gabriel Willow, will regale you with fascinating tales of these iconic islands, steeped in history and teeming with wildlife.

-->Valentine’s Day Champagne Tasting Cruise -->

Join us in NYC for a Champagne Valentine’s Day Cruise aboard the luxury yacht Manhattan II.  As you cruise on the Yacht Manhattan II, you will be able to take in all the beauty the New York City skyline has to offer while cozying up and staying warm in our climate controlled observatory. This cruise has limited capacity to create an intimate, comfortable and quiet NY Harbor cruise.  This Valentine’s Day Cruise is one of the best date ideas in the city of Manhattan.  This romantic, intimate and breathtaking NYC Cruise is something that you will make a regular annual event on this special day. 

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NYYC celebrates 159th Annual Cruise

New York Yacht Club burgees and signal flags from a fleet of about 75 sail and power yachts graced the Belfast, Maine, waterfront on Aug. 12-13.

Members of the NYYC visited the city and were hosted at the Front Street Shipyard. A Wednesday evening cocktail party followed a day of racing that began in Pretty Marsh on Mount Desert Island. Thursday, a lay day for the fleet ended with cocktails and a lobster bake for more than 300 at the shipyard. The cruise began and ended in Rockland, Maine.

By Ocean Navigator

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Choosin’ cruisin’: sail the atlantic round-trip from new york.

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If you’re looking to plan a summer or fall vacation, look no further than MSC Cruises . With a state-of-the-art ship, MSC Meraviglia , leaving from New York year-round, you can cruise to Bermuda, or Florida and the Bahamas, without hopping on a plane.   

A modern-day ship with a laid-back attitude 

From the moment you step onto MSC Meraviglia , you’ll be in vacation mode.  Clocking in as one of the world’s largest cruise ships, this 1,034-foot-long, 214-foot-tall ship with 19 decks has something for everyone. Throughout the vessel, you can find pools and hot tubs, an indoor/outdoor pool with a retractable roof, a water park, a ropes course, a full-size bowling alley and an F1 simulator. The Galleria Meraviglia, a gorgeous promenade, is lined with boutiques, restaurants and bars. For those looking for health and wellness, you can’t miss the renowned MSC Aurea Spa, which has an extensive menu of service treatments and a 6,000-square-foot gym with all the equipment you’ll need.  

A premium oasis

For guests looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the MSC Yacht Club is perfect for you. A keycard-access private club situated on MSC Meraviglia , each room in the Yacht Club is a suite and includes concierge and butler service. There are also private restaurants, bars, and a pool and sundecks for you to enjoy, with wi-fi and a top-of-the-line beverage package included, creating a true ship-within-a-ship luxury experience.

Time with and without the kids

While on board the MSC Meraviglia, kids up to age 17 can spend the whole day at the MSC Kids’ Club, giving parents peace and quiet. There’s a Dance Crew Competition for the older teens, Masterchef at Sea Juniors for the tweens and MSC Baby Care for the little ones. What’s better than your kids having a blast? Parents on MSC Cruises don’t have to pay extra for the kids’ club – making it, some might say, the ultimate vacation, without daycare costs!

Dining and entertainment  

There’s no shortage of food and dining options while your ship sails from port to port. MSC Meraviglia has 20 bars and 12 restaurants, including a guest favorite, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, which is available on many of the cruise line’s ships. New to MSC Meraviglia for this summer is the “Tour de Brunch,” offering a variety of international food on the days the ship is at sea and sailing to its next port of call. There are also Mexican, sushi and teppanyaki restaurants that can’t be missed. 

On each of MSC Cruises’ ships, there is entertainment for guests of every age. MSC Meraviglia’s Carousel Lounge features awesome aerial stunts set to pop music that will inspire you to twirl and dance in the pool the next day. Or be sure to catch House of Houdini, a celebration of the magician’s famous illusions. And don’t forget to pack festive outfits for the many themed parties MSC Cruises is known for, such as their Sunshine Party or White Night. 

Sustainability  

While it’s important to MSC Cruises that all guests have a memorable vacation, it’s also important to preserve the destinations they visit. Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, located in the Bahamas, is the company’s private island and has been welcoming guests since 2019. With 64 square miles of designated protected waters, the island serves as an ongoing research project seeking ways to restore the ocean’s coral. While at Ocean Cay, guests can learn more about ocean restoration while enjoying the picture-perfect island setting. 

With a variety of itinerary options and staterooms for families, as well as duplex suites and balcony rooms, now is the time to embark on your next cruise from New York City aboard MSC Cruises and MSC Meraviglia . Click here to start planning. 

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6 top transatlantic cruises for 2024.

Journey across the Atlantic while enjoying all the amenities at sea.

The Top Transatlantic Cruises

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Sailing from New York to England on Cunard Line's Queen Mary 2 is just one of many transatlantic offerings in 2024.

Transatlantic cruises are unique when you compare them to traditional cruises most people book for family trips and romantic getaways. These voyages tend to be longer in general, and they have more built-in days at sea and offer a lot more time on board as a result. Repositioning cruises that include a transatlantic crossing tend to attract more retirees and travelers who just want to relax and enjoy their ships' amenities, especially since fewer days in port means fewer excursions and more time doing nothing at all.

That said, the fact that transatlantic cruises can last as few as seven nights means they may fit in your plans more easily than you may think. There are also some benefits to transatlantic crossings that may not be obvious, including lower nightly rates, more onboard credit, and more time to kick back and relax at a floating luxury resort in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

If you're curious which transatlantic cruises are best for 2024, here are six top picks with different cruise lengths, itineraries and unique destinations to explore.

Explore cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Cunard Line

Date: Departs May 5, 2024

Departure port: Brooklyn, New York

Starting price: $2,449 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 7 to 18 nights

In May of 2024, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 vessel will offer three different transatlantic crossings of various lengths. Choose from a seven-night sailing from Brooklyn, New York , to Southampton, England; a nine-night sailing to Hamburg, Germany ; and an 18-night round-trip sailing that departs from Brooklyn and crosses the Atlantic twice on the way back to its starting point. This unique combination of itineraries lets you cross the sea and tailor your trip to how long you want to be away from home.

The 18-night itinerary is especially interesting, since it lets you depart from the United States and arrive back in Brooklyn in the end with stops in both England and Germany, as well as plenty of sea days in between. Luxury cruise line Cunard is known for its elegant design, lush amenities and upscale feel, and the Queen Mary 2 is one of the line's most luxurious ships. Highlights on this exclusive vessel include the Royal Court Theatre, a casino, gala evenings, an onboard spa and a vast library. The Queen Mary 2 holds up to 2,691 guests with 1,173 crew to cater to your every need.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Date: Departs March 24, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Starting price: $5,949 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 21 nights

Seabourn is offering a 21-night transatlantic cruise from Miami on Seabourn Quest in March 2024 that offers a diverse range of ports of call before ending its voyage in Las Palmas in Spain's Canary Islands . Departure from Miami is followed by nine days at sea. Then, you'll enjoy multiple stops in the Canary Islands – including Santa Cruz de La Palma and San Sebastián de La Gomera – as well as stops in Praia and Mindelo the Cape Verde archipelago.

This journey with Seabourn makes it possible for travelers to see some of the most beautiful and remote tropical islands in the world. The Canary Islands are known for their white sand beaches , volcanoes and lush greenery; similar landscapes can also be found in Cape Verde's coastal towns and villages. Seabourn Quest, a smaller ocean vessel, accommodates just 229 guests.

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Date: Departs Nov. 8, 2024

Departure port: Southampton, England

Starting price: $769 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 16 nights

The MSC Virtuosa from MSC Cruises is repositioning from Europe to the Caribbean in November 2024, which gives travelers the chance to enjoy a lengthy transatlantic crossing with plenty of unique ports. This sailing departs from England with eight sea days plus stops in France, the Azores of Portugal, St. Maarten , Antigua and Barbuda, and Martinique . The ship ends its journey in Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe.

The MSC Virtuosa is a larger cruise vessel that boasts an impressive grand promenade with a LED dome ceiling, dedicated clubs for children and teens, an onboard spa, a lavish casino and the luxurious MSC Yacht Club section of the ship. This vessel holds a maximum of 6,334 passengers at once.

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Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Date: Departs July 5, 2024

Departure port: New York City (Manhattan or Brooklyn)

Starting price: $4,098 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 31 nights

Princess Cruises also offers its share of transatlantic sailings on various vessels. Its 31-night crossing from New York to Barcelona, Spain , on Island Princess in July 2024 is jam-packed with exciting destinations to explore. This lengthy transatlantic voyage has only 13 sea days with planned stops in Canada's Newfoundland, Greenland, Iceland, Scotland, England, Spain, Portugal and Morocco before the journey ends in Barcelona.

This intriguing sailing experience with Princess takes passengers to eight different countries in the span of a month. Island Princess is a nice ship for a long sailing because of its smaller size, with just 2,200 passengers and 900 crew. But the ship is also large enough to have a huge selection of included and specialty dining options, a Vegas-style casino, a sports court, a large central atrium for gathering, and several pools and hot tubs to enjoy.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Date: Departs April 11, 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Starting price: $760 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 12 nights

Celebrity Cruises is offering a 12-night sailing on Celebrity Equinox in April 2024 that starts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and ends in Lisbon, Portugal – making it possible for travelers to enjoy eight relaxing days at sea. What's interesting about this sailing is its stops along the way, which include the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda; Porta Delgada in Portugal's Azores archipelago; and Porto in mainland Portugal.

The Celebrity Equinox accommodates a maximum of just 2,852 passengers at once, so this Celebrity vessel is a solid choice for travelers who want just the right size ship instead of a smaller vessel or a megaship. There are also plenty of onboard features to keep you happy and entertained as you float across the Atlantic Ocean, including The Casino, The Lawn Club with outdoor games like bocce ball and croquet, The Martini Bar, the adults-only Solarium and more.

Royal Caribbean International

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Dates: Departs Oct. 24, 2024

Departure port: Barcelona, Spain

Starting price: $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 14 nights

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas is hosting a transatlantic voyage in October 2024 that departs from Barcelona, Spain, and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This vessel will make stops in Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Cartagena and Málaga in Spain, then spend eight days at sea. After that, enjoy a day in Nassau in the Bahamas before the cruise drops passengers off in sunny Florida.

Interior staterooms on this Royal Caribbean sailing start at just $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees), which works out to around $60 per night, per person. The Oasis of the Seas megaship can hold a total of 6,771 guests and 2,109 crew, so it's an enormous vessel – to put it mildly. This size may not be ideal for travelers who want a more intimate cruising experience, but it's perfect for cruisers who want plenty of space to spread out and endless activities to take part in. Oasis of the Seas boasts 20 different restaurants and cafes, 11 bars and lounges, a variety of pools and whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, the AquaTheater diving and entertainment venue, mini-golf, a casino and plenty more.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Solo Cruises (With No Supplement Fare)
• Sustainable Cruises: The Top Lines Making Progress
• Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials Chosen by Experts

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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