New York Harbor Lights Cruise

New York

Cruise New York Harbor for a close-up view of the Statue of Liberty from around 100 feet away, with guided commentary along the way.

  • Get within about 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty for close-up photos
  • Ride aboard a spacious, stable Circle Line boat built for harbor sightseeing
  • Listen to guided commentary in eight languages, including Chinese
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Book This Experience

boat-trip

This standard ticket provides a cruise that gets you within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty.

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September 2026

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Passengers

Adult

£35.20 each

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Child

£28.85 each

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About this experience

This harbor cruise takes you across New York Harbor for one of the closest water views of the Statue of Liberty available on any sightseeing boat in the city. You'll get within about 100 feet of the statue, close enough to photograph her raised torch and crown from angles you simply can't get standing on land. Run by Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, which has operated on the Hudson River since 1945, the trip uses a spacious, stable boat designed to keep the ride comfortable even with a full deck of passengers.

Onboard commentary, available in eight languages including Chinese, digs into details most visitors never hear, like the claim that the statue's body was modeled on sculptor Bartholdi's mistress while her face was based on his mother. Beyond the statue itself, the route passes other New York landmarks and harbor sights, giving you a sense of the skyline and waterfront that's hard to match from the street. It's a straightforward way to see one of New York's most photographed monuments without fighting ferry lines or island crowds.

The cruise departs from Manhattan and covers the harbor at a relaxed pace, giving you time to take photos, listen to the guide, and enjoy the open water. Whether you're short on time or just want a different perspective on the city, this sightseeing cruise fits easily into a day of exploring New York.

What to expect

After arriving at the pier ahead of departure, you'll board a Circle Line boat and settle in for a cruise across New York Harbor. The main event comes as the boat approaches the Statue of Liberty, slowing to bring you within roughly 100 feet of the monument for unobstructed views and photos of her torch and crown. A guide narrates throughout, sharing background on the statue's construction and design in multiple languages, including Chinese.

As the cruise continues, you'll pass other sights along the harbor and waterfront, giving you a broader look at New York's skyline from the water. The pace is relaxed, with plenty of time to take in the views before the boat heads back to the pier, wrapping up a trip that offers one of the closest on-water perspectives of Lady Liberty available in the city.

Things to note

  • Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure to allow time for boarding
  • Dress in layers, as it can be breezy and cooler out on the water
  • Bring a camera or phone with a charged battery for photos of the statue
  • An infant ticket must be requested at the box office for children under 3
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there may be standing or walking involved before boarding
  • Check the day's operating hours in advance, as cruise times can vary

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Frequently asked questions

  • This ticket is non-refundable, meaning once booked, you cannot receive a refund if your plans change. It is important to be certain of your travel dates before making a purchase. Since the ticket is for a specific date, you should consider your schedule carefully. No exceptions to this policy are stated, so please ensure you can attend on the chosen date. If you need to change your plans, you will need to purchase a new ticket.