Night Cruises in NYC

Night Cruises in NYC

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Two night cruises are currently available in New York City that follow the same routes as the day tours. Enjoy the skyline from the water at night to explore NYC from a completely new perspective. With these tours, which start in the evening or at night you will experience New York and its beauty from a whole new angle.

Comparison of Night Cruises in New York City around Manhattan

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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 !

new york river cruise night

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The Best Boat Cruises in NYC!

Classic Harbor Line is proud to offer the best boat cruises in NYC! From featured and themed boat cruises in NYC to afternoon sails and sunset boat cruises in NYC, we host a wide array of stunning tours and cruises that range from sightseeing boat rides to music cruises, fun date night ideas in NYC and more! We also offer narrated NYC architecture tours and sightseeing cruises to see the Statue of Liberty! For the best boat cruises in NYC, check out all of the fun and exciting ticketed cruises and sails Classic Harbor Line has to offer!

Full boat shot of guests on the bow of the Yacht Full Moon with the Financial District in the back ground and the World Trade Center

Fall in Love with New York

On the best boat cruises in nyc.

Take to the water and fall in love with NYC all over again! Classic Harbor Line provides unprecedented views of New York City aboard classic yachts on the best boat cruises in NYC. As designer, builder, and operator of classically inspired boats , we offer epic experiences year-round in NY Harbor! While onboard, you’ll have the best NYC sightseeing opportunity available in NY Harbor. Our finely crafted yachts feature teak decks, varnished mahogany rails, and gleaming brass fixtures along with comfortable seating, a bar with drinks available and restrooms.

With breathtaking views of the NYC skyline, monuments, and bridges, Classic Harbor Line offers the best sightseeing boat cruises in NYC! We offer a variety of narration levels on our boat cruises in NYC: non-narrated, lightly narrated or fully narrated. Each NYC boat tour will create lasting NYC memories from the water in NY Harbor!

Specialty Cruises

Join us for a Day Sail, an AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour, Sunset Cruise in NYC and more! When setting sail at sunset guests enjoy varying themed NYC sightseeing experiences including: a sunset evening jazz sail, a live music cruise aboard one of our classic boats, weekend NYC brunch options, a Champagne & Cheese Cruise and more! Join us at night for one of our fun NYC date night ideas on a city light sail! Whatever you choose you are sure to enjoy your time on the water with us as our crew treats you with the most professional hospitality on the best boat cruises in NYC!

Our Reviews

“The Luxury Yacht Sunset Cruise was nothing short of perfect. The staff is extremely friendly and courteous, and my date and I had a great time aboard the ship. The interior of the yacht is very comfortable with an enormous amount of class. It’s also impeccably kept. I would go again in a heartbeat!”

– Sunset Cruise Customer

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Aerial view of the Circle Line Harbor Lights Sightseeing Cruise at dusk in New York City, New York.

Harbor Lights Cruise + Choice of Broadway Show Combo Tickets

Circle Line: Harbor Lights Sightseeing Cruise in New York, New York

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Set sail aboard this Hudson River cruise for a relaxing journey around New York City’s skyline in its nighttime glory! Marvel at the illuminated cityscape and landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center while learning about the city from the guide’s live narration. It’s a great way to cap off a day of sightseeing! up to 2 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

  • Fastest way to see Lady Liberty from Midtown.
  • Includes a 2-hour guided sightseeing cruise with live narration, and free onboard WiFi.
  • Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure time.
  • Arrive early if you want the top deck. Boarding is on a first come, first serve basis.
  • Children under age 3 are admitted free of charge.
  • Onboard cafe and full bar available.
  • Parking available on site for a fee.
  • The best way to see NYC and Lady Liberty is on the outer deck in the fresh air, enjoying the cool breezes and warm sunshine.

Description

Aerial view of the Circle Line Harbor Lights Sightseeing Cruise at dusk in New York City, New York.

Circle Line: Harbor Lights Sightseeing Cruise Reviews

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Circle Line: Harbor Lights Sightseeing Cruise is located at 83 North River Piers West 42nd Street and, 12th Ave • New York , NY 10036

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Nearby Things to Do

  • Circle Line Best of NYC: Full Manhattan Island Cruise
  • Circle Line: Landmarks Sightseeing Cruise
  • Circle Line: Liberty Midtown Cruise
  • The Beast Speedboat Ride NYC
  • The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Nearby Hotels & Lodging

  • Holiday Inn Express Manhattan Midtown West, an IHG Hotel
  • Holiday Inn Express New York City Times Square
  • Hilton New York Times Square
  • Hotel Edison New York City
  • W New York - Times Square

Frequently Asked Questions about Circle Line: Harbor Lights Sightseeing Cruise

Where does the circle line harbor lights cruise depart from.

Circle Line cruises depart from Pier 83 in Midtown Manhattan, located at 83 North River Piers West 43rd Street and, 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036. This Midtown location is on the Hudson River (not near the Grand Central Terminal).

Can I take the subway to get to the Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise departure point?

Yes, you can take the 1, 2, 3, 7, A, C, E, N, Q or R train to Times Square 42nd Street; train B, D, F to 5th Avenue and 42nd Street, or 4, 5, 6 train to 42nd Street Grand Central Station. Follow directions below for the bus or walk 5 avenues west to Pier 83 (about 1 mile or 1.6km).

Can I take a bus to get to the Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise departure point?

Yes, from 42nd Street take the M42 bus going West, directly to the Circle Line Pier. From 49th Street take the M50 bus directly to the Circle Line pier.

How long is the Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise?

The Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise is approx. 2 hours. Passengers begin boarding 30 minutes prior to the scheduled tour departure.

Is there parking?

Circle Line offers convenient parking near the boats at Pier 83. Daily rates start at $35 (rates subject to change).

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

No, outside food and drinks are not allowed onboard. However, a variety of snacks and drinks are available for purchase on the boat.

Is this cruise appropriate for children?

Yes, the cruise is recommended for all ages. Children must be accompanied by their parents at all times. Passengers under the age of three are free of charge.

How close will the boat get to the Statue of Liberty?

The cruise sails within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty, giving passengers an amazing view.

What should I bring?

For this harbor lights cruise, it is recommended to bring a camera, sunglasses, a hat, a light jacket, and extra cash.

Are the boats wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the boats are wheelchair accessible.

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Bateaux New York Premier Dinner Cruise | City Cruises™

How long is the new york bateaux premier plus dinner cruise.

The New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise lasts 3 hours.

What sights can you see while on the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise?

While on the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise, you can enjoy views of the New York City skyline, including the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty.

What should I wear on the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise?

Semi-formal attire is recommended for this cruise.

How much is the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise?

The cost of the New York Dinner Cruise varies based on the package and booking time. Please check the website or contact customer service for the most current pricing.

Where to have dinner on the water in New York?

For a memorable dining experience with a view, the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise offers a delightful evening with stunning views of the New York City skyline.

What type of dining experience is offered on the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise?

While on the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise, you can enjoy a delicious plated dinner with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. Beer, wine, and creative cocktails are also available from the fully stocked bar for guests 21 and older.

Is there live entertainment on the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise?

Yes, there is a live band performance to enhance your dining experience.

Are there any upgrades available for the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise?

Yes, there are several upgrades available including creative cocktails, wine, and beer from a well-stocked cash bar, as well as window table reservations for the best views.

Is the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise a good option for a romantic night out?

Absolutely! The cruise offers a perfect blend of delicious dining, stunning views, and a festive atmosphere, making it an ideal way to enjoy a romantic night out on the water.

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new york river cruise night

DINNER CRUISE NYC

NYC Dinner Cruise

NYC Dinner Cruise

VIP: NYC Dinner Cruise

VIP: NYC Dinner Cruise

NYC Sightseeing Cruise

NYC Sightseeing Cruise

New york's iconic sights.

Step aboard our majestic vessels and embark on an unforgettable journey through the scenic beauty of the Hudson River. Experience iconic landmarks and delve into the rich history that defines this vibrant waterway.

new york river cruise night

Liberty Island is home to the famous Statue of Liberty - the most iconic spectacle across all United States.

new york river cruise night

See the Brooklyn Bridge, the world's first suspension bridge, as it looms majestically over New York City's East River, linking the two boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn.

new york river cruise night

Embark on a scenic cruise beneath the majestic Manhattan Bridge, marveling at the architectural wonder of its innovative arches.

new york river cruise night

The panoramic views make our cruise the perfect way to see the city in all its glory.

new york river cruise night

Indulge in a freshly crafted plated dinner by our onboard chefs, with vegan and vegetarian options available

Each night, immerse yourself in dynamic performances by New York's top musicians, bands, and entertainers

Experience 3 Hours complete with up-close Statue of Liberty views and Hudson River's greatest sights

Experience seamless connectivity with Starlink Wi-Fi, accessible to all our guests throughout the journey

Our fleet features the newest ships on the NY harbor, meticulously maintained and recently renovated inside and out for luxury and comfort

Enjoy a full bar with expert bartenders, offering premium cocktails, exotic wines, local beers, and unlimited soda, coffee, and tea

Dates & Availability

Vip seating, 100% worth it.

"We really enjoyed our tour! We booked the dinner meal package and night tour. It was definitely worth it. We got to see the Brooklyn Bridge, the One World Trade Center, and the Statue of Liberty. Definitely recommend!"

Incredible Servers!

"Excellent cruise. Lovely food. Great views of the city. Our host Gary was amazing and very attentive! Well done guys."

Unbelievable Views

"Very good tour! Fantastic service, great dinner, and wonderful view!"

Amazing Memories!

"Our family had an amazing time and made new friends and memories!"

A Relaxing Night!

"Very happy with this relaxing sightseeing dinner cruise. The live music and food were very good and the staff were super friendly and courteous. It was a wonderful night!"

Phenomenal Performance

"It was a marvelous experience! The staff was awesome and very polite. The live music was phenomenal!"

Coming Back Soon!

We had a great time! The food was delicious, the service was excellent, and the location of the table with the view was amazing. The team was very professional and friendly. We will be coming back in the future and recommending this place to our friends.

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Hornblower

The 8 best dinner cruises in NYC for spectacular views of the Big Apple in 2024

The best dinner cruises (with a view) to sail away on in NYC this summer

Shaye Weaver

There can’t be many better ways to enjoy dinner with a view than to hop aboard a dinner cruise in NYC. And you know what? That’s why we’ve rounded up the best of the dinner cruise bunch in New York to make that experience even easier. The city sparkles the brightest in the summer (it’s still here, right?) so it’s time to take advantage of the many floating restaurants that sail up and down our two rivers. Rooftop bars  and  beaches  are musts, but a dinner cruise is something special to do with your loved ones. Even the best restaurants in NYC can’t compare to the experience of eating out on the water, and most of these dinner cruises offer prix-fixe menus or buffet meals on enormous three-level ships, sailing taverns and ritzy yachts. Whichever you choose, the ambience just can’t be beaten. Bon voyage – and bon appetit, too!

Want more like this? Dance across the water with one of the 12 best boat tours in NYC , and then head to one of New York's best boat bars for sips and snacks. 

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best dinner cruises in NYC

1.  bateaux new york dinner cruises.

Bateaux New York Dinner Cruises

Departing from Chelsea Piers, Bateaux offers frazzled New Yorkers a relaxing three-hour, three-course getaway cruise along the Hudson. Pair a romantic view of the Manhattan skyline from a glass-enclosed deck with a veritable feast: Entrées include dishes like miso-glazed cod with oyster mushrooms and sugar snap peas and jumbo lump crab cakes with corn succotash. Sip on cocktails, wine and beer from a fully loaded cash bar while live jazz musicians provide the soundtrack for a twinkly evening aboard this dinner cruise.

Where is it?   Head to   Pier 61 South, Chelsea Piers. Budget range?   A pretty decent price to see this dazzling city lit up as you float along it. Time Out Tip:   There's a semi-formal dress code for this floating shindig, so skip the sandals and bring a tie. 

2.  North River Lobster Company

  • Hell's Kitchen

North River Lobster Company

Seriously. What could beat tucking into a buttery lobster roll while enjoying peaking sunsets over the Hudson? If this sounds like your vibe, then get ready to kick back at this floating three-deck lobster shack, spanning 9,000 square feet between the outdoor top deck and bi-level interior dining space and lounge. Set off on a two-hour cruise headed to the Statue of Liberty, while enjoying a menu featuring a raw bar and fresh New England seafood like Maine lobster, fish tacos and clam chowder. Pair your meal with red and white wine selections, bottled beers and summery signature cocktails served by the glass or pitcher.

Where is it? Over at Pier 81. Budget range? A cheap and cheerful option ft cold buckets of beer  Time Out Tip:  Happy hour is 4-7 pm (Monday - Wednesday), so if you want to keep em' coming, head to the boat before then. 

3.  La Barca

La Barca

Not into lobster? Head next door to get your hands on the banging street tacos aboard this one-of-a-kind three-level floating Mexican restaurant made for good times. Situated on a luxury yacht, La Barca boasts a large outdoor deck area, and two temperature-controlled indoor decks, accompanied by three bars that serve a selection of agave-based spirits, tequila and more. The boat takes several cruise trips a day, meaning you and the gang can enjoy swaying to a mix of Latin pop, salsa and dance hits — taking in the city's skyline as you float along the Hudson River. 

Where is it? La fiesta begins at Pier 81 .  Budget range? An affordable dining experience for those who like to party.  Time Out Tip: After Darka on Sunday night is where the real fun is  -  Free tequila and mezcal tastings and a live DJ guaranteed to make you 'get off your ass' and onto the dancefloor. 

4.  NYC: Luxury Brunch, Lunch & Dinner Harbor Cruise

NYC: Luxury Brunch, Lunch & Dinner Harbor Cruise

If a premier cruise experience is your kind of cruise experience, look no further. This all-glass luxury ship is all about free flowing mimosas, live entertainment and decadent three-course meals for every (eating) hour of the day. With a  brunch, lunch and dinner cruise option on hand, this luxury sail will take you past  iconic New York City landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Brooklyn Bridge, with the whole thing set to the sweet sounds of a live band. Dancing is encouraged.

Where is it?  Pier 61 Chelsea Piers, Manhattan, New York. 

Budget range? A pricey one, but well spent for an evening cruise through New York's harbor accompanied by some keys.   Time Out Tip: There aren't many seats on the top deck, so it's worth getting there a little earlier to skip the queue. 

5.  New York Dinner Cruise

New York Dinner Cruise

Cruise both the Hudson and East Rivers on this two-and-a-half-hour venture set to music from a quality pianist playing classic jazz, blues and Broadway hits. While aboard you'll be served a lavish three-course dinner as you marvel at Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Freedom Tower and the Empire State Building. You'll set a course from Pier 61, and be able to dance and eat the night away with some of the best views of the city going.

Where is it?  Board at Pier 61 Chelsea Piers, West 23rd St . Budget range? Unobstructed panoramic views of New York's most iconic landmarks for less than 100 bucks. Steal.  Time Out Tip: Think smart casual when it comes to the vibe of this cruise ship - the perfect excuse to grab the buds and set sail. Just be sure to book together to avoid a seating mishap. 

6.  NYC: Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music

NYC: Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music

This 3-hour cruise down the Hudson River combines delicious food with dazzling sights. Sail past the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island while sipping on premium drinks and snacking on a decadent  charcuterie board packed with cheese, meat delicacies, nuts, jam and olives. Once you‘ve admired the view and the plush boat interior, which features  rare wood finishes and collectables, it’s time to sit down to dinner and tuck into gourmet salads and special desserts, while you’re serenaded by a live jazz band. 

Where is it?   Head to   Pier 36, NYC.  Budget range?   A good price for top-notch food, views and live music.  Time Out Tip:   Gratuities aren’t included, so make sure you bring cash. 

7.  Alive After Five

Alive After Five

Gather your clocked-out coworkers and friends and board the Alive After Five cruise, which makes the most of happy hour—it actually lasts  two hours —along the Hudson River in City Cruises’ Sensation yacht. You’ll have two climate-controlled decks to choose from, plus a covered roof deck, multiple dance floors if and a DJ to get the party moving. This isn't just a cocktail cruise, there's pasta, Tex-Mex and other food options depending on the admission level you choose.

Where is it? The yacht departs from Pier 15 at 78 South st.  Budget range? Live it up on this classic yatcht without needing to break the bank.   Time Out Tip: Drinks aboard this vessel are a little dearer than usual (even for New York), so you might have to sweet talk the bartender a little.

8.  Skyline Cruises

Skyline Cruises

Spend four hours sailing the NYC harbor, gazing out over landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building. In the height of comfort, no less, as the decks are climate controlled. There's also a DJ onboard, a dancefloor and an American buffet offering three courses, from short ribs and grilled bruschetta chicken to lemon sole stuffed with crabmeat–stuffed lemon and pasta. It's worth knowing that Skyline caters for brunch and lunch too.

Where is it? Board at World's Fair Marina. Budget range? A spot aboard this stellar cruise is a little pricier, but who could resist twirling around a rooftop dancefloor? Time Out Tip: Planning on popping the question? Skyline can customize your booking to make it a night to remember.   

Looking for more of a party atmosphere?

The best boat parties in nyc.

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The best boat parties in NYC

The best place to get trashed this summer in NYC is obvious: On a booze cruise!

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new york river cruise night

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 Wednesday, September 18

new york river cruise night

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

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

Chrysler Building

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

High Line

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

Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty

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

Ellis Island

Ellis Island

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

South Street Seaport

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

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

Manhattan Bridge

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

United Nations Headquarters

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

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

Yankee Stadium

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

George Washington Bridge

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!

Premier BK Bridge Skyline

Onboard Offerings

While we kindly ask that you refrain from bringing outside food or beverages, we've got you covered with a fully stocked snack bar and a delightful selection of beer, wine, and cocktails available onboard.

Click Here for our Full Onboard Menu

Plan Your Visit

Get ready, Get set, Get Directions to Pier 83

What To Do When You Arrive

Premier tickets purchased directly from circleline.com, please alert a red-shirted Ambassador and they will help you get through security to get to your seat quickly.

Standard tickets purchased directly 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.

CityPASS® holders go directly to security after you reserve your seat at citypass.circleline.com .

  • Tickets bought from other places(NY Pass, Explorer Pass, Sightseeing Pass) or vouchers: Pick up tickets at our ticket office, then join the boarding queue.

Unknown

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.

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In Paris, a Riverboat Sojourn on the Banks of the Seine

For a week, the novelist Joyce Maynard said good night to Paris from the deck of a péniche, within full view of the Eiffel Tower. Who cared if it rained the whole time?

An illustration shows a scene on the Seine River in Paris. Boats are moored along the banks, and a woman stands on the deck of one, her back to the viewer, as she looks out over the scene before her: a narrow stone bridge, trees, stately buildings, the river itself, and in the distance, the Eiffel Tower rising up beneath a sky with billowing gray clouds.

By Joyce Maynard

There’s something about sleeping on a boat. It’s the rocking, of course, and the sound of the water. It’s also the cocoon effect of containment in a small space tucked away from the world. I’m not talking about cruise ships and luxury yachts here. I’m talking about a vessel that gently rocks, just enough to let a person know she’s not on dry land. If you suffer from seasickness, this could be an issue. As for me, I never sleep better than I do on a boat.

Now imagine this boat is docked in Paris. You wake up to a view straight out of a French movie from the 1950s and finish your day under a full moon.

In June I got to experience that (all but the full moon, but more on that later).

My fixation was not a recent one. I’d been eyeing boats — specifically péniches, riverboats used originally for commercial purposes — for more than 30 years, as long as I’d been visiting Paris. Then, at a party in Paris last fall, my last night in the city before heading home to the United States, I met a Dutch couple — Jan and Lydia — who invited me to their péniche for a drink.

Docked along the Right Bank — midway between the Pont de la Concorde and the Passerelle Léopold-Sédar-Senghor — my new friends’ péniche sat in the middle of my favorite city, but in a world of its own, away from traffic and crowds. As perfect a combination as I could dream up.

The evening was warm. We sat on the deck as Jan set out wine glasses and a bottle of Champagne. Across the water, the Eiffel Tower sparkled.

“If you ever hear of someone who might like to rent their péniche for a week or two,” I said, “let me know.”

A pleasant level of funkiness

It turns out that you can, in fact, book a Parisian péniche on Airbnb and Vrbo (prices range from under $100 a night for houseboats a few miles outside Paris, in locations like Neuilly-sur-Seine, to $500 a night or more for a luxury péniche in central Paris), as well as through various rental agencies in the city, including Paris Attitude and Bookahouseboat.com . But before I had time to research these, my new friends made me an offer I couldn’t refuse.

“When you come back you can stay with us,” Jan said.

In June I returned to Paris. In the months since that fall evening on Jan and Lydia’s boat, I’d had plenty of opportunities to imagine the scenes of warm nights on the deck, Champagne in hand.

But on this June day, it was raining hard when I arrived, the wind whipping off the water.

My Uber dropped me off on the busy thoroughfare directly above the quay where Jan and Lydia’s péniche was moored, which required me to haul my suitcase down a set of steps to the water. A small price to pay.

The péniche was one of a dozen or so lining the riverbank — most roughly the same size, a little over 100 feet, some appointed with cafe seating and planters, children’s playthings (deck space sufficiently open to allow for a tricycle or two), pergolas, and in one case, an amphibious car.

But though a few of the boats appeared to have been elaborately renovated, most conveyed a pleasant level of funkiness.

Watch your footing

My dream of staying on a péniche is not one shared with everyone who visits Paris, or lives there. Even though it costs less to live on a péniche than it would to occupy a space of comparable square footage in one of the better arrondissements in Paris, many Parisians view the vessels as more trouble than they’re worth. And it’s true: All that character and romance requires a certain level of open-mindedness, possession of a baseline level of handy skills, a willingness to come face to face with the elements and sufficient agility that navigating the deck on a windy day won’t put you off.

In most areas where péniche s are docked (including my hosts’), they’re lined up in rows two boats deep, which means that to step onto the vessel on the outside edge, a person has to walk across the deck of the boat pulled up alongside the quay, and then it’s a quick hop across a wooden platform. If you don’t feel like taking a dip in the Seine, it’s a good idea to watch one’s footing. For me, all of that was part of the adventure.

A person unfamiliar with péniche life might imagine small, cramped spaces inside, but the boat belonging to my Dutch friends felt nearly as expansive as a New York City loft — with a kitchen large enough to accommodate a couple of cooks at once, extending out to a dining and living room area, bedrooms at either end, two bathrooms and an area where a captain might sit, if the boat were actually traversing the river, as this one no longer did.

In the old days, when péniches and barges were used to transport goods up and down the river, smaller boats often pulled them — or animals did from the riverbanks. These days, most péniches stay docked, though sometimes their owners haul them away in the off-season for repairs.

A different aspect

In addition to the built-in bed, my room housed a drum set and a couple of guitars (owing to my friends’ participation in a rock band), along with a desk. From the bed, I could look out across the water to the Assemblée Nationale and a row of other buildings along the Left Bank. But the best view was from above.

We’re speaking of the deck, the most important element of a péniche experience. Some péniche owners cultivate elaborate gardens — lemon trees, roses, planters of vegetables — but the main attraction of a péniche deck is how it opens up onto the city’s skyline. Over my many trips to Paris, I’d never beheld what I did from the deck of that boat: an utterly unobstructed view of the Eiffel Tower.

The morning after my arrival, I woke to rain, and drank my coffee from the enclosure of the small captain’s cabin. Next morning, more rain. I ventured out anyway, crossing one of the many bridges spanning the Seine for croissants and a baguette.

Back on the boat, there was a little gas stove in the living room. My hosts and I turned it on.

As things worked out, the rain held for the entire week of my stay. But once I let go of my romantic dream of clear and balmy evenings looking out over the water, I was able to embrace a different picture of my time on the péniche. As much as my little cocoon bed sheltered me from the weather, something compelled me to venture out on the deck every night, even when the rain was pelting down its hardest, and the water was dark and choppy. This, too, was Paris. Just a different aspect.

I made it my tradition every evening of my stay to close out each day on the boat by looking out to the Eiffel Tower — one rare constant in this turbulent and shifting world.

One night the fog was so thick it even obscured the lights from the tower, but I could still make out its presence, along with that of the last bateau mouche (each one named for a French movie star from times gone by) transporting passengers from one end of the city to the other.

Bundled up in my friend’s rain jacket, I considered what a gift it was that I could stand under the night sky, rather than staring up at a hotel room ceiling. Somewhere up there, under the clouds, there were stars.

Joyce Maynard’s newest novel, “How the Light Gets In,” was published this summer.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Lima, Peru : The city, with its decade-long dining boom , now holds three places on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, as many chefs embrace Indigenous Andean and Amazonian ingredients in the seafood.

Kyoto, Japan :  The Japanese city is famous for its temples and gardens, but it is laced with waterways  that can offer a different, and no less enchanting, view.

Marseille, France :  Get the full flavor of France’s second-largest city through its favorite street food — pizza  — whether it’s topped with raw garlic, sweet Corsican sausage, Emmental cheese or anchovies.

Rafting in Montana :  On a family trip in Montana, a father shares a tradition with his two sons  even as climate change threatens the certainty of the rivers he grew up running.

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