#1 Six Hour Bus Tour and Boat Ride By The Statue of Liberty

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and want to see the highlights without feeling rushed, this Six Hour Bus Tour and Boat Ride could be a good fit. Offered by Small Bus Tours NYC, it promises a relaxed way to soak in the city’s most famous landmarks, with plenty of short stops for photos and quick walks. It’s designed for those who want a rundown but prefer to keep the pace intimate and manageable.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the small group atmosphere—only 24 passengers per bus—which makes it easier to connect with the guide and ask questions. Plus, the included boat ride past the Statue of Liberty adds a special touch that beats just looking at the skyline from land. On the flip side, some travelers have noted that certain stops might feel a bit rushed and that lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

This tour is ideal if you’re someone who enjoys guided sightseeing with a bit of flexibility, and it’s especially suited for those who want to cover a lot of ground in a single day without the hassle of navigating on your own. Families, seniors, or first-time visitors will likely find it a convenient way to get a taste of NYC’s diverse neighborhoods and iconic sights.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience.
• Includes a 1-hour boat ride that offers unique views of the Statue of Liberty.
• Stops at key landmarks like Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, 9/11 Memorial, and Central Park.
• Flexibility to hop off and explore short walks with the guide during the day.
• Price point at $219 per person is reasonable for a full half-day tour with transportation and a boat ride.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users and requires some walking during stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

When booking a tour like this, it’s all about balancing coverage with comfort. From the moment you meet at 1651 Broadway in front of McDonald’s, you’re set for a full day of sightseeing. The tour kicks off at 9:30 am, giving you a good morning start to maximize daylight.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins in the vibrant Theater District, cruising past the famous Times Square. From there, you’ll circumnavigate neighborhoods like the Garment District, passing Macy’s and Madison Square Garden—places that scream NYC’s hustle and bustle. The Penn Station and Pennsylvania Hotel introduce you to the heart of the city’s transportation hub, followed by a glance at Herald Square and the iconic Empire State Building.

One of the tour’s strengths is how it balances driving with short walks. During stops at Washington Square Park and the Brooklyn Bridge, your guide takes you on brief walks, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and snap some photos. These moments are valuable for experiencing the city’s vibrancy up close.

As the bus meanders through neighborhoods like Noho, SoHo, Chinatown, and Greenwich Village, you’ll get glimpses of the city’s diverse character. The route includes a stop at Wall Street and the Financial District, where you’ll see the Charging Bull and other landmarks that define NYC’s economic heartbeat.

The Boat Ride and Iconic Landmarks

The highlight for many is the 1-hour boat ride that takes you past the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Governors Island. This is a fantastic way to see the Statue from the water, which many find more memorable than just viewing from land. Your guide will accompany you onto the boat, sharing interesting facts about Liberty and the surrounding islands.

After the boat, the tour continues to Ground Zero and the 9/11 Memorial, giving a somber but important perspective on the city’s recent history. The tour then loops around One World Trade Center and the East Side, passing Brooklyn Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge—both impressive structures that are worth photographing.

Practical Aspects and Group Dynamics

The small bus (only 24 seats) means you won’t be squeezed in like a sardine, which makes a difference when you’re spending six hours together. The guided commentary is lively and informative, with the guide adding personal insights that you wouldn’t get from a map alone.

Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll need to plan for a quick bite during the day. Water is provided on the bus, which is a thoughtful touch, but keep in mind that some reviews mentioned the absence of water despite initial promises.

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The Pros and Cons

The positive reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—one reviewer called Frankie “great,” and others appreciated the energetic and friendly personalities of their guides. The ability to hop off at select landmarks during the tour adds flexibility, allowing you to explore short distances at your own pace.

However, some travelers have noted that certain stops felt rushed, and that a few locations were “passed too quickly,” which could be frustrating if you’re hoping for more time at major sights. Plus, lunch isn’t included, so budget some time and money for food.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of NYC in one day. It’s also a good choice for families, seniors, or travelers who prefer guided excursions over independent navigating. If you appreciate small groups and personalized attention, you’ll find this tour a comfortable way to see a lot without feeling overwhelmed.

Keep in mind, if you are wheelchair user, this tour might not be suitable as it’s not designed for mobility assistance. Also, those expecting a very in-depth exploration of specific neighborhoods might find it a little surface-level, but for a quick, rundown, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $219, you’re paying for a full day of sightseeing, transportation, a boat ride, and a knowledgeable guide—most of which you’d struggle to do on your own in the same timeframe. The small group size enhances the experience by making it more intimate, with a chance to ask questions and get personalized insights.

While a few reviews pointed out minor issues like certain stops feeling hurried or the lack of included lunch, overall, the feedback is very positive. Travelers seem to walk away with a good understanding of NYC’s major sights and a few memorable moments on the water.

If you want a structured, friendly, and scenic way to get familiar with the city’s highlights in a manageable chunk of time, this tour offers a solid balance of comfort, education, and fun. It’s especially good for those who want to see a lot without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’ll need to bring your own or plan to buy something during the day. Water on the bus is provided free of charge.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride lasts about 1 hour and passes by the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Governors Island, offering great water views of these landmarks.

What is the group size?
The bus accommodates only 24 passengers, creating a more intimate and comfortable experience.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 1651 Broadway, in front of McDonald’s, starting at 9:30 am.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed for families, children who enjoy sightseeing and guided walks will likely find it engaging. Be aware that there’s some walking involved and limited wheelchair accessibility.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, explosive substances are not allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

In summary, this Six Hour Bus and Boat Tour offers a relaxed, friendly way to see many of NYC’s most famous landmarks with a knowledgeable guide. It balances sightseeing, water views, and short walks, making it a practical choice for those wanting a broad overview without the rush. Just remember to bring some snacks and set your expectations for a quick-paced but enjoyable day exploring New York City.

You can check availability for your dates here: