New York Princess Cruises

If you’re considering a boat ride that offers a snapshot of New York City’s iconic skyline, the New York Princess Cruises might catch your eye. It’s a short, affordable tour that promises panoramic views and a closer look at landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Empire State Building.

What we like about this cruise is how accessible and straightforward it is — a quick hour to see some of the city’s most recognizable sights, with informative narration that can make the experience more engaging. Plus, the chance to get photos of famous landmarks from a unique perspective is genuinely appealing.

However, there’s a caveat: some reviewers mention that the experience may feel brief and not particularly exceptional, especially if you’re hoping for a more in-depth or leisurely cruise. It’s a tour that works well for those on a tight schedule or looking for a cost-effective way to see the city from the water. This cruise would suit travelers who want a quick, guided overview of New York’s skyline without overcommitting in time or money.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $35 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy skyline views.
• Short but Sweet: About 1 hour long, perfect for fitting into a busy day.
• Great for Photographers: Plenty of photo opportunities with landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.
• Expert Narration: Guides share interesting facts about key sites—valuable for first-timers.
• Limited Refreshments: Drinks are available for purchase, but no included snacks.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers loved the views and staff, others found it disappointing or too brief.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

The New York Princess Cruises is a relatively short adventure, but one packed with visuals and landmark sightings. The journey begins at Pier 36, located at 299 South St, and takes about an hour to circle around some of Manhattan’s most recognizable sights on the East River.

One of the highlights is sailing past the Statue of Liberty, standing tall and proud. As the boat glides through New York Harbor, you’ll get a good look at her torch and the nearby Ellis Island, which many consider a symbol of America’s immigrant story. Several reviews mention this part as a memorable moment—one reviewer even called Ellis Island a “poignant reminder of America’s immigrant heritage.”

Next, the cruise moves along the East River to view the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge. Both are stunning structures, and the guides do a solid job narrating their history and significance. The Williamsburg Bridge also makes an appearance, connecting Brooklyn and Manhattan with its sleek cables and graceful arches. These bridges are always photogenic, especially when the city’s skyline provides a dramatic backdrop.

The Manhattan skyline itself is a constant visual feast. The cruise passes the Chrysler Building and Empire State Building, each offering a different slice of New York’s architectural history and style. The Chrysler Building, with its Art Deco charm, is described as a “gleaming jewel,” while the Empire State’s towering silhouette symbolizes the city’s ambition.

Additional landmarks include the United Nations Headquarters, a sleek modern complex symbolizing global diplomacy. The narration highlights their importance, making the experience more than just a pretty view. Throughout the trip, the boat’s open-air deck allows for some good photo opportunities, especially with the city’s skyline lit up, if you’re lucky with the timing.

The Experience and Group Dynamics

This cruise is a mobile ticket experience, which adds to its convenience—no fuss with tickets, just show up. With a maximum group size of 600 travelers, it’s a bustling, lively scene, but the guided narration helps keep everyone engaged. The staff are generally appreciated for their friendliness and knowledge, with one reviewer praising the “great staff” and “fantastic views.”

The bar service means you can buy drinks during the cruise, but snacks aren’t included. Keep that in mind if you’re planning to grab a quick refreshment. The tour runs in most weather conditions — if the weather is poor, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund, which is a relief considering how much the experience hinges on good weather.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

The standout feature for many is the views—seeing the skyline and landmarks from the water provides a different perspective than from land. The narration adds value, turning what might be just a boat ride into an educational mini-tour of NYC’s architectural highlights.

On the flip side, some reviews mention that the duration feels too short, and the experience might not be as immersive or memorable as longer or more in-depth tours. One reviewer expressed disappointment, citing that the cruise was “not worth the price” and that their group didn’t feel engaged enough. The tour’s primary strength is its quick overview, so if you’re expecting a leisurely or more detailed experience, this might fall short.

Overall, it’s an experience that caters to first-time visitors or those with limited time, rather than seasoned travelers seeking a comprehensive cruise.

Is It Worth It?

For the price, the $35 ticket offers a decent snapshot of New York’s most famous landmarks. If you’re in town for a short visit, or want a quick, guided boat ride with good photo opportunities, this could be a solid choice. It’s especially suitable if you want to combine it with other sightseeing activities in one day.

However, if you’re looking for a longer, more relaxed cruise with a more in-depth narration or additional amenities, you might find this experience a bit underwhelming. The length and the limited included amenities make it more of a quick highlight than a comprehensive adventure.

Final Thoughts

Who would love this? This tour suits budget-conscious travelers, first-timers eager for iconic views, or those with limited time in NYC. It’s a straightforward, guided experience that does a good job showcasing key landmarks from a fresh angle.

Who might want to skip it? If you’re after a leisurely cruise or detailed commentary, this probably isn’t your best bet. The brief duration and limited inclusions mean it’s more of a quick photo-op than a deep dive into the city’s waterways.

Would we recommend it? Yes, but with caveats. It’s a good option if you’re craving an easy, guided cruise with photo opportunities and don’t mind the brevity. Just keep expectations realistic about what a one-hour tour can deliver.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but packed sightseeing experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Pier 36 (299 South St) and ends back at the same location, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Are drinks available during the tour?
Yes, drinks can be purchased at the bar, but snacks are not included in the ticket price.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The reviews don’t specify restrictions for children, but it’s generally suitable for most travelers. Keep in mind it’s around an hour long and may be best for older kids or teens who can enjoy the landmarks.

What landmarks will I see?
Expect to see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, and the United Nations Headquarters.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 600 travelers, so expect a lively atmosphere.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, your trip might be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

In the end, this cruise offers a quick, scenic overview of New York’s most iconic sights with knowledgeable guides and excellent photo opportunities. It’s best for those wanting a straightforward, budget-friendly snapshot of the city from the water—perfect if brevity and good views are your goals.