New York City: Signature Dinner Cruise on the Eternity

If you’re dreaming of experiencing New York City from a fresh perspective, a dinner cruise aboard the Eternity might catch your eye. These kinds of experiences are often touted as romantic or special occasion outings, but they can also be a fantastic way to see the city’s iconic skyline without the hustle of crowded streets. While we haven’t been on this exact cruise ourselves, we’ve gathered plenty of details—and feedback—to give you a solid sense of what to expect.

One thing we love about this cruise is how it combines gourmet dining with spectacular views—all from the comfort of a stylish, climate-controlled yacht. Plus, the inclusion of live music adds a layer of ambiance that elevates the evening beyond just a sightseeing trip. On the flip side, a potential snag is that the experience isn’t perfect for everyone, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or expecting a fully seamless service. Still, if you’re someone who appreciates a well-curated night out in NYC, this cruise could be right up your alley.

This experience suits travelers eager for a luxurious, scenic escape that packs in some of the city’s most famous sights while enjoying great food and atmosphere. It’s particularly ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion—though it’s not tailored for those seeking a casual, low-key outing.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Enjoy close-up views of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Empire State Building from a luxury yacht.
• Quality Dining: A 5-course gourmet dinner guarantees a memorable meal with guaranteed window-side seating.
• Entertainment: Live house musicians help set a relaxed, lively tone for the evening.
• VIP Options: The VIP Deck offers an intimate space with panoramic views and a private bar, perfect for special moments.
• Limited Downsides: Arrive early, and be aware that delays or service hiccups can happen, as some reviews highlight.
• Ideal for: Romance, small celebrations, or travelers wanting a taste of luxury on the water.

When you’re considering a dinner cruise in NYC, the Eternity offers a compelling mix: great views, quality food, and a refined atmosphere. It’s a chance to see the city from the water, which provides a different perspective compared to walking or land-based tours. The three-hour cruise is typically scheduled for evenings, making it a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Experience

Once onboard, you’ll be greeted by friendly, professional staff who will help you settle into your private, window-side table—a key highlight, ensuring you’re not fighting for a view. The 5-course gourmet dinner means you’ll be tasting a variety of flavors, likely crafted to impress and satisfy, although one review mentions a steak cooked slightly off temperature. Still, the overall food experience is highly praised.

The cruise takes you past some of NYC’s most famous sights, which you’ll admire from the water. Seeing the Statue of Liberty up close, with the city’s skyline as a backdrop, is often cited as a highlight. The Empire State Building and One World Trade Center also feature prominently, especially as the city lights start to sparkle at dusk.

The live music performed by house musicians adds a warm, lively vibe. Instead of a playlist, there’s a real band, which helps create a genuine, enjoyable atmosphere—perfect for couples or small groups. The outdoor decks provide excellent photo opportunities, and the climate-controlled interiors keep everyone comfortable, regardless of weather.

The VIP Deck and Special Spaces

For those opting for the VIP experience, the top deck offers an intimate setting with panoramic views and a private bar. It’s a lovely spot if you’re celebrating something special or simply want a quieter, more exclusive experience. Keep in mind, this deck can accommodate around 30 guests, so it’s intimate without feeling crowded.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

The ticket price is $149 per person, which includes the dinner, live music, and the best seats. While that might seem like a fair price for the upscale experience and the views, some reviews point out the importance of managing expectations. For example, one reviewer appreciated the helpful crew and the plentiful food, but others faced delays and service issues, especially related to boarding and drinks.

About timing and logistics, you should plan to arrive 30 minutes early—a common request—and prepare for a 3-hour journey. The experience is generally in the evenings, making it a great way to start or end your night out in the city.

Note: The cruise does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. A reminder to dress business casual, and bring essentials like your camera and sunscreen if you’re heading out during the day.

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What the Reviews Say

Feedback from past guests paints a mostly positive picture but with some caveats. One reviewer called it a “great experience” with delicious food and attentive service. Another appreciated the breathtaking views and live music, especially noting the helpful crew that accommodated their mobility needs.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some mentioned long delays, queues at the bar, and a lack of clear guidance upon boarding. One person pointed out that despite booking VIP, they didn’t receive priority boarding or the promised open bar, which was disappointing. Others found the toilets to be unhygienic, and the bottles used for drinks somewhat disappointing.

This mix of experiences reminds us that, like any public tour, there can be hiccups—so patience and flexibility are key.

If you’re looking for a romantic evening or a special celebration, this cruise offers the kind of setting that makes a memorable occasion. The views alone are worth it, especially if you’re eager to see NYC’s skyline from the water. It’s a good pick for couples, small groups, and travelers wanting a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.

On the other hand, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more casual, less structured outing, this might not be the best fit. The experience leans toward a refined, elegant vibe, and some guests have experienced delays or service inconsistencies.

The dining quality and entertainment make it appealing, but be prepared for potential minor frustrations with boarding or service, especially during busy times.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, usually in the evening.

What should I wear?
Business casual is recommended to match the atmosphere.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely—bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning views.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour isn’t specifically aimed at families, and it’s best suited for adults or older teens.

Are there indoor and outdoor areas?
Yes, the yacht has climate-controlled interiors and outdoor decks for viewing and photography.

Does the VIP Deck cost extra?
Yes, the VIP Deck access and private bar are usually optional add-ons.

What about accessibility?
Staff are helpful, and some reviews mention assistance with mobility, but check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Will I see all the major landmarks?
Yes, the cruise offers views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

A dinner cruise aboard the Eternity in NYC offers a stylish way to see the city’s skyline while enjoying a gourmet meal and live music. It’s a good choice if you’re after a memorable night out that balances sightseeing with a touch of luxury. While there are some downsides—like occasional delays or service hiccups—the overall experience tends to be well-received, especially for those wanting an elegant, scenic adventure.

This tour is best suited for couples, small groups, or special occasions where a beautiful setting and quality food are priorities. If you’re looking for a relaxed, sophisticated way to enjoy NYC’s nighttime glow, this cruise might just be the highlight of your trip.

Happy cruising, and here’s to many breathtaking views in the city that never sleeps!