Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island 60 Minute sightseeing Cruise

If you’re eyeing a quick yet memorable way to see some of New York City’s most famous landmarks, this 60-minute Statue of Liberty cruise might catch your interest. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced it to give you a clear picture of what to expect—no sugar-coating here, just honest info to help you decide if this trip fits your plans.

What we love about this cruise is how it offers close-up views of the Statue of Liberty and a chance to snap some real frame-worthy photos. Plus, it hits several key sights—Ellis Island, the NYC skyline, Brooklyn Bridge—all in a short time, making it a good option if you’re pressed for hours or want a laid-back introduction to the harbor.

However, a notable drawback is that it doesn’t stop at Liberty Island or Ellis Island, which might leave history buffs wanting more. The boat itself is described as somewhat old and dingy in some reviews, and with a few complaints about overcrowding and noise, it’s worth considering whether this is the right experience for you.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, budget-friendly way to see the city’s iconic sights from the water. If you’re after an in-depth visit or a more polished boat experience, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re happy with a straightforward cruise to get some great views and photos, it could be worth the price.

Key Points

• Close-up views of the Statue of Liberty provide excellent photo opportunities.
• Short duration (about 1 hour) leaves plenty of time for other sightseeing or activities.
• Affordable price ($19.99) makes it a budget-friendly option.
• No stops at Liberty Island or Ellis Island, so don’t expect to go ashore.
• Crowds can be large, making photography tricky and the experience less intimate.
• Some reviews mention the boat’s condition and the experience feeling somewhat dated.
• Views of NYC skyline and Brooklyn Bridge are highlights that add value.
• Weather matters—poor weather can affect the overall experience, and the tour is non-refundable if canceled due to weather.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This cruise definitely packs in a lot for its fair price. You’ll get to pass by the Statue of Liberty, just about 100 feet away, giving you an impressive view of the iconic monument. The boat also passes Ellis Island, offering a glimpse of where millions of immigrants entered the U.S. over the years.

The Manhattan skyline is a major draw, especially with the views of the Freedom Towers and Brooklyn Bridge in the background. The tour begins at Pier 36 in the Seaport area, a lively part of town with plenty of nearby transit options.

What’s important to note is what’s not included: this isn’t a ferry to Liberty or Ellis Islands, so you won’t be getting off the boat for a full exploration of those sites. If you want to step on Liberty Island or visit the museum at Ellis Island, you’ll need a different ticket or tour.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s itinerary is pretty straightforward. It starts at Pier 36, and from there, you’ll cruise through the harbor for about an hour. The main highlight is passing right next to the Statue of Liberty, providing that incredible, up-close sight. Several reviews mention how close the boat comes, which is a definite plus for capturing stunning photos.

Next, you’ll glide past Ellis Island, offering a quick look at the historic immigration gateway. Then, the boat heads toward the NYC skyline, giving you views of the Freedom Towers, which are especially striking in the evening or at sunset. The cruise also passes South Street Seaport, an area worth exploring if you have extra time, and crosses under the Brooklyn Bridge—a classic NYC photo moment.

In terms of onboard experience, some reviews mention playing music about New York and friendly staff, making the ride more engaging. But, be prepared for a crowded boat during peak times, which could make photography and moving around a bit challenging.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a mixed picture but highlight some key aspects. Many are thrilled with the spectacular views of Lady Liberty and the NYC skyline. One reviewer loved the “impressive views” and the music that played as they approached the Statue, which added a nice touch to the experience. Others mention that seeing the Statue up close was the best part of the trip, with some quoting feeling a “lump in their throat” during certain moments.

That said, some travelers found the boat damp, old, and crowded, describing it as “very dingy” and difficult to find space for a good photo. Overcrowding was a common complaint, with some saying there was no room to stand normally and that the large number of people made photography difficult.

A few reviews also mention poor weather conditions, which can impact the experience—something to consider if you’re visiting in the summer heat or a rainy day. Interestingly, a couple of reviews highlight good staff service and the availability of snacks and drinks, adding to the comfort.

Conversely, there are unfortunate experiences where the trip was canceled, sometimes without much notice, leading to disappointment and confusion. These instances remind us to check the weather forecast and understand the non-refundable policy before booking.

Pricing and Value for Money

At $19.99 per person, this cruise is quite affordable, especially considering it offers close views of New York’s most iconic sights. For many travelers, the price feels like a good deal given the panoramic perspectives and ease of access in a busy city.

However, it’s worth noting that the short duration (about an hour) means you’re mainly getting a snapshot rather than an in-depth experience. For those wanting a quick photo-op and a relaxed way to see the harbor, it’s a solid option. But if you’re after more detailed insights, history, or a more polished boat, you’ll probably need to spend more on a longer or more comfortable tour.

Considering reviews that mention the boat’s condition and overcrowding, some might feel this tour offers fair value, but not necessarily a luxurious or highly comfortable experience. It’s more about the views than the overall boat experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is well-suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of New York’s harbor and iconic landmarks. It works great for families, couples, or solo adventurers who aren’t bothered by the crowd or the basic boat environment.

If you’re looking for a romantic sunset cruise or a more comfortable, spacious ride, this might not be the best fit. Also, if your main goal is to visit Liberty Island or Ellis Island, you’ll need a different ticket, as this tour doesn’t include stops ashore.

Travelers who enjoy photography will love the opportunity to get close-up shots of Lady Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge, but be prepared for the crowds and possibly limited space.

Final Thoughts

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island 60-Minute Sightseeing Cruise offers a decent, budget-friendly way to see some of New York City’s most recognizable sights from the water. It’s ideal for those wanting quick access and great photo opportunities without breaking the bank or dedicating hours to a detailed tour.

While the experience can feel a little tired and crowded, the views are undeniably impressive. If you’re visiting NYC and want to tick off the Statue of Liberty from your list in a relaxed and inexpensive manner, this cruise can do the trick—just temper expectations about comfort and exclusivity.

For travelers craving a straightforward, scenic water tour to get a taste of the harbor with minimal fuss, this is worth considering. But, if you’re after a more comfortable or in-depth experience, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Does the tour go inside the Statue of Liberty?
No, this cruise only passes by the Statue of Liberty; it does not stop or allow you to go inside.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly for specific needs.

Can I buy snacks or drinks on board?
Yes, some reviews mention the availability of food, drinks, and souvenirs during the cruise.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, offering a quick overview of major sights.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Pier 36 in the Seaport area and returns there at the end of the trip.

What should I wear?
Since some parts are outside, dress comfortably for weather conditions, especially if it’s windy or sunny.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the experience may be less enjoyable if children are sensitive to crowds or sun.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to weather, a different date or a full refund will be offered.

Are there any restrictions on group size?
The maximum group size is around 150 travelers, so expect some crowds during peak times.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

All in all, this cruise offers a fun, accessible way to see the harbor and snap some great photos of New York’s skyline and Statue of Liberty—just keep your expectations in check regarding comfort and crowd levels.