New York Princess Cruises

If you’re looking for a quick, affordable way to see some of New York City’s most famous sights from the water, the New York Princess Cruises offers a straightforward 1-hour tour on the East River. This cruise promises panoramic skyline views, close-up looks at the Statue of Liberty, and an opportunity to see several bridges and landmarks that define the Big Apple’s waterfront. It’s an experience that’s accessible and family-friendly, but might not satisfy those seeking a more in-depth or longer cruise.

What we like about this cruise is how accessible it is — at just $35 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to get a different perspective on Manhattan. The expert narration from guides helps bring the sights to life, making the short trip both informative and enjoyable. Plus, the chance to photograph landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty up close is an added bonus. However, one thing to keep in mind: the duration is brief, and some travelers may find it too quick to really soak in everything.

This cruise suits visitors who want a snapshot of New York’s skyline, especially those with limited time or looking for a family-friendly outing. If your goal is to get a quick, scenic overview with some great photo opportunities, this is a decent choice. But if you’re after a more comprehensive or longer cruise experience, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a scenic boat tour in NYC
• Excellent views of Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and bridges
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with engaging narration
• Quick 1-hour tour ideal for a short sightseeing break
• Drinks available for purchase on board
• Some travelers find the experience too brief or underwhelming

What the Tour Offers

The New York Princess Cruises is a short, roughly 1-hour voyage across the East River, departing from Pier 36 in Manhattan. For many travelers, this is a cost-effective way to see some of New York’s most photogenic sights without committing to a longer or pricier cruise. The mobile ticket process adds convenience, letting you skip lines and go directly to the boat.

The boat itself is described as a nice vessel, and you’ll find a bar on board where drinks can be bought — ideal for those wanting a quick toast to the city skyline. Snacks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want more than just the views.

Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise hits several key landmarks, with the guide providing narration to explain their significance. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect at each stop:

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

The cruise begins by gliding through New York Harbor, giving you a close-up view of the Statue of Liberty, a universal symbol of freedom. This is often a highlight, as you get to see Lady Liberty up close and capture photos from the water. Ellis Island appears shortly afterward, serving as a poignant reminder of America’s immigrant story. One reviewer noted this as a “poignant reminder of America’s immigrant heritage,” making it a meaningful stop for history buffs or those interested in American culture.

Bridges: Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Williamsburg

As the boat navigates the East River, you’ll see the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and Williamsburg Bridge. Each has its own unique architectural style and history. The Brooklyn Bridge, with its iconic stone towers and web of cables, is pictured by many as a true symbol of New York. The guide’s narration helps you appreciate these structures beyond their aesthetic appeal.

Manhattan Skyline & Iconic Buildings

You’ll also get stunning views of Manhattan’s skyline, including the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building. According to reviews, the Chrysler Building is described as a “gleaming jewel” rising from the skyline, while the Empire State Building appears like a “towering symbol of ambition.” These sights are especially photogenic during sunset or at dusk when the city lights sparkle.

United Nations Headquarters

Sailing along the East River, you’ll pass the United Nations Headquarters, recognized as a symbol of global diplomacy. The guide highlights the complex’s modern architecture, adding context to the city’s international importance.

Additional Notes

The cruise’s timing (around 1 hour) means you won’t have time for extensive exploration but will get a quick, panoramic view of the city’s waterfront. Some reviews mention that the experience could be longer, but for many, the price and convenience outweigh the brevity.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

One reviewer who gave a 5-star rating shared that they enjoyed the “great experience” and “fantastic sites”, emphasizing that the staff was friendly and the boat was nice. They appreciated the photo opportunities with the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and notable bridges. On the other hand, a dissatisfied traveler expressed disappointment, mainly because of the short duration and perhaps unrealistic expectations for a longer or more immersive experience.

The expert narration is often praised for making the landmarks meaningful and helping visitors understand their historical and cultural significance. However, because the cruise is quite quick, some travelers might feel they don’t get enough time to fully appreciate each site, especially during busy times when the boat is crowded — up to 600 people can be on this tour.

Practical Considerations

• Price: At $35, the tour offers value for those wanting a quick overview without breaking the bank.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 20 days in advance, indicating that it’s popular but not overly booked.
• Accessibility: The meeting point at Pier 36 is near public transportation, making it easy to reach.
• Weather Dependence: Since the cruise requires good weather, it could be canceled if the weather turns bad, with options for rescheduling or full refund.

Final Thoughts on the Value

For a short, scenic snapshot of New York’s water-bound landmarks, the New York Princess Cruises is a decent choice, especially for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The views of the skyline and bridges are impressive, and the guides’ narration adds educational value. It’s particularly appealing if you want a cost-effective way to see some major sights from the water with minimal hassle.

However, if you’re craving a more in-depth experience or a longer cruise, you might find this one too brief. It’s ideal for a quick break from busy sightseeing, a family outing, or a photo stop, but not necessarily for those seeking a comprehensive or romantic cruise.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a fast, affordable introduction to New York’s waterfront attractions. If you enjoy spectacular views, guided narration, and photo opportunities, you’ll find plenty to like. It’s also a good choice for families, as children often enjoy boat rides and the chance to see iconic landmarks up close.

Conversely, if you prefer a more leisurely or detailed exploration of NYC’s landmarks or are interested in a longer cruise experience, you might want to explore other options. The quick pace and limited duration mean this tour works best as a short highlight reel rather than an in-depth exploration.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick sightseeing trip focused on key landmarks and scenic views.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the 1-hour boat ride with narration and provides panoramic views of the city skyline, Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and several bridges. Drinks are available at the bar for purchase, but snacks are not included.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Pier 36, 299 South St, New York, NY 10002, which is accessible via public transportation.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is family-friendly. However, children should be comfortable on a boat ride for about an hour.

Are there any age restrictions for drinks?
Yes, alcoholic beverages are only served to guests over 21 years old.

The New York Princess Cruises offers a quick, scenic, and budget-conscious way to see some of New York City’s most recognizable sights from the water. With knowledgeable guides providing engaging commentary and stunning skyline views, it’s an experience that packs a visual punch, especially for first-time visitors or those short on time.

While the duration might leave some wishing for a longer cruise, its affordability and ease of access make it an attractive option for many travelers. Perfect for families, photo enthusiasts, or anyone looking to tick off a few must-see landmarks without spending hours on the water.

If your goal is a brief water-based snapshot of New York City’s iconic skyline, bridges, and harbor, this tour fits the bill. For more in-depth exploration or a more relaxed pace, consider other options. But for a compact, memorable introduction to NYC’s waterfront, the New York Princess Cruises is a practical choice.