NYC: Private Champagne Sail to the Statue of Liberty

Imagine gliding through the waters surrounding Manhattan on a sleek, private sailing yacht, champagne in hand, with unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty and the glittering skyline. That’s what the Private Champagne Sail to the Statue of Liberty promises — a luxurious, intimate way to see New York Harbor with personalized service and a touch of elegance. It’s an experience that has earned a perfect 5-star rating from travelers, and for good reasons.

Our review isn’t based on personal trips but on gathered insights, reviews, and detailed descriptions that help you decide if this adventure is right for you. Two aspects stand out—the exclusivity of a private yacht and the chance to enjoy some bubbly while marveling at iconic sights. However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s two-hour duration and its focus on relaxation might not suit those looking for a more comprehensive or active sightseeing experience.

This cruise is best suited for couples celebrating anniversaries, families marking special birthdays, or anyone wanting a romantic, memorable outing in New York City. If you’re after a high-end, customizable, and visually stunning experience on the water, this trip might just be worth every penny.

Key Points

• Exclusive private yacht experience for personalized sightseeing
• Stunning views of Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Manhattan skyline
• Flexible itineraries including day or moonlight sailing
• Luxurious onboard amenities like outdoor decks, sun pads, and a cozy lounge
• Complimentary champagne and food options enhance the celebration vibe
• Designed for romantic occasions, proposals, and special celebrations

The core appeal of this tour is the chance to enjoy New York’s most famous sights from a luxury sailing yacht that is entirely yours for the two hours. This isn’t a large, crowded harbor tour — it’s a private vessel that offers a level of intimacy and flexibility not found on bigger boats. Whether you want to relax on the sun deck, sip champagne on the outdoor seating, or unwind in the cozy, wood-paneled cabin lounge, this experience caters to your mood and pace.

The vessel is equipped with three lounges, outdoor seating with a canopy for full shade, a sun pad for basking in the sun, and a well-stocked kitchenette. The onboard sound system allows you to bring your playlist, adding a personal soundtrack to your cruise. Rest assured, safety isn’t overlooked; all US Coast Guard regulations are followed with proper safety equipment on board, making the trip worry-free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included?

You’ll enjoy complimentary champagne along with options for wine, beer, coffee, soda, and seltzer, creating a relaxed, toast-ready atmosphere. Several menu options are available, including brunch, lunch, and appetizer menus, making this ideal for breakfast proposals or leisurely afternoon celebrations. Romantic decoration packages and surprise proposal options are also offered, turning a simple cruise into a heartfelt event.

The route is a carefully curated tour of Manhattan’s waterfront highlights, with the flexibility to tailor your experience — whether basking in sunlight or watching the city’s lights flicker as dusk falls. The cruise starts at Pier 59 next to Chelsea Piers, with the captain and crew guiding you through some of New York’s most renowned sights.

The itinerary typically includes:

• Hudson River: Enjoy views of the Manhattan skyline and the bustling activity along the water.
• Chelsea Piers & Little Island: Pass by these modern attractions and recreational hotspots.
• Tribeca & Battery Park City: See the historic and financial districts from a new angle.
• Financial District: Marvel at the skyscrapers and the One World Trade Center.
• New York Harbor: A scenic passage that leads you toward the Statue of Liberty.
• Ellis Island & Liberty Island: Get up close to the Statue of Liberty, with a chance to appreciate its grandeur from a unique vantage point.
• Governors Island: An often overlooked gem, full of parks and history.

The cruise wraps up with a return to Pier 59, having circled some of the most iconic sights of New York City along the water.

What makes this route special?

Unlike larger cruise ships, a private yacht can maneuver closer to landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, creating more intimate viewing opportunities. The ability to adjust the boat’s position means you might get that perfect shot of Lady Liberty framed by the skyline, or enjoy a quiet moment with your companions away from crowds.

The reviews paint a picture of a consistently high-quality experience. Travelers frequently mention the knowledgeable and friendly crew, with one reviewer noting how the captain and assistant “made a very good job” and created a “wonderful, safe, and beautiful” atmosphere.

Multiple reviews emphasize the stunning views — “Weather was just made for sailing,” says one guest, highlighting how much the weather influences the enjoyment of the cruise. Others praise the food and drinks, describing the catering as “awesome,” with “fantastic drinks and food,” and noting that the champagne was a perfect complement to the scenery.

The personalized nature of the tour is a recurring theme. Travelers love the ability to tailor the experience — whether in the sun or under the stars — and appreciate the professional handling by the crew.

Authentic traveler insights:

• “The whole handling was very professional. It was wonderful! Thanks to the amazing guys,” says one reviewer.
• “Beautiful day on the water! Captain and crew were great,” echoes another.
• “This cruise is better than any other cruise,” notes a guest who appreciated the calm, relaxing environment.

While the price isn’t specified here, the value comes from the luxury, exclusivity, and customized experience. For special occasions like proposals and anniversaries, the romantic decoration packages and personalized itineraries add a lot of worth. You’re paying for a private vessel with tailored service, which distinguishes it from larger, more generic harbor cruises.

Keep in mind that the two-hour duration offers a snapshot of New York’s waterfront — ideal if you’re short on time but want something memorable. The flexibility to choose between day or moonlight sailing enhances its appeal for different moods and occasions.

If you’re seeking a romantic adventure, a special celebration, or a unique way to see New York City, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for couples proposing or celebrating anniversaries, families marking milestones, or groups of friends wanting a stylish, private outing. The attention to detail and professional crew ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience, even for first-time sailors.

However, it’s not designed for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as those accommodations aren’t available. Also, if you’re looking for a longer sightseeing tour or a party cruise, this may feel a bit limited in time and scope.

For those who want an up-close, personalized look at New York’s skyline and Statue of Liberty, with the added thrill of sailing on a private yacht, this tour offers exceptional value. It’s a way to elevate a typical harbor visit into a luxurious, intimate event — perfect for marking a special occasion or simply indulging in a moment of calm amid Manhattan’s hustle.

The combination of stunning scenery, attentive crew, and customizable options makes this a standout choice among NYC water tours. It’s a costly experience, but for many, the memories created — the champagne toast, the photos, the quiet moments — will be worth every cent.

If you’re after a romantic, luxurious, and personal experience with some of the best harbor views the city has to offer, this private champagne sail might just be the highlight of your trip.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Where do I meet the boat?
Aboard at Pier 59 next to Chelsea Piers, at the Dock Master booth, asking for Go Sailing NYC on the vessel SAGA.

Can I bring my playlist?
Yes, the boat has a Bluetooth sound system, so you can personalize your music during the sail.

Is food included?
You can choose from brunch, lunch, or appetizer menus, with options for champagne, wine, beer, coffee, and soda.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Unaccompanied minors are not allowed, and the tour is designed for private groups, so it’s more suited for adults or families with children who meet age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, and dress appropriately for the weather — no high heels or glass objects allowed.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

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

What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled if safety is a concern, but the experience can be booked with flexible payment options, making planning easier.

This Private Champagne Sail offers a special, high-end way to see New York’s iconic sights from the water. It’s especially perfect for romantic occasions, celebrating milestones, or simply indulging in a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. With attentive crew, luxurious amenities, and customizable routes, it turns an ordinary harbor cruise into a personalized voyage. For travelers looking for a memorable, intimate experience that combines stunning views, fine drinks, and a touch of elegance, this cruise is well worth considering.