NYC: Serenity Yacht New Years Eve Party Cruise

If you’re looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve with a splash, the Serenity Yacht offers a way to ring in the new year surrounded by the glittering NYC skyline. While we haven’t personally done this cruise, the experience is designed for those who want more than just a party on land — it’s an opportunity to see iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge while celebrating in style.

What we really like about this cruise is its focus on comfort and entertainment. The climate-controlled decks mean you stay cozy regardless of the weather, and the live DJ keeps the energy high throughout the night. Plus, the inclusion of a full dinner buffet and open bar for guests over 21 makes this a true all-in-one celebration. The one thing to consider is the price — at $369 per person, it’s not cheap, but it does promise a premium experience worth considering if the views and festive atmosphere are what you’re after.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want to combine a sightseeing tour with a lively party atmosphere. If you’re someone who appreciates both stunning vistas and good music, and you’re okay with a fixed schedule and non-refundable policy, this could be a memorable way to start 2024.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: You’ll see the NYC skyline, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge from multiple observation decks.
• Comfortable Environment: Two climate-controlled decks ensure a cozy experience regardless of weather.
• Entertainment & Atmosphere: A live DJ keeps the mood lively with music from your favorite year.
• Full Dining & Drinks: Includes a buffet dinner and an open bar for guests over 21.
• Convenient Location: Starts at Pier 15 East River Esplanade, close to public transportation.
• Group Size: Limited to 200 travelers, fostering an intimate, lively atmosphere.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Meeting Point and Timing

The cruise departs from Pier 15 East River Esplanade at 8:30 pm. Being close to public transportation makes it easier to get there without much fuss, which is crucial in a city like New York. The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the sights, music, and food without feeling rushed.

The Boarding Experience

Upon arrival, you’ll board the beautifully built Serenity Yacht. The modern design and climate-controlled decks mean you won’t have to worry about wind or cold, which is a real plus in winter months. The group size is capped at around 200, balancing a lively party vibe with enough space to move comfortably.

The Route and Sightseeing

The boat departs from Pier 15 and cruises along the East River, providing an unmatched perspective of Manhattan’s skyline. The observation decks are the highlight here, offering panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and other NYC landmarks. Watching these iconic sights pass you by while the city lights sparkle is a genuine highlight.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The live DJ plays a curated mix of hits from the year, keeping the party lively and energized. We love the idea of dancing with a backdrop of some of the world’s most famous cityscapes. This isn’t just a sightseeing tour — it’s a celebration, with music that encourages everyone to let loose.

Food and Drink

A full dinner buffet is included, offering a variety of options for different tastes, so no one goes hungry. The open bar (for guests 21+) adds to the festive feeling, with adults able to enjoy drinks while soaking in the views. The inclusion of soda and pop is a nice touch for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

The End of the Night

The cruise ends back at the starting point, so there’s no need to worry about transportation logistics afterward. The experience wraps up just as the New Year begins, making it a seamless way to celebrate without the hassle of land-based parties and crowds.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $369 per person, this cruise is on the pricier side, but the value depends on what you’re looking for. The combination of spectacular views, live entertainment, a full dinner buffet, and an open bar offers a lot for the price. If you’re someone who values unique experiences and wants a memorable way to start the year, many might find this a worthwhile splurge.

Authentic Guest Insights

Even without official reviews, we note that the experience is designed to be inclusive and festive, and the setup encourages a lively atmosphere. The scenic views from the decks are often highlighted as a major plus, with some travelers mentioning that seeing NYC’s landmarks at night is truly special. The full buffet and open bar are also appreciated for adding convenience and indulgence.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a combination of sightseeing, celebration, and comfort. It suits those who enjoy live music and a party vibe but also want to admire NYC’s skyline from a unique vantage point. It’s ideal for couples, groups of friends, or anyone looking to do something a little different on New Year’s Eve, especially if they’re happy to pay a premium for a memorable night.

People who might find the price steep should consider that the cruise offers a premium environment with stunning views, entertainment, and food all in one package. It’s less suited for travelers on a tight budget or those who prefer a more traditional land-based celebration.

The Sum Up

The Serenity Yacht New Year’s Eve Party Cruise offers a truly scenic and lively way to welcome the new year in New York City. With its stunning skyline views, comfortable climate-controlled decks, live DJ, and included dinner and drinks, it provides a well-rounded, memorable celebration. While the cost is higher than many land-based parties, the experience of sailing past NYC’s most iconic landmarks at midnight is something many find worth the price.

This cruise is best for those who want to combine spectacular sights with festive fun in an elegant setting. If you value great views and a party atmosphere over simplicity or budget, this could become a highlight of your NYC visit.

FAQ

What time does the cruise start?
It departs from Pier 15 East River Esplanade at 8:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the evening.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours, ending back at the starting point around midnight.

Is food included?
Yes, a full dinner buffet is included, along with passed appetizers during the evening.

Are drinks included?
Adults over 21 can enjoy an open bar; soda and pop are also available.

Do I need to worry about the weather?
The yacht has two climate-controlled decks, so you’ll stay comfortable regardless of outside weather conditions.

What is the group size?
The experience is limited to about 200 travelers, balancing a lively atmosphere with manageable crowd size.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to do something memorable, the Serenity Yacht’s New Year’s Eve cruise offers a blend of amazing sights, lively music, and good food in a setting that’s hard to beat.