Starship 60 Min Statue of Liberty Brooklyn Bridge Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a quick, wallet-friendly way to take in some of New York City’s most famous sights from a different perspective, this Starship 60-Minute Statue of Liberty Brooklyn Bridge Boat Tour might just fit the bill. Priced at around $25 per person, it offers a compact cruise that hits the highlights, giving you a chance to snap photos and enjoy the skyline without the hassle of crowded streets or long lines.

What we really appreciate about this cruise is its focus on iconic landmarks like Liberty Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center — all from the water, which provides a fresh angle and often better photo opportunities. Also, the onboard live commentary adds helpful context, making the experience more engaging, especially for first-time visitors.

However, it’s worth noting that this is a short, one-hour trip, which means you won’t be exploring inside the Statue of Liberty or other attractions. If your goal is to get close-up photos and enjoy a relaxed view of the skyline, this cruise suits busy travelers or those wanting a quick overview of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. It’s perfect for anyone who appreciates a value-packed, scenic tour that’s easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Key Points

• Great photo ops with views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan skyline.
• Live onboard narration enhances understanding of the landmarks.
• Flexible seating options with indoor and outdoor spots for all weather conditions.
• Convenient meeting point at Pier 36, with easy access via public transport.
• Affordable price point at under $25, offering good value for a quick sightseeing cruise.
• Limited inside access, so it’s best for photos and views rather than deep exploration.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

For just under $25, this one-hour cruise offers you a well-rounded snapshot of some of New York City’s most recognizable sights. The ticket includes a dedicated time at the Statue of Liberty for photo opportunities, which is a rare plus for a quick water tour. You won’t be leaving the boat, but you’ll get a chance to see Lady Liberty up close from the water, capturing shots from every angle — a real plus for photography lovers.

The onboard narration is also a highlight. A professional guide provides live commentary, giving you context about the landmarks and their significance. Many reviews highlight the guide’s professionalism and knowledge, which does much to enrich a short trip. As one reviewer noted, “Jose our tour guide was excellent,” and his explanations made the experience memorable.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Experience

Pier 36: Starting Point

The cruise departs from Pier 36 at 299 South St, conveniently located near public transit options. Check-in requires arriving about 30 minutes early to avoid missing the boat; punctuality is key because latecomers aren’t accommodated.

The Brooklyn Bridge

The tour begins with a view of the Brooklyn Bridge, one of America’s oldest suspension bridges. As the boat glides beneath and alongside, you’ll appreciate its architectural elegance and historical significance. Many reviews mention how impressive it is to see this feat of engineering from the water, especially with Manhattan’s skyline framing it.

Manhattan Skyline and One World Trade Center

As the boat turns along the Hudson River, you’ll get sweeping views of downtown Manhattan, including One World Trade Center, with its soaring height and modern design. From the water, the skyline appears more dramatic, especially for photography, since you can capture the cityscape in a way that’s tough from land.

Ellis Island

Next, the boat passes Ellis Island, where over 12 million immigrants arrived in the US between 1892 and 1954. While you don’t dock or visit inside, the proximity allows you to appreciate the island’s historical weight. Some reviews mention this is a highlight because of the view and the historical context shared by the guide.

Statue of Liberty

The centerpiece, of course, is the Statue of Liberty. The boat pauses in front of Lady Liberty for about 10 minutes, allowing everyone to take photos from every angle. One reviewer praised the complimentary digital photo service, noting that “they took the time and stopped in front of the Statue of Liberty so that everyone could get pictures.” Keep in mind, you don’t leave the boat, so if you’re eager to explore Liberty Island, you’ll need a different ticket. Still, for quick snapshots, this setup is efficient and quite satisfying.

South Street Seaport and the Historic District

The cruise rounds out with views of the South Street Seaport, a vibrant historic district rich in maritime history. You’ll see the famous carousel and the charming streets that harken back to old New York. Several reviews mention how the view of this area adds a nice touch of local flavor.

The Experience: Comfort, Food, and Atmosphere

The boat itself is described as clean and modern. With indoor and outdoor seating, the cruise is comfortable regardless of the weather. If it’s chilly or rainy, you can still enjoy the sights from inside, protected from the elements.

A snack bar is available onboard, offering drinks and light snacks for purchase. Although food isn’t included in the ticket price, many reviewers appreciated the opportunity to grab something during the trip.

Customer Feedback: What Travelers Say

Most reviews are positive, praising friendly staff, knowledgeable guides, and good value for money. For example, one traveler raved, “This boat ride was amazing! The crew made it so fun, and Jose was excellent.” Another highlighted the cleanliness and comfortable seating, making the short trip enjoyable.

There are some constructive critiques, particularly regarding the bathroom conditions and early booking confusion. One reviewer mentioned that the bathroom smelled like a public park bathroom, which can be disappointing but is typical for many boats. Others noted that finding the correct slip at Pier 36 can be tricky, so arriving early is strongly advised.

The Price and How It Compares

At $24.99, this tour is quite affordable compared to longer or more elaborate cruises. When considering that it includes live narration, a dedicated photo stop, and views of multiple landmarks, the value becomes clear. It’s an efficient way to tick off some key sights without breaking the bank or spending hours on the water.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for busy travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn without the commitment of longer tours or entrance fees. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager for a photogenic adventure will find this a satisfying option. If you’re not interested in inside visits or extended tours, this is a straightforward way to see NYC’s water-bound highlights.

It’s also perfect for those who enjoy informative guides and comfortable settings—think of it as a scenic ride with a bit of storytelling. Just remember, it’s a short trip—if you’re craving a deeper dive into the history or inside access, you should look elsewhere.

Final Words: Is It Worth It?

For the price and the time invested, this Starship cruise offers a solid snapshot of New York’s most iconic sights. You’ll get to see the Statue of Liberty up close, admire the Brooklyn Bridge from the water, and enjoy spectacular views of Manhattan’s skyline—all without the crowds or long lines.

If your goal is to capture great photos, learn a bit from a knowledgeable guide, and maximize your sightseeing in an hour, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time or those who want a relaxed, scenic experience as part of a busy itinerary.

While it might not satisfy those seeking inside visits or a longer, more immersive experience, it provides a memorable, visually stunning introduction to New York’s waterfront. Just arrive early, bring your camera, and enjoy the ride.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You get a 60-minute cruise with live narration, a dedicated time at the Statue of Liberty for photos, and views of Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and Manhattan skyline. A free digital photo is also included.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Pier 36, 299 South St, New York City, and ends back at the same location.

How early should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure to avoid missing the boat, as late arrivals are not accommodated.

Can I leave the boat at Liberty Island?
No, you do not leave the boat during this tour. If you want to visit inside the Statue of Liberty, you’ll need a different ticket or tour.

Is the boat accessible in bad weather?
Yes, the boat has both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can enjoy the sights regardless of weather conditions.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are available for purchase onboard. You cannot bring your own food or drink aboard.

Is there a bathroom on the boat?
Yes, there is a bathroom, but some reviews note it can smell similar to a public park bathroom, which is common on boats.

What if I am late or need to cancel?
Late arrivals will not be allowed to board. Cancellation is free if done more than 24 hours in advance; less than 24 hours, and there is no refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a family-friendly way to see NYC’s landmarks. Just keep in mind the duration is short, and young children might need extra supervision.

How does this tour compare with other water tours?
It’s a shorter, more affordable option focusing on key landmarks, making it ideal for a quick overview rather than a deep dive into history or architecture.

The Starship 60 Min Statue of Liberty Brooklyn Bridge Boat Tour offers a smart, scenic, and budget-friendly way to see some of New York’s most picturesque sights from the water. Whether you’re snapping photos, learning about the city, or simply enjoying the skyline, it’s a worthwhile addition to your NYC itinerary.