Starship Sunset Cruise NYC – City Lights & Skyline Views

If you’re looking for a relaxed way to enjoy the Manhattan skyline at night, the Starship Sunset Cruise offers a charming option. This roughly 90-minute boat trip departs from Pier 78 and promises sights of famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Empire State Building glowing against the night sky. While it’s not a luxury dinner cruise or an overly elaborate experience, it’s a good-value outing that appeals to those wanting a casual, scenic break from the streets of New York.

What we like about this cruise is the stunning cityscape you get to see from the water, especially when the skyline is lit up in the evening. The friendly crew and the opportunity for photos—including a dedicated stop at the Statue of Liberty—add to its appeal. Plus, the price point of around $50 per person makes it accessible without breaking the bank.

However, one potential drawback is the limited outside seating, which might mean you’ll be inside if you want a guaranteed spot to take in the views. Also, depending on your expectations, some might find the vibe a bit subdued or feel that the digital photo offerings are not up to par based on mixed reviews. This cruise is best suited for romantic dates, small groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a casual yet scenic experience.

• Affordable Price: At $49.99, this cruise provides a budget-friendly way to see NYC’s skyline at night.
• Iconic Landmarks: The route includes photos of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, and more.
• Comfort & Amenities: Inside and outside seating options, restrooms, and a snack bar for purchases.
• Limited Outside Seating: Outside deck space is limited, so be prepared for inside comfort.
• Photo Opportunities: Includes a dedicated stop at the Statue of Liberty for photo ops, plus a free digital photographer.
• Short & Sweet: About 90 minutes long, making it easy to fit into a busy evening schedule.

When we consider this cruise, the first thing that stands out is the price: at just under fifty dollars per person, it offers a surprisingly good value for a sightseeing trip with city lights, landmarks, and a relaxed vibe. It’s not a formal dinner cruise, but the onboard snack bar and full bar for purchase mean you can grab a drink and enjoy the views comfortably.

The Itinerary: What’s on the Route?

The cruise begins at Pier 78 in Hudson River Park, a convenient starting point close to public transportation. Boarding is scheduled for 8:00 pm, giving you the perfect window to catch the sunset and see the city turn on its lights.

Stop 1: Hudson River Park is your starting line—think of it as the launching pad for your evening adventure. The boat leaves here, and within moments, you’re floating past the Statue of Liberty. The highlight here is the photo opportunity at Liberty Island, where the statue shines brightly after dark. According to reviews, this is a favorite part — “very beautiful lit up at night,” as one traveler put it. Keep in mind, you won’t leave the boat, but the water stop offers a great view and a perfect chance for pics.

Next, the boat glides past Ellis Island, which holds profound significance as the gateway for over 12 million immigrants. While you don’t get off the boat here, the views are impressive, and the narration (at least for some) adds context without overwhelming.

As the boat heads south, you’ll see One World Trade Center, a modern icon of resilience and the tallest building in the city. The skyline backdrop is particularly striking at night, with the lights of Manhattan reflecting on the river.

Then, as you cruise further, your gaze will be drawn to the Brooklyn Bridge. Its suspension cables are beautifully lit, and the crossing is a favorite for many. One reviewer noted the “very good experience” with helpful staff, although they mentioned that music was played too loudly — a reminder that it’s a lively atmosphere but not a quiet escape.

Approaching the end of the cruise, you’ll pass by the Empire State Building, another quintessential piece of New York’s silhouette. The glow from its tower is always a crowd-pleaser. And finally, the South Street Seaport marks the last stretch, offering a glimpse into NYC’s maritime history with its historic district.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The ticket includes the 1.5-hour cruise, with dedicated time at the Statue of Liberty for photos, making it a good value for those wanting a focused view of the Statue at night. A free digital photographer is onboard, capturing moments, but some reviews suggest that the quality of these photos may vary — “the free digital photo… looked very shady,” one review notes.

Food and beverages are available for purchase onboard, which can be convenient if you want a drink or snack without bringing your own. The inside and outside seating options allow flexibility, but outside seating is limited, so if fresh air and unobstructed views are your priority, arrive early.

Expect a relaxed, casual atmosphere. The boat isn’t designed to be a luxury experience—think more comfortable and informal. The crew is generally friendly and helpful, with one reviewer mentioning Juan at check-in as very helpful. The cruise runs Thursday through Sunday, departing at 8:00 pm, so you can plan accordingly.

Music is part of the ambiance but, as one traveler commented, it can be quite loud. If you’re looking for a peaceful night, this might be a small drawback. Yet, for many, the combination of city lights, iconic landmarks, and lively energy is just right.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Cost-effective for such a scenic experience.
• Excellent views of NYC landmarks against the night sky.
• Photo opportunities at key points like the Statue of Liberty.
• Comfortable inside seating and basic amenities.

Cons:

• Limited outdoor deck space could mean crowded outside areas.
• Dull or subdued vibe for travelers expecting an energetic party atmosphere.
• Mixed quality of free photos might disappoint some.
• Music volume can be high, which may affect those wanting a quieter experience.

This cruise fits best for romantic couples seeking a memorable night, small groups of friends wanting a fun outing, or solo travelers eager to see the city from a different angle. It’s also ideal for visitors who don’t want to spend a lot but still crave stunning views and photo ops with iconic NYC landmarks.

If you’re someone who values a relaxed pace and casual environment, and isn’t overly concerned about high-end luxury or a lively party scene, this cruise offers a solid, scenic experience.

For about $50, you get a timely, reasonably comfortable cruise with great views of New York City’s famous skyline, perfect for a quick evening escape. The photo stops, especially at the Statue of Liberty, add a memorable touch, and the onboard snacks and drinks for purchase keep things simple.

While it may not satisfy those seeking a festive or highly energetic atmosphere, it’s a dependable choice for a laid-back, scenic view of the city at night. The friendly crew, beautiful vistas, and affordable price make it a worthwhile addition to your NYC itinerary—especially if you’re a traveler who appreciates authentic urban views above all.

To sum it up, this cruise is best suited for those wanting a no-frills, scenic, and affordable way to see New York’s skyline by night. It’s a fine choice for a relaxed date, a quick sightseeing break, or a solo adventure in the city’s vibrant harbor.

Is this cruise suitable for children?
It appears that most travelers can participate, so it should be fine for children, especially if they enjoy views and boat rides. However, check with the provider for any age-specific restrictions.

What time does the cruise depart?
The cruise departs at 8:00 pm from Pier 78, and it’s important to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to boarding.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the cruise. You can reschedule without penalty if done 24 hours in advance.

Is there any food included?
No, food isn’t included in the ticket price, but snacks and beverages are available for purchase onboard.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the cruise.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Will I get good photos?
There’s a free digital photographer onboard, but reviews suggest the quality can vary. It’s best to keep expectations realistic.

Is outside seating guaranteed?
No, outside seating is limited, so arriving early might give you a better chance at outdoor views.

In the end, the Starship Sunset Cruise offers a fun, reasonably priced way to glimpse NYC’s best-lit landmarks from the water. It’s perfect if you’re eager for a casual, scenic, and photo-friendly experience without high costs or complicated arrangements.