New York City offers some of the most awe-inspiring views in the world, especially if you’re taking them in from the water. So, if you’re looking for things to do in NYC on the water, a ferry ride or private boat tour gives you a front seat to iconic landmarks, the Manhattan skyline, and shimmering waters of the harbor.
Many visitors turn to public boat rides like the Staten Island Ferry for a chance to take in some of this amazing scenery. Rest assured that these are all practical options, and there’s plenty to choose from. However, if you want a magical NYC experience you’re sure to remember—it’s time to think bigger and better with a New York Harbor Boat Tours adventure.
New York Harbor Tours is a private boat tour company built for people who want the gorgeous views and a tailored experience, without the hassles of crowded decks or a fight for photo shoot ops.
This guide breaks down what to expect from public NYC ferries while also showing why New York Harbor Tours delivers something better—a top-tier, comfortable experience that others simply can't match.
What to Expect on a New York City Ferry Tour
A public New York ferry tour is a popular way to go sightseeing from the water, and they offer a variety of routes connecting different neighborhoods and boroughs. Here's what to expect if you decide to hop aboard one of these traditional rides:
Ferry Routes and Popular Stops: NYC ferries double as transportation, but they allow you to take in the scenery during the trip. Some of them also allow access to trendy locales, iconic landmarks, and cultural spots. If you’re curious, here’s a look a look at some sights you’ll see along their routes:
The Staten Island Ferry: This popular option offers a good Statue of Liberty ferry tour for free. You also get decent views of Ellis Island and Lower Manhattan during its 25-minute crossing.
The NYC Ferry System: For a NYC ferry ride with views, you can go with the NYC Ferry System. Their ferries connect boroughs like Queens, Brooklyn and the Bronx to Manhattan. The East River Ferry, in particular, provides views of iconic New York City bridges.
Crowds and Timing: Public ferries operate on rigid schedules. While some of them offer open-air decks and seating, things can get cramped. Expect long waits in line and no guarantee of a prime spot for views and photos as a result.
Price and Convenience: Public ferries are popular due to their affordable rates and accessibility to key spots across the city. Most NYC ferry tickets are under $5, making it one of the most economical ways to go sightseeing on the water.
Minimal Comfort and No Narration: If you’re interested in a NYC ferry cruise with narration, these public water boats offer little in this regard. The boats are built to move people, not impress them. Expect a quick ride, little comfort, and no real storytelling to bring the views to life.
Limited Customization: Ferries stick to strict schedules and fixed routes. Therefore, you don’t get to call the shots. You’ll breeze past landmarks on their timeline, not yours.
Why Choose a Private Boat Tour Over a Ferry Ride?
Public ferries pretty much get the job done if you want a budget-friendly and straightforward way to get a lift from point A to B. But if you want one of the best NYC boat tours, private charters deliver an unforgettable ride. For instance, New York Harbor Tours gives you front-row seats to the city’s best sights, without the crowds or hassle.
Here are some distinct advantages we offer that can make your experience in NYC truly memorable.
Personalized Experience
Unlike ferries, private boat tours hand you the map and you call the shots. Want to drift near the Statue of Liberty at sunset or cruise along the Hudson River with unparalleled views of the city skyline? Or cruise under the Brooklyn Bridge and linger for photos? You got it! Morning, afternoon, evening—it's totally your itinerary!
These are private tours that launch when you're ready, not when a ferry schedule says that you must. With New York Harbor Tours, there's no rushing, waiting, or missing the good stuff. Our custom routes turn a simple boat ride into a New York City story that’s completely your own.
Comfort and Space
Ferries used for public transportation in NYC can get packed fast, especially during peak tourist season. If you’re hoping for breathing room—forget it. You’ll be squeezing against tight railings and dodging waves of tourists just trying to move.
A private adventure with New York Harbor Tours flips that experience completely. You won’t have to edge through crowds or scramble for a view. Instead, you’ll have freedom to move around the boat and find your favorite spot early on—no competition, no stress.
This exclusive experience lets you cruise on the Tireless or Relentless, two beautiful boats built for private sightseeing. Unlike public vessels tied to fixed ferry routes, our private boat tour gives you a chance to drift longer, and enjoy the harbor however you want. You’ll have your own captain and crew, plus the flexibility to plan the day your own way.
A Closer Look at the Iconic NYC Landmarks
Seeing New York's landmarks from a private boat tour changes everything. You can cruise past the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and more, moving at whatever pace suits you. There are no crowds blocking your view and no rush to “move along.” It's NYC harbor sightseeing at its best—just you, the open water, and the city's greatest sights.
Want to stop and take a photo as long as you like? A private tour is the perfect setup to line up those Instagram-worthy shots without hundreds of other people jostling into your frame. You can stop when you want, circle a landmark for the perfect angle, or drift slowly past Manhattan's Waterfront for skyline photos that look straight out of a movie.
On a private tour, the landmarks aren't just something you glimpse from a distance. You get up close and personal, and they become a real part of your trip. The tour moves you up front and center for perfect photos—and the memories stay with you long after you're back on land.
If you’re looking for a Manhattan ferry tour experience—with incredible skyline views but none of the crowds—New York Harbor Tours’ Daylight Downtown New York City Loop delivers. Departing from Pier 25 in Tribeca, this private NYC skyline boat tour loops around the southern tip of Manhattan and heads up the East and Hudson Rivers, offering unbeatable perspectives of the city's most famous landmarks.
What’s Included in New York Harbor’s Private Boat Tours?
When you book a private boat tour with New York Harbor tours, you're signing up for a completely different way to see the city. Every trip is designed for comfort, local insight, and a personalized experience that feels worlds away from mingling with the usual tourist crowds. Here's what's waiting for you onboard:
Luxury Vessels: New York Harbor Tours offers two private boats that are comfortable, well-maintained, and built for a great day on the water.
Tireless: A 6-passenger vessel with a spacious open deck, protected cabin, onboard bathroom, and galley.
Relentless: A classic Downeast-style yacht for up to 16 guests, offering indoor and outdoor seating and an easy, relaxed vibe. Some tours even feature extra luxury touches to make the experience feel even more elevated.
Knowledgeable Captain: The boats at New York Harbor Tours are operated by a professional, Coast Guard-licensed captain with over a decade of experience. Along the way, your captain will share insider stories, landmark history, and local details you'd likely miss from a crowded ferry ride.
Special Packages: New York Harbor Tours offers a New York sunset ferry tour, exciting city light tours and more. Planning an even bigger event? We host private charters for proposals, bachelor and bachelorette parties, anniversaries, and corporate events. You get premium service and fully customizable routes when you book a private excursion or event with us.
How to Book Your Private NYC Boat Tour
Booking your private boat tour with New York Harbor Tours is simple—and only takes a few minutes. We offer small group and private tours departing daily from two convenient locations in Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn.
You can book your private tour directly through New York Harbor Tours’ website. Choose your departure time, boat, and customize route, and you'll be all set for your personal sightseeing adventure.
Whether you’re planning an intimate day for two or a larger gathering, private tours can accommodate a variety of group sizes. Pricing starts at $525 for smaller groups, with flexible options depending on your group size and tour choice.
We offer daily departures at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm for 90-minute tours. For longer 3-hour private charters, departure times are 10:30 am, 2:00 pm, and 5:30 pm.
FAQs About NYC Ferry Tours vs. Private Boat Tours
What’s the difference in cost between a ferry and a private boat tour?
Public ferry tickets are extremely affordable and are usually under $5. Private Tours are a bigger investment, but the cost is definitely worth it if you're looking for a more intimate way to see the city on your own terms that ferries simply don’t offer.
Are private boat tours worth it if I’m on a budget?
If your goal is just transportation or a quick view, a ferry is the cheapest option. However, you may be shorting yourself if you go this route. If you want a more comfortable, private, and memorable experience—with better photos and no crowds—a private boat tour is worth the splurge. That’s especially true if you're sharing the cost across a group.
Can I customize my boat tour route?
Yes! That's one of the biggest draws of booking with a private boat tour company like New York Harbor Tours. You can choose your own route, linger at all the popular spots, and work with your captain to design a fantastic trip based on what you want to see.
How long does a private boat tour typically last?
If you’re interested in private ferry sightseeing in NYC, tours at New York Harbor Tours are usually either 90 minutes or 3 hours long. You'll choose the tour length when you book, depending on how much time you want to spend on the water.
Do private boat tours have better views than ferries?
They certainly do! On a private boat tour, you're right up front, without a wall of tourists blocking your view. You can get closer to landmarks, pause for photos, and enjoy wide open skyline views without the competition for railing space you find on public fairies.
Make Your NYC Boat Experience Unforgettable
Both ferry rides and private boat tours offer ways to experience New York City’s iconic skyline and waterfront landmarks. However, if you're looking for a more personalized, comfortable, and unforgettable experience, a private boat tour is the way to go. Whether you’re visiting NYC for the first time or celebrating a special occasion, New York Harbor Tours offers the perfect opportunity to explore the city in style.
Ready to elevate your NYC boat tour experience? Book your private boat tour with New York Harbor Tours today to discuss our premium services and customizable route recommendations.