Taking a private boat ride in NYC for 2 or more is an unforgettable and intimate experience. Come aboard our boat and set sail as we show you a side of New York City that most people will never see! Ideal for proposals, couples, anniversaries, or small groups, our boat rides take you on a luxury experience. You’ll be far from the crowds, and you can even ask for a personalized route. 

Why Choose a Private Boat Ride in NYC 

There are several opportunities to get out on the water, but our tours place privacy above all else. Therefore, instead of taking a crowded sightseeing cruise, your private charter can turn into a romantic boat ride in NYC. It’s an exclusive experience that allows you to set a custom pace. Take in skyline views of the most magnificent city on earth! 

Book your private boat tour in NYC, then sit back, relax, and let our captain introduce you to the most impressive landmarks. For instance, you’ll get to see fantastic Statue of Liberty views without having to join the overly crowded Statue City Cruises. Instead of battling for a decent viewpoint, you’ll be able to move around freely and take Instagram-worthy photos. 

Private Boat Ride Details 

Your private, captain-led cruise typically lasts for 60-90 minutes, but you can always sign up for more time. We have two different boats to choose from: Tireless or Reliance. The former holds up to six passengers, while the latter can accommodate up to 16 guests. Of course, the best part is that your boat will depart at the time of your choosing. 

The boat you select will also determine where we depart from. Tireless leaves from Pier 25 at Hudson River Park, and Reliance sets sail from North Cove Marina at Brookfield Place. Either way, each passenger will be outfitted with a life jacket for safety. Plus, we only work with U.S. Coast Guard Master Captains, so you can rest assured that you’ll have a smooth and comfortable trek. 

Other safety steps we take include disinfecting the surfaces of the boat between each trip. We also use bleach and soap to swab the boat nightly. Keeping hand sanitizer in the head (restroom), along with hand soap and clean towels, will provide you with a healthy experience, too. Please note that we ask all passengers to wash and sanitize their hands after coming aboard for everyone’s safety.  

A Romantic Boat Ride in NYC for Couples 

The calm, intimate setting enables you to relax and unwind. Rather than focusing on your phone, for instance, you’ll be transfixed by real life. With your departure time dependent on you, we can show you a perfect blue sky or take you for a private sunset cruise in NYC. Envision the city all lit up as sunset falls and the night begins. This makes the ideal date night and is an experience you’ll never forget! Alternatively, celebrate your anniversary or pop the big question. Regardless of what you choose to do, you’ll have the night of your life. 

The two of you will have plenty of wonderful photo opportunities, ranging from the Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn Bridge. Capture images before the Golden Hour ends for the best possible results.  

What You’ll See on Your Private Harbor Cruise

Speaking of photo opportunities, you’ll be taken past many of the city’s best landmarks. Keep your camera ready to take fantastic pictures of: 

• Statue of Liberty

• Ellis Island

• Brooklyn Bridge and the waterfront

• Manhattan Skyline

• And much, much more! 

  You’ll also get to choose between Upper New York Bay or Hudson River views. Additional spots you may get to see, depending on your itinerary, include: 

• Empire State Building

• United Nations Building

• Freedom Tower

• Chrysler Building 

  Let us know which of the landmarks are the most important to you, so we can ensure they’re included in your couples’ boat ride in NYC. Aside from world-famous buildings, you may also get to have a chance to encounter a bald eagle or even a dolphin or humpback whale, all of which can occasionally be seen from New York Harbor. 

  Custom Routes & Personalized Experiences

  We offer four regular cruises, along with our personalized custom experiences. Of course, you can also book a private cruise that follows the itinerary of a regular cruise. Our regular options include: 

  Daytime Downtown Loop 

  This 90-minute private yacht cruise in NYC offers up-close views of the very best sightseeing. We can take as slow of a pass as you’d like past the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and so much more. 

  Manhattan Circumnavigation 

  Would you like to spend more time on the water? Our Manhattan Circumnavigation route takes three hours! You’ll get to see everything previously listed, plus the Cloisters, Yankee Stadium, and more. 

  Sunset Cruise 

  Your private harbor cruise in NYC can coincide with the Golden Hour for truly fantastic pictures. See everything from the Daytime Downtown Loop with the added glow of sunset. 

  New York City Lights Tour 

  Is there anything more glorious than NYC lit up at night? Get photos taken of you and your partner with the NYC lights as your backdrop. If you plan to propose, we suggest either this tour or the Sunset Cruise. 

  If none of the above are quite your thing, you can plan a flexible cruise route. Work with our captain to determine the best way to fit in everything you want to see. We’ll make any special occasion even better! 

  Another thing you can take advantage of during your private cruise is our BYOB policy. Bring on board beer, wine, hard seltzer, or champagne and drink the evening away. After all, our captain takes care of everything, so you can enjoy ultimate relaxation. 

  Would you like to listen to your favorite music as we cruise past the best sightseeing opportunities? We can provide speakers, so you and your beau can listen to romantic songs or dance to your favorite party jams. This will definitely add to the boat’s vibe too. 

  Pricing & What’s Included 

  We understand the importance of offering transparent pricing. When you book a private boat tour of NYC, the price you’ll pay depends on the number of guests you’re bringing. For example, taking a 90-minute tour will cost you: 

• $525 – 1 to 3 people 

• $645 – 4 to 6 people 

• $1,050 – Up to 10 people + $125 per extra person, up to 16 guests 

• Meanwhile, a two-hour adventure runs: 

• $575 – 1 to 3 people 

• $695 – 4 to 6 people 

• $1,150 – Up to 10 people + $150 per extra person, up to 16 passengers

• Finally, a three-hour tour costs: 

• $650 – 1 to 3 people 

• $875 – 4 to 6 people 

• $1,500 – Up to 10 people + $165 per extra person, up to 16 guests

Each private tour receives free water, a life jacket per person, BYOB option, and easy access to the bathroom. Even better, though, is that you’ll have the opportunity to get away from NYC’s massive crowds. You’ll get to see the city without having to actually be in the city! 

Taking a cruise aboard a non-private boat will be less expensive, but it also can’t offer you the same experience. To put this into perspective, a big boat might charge less than $100 for two of you, but you’ll be on a crowded boat with no privacy. Also, you’ll have to battle to get a good photo position and perhaps even to see the sights. Wouldn’t you rather have the luxury of seeing them at your own pace? Not to mention having no crowds! 

Another important distinction of choosing a private boat tour in NYC is that you’ll be able to propose, if you choose. While you could propose on a tourist boat, you’ll have to do it in front of everyone. Doesn’t your spouse-to-be deserve an intimate, private proposal instead? 

Planning Your Private Boat Ride 

Even in the middle of summer, it’s often a good idea to bring a light jacket with you. Other essentials include sunglasses, a camera, and sturdy shoes. Don’t forget you can BYOB and bring snacks too. 

The decision of whether to set sail in the afternoon or evening is up to you. However, if you wish to take the ultimate romantic date, definitely schedule an evening tour. On the other hand, if you and five friends will be joining us, booking an afternoon session should work just fine. 

Be sure to arrive at the boat at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in and a brief safety session. Whether it’s spring or fall, you should also bring a heavier jacket. Furthermore, if your partner is a fan of fall leaves, book our Fall Foliage Tour to allow them to see them in all their beauty. 

Who This Private Boat Tour Is Perfect For 

Our exclusive, private boat tours work especially well for: 

• Couples 

• Small groups 

• Tourists

• Locals

• Special occasions (proposals, birthdays, anniversaries, etc.) 

In the past, we’ve hosted happy couples, small groups celebrating, and women enjoying a bachelorette party. We’ve also seen wonderful proposals, unforgettable birthday parties, and exuberant anniversaries.

Book Your Private Boat Tour of NYC Today!

Our private boat tours offer flexibility and ultimate exclusivity. In fact, New York Harbor Tours offers one of the very best private boat rides for couples or small groups. You’ll get enormous value from your boat tour of NYC! 

Plan a romantic harbor cruise for two (or more) today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can join?

We have two boats available. One holds up to six guests, while the other accommodates up to 16 passengers. Either way, your private boat will be intimate. 

Do we need boating experience?

Absolutely not! We have high gunwales (rails) to ensure everyone’s safety. You’ll also be outfitted with a life jacket. Our U.S. Coast Guard Master Captain takes care of the rest. Even if you can’t swim, you’ll be safe onboard our private boats. 

Is this good for proposals?

Definitely! Rather than planning a basic or even a public proposal, our boat offers ultimate privacy for your big moment. You can also customize where you’ll propose. For example, you could propose with Lady Liberty or the Brooklyn Bridge as your backdrop. Also, don’t forget to ask us to take a picture the moment you pop the question! 

What happens in bad weather?

Keeping you safe is our foremost concern, so we won’t leave the dock if conditions are unsafe. However, we can usually go out, even when it’s raining. We provide rain gear, along with an enclosed cabin to sit in. If the weather does force a cancellation, though, we’ll work with you to select a different day or a refund. 

Can we bring food or drinks?

You sure can! BYOB is encouraged (beer, champagne, wine, or hard seltzer), and you’re also welcome to bring your own snacks.