Have you ever wondered what it would be like to experience the holidays on the best New Years Eve cruise in NYC? Let’s face it, we get to the end of the year exhausted, and sometimes planning Christmas and New Year’s celebrations feels more like a chore. But imagine yourself sitting at an elegant table and enjoying a drink with your loved ones – or by yourself! – without the stress of cooking or cleaning up.
Classic Harbor Line offers holiday-themed boat rides from November through December and I highly recommend giving it a try to have both a relaxing and adventurous experience onboard!
If sailing is not your thing and you’d rather explore other aspects of the city, you should check out the top venues and things to do for New Year in NYC!
Experience New Years Eve On A Holiday Cruise
New Year’s Eve Cruises are the best way to explore the city from a unique viewpoint and in a more relaxing environment. If you’re tired of dealing with all the planning or the crowds of popular New Year’s Eve venues, a boat ride is what you need!
By the way, how many times have you felt exhausted after the holidays? Sometimes these celebrations or trips end up being more stressful than we intend them to be, we’ve all been there. This is why I wrote a comprehensive guide to help understand and overcome post-holiday exhaustion – a must-read if you’re struggling with this!
What You Can Expect From The Ride
Classic Harbor Line offers the widest selection of New Year’s cruises. These boat trips provide a breathtaking sightseeing experience of the
Manhattan skyline and various iconic points in the city. The route and destinations will depend on the package you choose, but you can expect some beautiful views and great service.
Holiday cruises are special for providing a comfortable and elegant setting. The 1920s-style yachts are stunning, sparkling clean, and beautifully decorated for the occasion. You’ll be welcomed by an attentive and professional crew who will make sure you have a perfect evening. This will make it easier for you, your family, and friends to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the trip without worrying about anything else.
Tip: Since these cruises usually have limited spots, it’s best to book your tickets as far in advance as possible. I also suggest you check out the different packages so you find one that suits your preferences.
Book any of the Holiday cruises here!
New Year’s Eve Champagne Pairing Cruises
New Year’s Eve Champagne Pairing CruisesThis is a 2.5-hour ride on the beautiful Yacht Manhattan II and it’s easily the best New Years Eve cruise in NYC. The boat has a limited capacity for passengers to provide a more intimate and relaxing atmosphere in the grand salon.
As you sail through the waters and see lower Manhattan lighting up the night, the boat will pass by different locations like One World Trade Center, the Financial District, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
In addition, you’ll be treated to the finest five-glass flight pairing, cheese, and dessert. This includes a complimentary champagne toast with fireworks at the stroke of midnight!
Tip: although the interior of the yacht is climate-controlled, you should take a warm coat if you’d like to step out and have a better view from the outer deck.
Need some help packing for winter? I’ve got you covered! Check out my ultimate NYC winter packing list – trust me, you won’t miss a thing.
The ticket price for the Champagne Pairing cruise ranges from $358 – $398. If you are a group of 10 or more, a 10% gratuity is automatically applied to your ticket. Buy tickets here!
New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise on Yacht Northern Lights
The second package is a longer ride of 3.5 hours long. The celebration is hosted on the Northern Lights Yacht through the East River and Hudson River. Throughout this cruise, you’ll see highlights like the Governor’s Island, The Statue of Liberty, Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges, and more! Moreover, you’ll enjoy champagne/wine tasting, an open bar with signature cocktails, and many hors d’oeuvres and desserts to accompany your drinks.
This package offers a more sophisticated setting and spectacular views from the glassed-in salon. So be sure to dress according to the dress code and prepare to dance all evening to amazing live jazz music.
And at midnight, you can watch the fireworks display from the deck of the boat with the twinkling lights of Manhattan in the background.
The ticket price for the Yacht Northern Lights cruise ranges from $458 to 498 per person. If you are a group of 8 or more, a 15% gratuity is automatically applied to the booking fee. Book your tickets here!
Already Got Plans For The Night? Go The Next Day!
You might already have plans for the evening but still want to do something exciting the next day. Then, this is the best New Years Eve cruise in NYC for you!
New Year’s Day Brunch Cruise
The cruise is 2.75 hours long aboard the Manhattan or Manhattan II yacht, which departs on January 1st, 2024. I think it’s a great way to linger in the Holiday Spirit for a bit longer. Not to mention, taking the tour during daylight will allow you to have a better view of NYC’s iconic landmarks.
The package also offers a three-course, Holiday-themed menu for brunch, served at your private table. This includes a complimentary glass of Champagne, wine, Bloody Mary, mimosa, or beer to keep celebrating New Year’s Day!
The ticket price for this cruise starts at $148 – $178 per adult and $82 for children. If you are a group of 8 or more, a 15% gratuity is automatically applied to your ticket. Book them here.
New Years Eve Cruise NYC – FAQ
Where Do The Cruises Depart From?
The exact meeting location and departure times are provided to you immediately when you purchase the tickets.
Can I Go On The Cruise If I’m Sea-Sick?
Sea sickness compression wristbands are available for purchase at check-in for passengers who are more prone to feeling sick with motion.
What Is Seating Like?
Since this kind of New Years cruise is very social, seating on the cruise is assigned to passengers, so you’re likely to share a table with other guests. It’s an amazing way to meet people if you’re single or a solo traveler!
However, if you’re going with someone else, you can ask to be seated together.
Can The Cruise Be Cancelled Due To Weather?
The trip is rarely canceled due to weather conditions, but it can happen. In these cases, the guests will be contacted and offered to reschedule, receive credit for a future event, or take a full refund.
Is the boat available for Private Charters?
Yes! The boats are available for private charters or any special celebration. Contact privatecharters@sail-nyc.com or fill up an inquiry on the website.
Last Thoughts
I hope you found the best New Years Eve cruise in NYC for you. After doing the same every year, I needed something that felt new and exciting – sometimes, just changing your setting does the trick! I’m sure this boat trip will give you a memorable experience you won’t regret.
Happy New Year!
XO,
Anna
Anna is a traveler, blogger, and entrepreneur who can’t keep herself still. She’s always on the move, whether working hard on a new passion project or exploring a new city as a part-time digital nomad. Dare to keep up? Check out The Tatted Nomad for everything digital nomad, social media marketing, mental health, and travel (and to see her latest addition, Novah, her service dog and travel companion). As a psychotherapist (to be) she also offers insights about your mental health related questions – anything you see that isn’t covered but you have questions about? Let her know!
