A Dinner Cruise with a View: NYC Skyline from the Water
If you’re looking for an evening that combines spectacular cityscape vistas, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere, the NYC Skyline Dinner Cruise from Weehawken offers just that. For around $140 per person, you get approximately 2.5 hours of sailing along the Hudson River, with a chance to see iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Empire State Building, all against the shimmering backdrop of Manhattan’s skyline. Departing from Jersey City’s Weehawken area, it’s an easy trip for anyone staying in or near New York City, especially if you want a different perspective beyond walking or standing on the streets.
What we really appreciate about this experience is the unique vantage point it provides. Watching the city’s skyline light up as the sun sets is truly memorable, particularly when you’re seated comfortably with a chef-prepared buffet in front of you and lively music filling the air. The onboard DJ creates a lively, fun atmosphere, especially if you enjoy a bit of dancing after dinner. Also, the boat’s interior dining decks and outdoor lounge give you options—whether you want to savor your meal in a cozy, climate-controlled space or enjoy the fresh air with views.
That said, there are some considerations. The food quality receives mixed reviews, with some guests mentioning that most dishes are cold and overcooked, although a few like the salmon are praised. If you’re a foodie expecting gourmet cuisine, this might be a mild disappointment. Plus, since the cruise is about the sights and experience rather than fine dining, it’s best suited for those who value the view and ambiance over a culinary feast. Lastly, as with most boat tours, weather can impact the experience—bad weather might mean a shorter cruise or a dockside dining experience.
This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic evening with a focus on great skyline views and a lively atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone looking for a memorable way to see New York from the water without the hustle of busy streets. If you’re keen on stunning photo opportunities and don’t mind some variability in food quality, this cruise could be a highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Stunning Skyline Views: An excellent vantage point to see NYC’s most famous landmarks, especially at sunset.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Comfortable indoor seating with outdoor options, live DJ music, and a festive vibe.
- Good Value: For around $140, you get a 2.5-hour cruise, a buffet, and unlimited drinks like coffee, tea, and water.
- Mixed Food Experience: The buffet offers freshly prepared entrees, but reviews suggest some dishes may be cold or overcooked.
- Accessible and Convenient: Departure point is close to public transport and offers parking options at nearby hotels like Sheraton.
- Limited Weather Flexibility: Cruises sail rain or shine but may be canceled or shortened in severe weather.
In-Depth Review: What to Expect on the Water
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The Departure & Boarding Experience
The cruise departs from 1500 Harbor Blvd, Weehawken, which is quite accessible by public transit and offers parking at local hotels like the Sheraton. Boarding begins about 30 minutes before departure, giving you time to settle in and get your camera ready. The group size can be up to 300 travelers, so don’t expect total solitude, but the setup feels lively rather than crowded.
The Itinerary & Landmarks
The itinerary is designed for sightseeing and photo opportunities. The boat first offers a fantastic view of Lady Liberty, perfect for snapping pictures of this iconic statue that looks especially impressive from the water. The Brooklyn Bridge is another highlight—its suspension structure lit up at night makes for beautiful photos.
Other notable stops include Ellis Island, with its historic significance, and the Manhattan skyline, where you’ll see the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and One World Trade Center from a vantage point few other experiences can match. The cruise also passes by notable sites like Battery Park City, Vessel at Hudson Yards, and even the Intrepid Museum—each offering unique photographic angles.
Additional stops include South Street Seaport, Brooklyn Heights, and the Williamsburg Bridge, giving you a comprehensive water-based tour of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Some reviewers mentioned that these stops are more about the boat passing by than specific activities, so plan to enjoy the view and the moment rather than expecting guided tours of each landmark.
The Dining Experience
The chef-prepared buffet is the core of the evening. Expect a selection of entrees, salads, and desserts. Many guests find the food to be satisfactory, with some praising the salmon and others noting the dishes can be cold or overcooked. The buffet is a good balance of variety and quantity, but don’t expect gourmet cuisine—this is more about enjoying casual dining with a view.
The cash bar offers creative cocktails, wine, and beer, but these are not included in the ticket price. Guests frequently mention the friendly service and the convenience of unlimited coffee, tea, iced tea, and water.
Atmosphere and Entertainment
What sets this cruise apart is the live DJ spinning music, creating a lively, festive environment. After dinner, many guests take advantage of the dance floor or relax on the outdoor lounge deck. The overall atmosphere is relaxed but upbeat, ideal for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a different perspective of NYC.
The Reviews: Authentic Perspectives
Some travelers, like Kimber, noted that the food was disappointing—most dishes were cold and overcooked—although the salmon was praised. Others, like Wahidullah, praised the staff and captain for their friendliness and professionalism. One guest, Richard, shared a frustrating experience of a canceled trip, reminding us that weather and operational issues can affect plans.
Positive reviews highlight the spectacular views and friendly staff, with Nana lauding the great service and food (despite some inconsistent reviews). The general consensus is that the experience is worth the price if your main goal is to enjoy the scenery and a lively vibe.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Arrive early for boarding to secure good seats and take photos.
- Dress comfortably but avoid gym shoes or flip-flops—smart casual is recommended.
- Consider dietary restrictions; vegetarian options are available if noted in advance.
- Bring your own cake or celebration items if you’re celebrating something special.
- Prepare for weather—severe conditions may impact the cruise.
- Tip generously if you enjoy the service—tips are not included.
Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise Right for You?
If you’re someone who values iconic views and a lively ambiance, this cruise hits the mark. It’s a relaxing way to see New York’s highlights from the water, especially at sunset or evening when the city lights sparkle. The buffet and drinks, combined with music and socializing, make it a good choice for groups or couples wanting a fun evening out.
However, if you’re a foodie expecting gourmet fare or looking for a quiet, romantic experience, the mixed reviews about the buffet might give you pause. It’s best suited for those who prioritize stunning scenery, casual comfort, and entertainment over fine dining.
Finally, those who appreciate a well-organized, accessible experience will find this tour manageable and enjoyable, especially if they want to avoid the busy streets and see the city’s skyline from a different angle.
FAQ
Where does the cruise depart from?
The cruise departs from 1500 Harbor Blvd, Weehawken, NJ, a spot that’s easy to reach by public transportation or parking at nearby hotels like the Sheraton.
Is there parking available?
Yes, parking is available at the Sheraton Hotel nearby, but there may be a fee for parking.
Can I bring my own celebration cake?
Yes, guests are allowed to bring a cake in a closed container. It must stay at your table, as there’s no storage onboard, and a cake cutting fee may apply.
What is the dress code?
Casual, comfortable, yet neat attire is best—think khakis, nice jeans, dresses, or casual button-ups. No shorts, tank tops, flip-flops, or gym shoes.
Are children allowed?
Yes, there are no age restrictions, and infants under 3 go free as lap children. High chairs are available.
What if the weather is bad?
The cruise sails rain or shine, but in severe weather, it may be canceled or limited. You might find that the boat stays docked but still provides dining.
Are the views worth it?
Absolutely. Many reviews emphasize the spectacular photo opportunities of the skyline, especially with landmarks like Lady Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge lit up at night.
To sum it up, this NYC Skyline Dinner Cruise offers an engaging way to see Manhattan from the water, with a lively atmosphere and unbeatable views. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic evening, especially if they enjoy casual dining, music, and the thrill of city lights. While the food may be hit or miss, the overall experience delivers a memorable perspective on New York City that’s hard to beat. Perfect for couples, groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion, it brings a bit of sparkle to any trip.