NYC Statue of Liberty Tall Ship Sail aboard Clipper City

NYC Statue of Liberty Tall Ship Sail aboard Clipper City

Sailing around New York Harbor on a historic tall ship like the Clipper City offers a unique way to see the city’s most famous landmarks. For $68, you’ll hop aboard a vessel with roots dating back to the Civil War era, and spend about one hour and thirty minutes soaking in skyline views, steering the ship, or helping raise the sails. This experience is perfect for those who love a bit of adventure mixed with iconic sights.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the chance to get hands-on with the sailing—not just sit and look—and the spectacular views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island from the water. The second? The friendly, knowledgeable crew that makes navigation and sail handling engaging and fun.

A small consideration is the last-minute changes in departure locations—some reviews mention confusion or last-minute adjustments, so travelers should stay alert and confirm the details beforehand. But if you’re comfortable with a bit of flexibility and enjoy authentic maritime experiences, this tour is well worth it.

This cruise suits travelers who want more than just a sightseeing boat ride. If you’re into maritime history, love active participation, or simply want stellar photo ops of NYC’s skyline, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal for those looking for a relaxed, social atmosphere with good value, especially given the included opportunities to steer and raise the sails.

Key Points

• Historical Charm: The Clipper City is a beautifully refurbished vessel with roots dating back to the Civil War, offering a piece of history.
• Active Experience: You’re encouraged to help raise the sails or steer the ship, making it more interactive than a typical cruise.
• Iconic Views: Expect fantastic, up-close views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan skyline.
• Great Value: For $68, the mix of sightseeing, activity, and a friendly crew provides a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
• Flexible Scheduling: Two daily departures make it easy to fit into most NYC itineraries.
• Weather Dependent: Sails go on in light to moderate rain, but if severe weather cancels, you’ll get a free reschedule.

A Deep Dive into the Tall Ship Experience

When you step aboard the Clipper City, you’re enjoying a vessel that’s more than just a boat—it’s a floating historical artifact. Originally a cargo schooner built just before the Civil War, it’s been lovingly rebuilt using plans borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution. Now, at 158 feet long and 120 feet high, it’s the largest sailboat of its kind in the country, capable of carrying up to 130 passengers. This size makes the experience feel spacious yet intimate enough to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow travelers.

The meeting point at Pier 17 at South Street Seaport is usually straightforward, but some reviews mention the importance of double-checking departure details. The tour’s flexibility means your departure could change, especially during busy periods or seasonal adjustments. Once aboard, you’ll find two decks—perfect to take in the sights or find a quiet spot to relax.

What Makes This Tour Special

The sailing experience itself is the highlight. As former cargo ships, these vessels are designed for both function and beauty, with tall masts and billowing sails that make for impressive photos. The crew does a great job in making everyone feel included, offering opportunities to help with raising or lowering the sails. As Karen_D put it, “The staff was friendly. The captain was friendly and great!” And for those who want to try steering, it’s a hands-on moment that breaks the usual passive sightseeing mold.

The Landmarks from the Water

Your cruise offers spectacular views of well-known New York City landmarks. You’ll pass under the Brooklyn Bridge, get close enough to the Statue of Liberty, and see Ellis Island from a different perspective. Many reviews highlight how stunning these sights look from the water, especially with the backdrop of the city skyline.

Adrian_C summed it up: “Great teamwork by the crew made it a memorable trip. They worked very hard to please all customers.” Even if you’re a native New Yorker, the chance to see your city from the water on a historic ship is a thrill that rarely disappoints.

The Atmosphere Onboard

The vibe is friendly and relaxed. You can purchase drinks from the onboard bar, allowing you to toast the scenery with a cold beer or a glass of wine. Several reviewers mention the quality of the drinks and the camaraderie among guests. Tracy_O notes, “Beautiful view, great drinks, friendly and entertaining staff.” It’s a laid-back experience—no stuffy tour guide yelling facts at you, but plenty of opportunities for conversation, photo ops, and participation.

The Authentic Sailing Aspect

One of the tour’s unique selling points is the opportunity to help raise the sails or steer the ship. As Robin_L pointed out, “My daughter helped raise the sails and my son helped bring them down,” showing how family-friendly and engaging this adventure can be. Even if you’ve never been on a sailboat, the crew is approachable, making it a fun, hands-on activity for all ages.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour is not heavily reliant on perfect weather, as it operates in light to moderate rain, but severe weather might cancel the sail. In that case, you’re offered a different date or a full refund. This flexibility is appreciated, especially since NYC weather can be unpredictable.

Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise begins at Pier 17, where you’ll meet the crew and board the reconstructed Clipper City. After a brief safety orientation, the fun begins. The boat takes a gentle cruise around the harbor, giving you panoramic views of key landmarks.

You’ll pass under the Brooklyn Bridge, one of New York’s most iconic suspension bridges, which provides excellent photo opportunities. From there, the ship heads toward Liberty Island, where the Statue of Liberty stands tall, a symbol of freedom and one of the most recognizable sights in the world. Many guests mention how impressive it looks from the water—more dramatic and closer than from land.

Next, the cruise continues past Ellis Island, the gateway for millions of immigrants. Since the ship can turn and maneuver, you get a different perspective of these landmarks compared to land-based tours. As you glide around the harbor, the city skyline looms in the background, a reminder of New York’s vibrant energy.

Throughout the journey, there are plenty of photo opportunities, especially as the boat passes under the bridges or as the sun sets behind the skyline. You might also see Governors Island and other points of interest, depending on the route.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback

The reviews highlight the authentic sailing experience as a major draw. Many comment on the friendly, hardworking crew and the participatory nature of the tour. Jenna_D mentions how her girls were able to help raise the sail and even captain for a few minutes—a highlight for families.

Others appreciate the value for money. For just $68, the combination of sightseeing, sailing, and social interaction is hard to beat in a city where most attractions are costly. Ricardo_V calls it a “great overall experience” and would recommend it without hesitation.

But it’s not perfect. Some reviewers, like Debra_P, mention the lack of detailed narration—if you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to landmarks’ history, you might find this tour a bit light on facts. However, most see this as a feature rather than a flaw, emphasizing the visual spectacle and engaging sailing.

A few warn about last-minute location changes or difficulties in finding the pier, so travelers should stay alert when confirming details or arriving early. The tour company does try to communicate updates via text and email, but during busy times or around holidays, it’s wise to check in well ahead.

Practical Tips for Your Voyage

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, typically booked 18 days ahead.
• Arrive early: To ensure a smooth boarding, arrive at least 20 minutes before departure—some reviews mention boarding lines forming early.
• Dress appropriately: The weather can change quickly on the water; layers are recommended.
• Bring a camera: The views are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
• Consider participating: Help raise the sails or steer the ship for a memorable, hands-on experience.
• Check the weather: The cruise sails in light to moderate rain, but severe weather can cancel.
• Be aware of location changes: Confirm the meeting point and stay updated on any schedule adjustments.

The Sum Up

This NYC Statue of Liberty Tall Ship Sailing Tour offers a rare chance to combine historic maritime charm with iconic city views. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy active experiences—raising sails, steering the ship—and are eager for authentic photo opportunities from the water. The friendly crew, the stunning skyline, and the unique atmosphere make it a memorable addition to any New York adventure.

The price point is fair, considering the accessibility of landmark views and the onboard participation. While it’s not a narrated tour, the engaging nature and spectacular scenery compensate well. Perfect for families, maritime enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a relaxed, memorable way to see the city from the water, this cruise promises a blend of history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.

If you’re seeking a less conventional sightseeing experience—one that’s active, scenic, and infused with nautical history—this tall ship cruise is a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need sailing experience to participate?
No, you don’t need any prior sailing experience. The crew is friendly and will guide you through helping raise sails or steering.

What is included in the price?
The ticket includes the cruise, all taxes and fees, restroom facilities onboard, and the opportunity to purchase drinks from the onboard bar.

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

Are there specific departure times?
Yes, there are two departure times daily, making it flexible to fit into your schedule.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate and often enjoy helping with sails and taking photos, but parental supervision is recommended.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers and bring a jacket, as it can be breezy on the water. Comfortable shoes are best for walking onboard.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise sails in light to moderate rain. In case of severe weather, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Can I help with sailing?
Absolutely. Many guests enjoy helping to raise or lower sails and even steering the ship, making it a memorable hands-on experience.

Where exactly do I meet for the cruise?
At Pier 17 at South Street Seaport. Confirm your departure details, as some reviews mention last-minute location changes.

What if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves moving around a ship’s decks, which may be challenging for guests with mobility impairments. It’s best to contact the operator directly for specific accommodations.

This detailed review underscores that sailing on the Clipper City is about more than just looking at landmarks—it’s about feeling the history and thrill of navigating a tall ship in the heart of New York Harbor. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a curious tourist, this tour offers a distinctive way to experience the city’s iconic waterfront.