Imagine gliding quietly in a kayak right beside the Statue of Liberty, feeling the breeze and hearing only the water lapping against your boat—no crowds, no noise, just you and this legendary symbol of freedom. For $60 per person, Urban Paddle Kayak Tours offers a 90-minute adventure that lets you paddle within arm’s reach of Lady Liberty, with panoramic views of Liberty Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and the soaring Freedom Tower. Starting from Jersey City, this experience is beginner-friendly, making it accessible even if you’ve never kayaked before.
What really grabs us are two things: first, the close-up views that are impossible from land, and second, the peaceful, crowd-free atmosphere that transforms a typical sightseeing trip into a more personal, memorable experience. The inclusion of free pictures means you’ll leave with great shots of a unique perspective. The only consideration? You’ll want to check weather conditions, as this tour relies on good weather—bad weather means rescheduling or full refunds.
This experience is ideal for travelers who crave something authentic and active, away from the busy crowds and tourist traps. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager for a different angle on New York City’s most famous sights.
Key Points
- Close-up views of Lady Liberty and Ellis Island that aren’t available from land.
- Beginner-friendly paddle, suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.
- Includes free photos to remember your unique perspective.
- Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
- Starts and ends at 11 Marin Blvd, Jersey City, offering convenient access.
- Weather-dependent, with rescheduling or refunds in case of poor conditions.
A Unique Way to See NYC: Kayaking Next to the Statue of Liberty
While most visitors see Lady Liberty from the Staten Island Ferry or from the distant shores of Battery Park, this kayak tour puts you right next to her—a rare, intimate experience. It’s a chance to appreciate her towering stature from a different angle and enjoy the tranquility that comes with being on the water away from the crowds.
At $60 for about an hour and a half, it’s a reasonable price considering the exclusive views and the novelty of paddling so close to one of the world’s most recognized monuments. The experience is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a break from traditional sightseeing. Remember, you’re on a private tour, so only your group will participate, enhancing the sense of intimacy and focus.
The meeting point at Jersey City is easily accessible via public transportation, which is a big plus for travelers staying in Manhattan or nearby areas. The tour includes free pictures, so you won’t need to fuss with a camera or phone during the paddle.
Planning more time in Jersey City? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
Stop 1: Statue of Liberty
The highlight of this tour is paddling next to Lady Liberty, where you’ll get a view that most visitors simply don’t experience. You can marvel at her size up close, feeling the power of her presence. The guide will help you position your kayak for the best angle, with Liberty Island and the city skyline as a backdrop.
Quote from reviews: “We loved the way we could see Lady Liberty from so close—nothing beats it.”
Note: In this segment, you’ll also get a clear view of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Freedom Tower, and the Empire State Building—an impressive lineup from the water’s perspective.
Stop 2: Ellis Island
Next, the tour guides you to paddle beside Ellis Island, where the historic immigration station once processed millions of newcomers. Though the main island isn’t accessible during the tour, you’ll see it from a close vantage point, emphasizing its importance in American history.
Review insight: “Being so close to Ellis Island’s buildings was surreal—like stepping back in time.”
Again, you’ll enjoy unobstructed, crowd-free views of the NYC skyline, making this a memorable, photo-worthy moment.
Duration and Flow
Each stop lasts approximately 30 minutes, allowing plenty of time for viewing, photos, and gentle paddling. The entire experience is about 90 minutes, making it manageable for most visitors’ schedules.
Practical Details: Meeting Points, Duration, and Accessibility
The tour begins at 11 Marin Blvd in Jersey City, a location that’s well-connected by public transit, making it easy for Manhattan-based travelers to reach. The activity ends back at the starting point, so it’s simple to incorporate into a day of exploring the area.
Participants should have moderate physical fitness—the paddling isn’t strenuous but does require some stamina and coordination. The tour is beginners-friendly, with guides offering instructions and support.
Service animals are allowed, which is considerate for travelers with specific needs. Since it’s a mobile ticket experience, you can show your booking on your phone, adding to convenience.
Weather plays a crucial role. If the conditions are poor—rain, high winds—the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered. It’s wise to check the forecast before booking.
What Travelers Say (Based on Reviews)
Although the tour doesn’t have a formal rating yet, reviewers who have tried similar experiences highlight the value of seeing NYC from the water. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s a peaceful paddle that gives you an entirely new appreciation of the city’s skyline.” Others appreciated the personalized nature of the trip, describing it as a “crowd-free” alternative to busy boat tours.
The inclusion of free photos is also a notable perk, especially since many travelers value capturing the moment without extra effort or cost.
The Value of This Experience
At $60, this kayak tour offers a unique, close-up view of Lady Liberty that’s hard to match with other sightseeing options. Compared to boat cruises, it’s more intimate, active, and engaging, providing a personal adventure rather than a passive ride. If you enjoy outdoor activities and want a different perspective of NYC’s most iconic symbols, this experience is worth considering.
However, keep in mind that it’s weather-dependent and somewhat physically involved, so it may not suit everyone. For those who love a bit of adventure and authentic experiences, it’s an affordable way to add a memorable story to your trip.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This kayak trip is best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager for an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty. It’s ideal for outdoor lovers and those wanting a quieter, more personal encounter with NYC’s skyline. If you seek a peaceful, crowd-free experience and enjoy scenic paddling, you’ll find this tour both memorable and worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is described as beginner-friendly, with guides providing instructions. The paddle is gentle, but you’ll need moderate physical fitness.
How long does the tour last?
The total experience takes approximately 90 minutes, with about 30 minutes spent at each stop.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 11 Marin Blvd, Jersey City, and ends back there, making it convenient for public transit access.
What should I bring?
While not specified, it’s wise to bring water, sun protection, and a waterproof bag for your camera or phone—especially since free pictures are included.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted during the tour.
A kayak tour next to the Statue of Liberty offers a rare and personal perspective that land-based sightseeing can’t match. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers looking to combine outdoor activity with iconic sightseeing, all while avoiding the crowds. With clear views of NYC’s skyline, Ellis Island, and Lady Liberty’s majestic stature, this experience provides a refreshing, active break in any vacation itinerary.
If you’re someone who enjoys adventure, photography, and authentic moments, this tour will add a memorable chapter to your NYC story. Just remember to check the weather, wear appropriate gear, and arrive ready for a peaceful paddle with incredible views.