New York City: City Cruises Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise

New York City: City Cruises Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise

Imagine sipping a cocktail as you glide along the East River, with the iconic Manhattan skyline and landmarks like the Statue of Liberty passing by. For around $66 per person, you get a 2-hour cruise departing from Pier 15 at the Seaport, offering a relaxed, lively way to enjoy New York City’s stunning waterfront and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, catching up with friends, or simply craving a different perspective on the city, this cruise promises a mix of sightseeing, music, and laid-back fun.

What we love about this experience is its open-air rooftop lounge, perfect for catching the breeze and snapping photos, and the live DJ entertainment that really amps up the vibe as the sun sets over Manhattan. On the flip side, some travelers have noted that drinks are not included, which can make the experience feel more costly if you’re not prepared to purchase beverages onboard. Still, it’s a great option for those wanting a casual, upbeat way to toast the city that never sleeps.

This cruise is best suited for friends, co-workers, or celebrating groups looking for a relaxed evening amidst stunning views. Keep in mind, reviews mention some occasional rough waters and service issues, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prioritize service, it’s worth considering those factors. Overall, it’s a fun, informal outing — especially for those who enjoy a good soundtrack and open-air sightseeing.

Key Points

• Great Views: Up-close shots of the Statue of Liberty and iconic bridges like the Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Williamsburg Bridges.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Casual dress code, open-air rooftop, and live music create a laid-back vibe.
• Flexible Experience: Options to purchase drinks and food onboard, with a choice to relax inside or on the rooftop decks.
• Mixed Reviews on Value: Some find it a bit pricey for what’s included, especially since drinks are not complimentary.
• Ideal for Celebrations: Perfect for birthdays, casual gatherings, or a different way to enjoy New York’s waterfront.
• Variable Experience: Weather and service quality can influence your enjoyment, so check the forecast and set expectations accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise

If you’re seeking an alternative way to experience New York City, this City Cruises’ ‘Alive After Five’ offers a snapshot of the city’s breathtaking skyline, combined with the laid-back vibe of a happy hour on water. It’s not a formal tour packed with historical commentary, but rather a fun, social outing that highlights the city’s best sights with a soundtrack.

The Itinerary and Sights

The cruise departs from Pier 15 at South Street Seaport, a lively area with plenty of nearby restaurants and shops. Boarding begins about 30 minutes before departure, so arriving early is wise to settle in and get your bearings. Once aboard, you’ll be welcomed into a climate-controlled interior or encouraged to step outside onto the rooftop lounge, depending on your preference.

Your route takes you along the East River, offering views of several iconic bridges – the Williamsburg, Manhattan, and Brooklyn Bridges – each with their own architectural charm. Approaching Lower Manhattan, you’ll get close-up views of the One World Trade Center, Governors Island, and Ellis Island. But the star of the show remains the Statue of Liberty, which you’ll see from different angles and even have the opportunity to photograph up close — an engaging moment for many travelers.

The Atmosphere and Entertainment

What truly makes this cruise stand out is the live DJ, providing a playlist that ranges from upbeat dance hits to relaxed tunes, helping to set the mood for a casual celebration or a chill after-work unwind. Several reviews mention that the music and the friendly crowd make for a fun, danceable environment. As the DJ plays, you’re free to stroll around the decks, enjoy the open-air rooftop, and even participate in onboard games that add some playful energy.

The cruise is two hours long, giving ample time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Some reviewers have expressed frustration over the shorter-than-expected duration — the official description states 2 hours, but one review noted a start delay and a shorter trip overall.

Food and Drinks — What’s Included?

One common point of confusion is that food and drinks are not included. You’ll need to purchase beverages — including specialty cocktails — and snacks onboard. Some travelers felt this was disappointing, especially since the cruise is marketed as a cocktail experience, leading to comments like, “Being a cocktail cruise we thought we would get at least one cocktail included but you had to buy any drink or food you wanted on board.”

If you’re planning to indulge, consider bringing cash or cards for easy purchase. Also, note that the dress code is casual, so comfortable attire suited for outdoor decks is ideal.

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The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Spectacular views of NYC’s skyline, bridges, and Statue of Liberty up close.
– Open-air rooftop for fresh air and photos.
– Lively atmosphere with music and onboard games.
– Flexible option to relax inside or outside depending on your mood or weather.
– Ideal for celebrating special occasions in a casual setting.

Cons:
– No included drinks or food — adding to the overall cost if you plan on drinking.
– Some reviews mention rude staff or poor service, which can detract from the experience.
– Weather-dependent — choppy waters or rain can impact comfort and views.
– The duration may feel shorter than expected, and delays have been reported.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

If you’re after a relaxed, social experience with a focus on scenic views and good music rather than detailed commentary or included luxuries, this cruise fits the bill. It’s well-suited for groups celebrating, casual dates, or friends wanting a different perspective on the city.

However, if you’re looking for a luxury experience with included drinks and gourmet food, this might not be the perfect fit. Travelers who are sensitive to rough water or poor service might want to weigh those factors before booking.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early — boarding begins 30 minutes prior.
• Bring ID or passport for check-in.
• Dress casually and comfortably — layers are advisable if it’s chilly.
• Consider bringing cash or credit card for drinks and snacks onboard.
• Review the weather forecast beforehand, especially if you prefer outdoor decks.
• Be aware that the cruise may be affected by rough waters, which could impact comfort or cause seasickness.
• Book in advance, especially during busy seasons, but remember you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

The Sum Up

The City Cruises Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise offers a lively, laid-back way to see some of New York’s most iconic sights from the water. Its open-air rooftop and onboard DJ create a festive atmosphere, perfect for groups celebrating or simply unwinding after a day exploring the city. While the lack of included drinks and some service hiccups have been noted, many find the experience enjoyable, especially for the spectacular views and fun environment.

This cruise is best suited for those who prize a casual, social vibe over luxury, and who are comfortable purchasing their drinks separately. It provides a memorable way to mix sightseeing with a bit of nightlife — ideal for a relaxed evening with friends or colleagues looking for a different perspective on Manhattan.

If you’re willing to accept a few trade-offs — like extra costs for beverages or potential weather issues — this cruise can make for a fun, scenic escape from the hustle and bustle, right on the water.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children or infants?
Yes, infants can go free, but it’s recommended to select the free infant ticket when booking.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the 2-hour cruise, live onboard DJ entertainment, and access to outdoor and indoor decks. Food and drinks are available for purchase but are not included.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Pier 15 at 78 South St. in the Seaport area, with boarding starting about 30 minutes before departure.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling options may depend on availability and booking policies.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the experience provider states that the cruise is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is perfect. Consider layers if the weather is cool, and comfortable shoes for walking on decks.

Are there any age restrictions?
There are no specific age restrictions, but the cruise is geared toward an adult audience enjoying cocktails and music.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise is climate-controlled inside, but outdoor decks may be affected by rain or rough waters. It’s wise to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

How long is the cruise?
Most cruises last around 2 hours, but some reviews mention delays and shorter trips, so plan for some flexibility.

Is it worth the price?
That depends on what you value—if you’re excited about the views, music, and atmosphere, many find it worthwhile. However, some reviews feel it’s a bit expensive for what’s included, especially with drinks purchased separately.

Whether you’re in town for a quick visit or a local looking for a different way to see the city, this cruise offers a lively, scenic, and uniquely New York way to spend an evening on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: