New York Princess Cruises

A one-hour boat cruise on the East River for just $35 offers a unique perspective on New York City’s skyline and landmarks. The cruise departs from Pier 36, taking you past famous sights like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge, with commentary from a knowledgeable guide. It’s a quick, affordable way to see parts of the city that many visitors overlook—especially the east side, which is often less crowded than the more popular Hudson River routes.

What we like most about this cruise are the panoramic views of the skyline—from the Chrysler Building to the Empire State—and the expert narration that enriches the experience, providing context to what you’re seeing. The cruise also offers numerous photo opportunities, perfect for capturing memories of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

A potential drawback is that at only about an hour long, this cruise might feel too brief if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration. Also, reviews suggest some disappointment, notably from travelers expecting more, or who found the experience less engaging than hoped. It’s best suited for those wanting a quick, affordable overview rather than a full-day adventure.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want an authentic snapshot of NYC’s east side. If you enjoy stunning cityscapes, expert guides, and photo stops, you’ll find this cruise worthwhile—just keep your expectations aligned with the short duration.

Key Points

• Affordable and short: Just 1 hour for $35.
• Unique east side views: Less common perspective on NYC’s landmarks.
• Expert narration: Guides provide insightful commentary.
• Photo opportunities: Perfect for capturing iconic sights.
• Limited duration: Might feel too brief for some travelers.
• Mixed reviews: Some travelers are disappointed, others delighted.

A Deep Dive into the East River Experience

While many boat tours in New York focus on the Hudson River and Statue of Liberty**, this cruise offers a different angle—sailing along the East River. This means you’ll get closer looks at Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens landmarks that often don’t feature in typical sightseeing trips. It’s a smaller-scale tour, which can be a plus for those seeking a more intimate experience, but the short duration means you’ll want to be prepared for a whirlwind visit.

Starting at Pier 36, the boat sets sail from Lower Manhattan, providing an immediate sense of being part of the city’s bustling maritime life. The first highlight on most trips is the Statue of Liberty, where the boat approaches closely enough to appreciate her grandeur. As one reviewer put it, “we caught our first glimpse of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty from the deck, which was a memorable photo opportunity.”

Moving along, the East River becomes a showcase of some of NYC’s most famous bridges: the Williamsburg, Manhattan, and Brooklyn Bridges. These structures are more than just feats of engineering—they’re symbols of the city’s resilience and growth. The guides narrate their history and significance, making it more than just a scenic ride.

The skyline views are also a highlight. The Chrysler Building and Empire State Building rise majestically into the sky, their Art Deco details emphasized during the cruise. From the deck, you’ll see these buildings in a different light, framed by the water and often lively with activity.

While the tour claims to provide “many photo opportunities,” some travelers have noted that the short length limits the chance to really soak in each landmark. Still, the guide’s narration enhances the visuals, making each view more meaningful.

Landmark Highlights and Their Significance

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island remain the most emotionally compelling parts of the trip. Ellis Island, in particular, serves as a reminder of America’s immigrant story—an aspect that adds depth to the scenic cruise. As one reviewer mentioned, “Ellis Island appeared in the distance, giving you a quick but poignant reminder of the country’s diverse roots.”

Bridges are another major feature. The Williamsburg Bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn, and its elegant cables are often visible from the boat, offering a good photo op. The Manhattan Bridge appears as a grand structure bridging the two boroughs, with its striking steel archways. The Brooklyn Bridge, perhaps the most iconic, is a favorite for its historic appeal and architectural beauty. You’ll cruise beneath it, feeling like a part of the city’s fabric.

Modern landmarks like the United Nations Headquarters showcase New York’s role as a global diplomatic hub. The Chrysler Building and Empire State Building provide a contrast of art deco elegance against the modern skyline.

The Guide and Commentary

One of the most praised aspects in reviews is the knowledgeable guide who adds color and context to the sights. Clear, engaging narration helps you understand not just what you see but why it matters. This elevates the experience from a simple boat ride to a learned overview of NYC’s architecture and history.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The $35 ticket covers a roughly one-hour cruise, with mobile tickets making check-in easy. The meeting point at Pier 36 is accessible via public transportation, which makes it convenient for most travelers. The cruise ends back at the same pier, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Drinks are available for purchase at the bar—an enjoyable way to toast your view, though you should be prepared to buy your beverages separately. Snacks are not included, so if you’re hungry, you might want to bring or buy some on land beforehand.

Most travelers can participate, with the tour being suitable even for children over 10, though the reviews have noted some dissatisfaction among those expecting a longer or more comprehensive cruise. It’s also important to note that bad weather can cancel the trip, and refunds are only provided if the tour is canceled due to weather conditions.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum capacity of 600 travelers, the cruise can get crowded, particularly during peak season. However, most reviews mention a friendly and professional staff. The small size of the boat, relative to the capacity, means it can feel lively but not overly cramped.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $35 per person, this cruise offers decent value—especially if you want a quick, scenic overview of some of New York’s most famous landmarks. Compared to longer or more immersive tours, this is a budget-friendly option, but keep your expectations in check. If you’re looking for a relaxing, guided experience with fantastic photo opportunities, you’ll likely be pleased. If your goal is a thorough exploration, you might find it too brief and somewhat superficial.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see key landmarks from a different perspective without breaking the bank. It’s perfect if you’re short on time or want a lighthearted, scenic trip with engaging narration. Families with children over 10 will find it suitable, especially if they enjoy city views and photo opportunities.

However, travelers expecting an in-depth or leisurely cruise might feel a bit disappointed, especially given the mixed reviews. It’s best suited for those who value value, quick sightseeing, and great views over long or complex tours.

The Sum Up

The New York Princess Cruises offers a neat, budget-friendly way to peek at some of the city’s most photogenic landmarks from a water perspective. It’s a short, lively journey that provides plenty of photo opportunities and insightful commentary from guides. The views of Manhattan’s skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the bridges are the highlights that make this trip worthwhile for many.

While the duration and overall experience might not satisfy those seeking a slow-paced or in-depth exploration, it’s a solid choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The friendly guides and stunning vistas are the main draws, making it a practical option for a quick snapshot of New York’s waterfront.

If you want a cost-effective, scenic, and informative cruise that highlights the east side of Manhattan, this tour fits the bill. Just remember, it’s a brief glimpse—but a memorable one.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick and manageable sightseeing option.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Pier 36 in Manhattan, located at 299 South St.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, drinks are available at the bar for purchase, though alcohol is only served to travelers over 21.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for children over 10 years old, especially if they enjoy scenic views.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. It operates rain or shine, but will be canceled if weather conditions are poor.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Williamsburg Bridges, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, and the United Nations Headquarters.

Is this a crowded tour?
With a maximum of 600 travelers, it can feel busy, particularly during peak times, but most reviews mention friendly staff.

What if I want a longer experience?
This is a short, one-hour cruise, so if you want more time or a more in-depth tour, consider other options like longer cruises or guided land tours.

How accessible is the tour?
The pier is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, some cash or cards for drinks, and dress appropriately for the weather, as the boat is open-air.

Exploring New York by water provides a distinctive view of this vibrant city. This cruise may not be for everyone, but if you’re after great skyline photos, friendly narration, and a quick overview, it’s a practical, budget-friendly choice.