Looking to mark your St. Patrick’s Day in a way that offers more than just the usual crowded bars? This 4-hour party cruise in New York City offers a fresh, lively alternative—gliding along the waters of Manhattan with unbeatable skyline views, live music, and refreshed drinks.

For around $100, you’re not only getting a chance to see iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan’s glittering skyline, but also to dance, socialize, and enjoy a relaxed springtime celebration on the water. The cruise takes place aboard a comfortable two-story yacht, providing both open-air decks and climate-controlled interiors—so you’re covered whatever the weather.

What we love most? First, the spectacular views of NYC’s landmarks—you’ll get plenty of photo opportunities that beat the usual crowded streets. Second, the live DJ, spinning a mix of genres, keeps the energy high and the mood festive. On the flip side, the rating of 2.5 suggests some disappointment among past guests, perhaps due to mixed experiences with the service or overall organization. Still, if you’re after an authentic, scenic celebration with a lively crowd, this cruise could be a hit.

This experience is best suited for adults 21 and over who enjoy a social, music-filled atmosphere and are comfortable on a boat. It’s especially appealing for those looking to escape the crowded bar scene and soak in New York’s famous skyline from a different vantage point.

Key Points

Stunning NYC Views: Experience iconic sights such as the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline from the water.
Live DJ & Dancing: Top-rated NYC DJs play a variety of music, making it perfect for those who love to dance and party.
Flexible Indoor/Outdoor Space: Enjoy the open air on the deck or stay inside in the climate-controlled interior—great for all weather conditions.
Two Fully Staffed Bars: Sip on cocktails from a cash bar, available on both levels.
Ideal for Celebrations: A unique way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day without the usual bar crawl.
Age Restriction: Only for guests 21 and older, making it a mature, party-focused experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the St. Patrick’s Day NYC Booze Cruise

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Starting Point and Boarding

The cruise departs from Skyport Marina on FDR Drive, just off East 23rd Street. The process is straightforward: boarding begins at 6:00 PM, with departure at 6:30 PM. The boat returns around 10:00 PM, giving you roughly three and a half hours on the water.

For many, the logistics are simple: you arrive, check in, and then enjoy the sunset and city views as the boat slips out into New York Harbor. The meeting point’s coordinates are provided, so GPS navigation makes it easy to find your way.

Route and Highlights

The cruise’s itinerary is designed to showcase some of the most recognizable NYC landmarks:

New York Harbor: Your first taste of the city from the water, with sweeping views of the skyline and harbor.
Manhattan Bridge & Brooklyn Bridge: Iconic spans that offer fantastic photo ops and a sense of the city’s engineering marvels.
Seaport & Lower Manhattan: The historic district and financial district come into view, providing a sense of New York’s bustling heart.
Statue of Liberty: A classic sight that you’ll see from the water—perfect for memorable photos.
City Skyline: As the boat navigates back, you’ll get a panoramic view of the illuminated skyline, including the Freedom Tower and other skyscrapers.

What It Feels Like Onboard

Guests have described the experience as both lively and scenic. The DJ keeps the mood fun, with reviews mentioning “music from all genres,” making it suitable for a broad crowd. The open-air deck offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunset, while the climate-controlled interior ensures comfort for those who prefer to stay inside.

The fully staffed bars serve drinks throughout the cruise, giving you the chance to sip cocktails while enjoying the views. Many reviews mention the friendly staff, though some noted that service could vary, which could influence overall satisfaction.

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Authenticity and Atmosphere

We found that the cruise offers a genuine NY experience—dancing under the skyline feels both festive and relaxed. The combination of spectacular scenery and music makes it more than just a sightseeing tour; it’s a celebration, especially fitting for St. Patrick’s Day.

However, the provider rating of 2.5 indicates that some guests might find the experience uneven. Possible issues could include crowded spaces, variable staff service, or the sometimes unpredictable quality of the drinks. Still, if you’re after a lively, scenic party on the water, these drawbacks may be minor compared to the overall fun.

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Who Would Enjoy This?

This cruise is perfect for adults who want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a memorable way—away from the busy bars but still with a party vibe. It suits those who:

Enjoy live music and dancing
Appreciate stunning cityscapes from the water
Are comfortable in a party environment
Want to combine sightseeing with socializing

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a quiet, romantic cruise or families with young children.

The Sum Up

The St. Patrick’s Day Booze Cruise in NYC offers a distinctive way to mark the holiday, combining scenic views, music, and social fun. The two-level yacht provides flexibility and comfort, while the backdrop of Manhattan’s skyline makes for some truly memorable photos.

While the overall rating suggests some inconsistency in experience, many guests find the value in the combination of sightseeing and partying. If you’re looking to escape the crowded pubs, enjoy a sunset cruise, and dance to great tunes, this outing delivers a lively, scenic celebration.

This experience works best for adults who love music, city views, and a relaxed party atmosphere. It’s especially appealing if you want a festive, waterside twist to your St. Patrick’s Day plans. Just keep in mind that the environment is lively and social—if that suits your style, you’re in for a good night.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for people under 21?
No, the cruise is only for guests 21 and older, as it includes alcohol service.

What times does the cruise start and end?
Boarding begins at 6:00 PM, departure at 6:30 PM, and returning around 10:00 PM.

Where exactly does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Skyport Marina at 2430 FDR Drive, just off East 23rd Street.

What can I expect to see during the cruise?
You’ll see NYC landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and the skyline with the Freedom Tower.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are available at fully staffed cash bars on both levels.

Can I stay inside or outside during the cruise?
Yes, you can enjoy the open-air deck or stay in the climate-controlled interior—the choice is yours.

What’s the overall value of this experience?
For the price, you get a scenic cruise, live DJ, and open bars, which many consider worth it for a festive celebration. However, some reviewers mention service inconsistencies.

Is the cruise weather-dependent?
Yes, since part of the experience is outdoors, weather can influence your comfort. The interior helps mitigate this.

How crowded might it be?
Since it’s a popular holiday event, expect a lively, potentially full boat. Arriving early helps secure a good spot.

In summary, the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Booze Cruise offers a spirited alternative to traditional celebrations, blending spectacular views with music and drinks for an unforgettable night on the water. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with a party, especially if you’re seeking a lively, scenic way to celebrate the holiday.