NYC: Statue of Liberty Day Sail with Onboard Bar

NYC: Statue of Liberty Day Sail with Onboard Bar offers a different way to see New York Harbor—sailing on NYC’s largest sailboat, the Clipper City, for 90 minutes of fresh air, stunning vistas, and a touch of maritime adventure. For $68 per person, you’ll get a unique perspective of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline, all from the water.

We love how this experience combines the thrill of sailing with sightseeing—feeling the wind in your hair as you wave at the Statue of Liberty is a memory that sticks with you. Plus, the onboard bar makes it easy to unwind with a cocktail or beer, adding a relaxed vibe to the whole trip. On the downside, the tour is short, so if you’re craving a deep-dive into history or longer cruising, this might feel a bit brisk.

This tour works best for travelers who enjoy picturesque views, interactive experiences like helping to raise sails, or simply want a break from crowded ferry rides. It’s perfect for those seeking a fun, authentic maritime adventure with a modern twist—an ideal way to enjoy NYC from the water without breaking the bank or overcommitting your day.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: See the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge, and city skyline from an uncommon vantage point.
• Unique Sailing Experience: Sail on NYC’s largest tall ship, the Clipper City, with a crew eager to involve you in the process.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Enjoy an onboard bar with a selection of beers, wines, and mixed drinks, all while soaking in the sights.
• Interactive Element: Help raise the sails and take a turn at the helm, making this more than just a sightseeing cruise.
• Short but Sweet: At 1.5 hours, the tour offers a quick but impactful taste of NYC’s harbor.
• Accessible & Convenient: Meeting point at Pier 17, easily reachable by foot, train, ferry, bus, or car in Lower Manhattan.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Statue of Liberty Day Sail Experience

Setting the Scene: Sailing in NYC’s Harbor

Imagine standing on the deck of the massive Clipper City, a graceful tall ship with towering masts and billowing sails. At 158 feet long with masts that reach 120 feet into the sky, this vessel is the largest sailboat in New York City—an impressive sight in itself. The moment you leave the dock at Pier 17 in the Seaport District, the hustle of the city feels miles away, replaced by the gentle sway of the ship and the whisper of the wind.

The Clipper City is a ship that invites participation. We loved the way crew members encouraged everyone to get involved—helpting with the sails or taking a turn at the helm. This isn’t a passive ride; it’s an active, engaging experience best suited for those who enjoy a bit of maritime hands-on fun.

The Itinerary and Landmarks

Your experience begins at Pier 17, located just below the Brooklyn Bridge—an ideal starting point for sightseeing. The cruise typically departs in the afternoon, giving you daylight hours to enjoy the stunning cityscape. After boarding, you’ll set sail on the Hudson River, heading towards the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

The views from the water are often described as spectacular and more intimate than from land or traditional ferries. You’ll get a close-up look at the Statue of Liberty, framed perfectly with the Manhattan skyline behind it. The Brooklyn Bridge’s impressive span looms overhead, and you might find yourself snapping photos from angles inaccessible from the busy streets.

Why We Love the Experience

One of the standout features is the unparalleled perspective of NYC’s landmarks. Unlike crowded ferries, this sail offers a more relaxed, unhurried environment where you can truly appreciate the scale and beauty of the harbor’s icons. As one reviewer put it, “The ship was fun and the sites were awesome, it was a nice change from the usual ferry travel and very unique.”

Another highlight is the opportunity to participate. The crew is friendly and eager to involve passengers—whether it’s helping to raise the sails or just enjoying the thrill of taking the wheel. This makes the experience more memorable and personal, especially for families or groups wanting something interactive.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Onboard Bar and Refreshments

While you are free to bring your own food, the Clipper City’s onboard bar is a highlight. Offering a well-stocked selection of beers, wines, and premium mixed drinks, it adds a layer of casual luxury. Several reviews highlight the bar’s reasonable prices and friendly service, making it easy to sip a cocktail as you gaze at the skyline.

One reviewer noted, “The bar was reasonably priced and well stocked,” which is great news for those wanting a drink without the crowds of a city bar. The bar service is attentive, walking around with drinks and keeping the mood lively.

Duration and Practical Details

The tour lasts for 1.5 hours, making it a perfect quick escape—especially if you’re tight on time or want a taste of sailing without committing to a longer voyage. The meeting point at Pier 17 is straightforward to reach, and the dock is easy to find if you allow for a few minutes of navigation.

The company, Manhattan By Sail, offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and the option to reserve now and pay later, adding a level of convenience and peace of mind, especially in uncertain travel times.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

The reviews reflect a broad satisfaction level, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 150 travelers. Many praise the friendly, knowledgeable crew—some even mention how staff made the trip especially memorable with their welcoming attitude. One reviewer from the UK called the crew “fantastic,” emphasizing their helpfulness and friendliness.

The scenery consistently gets high marks: “The skyline was beautiful, and the sailing was fun,” said a guest. Several reviews mention the cleanliness and maintenance of the ship, which adds to the comfort and safety of the trip.

Participants also appreciate the interactive element of helping with sails or steering—a feature that elevates the experience beyond a simple sightseeing cruise. Even in choppy seas or less-than-perfect weather, reviewers say the crew managed the situation well, ensuring everyone enjoyed the trip.

Highlighted Praise

• “The crew was friendly and chatty” (Nicky, UK)
• “It was very relaxing…the staff was the best” (Harrischan)
• “Great way to see some of the sights of New York” (Unspecified reviewer)
• “Even though a storm was heading our way, the Captain and crew did a great job” (Carole)

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the short duration. At just 90 minutes, it offers a quick glimpse but not a comprehensive tour of the harbor. If you’re hoping for a longer, more detailed exploration or a deep dive into NYC’s maritime history, this might feel a bit limited.

Plus, some reviewers mention that the location can be tricky to find if unfamiliar with the area, so arriving a few extra minutes early is advisable.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see New York City from a different perspective without the crowds. It’s perfect for photo enthusiasts looking for Instagram-worthy shots, or families and groups who appreciate interactive, hands-on activities. If you enjoy sailing, even casually, the chance to help raise sails and steer makes this memorable.

It’s also ideal for those who value relaxed, scenic outings over more commercial or crowded options. This trip pairs well with a leisurely afternoon in Lower Manhattan and can be a delightful break from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.

Final Thoughts

The NYC: Statue of Liberty Day Sail with Onboard Bar offers a refreshing, engaging way to enjoy some of the city’s most iconic sights from the water. For a reasonable price, you get a half-hour of sailing, spectacular views, and a lively onboard atmosphere. The friendly crew and the chance to actively participate make it stand out from typical ferry rides.

While the short duration might leave some wanting more, its focus on authentic maritime experience combined with stunning vistas makes it well worth considering—especially if you enjoy a bit of adventure and a relaxed vibe. It’s an ideal option for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a touch of sailing and socializing.

If you’re visiting NYC and want to add a splash of nautical fun to your itinerary, this trip will leave you with photos, stories, and memories of the city from a truly special angle.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the interactive nature and shorter duration make it suitable for families, especially if kids enjoy boats or sailing activities. However, supervision is recommended for younger children.

Can I bring my own food onboard?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food, but the onboard bar offers a full selection of drinks if you’d prefer to purchase refreshments while sailing.

How accessible is the meeting point?
The meeting point at Pier 17 in the Seaport District is easy to reach by foot, train, ferry, bus, or car. Allow about 20 minutes to find the dock if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather. It’s a sailing trip, so layers are wise, especially if it’s breezy or cooler in the afternoon.

Is the boat comfortable and well-maintained?
Yes, reviews consistently mention the ship’s cleanliness and good condition, ensuring a pleasant experience even if the weather isn’t perfect.

What if the weather turns bad?
The crew monitors weather conditions carefully. In case of rough seas or storms, the crew will take precautions, and the trip may be canceled or rescheduled for safety reasons.

How long in advance should I book?
Booking ahead is recommended, especially in peak seasons. The flexible reserve-and-pay-later policy also helps you plan without immediate commitment.

Enjoy your sailing adventure in New York Harbor—it’s a lively, scenic, and authentic way to see the city from the water!

You can check availability for your dates here: