Private Boat Tour Routes NYC

Choose Your Own Adventure

starting at $600 for couples, $700 for 3-6 passengers
2 – 4 hours | flexible itineraries
catering menu | luxury amenities

What Routes are Available for Private Boat Tours in NYC?

Choosing your private boat tour routes NYC means selecting the perfect itinerary to experience the city’s most iconic landmarks from the water. When planning your sail boat tour NYC, understanding the available routes helps you choose the perfect itinerary. Our private boat tour NYC options range from 2-hour harbor highlights to comprehensive 4-hour explorations. Whether you’re seeking close-up Statue of Liberty views, dramatic Brooklyn Bridge passes, or custom routes combining both the Hudson and East River, our curated sailing itineraries deliver premium sightseeing without the crowds of commercial tour boats.

2-Hours: Harbor Highlights & Statue of Liberty

What You’ll See on a 2-Hour Private Boat Tour

The essential two-hour route is our most requested private boat tour in NYC. Departing Chelsea Piers, you’ll sail south along Manhattan’s Hudson River waterfront, passing Tribeca, the West Village, and the Financial District before entering New York Harbor.

This route prioritizes iconic landmarks with ample time for photography and relaxation. You’ll cruise within 150 yards of the Statue of Liberty for unobstructed views, and slip past Ellis Island. The experience feels private, calm, and expansive—ideal for first-time visitors, proposals, romantic occasions, and sightseeing without rigid schedules.

Who Should Book the 2-Hour Route? This itinerary works best for couples, small families, and groups celebrating special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or proposals. It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but want maximum impact from New York Harbor’s most recognizable landmarks.

Route Highlights:

Close-up Statue of Liberty views (within 150 yards)
Ellis Island passes
Manhattan skyline from New York Harbor
Hudson River waterfront (West Village, Tribeca, Financial District)
Relaxed pacing with photo opportunities

3-Hours: East River, Brooklyn Bridge & Expanded Skyline Views

What Makes the 3-Hour Private Boat Tour Different?

Add an hour and unlock a dramatically different perspective. This extended itinerary takes you beyond the harbor into the East River, where Manhattan’s architecture and Brooklyn’s historic waterfront create one of the most photogenic sailing routes in the city.

You’ll sail directly beneath the Brooklyn Bridge with additional views of the Williamsburg and Manhattan bridges. On the Brooklyn side, expect views of Jane’s Carousel, Brooklyn Heights, Dumbo, and waterfront neighborhoods that reveal New York’s industrial maritime history. On the Manhattan side, you will sail up close to the towering skyscrapers of the Financial District and catch glimpses of historic Wall Street.

Who Should Book the 3-Hour Route? This route appeals to photography enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone seeking variety beyond traditional harbor tours. It’s ideal for guests who want to see multiple NYC landmarks and waterways in one charter.

Route Highlights:

All 2-hour route landmarks (Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, harbor views)
Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge passes
Wall Street perspectives
Brooklyn waterfront neighborhoods (Dumbo, Brooklyn Heights)
Jane’s Carousel and historic piers
More diverse photo opportunities

4-Hour Custom NYC Boat Charter: Design Your Own Itinerary

What Can I See In 4-Hours?

The four-hour charter transforms New York’s waterways into your personal playground. With extended time on the water, you can combine routes, explore neighborhoods at a slower pace, or add premium stops that aren’t possible on shorter tours.

Popular custom additions include sailing north on the Hudson River to see the USS Intrepid, the George Washington Bridge, and the Little Red Lighthouse. Or extend deeper into the East River for Midtown skyline views and the seaplanes touching down in the middle of the river. Some guests want more sailing time for champagne toasts, extended photo sessions, or simply to enjoy the calm pace.

Who Should Book the 4-Hour Charter? This itinerary is perfect for guests who want complete flexibility, personalized experiences, or want to combine sightseeing with a proposal, celebration, or corporate outing. It’s also ideal if you want to relax and truly disconnect from the city while still surrounded by its landmarks.

Route Highlights:

All landmarks from 2-hour and 3-hour routes
Northern Hudson River (USS Intrepid, George Washington Bridge, Little Red Lighthouse)
Extended East River exploration (Midtown, UN building, Queensboro Bridge)
Flexible pacing and customizable stops
Perfect for multi-purpose charters (sightseeing + celebration + dining)

Where Do We Depart From?

Why Chelsea Piers Is the Preferred Departure Point

Most private boat tours in NYC depart from Chelsea Piers (Pier 59) on Manhattan’s west side. While New York City is surrounded by water, legal and accessible departure points for private charters are surprisingly limited due to docking restrictions.

Chelsea Piers eliminates these complications. Dockage and marina fees are included in your charter rate, boarding is straightforward, and the location is easily accessible from anywhere in Manhattan via taxi, rideshare, or subway (C/E to 23rd Street).

Can I Depart From Other Locations in NYC?

Yes. For select itineraries and custom charters, alternative pickup or drop-off locations can be arranged at premium marinas, including Brooklyn Bridge Park or Jersey City. These options require advanced coordination and may include additional marina boarding fees.

Important Note: North Cove Marina in the Financial District is currently closed for long-term renovations. If you’re interested in a custom departure location for your private boat tour, contact us directly so we can confirm availability and coordinate logistics.

Ready to Book Your Tour? Book your private boat today or contact us with questions about custom routes, departure logistics, or special occasion planning.