Cross under 20 bridges and see all five boroughs of New York City.

Since 1945, Circle Line has shown visitors New York City from the city’s major waterways. The three-hour Full Island Cruise offers visitors a chance to circumnavigate the entire island of Manhattan and see many of New York City’s popular attractions, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, South Street Seaport, and the Empire State Building.

About Circle Line’s Best of NYC Cruise

Circling Manhattan on the Full Island Cruise is a great way to get an overview of the layout of Manhattan and New York City. It’s no wonder that over 60 million passengers have ridden on Circle Line’s various cruises; they offer a unique and manageable way to explore New York City’s many attractions.

Throughout the three-hour cruise, a tour guide narrates through the boat’s speaker system, pointing out important landmarks, sharing trivia, and highlighting some of the history of New York City. The trip includes a close-up pass of the Statue of Liberty—perfect for taking pictures. For many visitors on a short visit, this is a great opportunity to view this popular attraction as part of a larger tour. Seeing downtown Manhattan from the water is truly remarkable, as is discovering the northern reaches of Manhattan, which are surprisingly lush and green.

While three hours is a bit long for some, there is plenty of space for walking about; however, children might prefer the shorter two-hour semi-circle cruise.

Attractions Featured on Circle Line’s Best of NYC Cruise

• Jacob Javits Center
• World Financial Center
• Battery Park
• Ellis Island
• Statue of Liberty
• Wall Street
• South Street Seaport
• Brooklyn Bridge
• Empire State Building
• Chrysler Building
• United Nations
• Roosevelt Island
• Gracie Mansion
• Harlem
• Yankee Stadium
• Palisades of New Jersey
• George Washington Bridge
• Grant’s Tomb
• Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Monument
• Passenger Ship Terminal
• The Intrepid

Essential Information about the Circle Line’s Best of NYC Cruise

• The sightseeing cruise departs from Pier 83, located between 42nd and 43rd Streets at 12th Avenue.
• Mass Transit to Circle Line Pier: A/C/E, 1/2/3, N/R/Q, 7 or S to 42nd St./Times Square – change to the M42 or M50 Bus that runs along 42nd Street, taking you to the 42nd Street Pier.
• Circle Line’s Full Island Cruise is available with The New York Pass and CityPass for a $5 upgrade.
• Circle Line Payment: Cash and major credit cards are accepted.
• Circle Line’s Full Island Cruise Schedule – cruises are offered daily throughout the year, with more options during the summer and a single sailing during the colder winter months.
• During peak times, tickets tend to sell out quickly; therefore, planning to arrive early to purchase tickets or being flexible about the cruise you choose is advisable.
• The ship is not designed to accommodate handicapped individuals due to narrow stairs leading to the bathrooms; however, the crew will do their best to accommodate you.

Helpful Tips for Circle Line’s Full Island Cruise

• Concessions, including beer and wine, are available on board. You may also bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. The souvenir mug with free refills of soda is a good value.
• Boarding begins about 30 minutes before departure; arrive early to buy your tickets, as this could take longer on weekends and during school breaks. The most desirable seats are along the left-hand side of the boat, as that side is closest to Manhattan during the ride.
• Wear sunscreen if you plan to sit outside or stand at the bow of the boat; despite the breeze, the sun can be quite strong.
• Once the cruise departs, the bow of the boat opens for standing room only— check out the view from there, despite potential crowds.
• Bathrooms on board tend to be cleanest early in the trip— plan accordingly.