NYC Statue of Liberty Tall Ship Sail aboard Clipper City

NYC Statue of Liberty Tall Ship Sail aboard Clipper City

The NYC Statue of Liberty Tall Ship Sail aboard the Clipper City offers a unique opportunity to see New York City from the water on a historic sailing vessel. Priced at $68 per person and lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes, this cruise combines spectacular city skyline views with engaging sailing activities. Its departure from Pier 17 at South Street Seaport makes it conveniently accessible, especially for those interested in experiencing a piece of maritime history while enjoying breathtaking landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.

While the tour is praised for its friendly crew, stunning vistas, and interactive sailing experience, potential participants should be aware that schedules and departure points can change last-minute, which may cause some logistical challenges. This tour suits those who enjoy active participation and want a relaxed yet memorable way to explore NYC from the water.

Key Points

• Price: $68 per person, includes all taxes and fees
• Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
• Departure point: Pier 17 at South Street Seaport
• Highlights: Views of Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge, and the NYC skyline
• Activities: Help raise or lower sails, steer the ship, interact with the crew
• Weather: Sails in light to moderate rain, with a full refund if canceled due to severe weather

Setting Sail from Pier 17 at South Street Seaport

The tour begins at Pier 17, a lively area on the South Street Seaport. Once on board the Clipper City, you’ll notice its impressive length of 158 feet and height of 120 feet, making it one of the largest sailboats of its kind in the United States. The ship has been refurbished from its original Civil War lumber-hauling days, and Smithsonian plans aided in recreating its authentic design.

The boarding process is straightforward but requires punctuality, as the vessel departs twice daily. Given the fluid scheduling around certain dates, travelers should arrive early to secure their spot and avoid last-minute surprises.

Exploring the Historic Clipper City

The Clipper City is a replica of 1854 schooners, built to recreate the sailing experience of that era. Its two decks provide ample space for sightseeing and participation. The ship’s refurbished interiors maintain the historic charm while offering modern safety and comfort features, including clean restrooms onboard.

This vessel can accommodate up to 130 passengers, offering a more spacious and less crowded environment compared to smaller boats. Its size and stability contribute to a smooth sailing experience, even for first-time sailors or those wary of choppy waters.

Landmark Views from the Water

During the cruise, the most prominent landmarks are visible from multiple vantage points. Travelers see the Brooklyn Bridge as the ship passes underneath it, marvel at the Statue of Liberty up close, and sail past Ellis Island. The views of the Manhattan skyline are especially striking at sunset, providing perfect photo opportunities.

The narrative is minimal on this tour, as it’s primarily a scenic sail, but the crew is praised for their friendly attitude and willingness to engage visitors with sailing activities.

Hands-On Sailing Experiences

One of the most distinctive features of this tour is its interactive element. Passengers are encouraged to help raise or lower sails and may even get the chance to steer the ship under the supervision of experienced crew members. This participation adds a fun, educational touch to the experience, especially appreciated by those seeking more than just sightseeing.

The crew is described as hardworking and friendly, making the sailing activities accessible even for beginners, without the need for prior experience.

Departure Times and Group Size

With two departures daily, the schedule offers flexibility for different plans. The maximum capacity of 120 travelers ensures a lively yet comfortable environment, balancing crowd levels. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 20 minutes early, as boarding lines can form, especially during busy seasons.

Note that schedules might be affected by weather conditions or last-minute operational changes, so checking current timings before heading to the pier is recommended.

Drinks and Onboard Amenities

While the cruise does not include complimentary beverages, an onboard bar offers alcoholic drinks for purchase. The bar menu is praised for its tasty options, enhancing the relaxed atmosphere onboard. The bathrooms are described as very clean, though small, which is typical for such vessels.

Snacks like bags of chips are available for purchase, but some reviews mention that not all requested items are provided initially, so it’s wise to bring your own if desired.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Participants should note that weather conditions influence the sailing schedule; light to moderate rain is manageable, but severe weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling at no extra charge. The location can also change at the last minute, especially around busy periods, so travelers should stay informed via contact instructions provided during booking.

The boarding process is straightforward, but directions to the pier have been noted as somewhat confusing, with recommendations to arrive early and look for signage or ask staff nearby. Service animals are allowed onboard, and the tour is suitable for most travelers who are able to board and disembark without significant difficulty.

The Experience’s Strengths and Limitations

The main strengths lie in the stunning views, interactive sailing activities, and the friendly crew that fosters a warm atmosphere. The historical design of the Clipper City adds a touch of authenticity to the experience, appealing especially to those interested in maritime history.

However, some limitations include the lack of detailed narration during the cruise and the potential for last-minute schedule changes. The small onboard bathrooms and crowd capacity might also be considerations for travelers seeking a more private or luxurious cruise.

Final Thoughts on the NYC Statue of Liberty Tall Ship Sail

This 1.5-hour sailing adventure offers a distinctive way to enjoy New York City’s iconic skyline from the water aboard a historic tall ship. The combination of spectacular views and hands-on sailing activities makes it especially attractive for families, history enthusiasts, and adventurers looking for a fun, active experience.

While logistical challenges like last-minute location changes can occur, the friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and interactive elements provide excellent value at $68 per person. This tour is best suited for those eager to combine sightseeing with a maritime experience in the heart of NYC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is accessible to most travelers, and children can participate in activities like raising sails and steering under supervision.

What should I bring onboard?

Bring sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and a camera for the scenic views. The onboard bar offers drinks for purchase, so no need to bring your own unless preferred.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?

Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. If severe weather causes cancellation, a full refund is provided, or you may reschedule.

Where exactly do I meet for the cruise?

The meeting point is 89 South St Pier 17 at South Street Seaport. Due to last-minute schedule changes, it’s recommended to confirm the location beforehand.

Are there options for different departure times?

Yes, the tour departs twice daily, allowing flexibility for different schedules and preferences.