NYC: Sunset Jazz Sail aboard the ‘Clipper City’

Experience the Unique Charm of the Sunset Jazz Sail aboard Clipper City

The Sunset Jazz Sail aboard the Clipper City offers an engaging blend of live jazz music and breathtaking views of New York Harbor. Priced at $136 per person for a 1.5-hour cruise, this experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxing evening immersed in musical entertainment and scenic splendor. Departing from Pier 17 at the Seaport, the tour takes guests around the Harbor, passing notable landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Aboard New York’s only tall ship, the Clipper City—a replica of historic lumber-hauling schooners—guests enjoy spacious decks with ample seating, a full bar, and unparalleled views. While the tour promises spectacular sunset scenery, some reviews note that timing can impact photo opportunities, especially at the Statue of Liberty. The combination of live jazz and Harbor vistas makes this cruise a memorable choice for a special evening.

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Key Points

• Duration: 1.5 hours, usually in the evening, perfect for sunset views
• Price: $136 per person, with up to 2 glasses of wine included
• Musicians: Features performances by acclaimed jazz artists such as Joe Cohn and Avram Fefer
• Landmarks: Passes by Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, with views of the NYC skyline
• Ship: Operates on New York’s only tall ship, a replica of historical schooners
• Meeting Point: Pier 17 at the Seaport, easily accessible by foot, train, ferry, bus, or car

The Clipper City Tall Ship: An Iconic Setting for Jazz and Harbor Views

The Clipper City provides a historic and spacious setting for this cruise. Its decks are roomy and comfortable, allowing for a relaxed experience while taking in the sights. As a replica of lumber-hauling schooners, it’s a vessel steeped in maritime history, now offering an elegant platform for an evening of music and scenery. The raised quarter deck offers unobstructed views of the harbor, ideal for photographs.

This ship is maintained in a clean and well-kept condition, contributing to the overall quality of the experience. The crew is professional, managing the sails and ensuring a smooth cruise. The full bar is available for drinks, with up to 2 glasses of wine included in the ticket price, enhancing the relaxing vibe.

Live Jazz Performances from Top Musicians

The live jazz component is a core part of this experience. The onboard musicians include notable figures such as Joe Cohn on guitar and Avram Fefer on saxophone. With a curated lineup of guest musicians, the performances bring cool, smooth jazz sounds to complement the scenic backdrop. The music typically plays for most of the cruise, though some reviews suggest it may end earlier than expected, so guests should plan accordingly.

The musicians select pieces that range from contemporary hits to classics like Frank Sinatra’s NY NY, adding a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere. The sound level is set to allow conversation and appreciation of the surrounding views without overwhelming the senses.

Friends and Families: Suitable for a Romantic Sunset or Special Occasion

This cruise fits well for romantic outings and date nights, thanks to its spectacular sunset views and intimate setting. The timing coincides with sunset, allowing guests to watch the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying live music. The spacious decks provide enough room for small groups, making it a good choice for special occasions or celebrations.

However, reviews mention that weather can influence the experience—storm cancellations have occurred due to safety concerns. Guests should be aware that timing and weather conditions may affect the cruise schedule, so flexibility is advisable. The meeting point at Pier 17 is convenient, with easy access from various transportation options, easing the planning process.

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The Scenic Route Around NYC’s Harbour Landmarks

The cruise route takes in iconic sites such as the Statue of Liberty, which comes remarkably close—up against the ship in some instances—offering excellent photo opportunities. The sailing also passes beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, providing a unique perspective of this architectural marvel. The harbor scenery includes views of the city skyline, offering a picturesque backdrop during the sunset.

Guests can expect a gentle cruise on Hudson and East Rivers, with the crew actively managing the sails and guiding the ship smoothly through the waters. These scenic vistas are complemented by the musical entertainment, making the experience both visually and sonically engaging.

The Sailing Experience: Setting Sails and Navigating the Harbor

One of the special features of this tour is the opportunity to observe the setting of the sails on New York’s largest sailing ship. The crew demonstrates their skill in handling the massive sails, adding a touch of maritime tradition to the cruise. Guests are encouraged to appreciate the ship’s historic design while relaxing on the decks.

The cruise offers a comfortable experience, with ample seating for guests to settle in and enjoy the music and views. The ship’s design allows for a close-up view of the harbor’s activity, with passing boats and the city’s skyline providing a lively backdrop.

Practical Information: Meeting Point, Cancellation, and Booking Flexibility

The meeting point is at Pier 17 at the Seaport in Lower Manhattan, positioned just below the Brooklyn Bridge. The location is easy to reach on foot, by train, ferry, bus, or car, with some walking required if unfamiliar with the area. Guests should allow up to 20 minutes to locate the dock.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for flexible planning. Guests can also reserve now and pay later, allowing them to secure a spot without immediate payment, which is helpful if travel plans are uncertain.

Limitations and Considerations for the Sunset Jazz Cruise

While the experience generally receives positive feedback, some reviews highlight cancellation issues due to weather, particularly storms in the area. Although early communication about cancellations is appreciated, inconsistent sailing on the East River was noted, with some reports of the ship sailing without issue shortly before cancellations. Weather-related cancellations are beyond control but can impact the timing and enjoyment of the cruise.

Another consideration is the timing of the sunset; arriving late can limit photo opportunities at the Statue of Liberty, which some guests find disappointing. The music typically plays most of the cruise, but some reviews mention the band playing less than half the scheduled time, so guests who prioritize live entertainment should plan accordingly.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Sunset Jazz Sail?

This tour is ideal for music lovers who enjoy live jazz performances in a historic setting. It appeals to those seeking a relaxed, scenic experience, especially during sunset hours. The romantic ambiance makes it a good choice for couples celebrating special occasions.

It also suits adventurous spirits interested in the maritime aspect of the tall ship, with the chance to see sails set and learn about sailing. Photo enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to capture stunning skyline and harbor views—just keep in mind the timing for the best light at sunset.

Final Thoughts on the Sunset Jazz Sail

The Sunset Jazz Sail aboard the Clipper City combines musical talent, historic charm, and breathtaking vistas into a memorable evening in NYC. The spacious decks and excellent views create a relaxed environment to enjoy live jazz and watch the city transition from day to night. The inclusion of up to 2 glasses of wine adds a touch of indulgence, making it suitable for romantics and groups alike.

While weather can sometimes interfere, the overall experience remains highly regarded, especially for those who value scenic beauty and music. This cruise offers a distinctive way to see New York Harbor from a classic sailing ship, creating lasting impressions of the city’s skyline and historic landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the Sunset Jazz Sail?
The cruise lasts 1.5 hours, typically scheduled in the evening to coincide with sunset.

How much does the tour cost?
The ticket price is $136 per person, which includes live jazz music and up to 2 glasses of wine.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The meeting point is at Pier 17 at the Seaport in Lower Manhattan, just below the Brooklyn Bridge.

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
The provided information does not specify accessibility details, but the decks are spacious and comfortable.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the cruise date.

What if the weather is bad?
Cruel weather, such as storms, may lead to cancellations for safety reasons. Guests should check for updates closer to their scheduled time.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
Guests receive up to 2 glasses of wine, with additional drinks available at the full bar.

What landmarks will I see during the cruise?
Expect views of the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, along with stunning skyline vistas.

Is live jazz music performed throughout the cruise?
Yes, the musicians typically perform for most of the cruise, featuring well-known artists.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by Manhattan By Sail.

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