Statue of Liberty Cruise + St Patricks Cathedral Official Tour

Discover the Ultimate NYC Landmark Combo: Statue of Liberty Cruise + St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour

This $59.99 package offers a practical way to explore two of New York City’s most famous landmarks. With a 3-hour overall duration, it provides guaranteed entry to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and a self-guided cruise that gets you close to the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. The tour is perfect for visitors wanting flexibility, as you can choose your own departure times for the cruise and visit the cathedral anytime during opening hours.

A key feature of this experience is its self-guided format, which allows you to explore at your own pace. The audio guides for both the cathedral and the cruise are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese, making it accessible to a diverse audience. While the cruise does not land, it offers spectacular views within yards of the Statue of Liberty, providing a memorable sightseeing experience.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $59.99 per person for two major NYC attractions
• Flexible schedule with self-guided visits to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and cruise departure times
• Guaranteed entry to St. Patrick’s Cathedral with audio tour available in multiple languages
• 60-minute boat cruise with indoor and outdoor seating and views of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline
• No landings at Liberty Island or Ellis Island during the cruise, but close-up views are guaranteed
• Includes onboard guide commentary in English and Spanish, with a cash bar available

Starting Point and Booking Convenience in NYC

The tour departs from Pier 36 in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, a location well-served by public transportation, with nearby subway access via the F Train at East Broadway. The on-site parking lot at the pier makes arrival straightforward, and street parking is often available. Travelers are advised to arrive 45 minutes to 1 hour early for the cruise to check in comfortably, as seats are first-come, first-served.

Booking in advance, typically 45 days ahead, ensures availability, especially during peak times. The easy mobile ticket system simplifies access, and the free cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Exploring St. Patrick’s Cathedral with an Audio Tour

Once inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, visitors enjoy a self-guided audio tour lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes, available during regular opening hours from 9 AM to 4:30 PM. The audio guide features commentary on 60,000 pieces of stained glass, the sculpted bronze doors, and notable features like the altar of Elizabeth Ann Seton and the Rose Window.

The tour also highlights the artwork and architecture of this active Catholic church, including Michelangelo’s influences and Raphael’s designs. Tourists can listen in English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, or French, with a kid-friendly version in English. While the cathedral is open to visitors throughout the day, it is recommended to avoid Sundays before noon, due to service schedules.

The 60-Minute Hudson River Cruise Experience

The Hudson River cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, with outdoor and indoor seating options. Departing from Pier 36, the boat routes within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, giving close-up views without landings. The guide provides commentary in English and Spanish, describing over 130 iconic landmarks along the skyline.

Passengers can purchase snacks and drinks on board, as there’s a cash bar, but outside food and drinks are not permitted. The cruise offers photo opportunities of Lady Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, and other sights, making it a worthwhile addition to the itinerary.

Flexibility of Self-Guided Exploration

One of the main advantages of this tour is the self-guided format for both stops. You are free to visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral at your preferred time during opening hours, enjoying the audio tour at your leisure. The cruise departure time is your choice, adding a layer of flexibility often missing from guided tours.

This setup suits travelers who want to customize their schedule or prefer a more relaxed pace while sightseeing. Note that transport between the cruise departure point and the cathedral is not included, so plan accordingly.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The experience is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking. It accommodates service animals and is accessible via public transportation, with nearby parking available for those driving. The cruise does not land at Liberty Island or Ellis Island, but the close proximity provides excellent viewing opportunities.

The audio devices are sanitized for safety, and travelers are encouraged to bring their own headphones for a better experience. The self-guided nature means no live guide inside the cathedral, but detailed audio commentary enhances the visit.

Who Will Find This Tour Most Useful?

This combination tour appeals most to travelers seeking value and flexibility. It’s ideal for those who want to see two iconic sites without the constraints of scheduled guided tours. The self-guided format allows for a leisurely experience, especially for visitors comfortable exploring independently.

Families with children will appreciate the kid-friendly audio tour at the cathedral, and all visitors benefit from the guaranteed access and easy booking system. However, those expecting a guided experience inside the cathedral or landings at Liberty Island should look elsewhere, as this tour emphasizes viewing and self-guided exploration.

The Sum Up: A Practical Choice for Independent Sightseeing

This Statue of Liberty Cruise + St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour offers excellent value for $59.99, combining two major NYC landmarks into one flexible experience. The self-guided audio tours and choice of cruise times provide convenience and control over your schedule, making it suitable for travelers who prefer independent exploration.

While it doesn’t land at Liberty Island, the close-up views from the cruise are impressive and provide a great photo opportunity. The audio guides enhance understanding of each site’s significance, and the location in Manhattan is easy to access. This tour fits well for those wanting a budget-friendly, flexible, and informative way to experience New York City’s iconic landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Statue of Liberty cruise depart from?
The cruise departs from Pier 36 in the Lower East Side of Manhattan.

How early should I arrive for the cruise?
It is recommended to arrive 45 minutes to 1 hour early to check in and find seating, as boarding begins 30 minutes before departure.

Is parking available near Pier 36?
Yes, there is a large parking lot at the pier with applicable rates, plus street parking and access via Uber or Lyft.

Can I choose my cruise departure time?
Yes, you select your preferred departure time when booking, providing maximum flexibility.

Are there seats both inside and outside on the boat?
Yes, the cruise offers indoor and outdoor seating options.

Does the cruise stop at Liberty Island or Ellis Island?
No, the cruise does not land at either location but offers close-up views of Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

What languages are the audio guides available in?
The self-guided audio tour is available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese.

Can children participate in the tour?
Yes, children ages 2 and up are welcome, with a kid-friendly audio tour available in English.

Is food and drink available onboard?
Yes, there is a cash bar onboard with snacks and beverages; outside food and drinks are not permitted.

What should I bring for the cathedral visit?
It’s advisable to bring your own headphones for the audio tour; disposable earbuds can also be provided.