Private Sail Around New York City and The Statue of Liberty

Discover NYC from a Private Sailboat with Unbeatable Views

A private sail around New York City offers a fresh perspective on the city’s iconic sights. For $650 per group (up to 6 people), you get approximately 2 hours of sailing with no need to share with strangers. Starting at Liberty Landing Marina in Jersey City, this tour combines comfort, flexibility, and unforgettable views, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a personalized experience. The tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from six reviews, emphasizing the breathtaking scenery and the engaging guides.

This private experience is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want to see the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and other landmarks from the water. The tour’s flexible nature allows you to sit back and relax or actively participate in sailing — whatever suits your mood. With most bookings made 38 days in advance, this tour caters to those planning ahead for a memorable day on the harbor.

Key Points

• Private 2-hour sail for up to 6 guests at $650
• Departure point at Liberty Landing Marina in Jersey City
• Includes views of Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and Governors Island
• Flexible options to relax or actively sail the yacht
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour
• Rated 5.0/5 from six reviews, highlighting the experience’s quality

Starting Point at Liberty Landing Marina in Jersey City

The tour begins at Liberty Landing Marina, where guests are welcomed onboard after a brief safety talk. This location provides easy access and is near public transportation options, making it convenient for most travelers. The meeting process is smooth, and the staff ensures everyone feels comfortable with the luxury yacht before departure.

The initial safety briefing sets the tone for a relaxed voyage. Afterward, guests are free to enjoy the luxury yacht’s amenities and prepare for the adventure ahead, whether by taking in the views from the deck or engaging in sailing under the captain’s guidance.

Awe-Inspiring Views of Manhattan’s Skyline

Sailing past the southern edge of Manhattan, the tour showcases one of the city’s most dynamic features: its skyline. The skyline’s ever-changing display of skyscrapers leaves visitors breathless, with unforgettable photo opportunities. The tour specifically takes you past the Manhattan skyline for approximately 30 minutes, providing ample time to absorb the impressive array of buildings and capture stunning photographs.

The view of the skyline is a highlight that appeals to photography enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike. Watching the city’s skyscrapers glow as the light shifts creates a memorable backdrop for the sail. The tour’s pacing allows guests to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Up-Close View of One World Trade Center

One of the tour’s highlights is a close-up view of One World Trade Center. This iconic, majestic building anchors lower Manhattan and symbolizes resilience. Guests have about 20 minutes to admire this imposing structure and take impressive photos against the harbor backdrop.

Seeing One World Trade Center from the water offers a perspective that is both powerful and inspiring. Its height and design stand out dramatically, and the proximity allows for capturing memorable images. This stop emphasizes the tour’s focus on experiencing New York’s most recognizable landmarks from a unique vantage point.

Crossing the Brooklyn Bridge

The sailing time around the Brooklyn Bridge lasts approximately 20-30 minutes. This large-scale steel and stone cable-stayed suspension bridge, completed in 1883, connects Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River. The bridge’s impressive central span of 1,595 feet and total length of 5,989 feet make it a striking sight from the water.

While sailing beneath and alongside the Brooklyn Bridge, guests appreciate the architectural grandeur and historical significance of this engineering marvel. The experience offers great angles for photos and a sense of connection between two of New York’s boroughs. The calm water and steady pace make this a comfortable viewing experience.

Exploring Governors Island National Monument

The tour includes a 20-minute stop at Governors Island, a 172-acre island in New York Harbor. This area features historic military fortifications like Fort Jay and Castle Williams, along with a public park managed by the Trust for Governors Island. A small section of the island is under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service as the Governors Island National Monument.

Guests can enjoy viewing the historic structures and the island’s natural beauty from the water. The small area designated as a monument gives a glimpse into its military past, while the remaining parts are open for recreation. The stop enhances the tour with historical context and scenic vistas of the island’s lush landscapes and historic architecture.

Visiting Ellis Island from the Water

A quick 10-minute viewing stop at Ellis Island allows guests to appreciate its significance as the busiest immigrant inspection station in U.S. history. From 1892 to 1954, nearly 12 million immigrants arrived here. Today, Ellis Island is part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and is accessible only by ferry.

Viewing Ellis Island from the boat offers a sense of its scale and importance. The proximity highlights its role in American history and provides excellent photo opportunities, especially with the backdrop of the Statue of Liberty nearby.

The Statue of Liberty Close-Up

The star attraction of the tour is a 30-minute viewing of the Statue of Liberty. This iconic neoclassical sculpture was a gift from France, designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi with a metal framework by Gustave Eiffel. It stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor and was dedicated in 1886.

Guests get an up-close view of the statue’s impressive size and details, including Liberty’s torch and the inscribed tabula. The experience offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the symbol of freedom from the water. The tour emphasizes that this stop is all about enjoying the monument’s grandeur from a comfortable vantage point.

Return to Liberty Landing Marina

After exploring the harbor and taking in the sights, the tour concludes with a 5-minute sail back to Liberty Landing Marina. The return journey is a relaxing way to wind down, reflecting on the scenic views and memorable moments. This smooth end to the trip leaves guests feeling satisfied and inspired by their experience.

The debrief includes an opportunity to ask questions or simply enjoy the peaceful sail as the city’s skyline fades into the distance. The entire experience, with no crowded decks or rushed schedules, ensures a satisfying and personal adventure.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This private sailing experience suits those seeking a luxurious, flexible, way to see New York City’s most famous landmarks from the water. It’s ideal for small groups or families who want an intimate, personalized trip with plenty of photo opportunities. The guided yet relaxed atmosphere allows guests to choose their level of activity, whether relaxing on deck or actively sailing.

The high ratings and glowing reviews highlight the expertise of the captain, the stunning views, and the personalized nature of the experience. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic, calm sailing and want to avoid large crowds typically found on public ferries or group tours.

Final Thoughts on the Private NYC Sailboat Tour

This private sail around New York City offers a value-rich opportunity to see the city’s iconic sights from an exclusive perspective. The 2-hour duration is ideal for a relaxed yet rundown of Manhattan’s skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge. The flexibility to relax or involve yourself in sailing enhances the experience, making it suitable for a range of preferences.

The favorable reviews underscore the stunning scenery and friendly, knowledgeable guides. While the price of $650 for a small group might seem high, the personalized service and privacy justify the expense for those who prioritize comfort and exclusivity. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, it also offers peace of mind for planning.

This tour stands out as a memorable, intimate way to enjoy New York Harbor, especially for those looking for something more personal and less crowded than traditional sightseeing options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, making it a family-friendly option.

How long does the entire tour last?
The core experience lasts approximately 2 hours, with some stops and sailing time included.

What landmarks can I expect to see?
You will see the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Governors Island, and Brooklyn Bridge.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from Liberty Landing Marina in Jersey City and returns to the same location.

Can I sail or just relax during the trip?
The tour offers the flexibility to sit back and enjoy the scenery or actively participate in sailing the yacht.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 38 days in advance to secure your preferred date.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private yacht experience, all stops, and the guided tour. Food or drinks are not specified.

Is there a safety briefing?
Yes, a safety talk is provided at the start to ensure everyone is comfortable with the yacht’s features.

How do I cancel if needed?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.