Radio City Christmas Spectacular Show + 90-min Statue Cruise

Experience the Iconic Radio City Christmas Spectacular and a Scenic Statue Cruise in One Tour

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular combined with a 90-minute Statue of Liberty cruise offers a festive and scenic day in New York City for $104.99 per person. This tour lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable and exciting way to enjoy two of NYC’s most treasured holiday experiences. The show takes place at the famous Radio City Music Hall, featuring the Rockettes in their annual Christmas performance, a holiday tradition since decades past.

While the ticketing process has some practical quirks—such as needing to transfer tickets from Viator to Ticketmaster—the tour’s highlights include a lively stage show with Santa Claus, over 140 performers, and an original musical score. The 90-minute cruise begins from Pier 78 at Hudson River Park, offering close-up views of the Statue of Liberty and landmarks like the Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge. This tour suits visitors eager to combine festive entertainment with scenic sightseeing, though some may find the ticketing process and outdoor cruise conditions less straightforward.

Key Points

• Festive holiday show at Radio City Music Hall starring the Rockettes
• Includes a 90-minute cruise passing within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty
• Total duration approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes
• Tickets priced at $104.99 per person with all taxes and fees included
• Cruise offers indoor and outdoor seating with large viewing windows
• Departure times for the cruise are 10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm

The Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall

The highlight of this tour is the Radio City Christmas Spectacular held at the storied Radio City Music Hall. This 90-minute stage show features the famous Rockettes performing their legendary dance routines in a magical holiday setting. Expect the parade of the Wooden Soldiers, Santa’s North Pole ride, and a Living Nativity reenactment of the first Christmas. The show’s original musical score elevates the experience, creating a lively festive atmosphere.

The theater seats are assigned after booking, and there are no obstructed views. The dress code is smart casual, aligning with the elegant ambiance of Radio City. Show tickets are delivered via email, with instructions to download an app for ticket access, typically 3–5 days before the show.

Navigating Ticketing and Entry Challenges

A practical note for participants: the ticket scan at Radio City is not compatible with Viator’s scan. This means waiting at the box office to transfer tickets to Ticketmaster for entry, which could cause delays. This process is an important consideration for those on tight schedules or with tight connections to the cruise. The harbor cruise ticket is valid on the same day as the show, but the ticketing process could be streamlined for better convenience.

The 90-Minute Statue of Liberty Cruise from Pier 78

After the show, the tour continues with a scenic cruise departing from Pier 78 at Hudson River Park. The 90-minute journey passes within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty, providing excellent photo opportunities. The cruise offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, accommodating different weather preferences, with large panoramic windows ideal for sightseeing.

A narration in English guides passengers through the city’s landmarks, including the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and Freedom Tower. The boat features a full bar and concession stand where drinks and snacks can be purchased, though self-serve snacks and drinks are not included in the ticket price. Be aware that outdoor decks can be cold in winter months, so dressing warmly is advisable.

Logistics and Timing of the Cruise

The cruise departs at scheduled times—10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm—allowing flexibility based on your schedule. The cruise does not land at Liberty or Ellis Islands, offering just a close-up view of Liberty Island. The meeting point at Radio City Music Hall is near public transportation, making it easy to reach, and the entire experience concludes back at the starting location.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While most travelers can participate, children under two go free if they do not occupy a seat. Warm clothing is recommended for outdoor parts of the cruise, especially during winter. For adults wishing to purchase alcohol, a valid ID is necessary, and alcoholic beverages are available for ages 21+.

The tour is non-refundable, so punctuality is essential. Since tickets are issued in specific seating sections, expect your seats to be assigned after booking, with no obstructed views guaranteed. The tour is limited to 100 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size.

A Practical, Festive New York Experience with Limitations

This tour offers an authentic holiday experience by combining Christmas stage entertainment with a scenic harbor cruise. The cost of $104.99 covers all taxes and fees, providing good value compared to booking each activity separately. The show at Radio City Music Hall remains a highlight, especially for fans of the Rockettes and holiday performances.

However, practical issues like the ticket transfer process and the lack of landings at Liberty Island are notable drawbacks. The outdoor cruise can be chilly, and the timing of tickets requires planning to avoid frustration. This experience is best suited for those who are comfortable managing a bit of logistical hassle and want a festive, scenic day in midtown Manhattan.

Final Thoughts on the Radio City Christmas Spectacular + Statue Cruise

This combined tour is a festive and scenic way to enjoy two of New York City’s holiday highlights in one package. While ticketing quirks and outdoor conditions may pose minor inconveniences, the spectacular show and close-up views of the Statue of Liberty create a memorable experience.

It’s ideal for families, holiday visitors, or anyone wanting to combine entertainment with sightseeing. Just be sure to plan ahead for ticket transfers and dress warmly for the cruise. Overall, it offers a fun, festive day that captures the spirit of New York during the holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under two years old can attend free of charge if they do not occupy a seat at the theater.

Are the cruise seats indoor or outdoor?
The cruise offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with large viewing windows for sightseeing.

Can I buy drinks or snacks on the cruise?
Yes, there is a full bar and concession stand available for purchases during the cruise.

Does the tour include landings at Liberty Island?
No, the cruise does not land at Liberty or Ellis islands; it just passes close to the Statue of Liberty.

What should I know about the ticket process?
The tickets sent by Viator must be transferred at the box office to Ticketmaster for entry, which might cause delays.

Is the tour refundable if I miss the show or cruise?
No, the experience is non-refundable, so punctuality is essential to enjoy the full itinerary.