Walking and Boat Tours explore Manhattan Brooklyn Staten Island

Exploring New York City’s diverse boroughs in a single half-day is an exciting way to see the city’s highlights and hidden corners. This 4 to 5-hour tour costs $129 per person and includes both ferry rides and walking visits to Staten Island, Manhattan, and Brooklyn. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, stunning skyline views, and the chance to experience parts of the city that typically stay off the beaten path.

The tour departs from Pier 79 and finishes at Pier 11 / Wall St. It is suitable for most travelers and offers a mobile ticket for convenience. With an average booking window of 23 days in advance, this tour appeals to those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable glimpse of New York’s vibrant neighborhoods. The group size is capped at 150, ensuring a comfortable experience. Keep in mind, the tour includes boat rides and walks, making it a lively, active exploration perfect for those eager to see NYC from multiple angles.

Key Points

• Visit three boroughs—Staten Island, Manhattan, and Brooklyn—in just a few hours
• Includes ferry rides across the Hudson River and to Brooklyn for unique views
• Featured stops at Staten Island’s St. George neighborhood, South Street Seaport, and Brooklyn Bridge Park
• Enjoy a walk through DUMBO and explore trendy shops and skyline views
• Visit Time Out Market for a variety of food options (lunch not included)
• Guides receive high praise for their knowledge, charisma, and storytelling

Starting Point at Pier 79 and the First Ferry Ride

This tour begins at Pier 79, located along Hudson River Park in Midtown Manhattan. From here, travelers board a ferry that travels down the Hudson River, offering postcard-perfect views of the New York City skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The ferry ride to Staten Island is a highlight, providing an up-close view of Lady Liberty and the historic Ellis Island.

The ferry ride is a great introduction to the city’s waterways and offers a chance to see some of NYC’s most iconic sights from the water. This part of the tour lasts around 40 minutes and is both scenic and relaxing. The focus on views of the skyline and Statue of Liberty makes it an ideal start for anyone interested in classic NYC vistas.

Exploring Staten Island’s St. George Neighborhood

Once on Staten Island, the tour focuses on St. George, a neighborhood known for its historic architecture and local culinary scene. The guide leads visitors through hidden gems and local hotspots, giving a taste of Staten Island’s unique character. This stop lasts about 40 minutes and is free of admission charges.

St. George offers a laid-back atmosphere compared to Manhattan, with a mix of historic buildings and lively streets. The tour emphasizes the neighborhood’s charm and its importance as a gateway for New York’s immigrant history. This segment is perfect for those wanting to see a less touristy side of NYC and interact with locals.

From Staten Island to Lower Manhattan via Ferry

After exploring Staten Island, the group boards the Staten Island Ferry again, heading toward lower Manhattan. This free ferry ride is a key part of the tour, providing views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from the water.

Once in Manhattan, the guide takes visitors on a guided walk through the Wall Street area, stopping at the New York Stock Exchange, the famous Wall Street Bull, and other historic sights. The 30-minute walk offers insights into the financial district’s development and significance. This portion of the tour combines history with the energy of the city’s financial heartbeat.

Discovering the Historic South Street Seaport

The South Street Seaport area follows as a lively district blending maritime heritage with modern attractions. Visitors learn about NYC’s early days as a port city, walking past historic buildings and architectural landmarks. The district embodies both history and contemporary New York, making it a fascinating stop.

The tour’s exploration of this district lasts about 30 minutes and is free of charge. It’s an ideal place to soak in the city’s maritime history and take photos of the bustling waterfront.

Crossing into Brooklyn via NYC Ferry

From the South Street Seaport, the group boards the NYC Ferry to Brooklyn. The ferry ride across the East River is a favorite part of the tour, offering panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and bridges. It’s an enjoyable and practical way to move from Manhattan to Brooklyn while experiencing the city from the water.

Once in Brooklyn, the focus shifts to Brooklyn Bridge Park, a world-class 85-acre waterfront park known for its stunning skyline views and recreational spaces. This park stretches along the East River from DUMBO to Brooklyn Heights, offering perfect photo spots and a chance to walk amid lush greenery and artistic installations.

Exploring DUMBO and the Brooklyn Bridge Park

The tour stops at DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), renowned for its cobblestone streets, trendy shops, and stunning views of the Manhattan Bridge. The neighborhood’s unique blend of historic charm and modern flair makes it a favorite for sightseeing and shopping. Visitors are encouraged to wander through DUMBO’s streets and enjoy the atmosphere.

This segment lasts about 30 minutes and is free of admission charges. It’s a prime spot for photos of the Manhattan Bridge and the skyline, as well as browsing boutique shops and galleries.

Lunch at Time Out Market Brooklyn

After exploring DUMBO, the tour visits Time Out Market New York, a popular food hall nestled in Brooklyn. This bi-level waterfront spot offers a curated selection of local food and drinks, serving various cuisines in a vibrant setting. The lunch stop lasts approximately 40 minutes.

Lunch isn’t included in the tour price but is a convenient chance to try diverse eats, from casual bites to more substantial fare, all in one place. The market’s lively atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy socializing after a busy morning.

Staten Island’s Empire Outlets Shopping Stop

Before concluding, the tour includes a 10-minute stop at Empire Outlets in Staten Island. This premier waterfront shopping center is located right outside the Staten Island Ferry terminal. It offers a variety of retail stores, perfect for some quick shopping or souvenir browsing before the tour ends.

This stop is an easy way to pick up last-minute gifts or enjoy the waterfront views while waiting to return to the start point.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour begins at Pier 79 in Midtown Manhattan and ends at Pier 11 / Wall St. in Lower Manhattan, making it convenient for travelers using public transportation. The group size is capped at 150, ensuring a comfortable experience, and service animals are permitted.

Since the tour is designed to be active but accessible, most travelers can participate. The average booking window of 23 days suggests good availability, but booking in advance is recommended. The tour includes all ferry rides and walking segments, while food and shopping are at participants’ discretion.

High Praise for Guides and Experience

This tour earns a perfect 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 29 reviews. Attendees highlight the knowledge and charisma of guides, particularly mentioning Guide Michael for his fantastic storytelling, local tips, and engaging personality. Review comments reflect high satisfaction with both the scenic boat rides and informative walking tours.

Multiple reviews praise the tour for being worth the cost, with mentions of enjoyable, educational, and fun experiences. The smooth pacing, stunning views, and friendly guides make this a popular choice for visitors wanting a comprehensive yet manageable NYC experience.

Final Thoughts on the Fully Packed Tour of NYC’s Boroughs

This walking and boat tour offers an efficient way to see three boroughs—Staten Island, Manhattan, and Brooklyn—in just a few hours. The combination of ferry rides, walkabouts, and scenic stops provides a well-rounded perspective on NYC’s diversity.

The value for money is reinforced by the expert guides and the inclusion of multiple ferry rides that would otherwise cost extra. The tour’s focus on less touristy neighborhoods like St. George and DUMBO makes it ideal for those seeking authentic local vibes alongside iconic landmarks.

While the tour covers a lot, travelers should be prepared for active walking and short sightseeing stops. It’s best suited for adventurous visitors eager to maximize their time and see multiple boroughs with minimal hassle. The high praise from previous guests indicates that this tour consistently delivers a memorable, informative, and enjoyable experience of New York City.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers ferry rides, guided walks, and stops at Staten Island, South Street Seaport, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and DUMBO. Food and shopping are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Pier 79 in Midtown Manhattan and concludes at Pier 11 / Wall St. in Lower Manhattan.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as the tour is often booked about 23 days ahead. Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot.

Are ferry rides included?
Absolutely—two ferry rides are part of the experience, providing unique views of NYC’s skyline and landmarks.

What are the highlights?
Expect up-close views of the Statue of Liberty, visits to historic districts, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and a walk through DUMBO.

Is there food included?
No, but the Time Out Market offers a variety of local food options for participants to purchase.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking and boat rides, so some mobility may be necessary, but it is generally accessible for most.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of boat rides, guided walks, and visits to three boroughs in just a few hours, all led by enthusiastic, knowledgeable guides, makes it a unique way to experience NYC.