3 NYC Cruises to Get You off the Grid and on the Water

by  Lindsay Silberman | Jun 24, 2014
NCL Breakaway
NCL Breakaway / Photo courtesy of the cruise line

If you're headed to New York City on your next getaway, why not get out on the water? Manhattan is an island, after all, and the city offers a wealth of boat tours and packages that will give you breathtaking views of the skyline and the harbor. Here are three of our favorites.

Spirit of New York
The Spirit of New York’s newly unveiled $1.5 million renovation gave a modern makeover to the vessel’s three interior dining decks, indoor and outdoor bars, and rooftop lounge, making it the hottest new venue for an evening dinner cruise. What’s more, the ship is serving up a revamped menu courtesy of James Beard Award winner and “Chopped” champion chef Eric LeVine. Guests on board indulge in dishes like Asian-style short ribs and scallion mashed potatoes, plus a malt ball mousse for dessert. Cruises sail Sunday-Thursday, from $84.90.

Circle Line “Best of NYC” Cruise
For an expertly crafted tour of the city by boat, look no further than Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. The company has been taking locals and visitors alike around the island of Manhattan since 1945, and it’s the only sightseeing company in the city that circumnavigates the island. Of the five different cruise options available, the full-island Best of NYC tour is the most popular. It encompasses all five boroughs, three surrounding rivers, and seven bridges in about two-and-a-half hours. Cruises depart daily at 10 a.m.,12:30 p.m., and 2:00 p.m; $40 for adults, $35 for seniors, and $26 for children.

Norwegian Breakaway's Cruise to Nowhere
Love the megaship cruise experience but want to try it on a small scale? Norwegian Cruise Line's Breakaway offers a “cruise to nowhere.” Basically, the ship leaves Friday evening and returns on Sunday, giving passengers two full days to enjoy all the amenities on this enormous ship. Don't miss the three new seafood restaurants by celebrity chef Geoffrey Zakarian. Prices vary based on season, but rates start at $179 per person.

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