About this experience
Unlike other Circle Line tickets sold, this Official Partner ticket offers reserved, guaranteed boarding for the cruise and time you select. Embark on a unique style of sightseeing cruise from Circle Line's downtown location. Enjoy music playing and sipping drinks while cruising down the East River into NY Harbor to admire the lower Manhattan and Brooklyn skyline lights. Then, pause at the illuminated Statue of Liberty for incredible evening photos, before returning to South Street Seaport.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Depart Pier 16, South Street Seaport
Board at the downtown Circle Line location and set off along the East River as the city's lights begin to emerge.
East River and Lower Manhattan skyline
Cruise past the iconic lower Manhattan waterfront with the Brooklyn Bridge and glittering towers framing both banks.
New York Harbor — Statue of Liberty
The boat stops directly in front of the illuminated Statue of Liberty, giving you ample time for photos before heading back.
Return to South Street Seaport
Sail back along the harbour and disembark at Pier 16, steps from the restaurants and bars of the Seaport District.
Meeting point
89 South Street, Pier 16 at South Street Seaport District, New York, NY 10038
Head to Circle Line's downtown location at Pier 16 — note this is NOT the main Pier 83 midtown terminal. Present your mobile ticket at the gate. Boarding opens 30 minutes before departure; aim to arrive 45–60 minutes early to clear security.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Your mobile confirmation ticket
- A valid photo ID
- A light layer — it can be breezy on the water after dark
Know before you go
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Does the boat actually stop at the Statue of Liberty, or just pass by?
The cruise pauses directly in front of the Statue of Liberty so you have time to take photos, but it does not dock at Liberty Island — you stay on the boat throughout.
Where exactly does the cruise depart from?
Pier 16 at South Street Seaport, 89 South Street, New York, NY 10038. This is Circle Line's downtown location — not the midtown Pier 83 terminal. Allow extra time to make sure you reach the right pier.
How early do I need to arrive?
Plan to arrive 45–60 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow for security checks. Boarding begins 30 minutes before the boat leaves, and departures are prompt.
What time does the cruise depart?
Departure times vary by season to align with sunset: 4:00 PM in winter (November–December), moving progressively later to 7:30 PM in peak summer (late May–late July). Your confirmation will show the exact time for your chosen date.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Standard wheelchair access is available on the first floor of all vessels. However, the gangway at the downtown Pier 16 location is narrow, so electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters cannot board.
Can my toddler come, and do they need a ticket?
Children under 3 are admitted free of charge, but they still need a complimentary ticket — collect this at the box office on the day.
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Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
Circle Line has been running sightseeing cruises around Manhattan since 1945 and remains the city's best-known water-based tour operator, with dedicated downtown and midtown departure points.