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Circle Line Cruise – what to expect, ticket, prices, timings, dress code, FAQs

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Established in 1945, Circle Line Cruise has been the only cruise company in New York Harbor focused solely on sightseeing and designed to maximize your viewing experience, rain or shine.

Deemed one of the best boat rides in the world, the Circle Line Cruise has hosted over 80 million passengers on its cruises.

It is the best way to explore the immaculate beauty of New York City.

The scenic boat tour lets you see iconic landmarks across Manhattan, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Empire State Building, from temperature-controlled indoor seats or a huge outdoor deck.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the Circle Line Cruises.

What to expect

Roll up your sleeves and get ready to see some of the most iconic and famous sights in New York City. 

Experience a breathtaking sail around Manhattan Island, where you can witness the iconic Statue of Liberty, the towering Empire State Building, and the magnificent Brooklyn Bridge.

A cruise ride lets you absorb the beauty of the New York skyline on an enchanting ride on the New York Harbor.

The cruise comes with guided narration, letting you learn interesting facts and the city’s history. 

Experience top-notch service, delectable cuisine, stunning vistas, and an engaging and educational tour on all Circle Line boats.

Tickets Cost
NYC: Circle Line Landmarks Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office US$41
NYC: Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office US$49
NYC: Circle Line Speedboat Skip the Box Office Ticket US$32
NYC: Circle Line Statue of Liberty Cruise Skip-The-Line US$29

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Where to book the tickets

Tickets for the Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise are available to be purchased online.

Get a chance to avail exclusive discounts when you book online.

Buy online tickets and avoid missing out on your preferred dates.

Booking online also helps avoid last-minute disappointment and delays.

How do online tickets work 

Go to the Circle Line Cruise booking page, select your preferred date and the number of tickets and buy the tickets right away.

After the purchase, you will receive the tickets via email.

You don’t need to carry printouts.

Show the smartphone tickets at the gate on the day of your visit and walk into the attraction.

Circle Line Cruise ticket prices 

The prices for a Circle Line sightseeing cruise can range from US$24 to US$49, depending on your desired experience.

Circle Line Best of NYC tickets are priced at US$49 for adults aged 13 and above, whereas tickets for children between three and 12 years of age are available for US$40.

Ticket prices for the Statue of Liberty Cruise are priced at US$29 for adults aged 13 and above, whereas tickets for children between three and 12 years of age are available at a discounted price of US$24.

A Circle Line Speed Boat ticket can be purchased for US$32 for adults aged 13 and above, and discount tickets are available for children between three and 12 for US$25.

Tickets for the Landmarks Cruise can be purchased for US$41 and US$34 for adults and children, respectively.

The best and the comparatively more expensive ticket for the famous Harbor Lights Cruise can be bought for US$44 for all adults, and for children, the tickets are available at a reduced price of US$36.

Children under three get a free ride on all cruises.

Best Circle Line Cruise tickets 

Here are some of the best options available to book tickets for a Circle Line Cruise and explore Manhattan.

Choose between a host of options and have a fun-filled, amazing time.

Circle Line Best of NYC Skip-The-Box-Office Cruise

Book tickets for the only sightseeing cruise that completely circles Manhattan on a two-and-a-half-hour cruise.

Take a scenic cruise along all three of New York City’s rivers, passing under 20 bridges and seeing more than 130 of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Experience the Statue of Liberty up close and get a first-row seat to the best view in Manhattan from the perspective of the great explorers who sailed across the ocean.

Take a seat, unwind, and appreciate the stunning vistas of the New York City skyline and get a comprehensive, complete tour with award-winning tour guides.

Pick from the delectable Circle Line Cruise Menu and enjoy refreshing drinks and tasty snacks while you cruise past iconic sights like Little Island, Hudson Yards, One World Trade Center, Downtown Brooklyn, Yankee Stadium, and the George Washington Bridge.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$49
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$40
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise

Enjoy a sunset cruise of the New York harbor and witness Manhattan’s spectacular sights and lights from the comfort of a climate-controlled boat. 

Embark on an adventure and sip delightful drinks from the fully stocked bar.

See the warm hues of the sunset reflecting on the Hudson, feel the breeze on your face, and be mesmerized by the shimmering skyline.

As the night falls, watch the New York skyline transform into a stunning sight of sparkling buildings illuminated by the city lights.

The ride is packed with endless photo opportunities to make you an Instagram star as you sail past legendary attractions such as the Statue of Liberty and get perfect views of the Freedom Tower.

Discover the city’s rich history through the words of a knowledgeable guide while getting an opportunity to see Ellis Island and cruising by some iconic landmarks such as Governors Island, the South Street Seaport, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$44
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$36
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Circle Line Landmarks Cruise

Experience the magnificence of lower and midtown Manhattan on a guided sightseeing cruise by boarding the Circle Line Landmarks cruise.

The half-island cruise looks to take you through all major landmarks while allowing you to capture memories for a lifetime.

Modern Bronx-class boats provide comfortable rides with temperature control, a huge outdoor deck, and an option to purchase food and drinks from multiple concession areas, including a full bar.

Be ready to be wowed by the fascinating history of the “Big Apple” narrated by an experienced tour guide.

Enjoy live narration throughout the cruise ride and enjoy unrivaled views of the Manhattan Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge, and Brooklyn Bridge.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$41
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$34
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Circle Line Statue of Liberty Cruise

If it is just the Lady Liberty you are after, then the Statue of Liberty Cruise is the best option for you.

Get up close and personal, and sail within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty, getting the most amazing pictures.

Experience a quick but inspiring 60-minute cruise of New York Harbor, where you’ll witness breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the city’s impressive skyline. 

Let the city’s history and undying spirit come to life while you gaze up at the stunning skyline decorated by awe-inspiring skyscrapers.

Have a fun and insightful time while hearing fascinating stories about the city that never sleeps.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$29
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$24
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Circle Line Speedboat Tour

For travelers looking for an adrenaline rush on their trip to New York, the speedboat ride lets you hit New York Harbor like an absolute boss.

Come aboard the Beast, a 70-foot custom-built power boat, and feel the energy as you race towards the Statue of Liberty at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.

Experience the thrill of a 30-minute tour through the highlights of New York while accompanied by an epic and cinematic soundtrack.

A designated guide will share intriguing stories and significant historical facts about notable landmarks in downtown, including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$32
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$25
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Recommended Reading
# Circle Line Speedboat Tour
# Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise

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Circle Line Cruise Timings

You have the option of starting your Circle Line Cruise at 10 am in the morning. 

You can also choose to visit during the afternoon choosing one of the many options available.

Alternatively, if you wish to witness the beautiful golden hour or the iconic night lights, there are other available options until 7 pm.

Best time to visit Circle Line Cruise

While every cruise option provides unique experiences and showcases a different facet of the city, we highly recommend embarking on the cruise around sunset for the optimal experience.

You can witness the peaceful and mesmerizing hues of a New York sunset before transitioning to the dazzling lights of the nighttime skyline.

A New York night is one of the most captivating sights in America for all visitors in love with cities.

Circle Line Best of NYC Cruise is the only sightseeing cruise that completely circles Manhattan on a two-and-a-half-hour ride. 

How long does tour take

Discover New York Harbor through a variety of cruise options ranging from 30 minutes to two and a half hours.

For a quick glimpse of Lady Liberty, choose the express cruise and see the amazing statue within 30 minutes. 

If you want to explore multiple attractions along the route, the Landmarks cruise is a perfect choice, taking approximately an hour and a half.

For the most breathtaking views of the New York skyline, opt for the Harbor Nights cruise that lasts for two hours.

Hop aboard the comprehensive ‘Best of NYC’ cruise, which will take you on a two-and-a-half-hour cruise ride past all of the city’s major attractions.

Circle Line Cruise Meeting Point

bus to circle line cruise meeting point
Image: Wikipedia.org

The meeting point for a Circle Line Cruise can vary depending on the cruise option you choose.

It’s important to keep in mind that the meeting location may change.

Visitors are advised to check the booking page before arriving to confirm the exact location.

Circle Line Cruise Dress Code

It is recommended to wear light, airy clothes when getting on a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise.

Make sure to bring a light jacket, depending on the weather.

Wearing sunglasses and a hat is advisable when going on a day cruise.

Additionally, using sunscreen and carrying a portable battery pack can help make your experience delightful and seamless.

FAQs about the Circle Line Cruise

Here are some questions visitors usually ask before going on a Circle Line Cruise.

What is the Circle Line Cruise NYC?

Circle Line Cruise is the only cruise company in New York Harbor exclusively dedicated to sightseeing, letting you explore the city in any weather.

What sights can I see on a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise in New York?

During the cruise, you can visit the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Manhattan skyline, Hudson Yards, One World Trade Center, Brooklyn Bridge, downtown Brooklyn, Yankee Stadium, and the George Washington Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.

Do I need to print my tickets for the Circle Line Cruise?

Printing your tickets is not necessary. However, kindly ensure that they are accessible on your mobile phone. 
Only the barcode is required to be scanned at the entry.

How long is the Circle Line Cruise?

You can discover New York Harbor through a variety of cruise options ranging from 30 minutes to two and a half hours, depending on the experience you choose.

What are the food and beverage options offered on a Circle Line Cruise?

Indulge in a comprehensive bar experience that offers a range of hot and cold beverages, such as beer, wine, and cocktails. 
Additionally, you can purchase from a freshly prepared menu of sandwiches, salads, and snacks.

Are restrooms available on a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise?

Yes, restrooms are available on all Circle Line Cruises.

Is outside food and drink allowed on a Circle Line Cruise?

You cannot carry your own food and drink on Circle Line Cruises.
You can pick between a host of options available on the cruise.

Are Circle Line Cruises NYC wheelchair accessible?

Even though most Circle Line Cruises are wheelchair accessible, contacting the company in advance is recommended to ensure that the specific cruise you want to take is accessible.

Where can I buy discounted tickets for Circle Line Cruise?

You can get the best discounts on tickets for the Circle Line Cruise by clicking here.
If you have children under three, they can ride for free! Inquire about an infant ticket at the box office. 
Additionally, discounts are available for children between three and 12.

Sources

# Circleline.com
# Wikipedia.org
# Tripadvisor.com

The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy.

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This article was researched & written by

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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