NYC: Statue of Liberty Day Sail with Onboard Bar

Sailing along New York Harbor on a tall ship like the Clipper City sounds like something out of a postcard—and, in many ways, it is. This 1.5-hour journey offers a different perspective on the city’s skyline, with the added bonus of a full onboard bar and the chance to help raise the sails. It’s a charming, relatively quick way to see some of NYC’s most famous landmarks from the water, combined with a dash of adventure and a relaxed atmosphere.

What we really love about this experience is how it blends spectacular views with a hands-on sailing feel. The crew is friendly and knowledgeable, making it accessible whether you’re a sailing newbie or a seasoned sailor. Plus, the views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan skyline are simply unbeatable. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the experience might be harder to find if you’re unfamiliar with Lower Manhattan—so arriving a little early is advisable. This tour is perfect for those who love scenic outings, unique photo ops, and a laid-back vibe without sacrificing comfort.

Key Points

• Unique sailing experience on NYC’s largest tall ship, the Clipper City
• Unparalleled views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and skyline
• Interactive elements like helping raise the sails and taking the helm
• Onboard bar with a good selection of drinks, included or available for purchase
• Flexible itinerary passing by iconic landmarks, with scenic photo stops
• Short but sweet at 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy day
• Accessible meeting point at Pier 17, with options for transport
• Authentic and relaxed atmosphere, with friendly crew and a family-friendly vibe

The Experience: What to Expect on the Clipper City

This sailing adventure begins at Pier 17, in the heart of Lower Manhattan, just below the Brooklyn Bridge. The location is convenient, but reviews suggest allowing up to 20 minutes to find the dock if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The gangway to board is located at the end of Pier 17, a detail that might seem minor but can make a difference when you’re trying to find your way.

Once aboard the Clipper City, you’ll be greeted by the sight of a majestic, towering tall ship. With masts reaching 120 feet and a length of 158 feet, this vessel is impressive and comfortably accommodates up to 149 people. The ship’s classic design, with towering masts and billowing sails, invites you into a century-old sailing tradition, but with modern comforts such as a fully stocked onboard bar.

The Itinerary: Sightseeing with a Sailing Twist

The cruise takes you from Pier 17 along the Hudson River, passing several landmarks with plenty of opportunities for photos and sightseeing. The route includes:

• One World Trade Center: A quick pass-by offering fantastic views of the tallest building in the US, perfect for skyline shots.
• Ellis Island: Glimpse the historic site from the water, framing a picture of immigration history.
• Statue of Liberty: The main spectacle, where you’ll have the chance to take photos and enjoy the iconic view from close quarters.
• The Battery: A scenic stop with views of the harbor’s southern tip.
• Brooklyn Bridge: Passing under and near this architectural marvel gives you postcard-perfect moments.
• Governors Island: A quieter spot for scenic photos and a bit of green amid the cityscape.

Each of these stops lasts approximately 15 minutes, giving you enough time to snap photos, enjoy the scenery, and relax. The boat sails past these landmarks at a leisurely pace, allowing you to truly take in the views without feeling rushed.

What It’s Like on Deck

The quarterdeck provides a comfortable spot to sit back and soak in the sights. Reviewers mention that the boat was clean, accessible, and equipped for a comfortable experience. The crew is praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to involve guests—some reviews even mention helping raise the sails or taking a turn at the helm, which adds a fun, interactive element to the trip.

The Bar and Refreshments

While you’re welcome to bring your own food, the onboard bar makes it easy to relax without fuss. The crew walks around offering drinks—think beer, wine, mixed drinks, soda, and juice—and the bar is well-stocked. Reviewers appreciate that the prices are reasonable, especially considering the scenic setting, and some mention the full bar as a highlight of the trip. The ability to sip a cocktail while gazing at the skyline is a definite plus.

The Value of the Tour

Priced at around $68 per person, this experience offers good value for those seeking an authentic, scenic, and interactive way to see NYC. The combination of a short sailing trip, stunning views, and a relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for travelers who want a memorable experience without a full-day commitment.

While the cruise is shorter than some other tours, reviews highlight the quality over quantity. The fact that you get to actively participate—raising sails, steering—adds to the sense of adventure. Plus, the photos taken during the trip, especially around sunset or twilight, are often described as stunning, making this a popular choice for social media enthusiasts.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sail is perfect if you’re a fan of unique perspectives on NYC’s famous skyline. It’s great for couples, small groups, or families looking for a laid-back adventure with a touch of maritime charm. If you enjoy interactive experiences and want to learn a bit about sailing from friendly, professional crew members, this trip hits the mark.

It’s also ideal for those who want a more personal, intimate view of the Statue of Liberty, especially since the boat gets close enough for memorable photos, and the crew is welcoming and engaging.

Practical Details & Tips

• Meeting Point: Pier 17 at the Seaport, easy access via foot, train, ferry, bus, or car. Arrive early to find the dock smoothly.
• Duration: 1.5 hours—perfect for fitting into a busy day.
• Price: About $68 per person, offering good value for a scenic, interactive experience.
• Inclusions: Sailing with a professional captain and crew, onboard bar service.
• What to Bring: Passport or ID, sunglasses, hat, or sunscreen if sunny.
• Weather: As an outdoor activity, check the forecast and dress accordingly.
• Accessibility: The ship is described as accessible and clean, but confirming specific needs may be helpful.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.

Authentic Experiences & Honest Feedback from Reviewers

One reviewer noted that “the ship was fun and the sites were awesome,” emphasizing that this trip offers a nice change from typical ferry rides. Several mention the friendly, chatty crew and how the setting feels relaxed and authentic—not overly commercialized.

A standout review describes the sails being set by a German-speaking crew member from Lake Constance, adding a personal touch to the trip. Many appreciated the chance to capture beautiful photos at sunset, with some passengers lucky enough to see fireworks or special moments like a Brooklyn Bridge firework display.

While most reviews praise the experience, some mention finding the dock was tricky, and a few note the cruise adheres more to a relaxed schedule rather than strict timing—so don’t expect a perfectly timed, lengthy voyage. However, they agree that the overall value and stunning views outweigh these minor inconveniences.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This sailing trip is a fantastic option for travelers wanting to see NYC from a different angle without spending hours on the water. The interactive sailing element and the chance to capture iconic photos make it stand out from standard sightseeing boat tours.

For those who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings with good company and a glass of wine in hand, this tour offers a wonderful balance. It’s also a solid choice if you want to introduce kids or less adventurous companions to sailing without committing to a full-day tour.

While it might be a bit tricky to find if you’re unfamiliar with the area, arriving early and paying attention to the GPS coordinates ensures a smooth start. The friendly crew and beautiful vistas create a memorable, authentic experience that’s well worth the modest price tag.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own food?
You’re welcome to bring your own food, but the onboard bar is fully stocked with drinks, and you can purchase beverages from the crew during the trip.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect quick escape from busy sightseeing schedules.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Pier 17 at the Seaport in Lower Manhattan, just below the Brooklyn Bridge, an easy walk from major transit options.

Can I help raise the sails?
Yes, guests are invited to help raise the sails and take a turn at the helm, adding an interactive element to the trip.

Is the ship accessible?
The vessel is described as accessible and clean, but if you have specific needs, it’s worth confirming with the provider beforehand.

What landmarks will I see?
Expect close-up views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan’s skyline, with scenic photo stops along the way.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere makes it suitable for children, especially those interested in sailing or iconic landmarks.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather—layers, sunglasses, and sunscreen if sunny. It’s an outdoor activity, so be prepared for wind and sun.

Can I cancel last minute?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

To sum it up, the NYC Statue of Liberty Day Sail on the Clipper City offers a winning mix of scenic beauty, interactive fun, and authentic maritime charm. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a memorable, photo-worthy experience that’s relaxed yet engaging. Whether you’re visiting NYC for the first time or looking to see familiar sights from a fresh perspective, this sail delivers on both style and substance.