NYC: St Patrick’s Day Booze Cruise w/ Drinks, DJ, City Views

A Detailed Look at the NYC: St. Patrick’s Day Booze Cruise

If you’re looking to replace the usual crowded bars with something that offers both spectacular views and a fun party vibe, this St. Patrick’s Day Booze Cruise in New York City might just be what you need. While I haven’t personally hopped aboard, reviews and the detailed itinerary suggest this cruise delivers a lively, scenic experience ideal for those wanting to celebrate the holiday on the water rather than in noisy pubs.

What we really like about this cruise is its combination of stunning cityscape views and an upbeat party atmosphere. The open-air deck allows for great photos of iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty, while the live DJ keeps the energy high with a mix of genres. Plus, the climate-controlled interior means you stay comfortable whether the weather is chilly or mild—no need to worry about sudden showers or wind.

A potential drawback is the rating of 2.5 stars, which hints at inconsistent experiences or perhaps some logistical rough spots. It’s worth considering that this might not be the most polished cruise in town, so if you’re seeking a luxurious, seamless experience, you might want to explore higher-rated options. Still, if you’re after a lively, casual celebration with fantastic views, this cruise caters well to those who enjoy a spirited party setting.

This experience is best suited for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers over 21 who want to enjoy NYC from the water, with good music and drinks, on a special day. It’s particularly appealing if you’re looking for something more memorable than a bar crawl but less formal than a dinner cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Iconic Views: Offers prime views of NYC landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline.
• Party Atmosphere: Live DJ playing a variety of music genres to keep guests dancing.
• Flexible Spaces: Both open-air deck and climate-controlled interior for all weather conditions.
• Adult Only: Must be 21+ to participate, making it a more mature celebration.
• All-Inclusive Vibe: Cash bars on both levels with drinks available for purchase during the cruise.
• Ideal Timing: Sunset cruise during St. Patrick’s Day to kick off spring celebrations.

The Experience from Start to Finish

Starting Point: Skyport Marina

The adventure begins at the conveniently located Skyport Marina near East 23rd Street. Boarding is scheduled for 6:00 PM, with the cruise departing promptly at 6:30 PM. Arriving early is wise to avoid any last-minute rush and to find your spot on one of the two levels—either the open-air deck or the cozy, climate-controlled interior.

The Scenic Route: Exploring NYC from the Water

The cruise offers around 3.5 hours of sightseeing in New York Harbor, which is packed with iconic sights. We loved how the boat glided past the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and Lower Manhattan, with the city’s skyline creating a stunning backdrop at sunset. The views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor are especially noteworthy, offering photo opportunities that are difficult to beat from land.

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The Landmarks: What You’ll See

The itinerary covers some of New York City’s most famous sights. As the boat moves along, you’ll get spectacular views of the Freedom Tower, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Seaport area. Many reviews mention how easy it is to capture great photos of these landmarks, especially with the skyline illuminated at dusk.

The Atmosphere: Music, Drinks, and Dancing

While the scenery is undoubtedly the highlight, the cruise’s party vibe adds a layer of fun. The live DJ spins tracks across multiple genres, encouraging guests to dance and sing along. Reviewers note that the music keeps the energy high, despite some comments about the cruise being somewhat informal.

The cash bar is staffed with two fully equipped bars—one on each level—so you can sip cocktails, beers, or soft drinks while enjoying the views. The open-air deck is great for mingling and taking photos, but the climate-controlled interior ensures comfort regardless of the weather.

The Return: Wrapping Up the Evening

At around 10:00 PM, the boat returns to Skyport Marina, bringing to an end a memorable evening. The cruise’s timing is perfect for those wanting a quick but lively celebration before heading out elsewhere or calling it a night.

What’s Not Perfect

While the cruise offers a lot, some reviews point out areas for improvement. The relatively low rating indicates possible issues with logistics or quality control. Some passengers might find the layout a bit crowded, especially during peak times, or the overall experience less polished than more expensive cruises. Also, since this is a group activity, the experience can vary depending on the crowd and staff on the day.

Pricing is generally geared toward those seeking a fun, informal celebration rather than a luxury experience. The value lies in the combination of iconic views, lively music, and social atmosphere—not in upscale amenities or gourmet dining.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This cruise suits adults over 21 who want to experience NYC from the water with a festive twist. It’s ideal for groups of friends or couples celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in a lively setting. If you enjoy music, dancing, and sightseeing, you’ll find this cruise hits all those marks.

If you prefer a more relaxed, refined, or orderly experience, you might find this cruise a bit too informal or inconsistent. But for those craving a fun, energetic atmosphere with unbeatable city views, this could be a highlight of your NYC trip during the holiday.

Deep Dive: The Value of the Experience

The 4-hour duration offers ample time to enjoy the sights, dance, and relax without feeling rushed. The open bar and lively DJ ensure the party doesn’t stop, and the scenic route provides a unique perspective of NYC’s skyline that’s hard to replicate on land.

Considering the cost, you’re paying primarily for the experience of being on the water, the views, and the social vibe, rather than luxury. For the price, many reviewers say the views and atmosphere make it worth it, especially if you’re seeking a spirited celebration rather than a formal cruise.

The flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind, allowing you to reserve your spot without worry. Just remember, weather can influence your comfort, but the boat’s climate control helps mitigate that.

The Sum Up

This St. Patrick’s Day Booze Cruise is a great option for those who want a lively, scenic way to celebrate. It’s best suited for adults seeking fun, music, and panoramic views, rather than those craving a refined or luxury experience. The combination of iconic NYC sights, a DJ that keeps the energy flowing, and the chance to enjoy drinks while cruising past famous landmarks makes it a memorable holiday outing.

While it might not be perfect for everyone—given the mixed ratings and informal vibe—it offers genuine value for travelers who prioritize a fun, social atmosphere with a stunning backdrop. If you’re in NYC during St. Patrick’s Day and want to see the city from a new perspective, this cruise offers a memorable way to do so.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for people under 21?
No, the cruise is only for guests aged 21 and over, as it has a fully staffed cash bar and a lively party environment.

What are the boarding times?
Boarding begins at 6:00 PM, with the cruise departing promptly at 6:30 PM.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately four hours, giving plenty of time for sightseeing, dancing, and enjoying drinks.

What sights will I see during the cruise?
Expect to see the NYC skyline, Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and Lower Manhattan, among other landmarks.

Are there indoor facilities?
Yes, the boat has a fully climate-controlled interior, ensuring comfort regardless of weather conditions.

Is there food available?
No, the experience focuses on drinks and music; food isn’t included, though drinks are available for purchase at two bars.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

In the end, this cruise offers a spirited, scenic, and social way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in New York City. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a lively party with stunning views and good company.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby