Radio City Christmas Spectacular Show + 90-min Statue Cruise

Complete Review of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular Show + 90-min Statue Cruise

Planning a trip to New York City during the holiday season often means seeking out those special experiences that truly capture the city’s festive spirit. Among these, the combo of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and a Statue of Liberty cruise offers a mix of dazzling stage entertainment and scenic sightseeing. While it’s an appealing package, it’s important to understand what’s included—and what’s not—to decide if it’s the best fit for your holiday plans.

We like that this tour combines two classic NYC holiday traditions into one manageable experience: the iconic Radio City Rockettes in their spectacular holiday show, and a harbor cruise offering stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the skyline. Both are standout experiences in their own right. The show is a true New York staple, with dazzling choreography and elaborate sets, while the cruise offers unbeatable photo opportunities and a relaxed way to see the city’s famous landmarks.

One thing to consider, however, is that the ticketing process can be a bit confusing, as some travelers noted difficulties with the ticket scan at the theater. Plus, the cruise departs from Pier 78, about 15 minutes away from Radio City, which adds a layer of planning if you’re trying to do everything in one day.

This experience suits travelers looking for a festive, relatively compact outing that blends entertainment with sightseeing—perfect for those visiting during the holidays. It’s also ideal for families, couples, or groups who want a taste of holiday cheer combined with iconic views, without the need for extensive planning or multiple bookings.

Key Points

• Festive Show: The Radio City Christmas Spectacular features over 140 performers, including the famous Rockettes, with a focus on holiday traditions and iconic scenes.
• Scenic Cruise: The 90-minute harbor cruise passes within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty, offering excellent photo opportunities and views of the Manhattan skyline.
• Convenience: The package includes tickets for both activities, with the cruise departing from Midtown and the show at Radio City, saving you some planning.
• Price & Value: At $104.99 per person, the price covers both experiences, but travelers should weigh the value given the potential logistical challenges and the non-refundable policy.
• Ticket and Seating Details: Tickets are delivered digitally; seats are in a specific section but not obstructed, and dress code for the show is smart casual.
• Limitations: The tour does not include transportation between the two sites, and the cruise does not land at Liberty or Ellis Islands, only passing close by for photos.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Our journey begins at Radio City Music Hall, one of New York’s most historic and grand theaters. The Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes is a holiday tradition that’s been entertaining audiences for decades. We loved the way the stage transforms into a magical canvas, with elaborate sets and dazzling choreography that keep the energy high. It’s a 2-hour show packed with festive scenes, including the legendary Parade of Wooden Soldiers, Santa’s journey to the North Pole, and the re-enactment of the Living Nativity.

The show’s choreographed dance routines are a highlight—impossibly precise, cheerful, and full of holiday spirit. The original musical score enhances the performance, making it a lively and engaging event. The seats are assigned after booking, but the ticket section guarantees no obstructed views, which is reassuring.

However, a notable draw-back, as some reviews mention, is the ticketing process. One reviewer noted, “The scan ticket sent by Viator will not scan at the show—we had to wait at the box office and transfer tickets to Ticketmaster. Upfront info could have avoided the frustration!” This highlights the importance of verifying your tickets ahead of time and being prepared for potential delays.

The Statue of Liberty Harbor Cruise

Following the show, you’ll head to Pier 78 for a 90-minute cruise on the Hudson River. Departing from Midtown, it’s about a 15-minute ride from Radio City. This cruise offers a fantastic vantage point—sailing within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty—meaning you’ll get some of the best photos possible without the crowds of Liberty Island.

The cruise features narration in English that points out major landmarks like the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and Freedom Tower. The full bar and concession stand make it easy to grab a drink or snack, adding to the relaxed vibe. For those braving the outdoor decks, it’s wise to bundle up, as it can get chilly—especially when the wind picks up.

Some travelers, however, expressed disappointment that the harbor tour was not discussed much after purchasing tickets, and that the cruise only passes nearby rather than landing at Liberty or Ellis Islands. The cruise pause near the Statue of Liberty is perfect for photos, but don’t expect to step onto the island itself.

The Overall Value

The overall price of $104.99 makes this a fairly accessible holiday outing, considering it covers two popular attractions. But, it’s important to weigh this against the logistics—there’s no included transportation, and the tickets are non-refundable if you’re late or miss part of the tour. The experience offers good value for a holiday-themed activity, especially if you’re interested in seeing the Rockettes and snapping pictures of the Statue of Liberty in one afternoon.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This combined experience is ideal for visitors who want to pack some iconic NYC holiday sights and entertainment into a single afternoon or evening. Families with children, couples looking for a festive date, or groups wanting a guided, low-stress way to enjoy the city during the holidays will find it appealing. However, for those seeking a more flexible or fully immersive experience—like a tour that includes transportation or landings—this might feel a bit limited.

Travelers who enjoy live performances and scenic cruises will find this a fun, if somewhat scripted, way to celebrate the season. Just remember, the experience is best approached with a flexible mindset and an eye for logistical details.

The Sum Up

The combination of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and a harbor cruise offers a lively, festive experience that captures some of New York City’s holiday magic. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a cheerful show and picture-perfect skyline views in one go, with the convenience of bundled tickets. The show’s energy and the cruise’s scenic views make for memorable moments, especially if you’re visiting during the holiday season.

That said, it’s important to be aware of the ticketing process issues reported by some travelers, and to plan your timing carefully given the 15-minute transfer between venues. The non-refundable policy also means you’ll want to be confident in your plans before booking.

For those who enjoy holiday entertainment, iconic sights, and a relaxed cruise experience, this tour offers good value—especially if you’re not looking for a fully customizable or land-based tour. It’s best suited for visitors wanting a festive, guided experience that combines the best of New York’s holiday cheer with scenic views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include transportation between the theater and the cruise?
No, the tour does not provide transportation between Radio City Music Hall and Pier 78. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer, which takes about 15 minutes by car or public transit.

Are the tickets sent electronically?
Yes, you’ll receive an email with instructions on how to download your tickets. However, some travelers have experienced issues with scanning tickets at the show, so it’s good to verify your tickets beforehand.

Can children attend the show for free?
Yes, children under two years old can attend for free if they don’t occupy a seat, but be sure to check the seating arrangements when booking.

What is the dress code for the show?
Smart casual is recommended for the performance, which means neat, comfortable clothing suitable for a theater setting.

Does the cruise go to Liberty Island or Ellis Island?
No, the cruise does not land at either island. It passes within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty and provides photo opportunities, but passengers do not disembark.

What should I bring for the cruise?
Warm clothes are advised since outdoor decks can get cold, especially with wind. You can purchase drinks and snacks onboard—just remember, alcohol purchases require valid ID if you’re 21 or over.

This review aims to give you a clear, honest picture of what to expect from this holiday combo. Whether it’s the dazzling Rockettes or the stunning skyline views, this experience offers a fun, festive way to enjoy New York City during the holiday season—just be prepared for a few logistical quirks along the way.