Starship 60 Min Statue of Liberty Brooklyn Bridge Boat Tour

Exploring New York City from the water offers a fresh perspective on its most famous landmarks. The Starship 60-Minute Statue of Liberty Brooklyn Bridge Boat Tour promises a quick, scenic cruise that gets you close to some of NYC’s most recognizable sights — all without the hassle of crowded streets or inside visits. While it’s not a comprehensive tour inside these landmarks, it’s a great way to see the city’s skyline, bridges, and historic sites from a comfortable boat.

We especially like how this cruise offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty from every angle and includes live onboard commentary that adds context to what you’re seeing. Plus, the option for indoor and outdoor seating makes it accessible regardless of the weather. One thing to keep in mind: this is a short tour, so if you’re craving an in-depth experience or want to explore inside the attractions, you’ll need to look elsewhere. But if a quick, scenic overview suits your schedule, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a cost-effective glimpse of New York’s iconic sights without spending hours waiting in lines or navigating crowded areas. It’s also perfect for those with limited time, families wanting a relaxed sightseeing option, or anyone simply curious about the city’s waterfront.

Key Points

• Fast-paced tour perfect for a quick overview of NYC’s skyline and landmarks
• In-depth commentary enhances understanding of sights like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge
• Photo opportunities are well-structured, with scheduled stops in front of the Statue of Liberty
• Weather-proof options with indoor and outdoor seating ensure comfort in any conditions
• Affordable price at $24.99, offering good value for a scenic city cruise
• Limited inside access — mainly views from the boat, no interior visits

What to Expect from the Tour

The Starship 60-Minute NYC Water Cruise is designed to be a straightforward, enjoyable way to take in some of the Big Apple’s most famous features from the water. Starting at Pier 36 on South Street, the tour lasts approximately one hour, making it ideal for a quick break in your busy sightseeing schedule.

The Itinerary Explored

Brooklyn Bridge & Manhattan Skyline

As the boat departs from Pier 36, you’ll immediately get a view of Brooklyn Bridge, one of the oldest suspension bridges in the U.S., renowned for its impressive architecture and historical significance. The guide’s onboard commentary makes this stop more meaningful, as you learn about the bridge’s construction and its role in New York’s development.

Hudson River and Manhattan Views

While cruising along the Hudson River, the skyline of Manhattan unfolds before you, featuring towering skyscrapers like One World Trade Center. The perspectives are especially striking from the water, showing a different side of the city’s architecture and skyline that photos from the street rarely capture.

Ellis Island & Statue of Liberty

The highlight is the pause in front of the Statue of Liberty for photos. The tour offers a dedicated time to snap pictures from the water, a less crowded alternative to visiting Liberty Island itself. As one reviewer noted, the boat stops so everyone can get a good shot — an appreciated touch for photo enthusiasts. Keep in mind, you do not leave the boat and the digital photos are available for purchase afterward.

Historic District & Seaport

Near the end of the cruise, the South Street Seaport is visible — a lively historic district showcasing NYC’s maritime past, complete with a picturesque carousel that makes for great photos and a reminder of the city’s vibrant harbor scene.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Stunning Perspectives
Many travelers appreciate the views from the water, especially with the option to enjoy indoor seating if the weather turns sour. The cruise’s vantage point allows for great photos of both bridges and skyscrapers that are often difficult to capture from land, especially during busy sightseeing days.

Knowledgeable Guides & Commentary
Reviewers consistently praise the live narration. A guide like Jose, for example, received high marks for making the experience informative and engaging. The onboard commentary helps turn a simple boat ride into a mini lesson about NYC’s landmarks.

Good Value
At just $24.99, this cruise offers a budget-friendly way to see iconic sights. It’s a quick, scenic overview rather than an exhaustive tour — making it a sensible choice for travelers wanting a taste of NYC’s waterfront without a hefty price tag.

Photo Opportunities & Digital Photos
The tour’s scheduled stop for photos in front of the Statue of Liberty is a popular feature. While the digital photos are offered for sale, the free digital picture (minus the Statue and Brooklyn Bridge) is a nice bonus.

The Realities & Considerations

While many reviews highlight the positives, there are some aspects to consider. Some passengers mention that the boat’s interior might feel basic, and the bathrooms are not luxurious — as one noted, they “smelled similar to a public park bathroom.” The boat is generally clean, but expectations should be modest.

A few reviews point out potential booking and boarding challenges. The company emphasizes arriving 30 minutes early, and being late means missing the boat — a strict but understandable policy for a group of up to 350 travelers. Some travelers encountered initial confusion about the meeting point, so paying close attention to directions helps.

Pricing for extras, like early departure, can be confusing or costly — one reviewer noted paying extra to board earlier. It’s worth clarifying these details before booking.

Lastly, some travelers expressed disappointment about the limited inside access and the fact that you don’t enter the landmarks. For those seeking an in-depth experience of Liberty Island or Brooklyn Bridge, this tour won’t suffice. It’s purely a water-based sightseeing cruise.

How Does It Compare to Other Tours?

This cruise is a shorter, more affordable option compared to longer water tours or inside visits. It’s comparable in price to other city excursions but offers a more relaxed, scenic experience rather than an intensive sightseeing day.

Some similar experiences include 90-minute cruises that might go further or include additional stops, but this 60-minute tour hits a sweet spot for quick sightseeing. The inclusion of live narration and well-planned photo stops make it stand out.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This cruise is well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of NYC’s iconic waterfront and skyline. It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers on a tight schedule who want an authentic, relaxing way to see the city from the water without breaking the bank.

If you’re interested in photography, the scheduled stops and scenic views will help you capture memorable images. Weather shouldn’t be a big concern since indoor seating is available, but travelers should dress appropriately for the forecast.

However, if you’re after an inside experience or detailed tour of the Statue of Liberty or Brooklyn Bridge, this won’t be the right choice. It’s purely a visual overview.

The Sum Up

The Starship 60-Minute Statue of Liberty Brooklyn Bridge Boat Tour offers a practical, value-packed way to experience some of New York City’s most iconic sights from the water. Expect a short, scenic cruise with stunning views of the skyline, bridges, and Statue of Liberty, complemented by friendly guides and good photo opportunities.

It’s best suited for travelers who want an affordable and relaxed introduction to NYC’s waterfront scene, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer to avoid crowded streets. The onboard commentary and indoor/outdoor seating make it a comfortable choice — regardless of the weather.

While it doesn’t offer inside visits or extensive commentary, the memorable water views and well-organized stops will leave you with a fresh perspective on the city. For the price, it’s a smart, enjoyable way to tick off some major landmarks and take home some great photos.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 60 minutes, making it perfect for a quick sightseeing break.

Where does the tour start and end?
Meet at Pier 36, located at 299 South St, NYC. The tour ends back at this same location.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan skyline including One World Trade Center, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty from the water.

Can I leave the boat during the tour?
No, passengers remain onboard during the photo stops and sightseeing points.

Is food or drink allowed onboard?
No, food and drinks are not permitted to be brought onboard, but they are available for purchase at the onboard snack bar.

What is included in the ticket?
Your ticket grants access to the 60-minute cruise, a dedicated photo stop at the Statue of Liberty, live narration, and one free digital photo (excluding views of the Statue and Brooklyn Bridge).

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a relaxed way for families to enjoy NYC’s skyline, provided children are comfortable on boats.

Are there options for night cruises?
Yes, from November to February, a City Lights Night Cruise is available, offering a different perspective of the city’s illuminated skyline.

What should I bring?
Bring layers — the weather can change quickly — and your camera for those picture-perfect moments. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding.

This straightforward, scenic cruise provides a practical way to enjoy New York’s celebrated waterfront, especially if you’re looking for a quick, engaging, and budget-friendly experience.