Statue of Liberty Ellis Island Cruise with One World Trade Ticket

A detailed look at the Statue of Liberty Ellis Island Cruise with One World Trade Ticket

Traveling to New York City offers endless opportunities for sightseeing, but experiencing the city from the water really makes things special. This combined tour packs a 1-hour cruise with views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline, plus a skip-the-line ticket to the One World Trade Center observatory. Priced at around $75.99 per person, it promises a mix of iconic landmarks and convenient access.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it offers a relaxed way to see some of NYC’s most famous sights without tiring your legs. The cruise’s water-level perspective of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is unforgettable. Plus, the included skip-the-line pass to One World Trade Center saves you from long queues, making it a practical choice for those wanting a smooth visit.

However, a potential drawback is that some reviewers have found the experience a bit limited — notably, the cruise doesn’t actually stop at Ellis Island, despite the name, and the boat’s windows sometimes aren’t in the best condition, making viewing less than ideal. Plus, timing can be tight if you’re rushing to catch the next attraction, especially after the cruise.

This tour is definitely best suited for visitors who want a quick but scenic overview of NYC’s highlights, especially if they prefer not to walk long distances or tire themselves out climbing stairs. It’s also good for those on a tight schedule who want both water views and convenient access to the One World Trade Center observatory.

Key Points

• Water Perspective: You’ll see iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline from the water, offering a different appreciation than land-based views.
• Skip-the-Line Access: The included ticket to One World Trade Center’s observatory helps you avoid queues, which are common during busy times.
• Flexible Timing: Morning, afternoon, or evening options allow you to choose the time that best suits your plans.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 175 travelers, the tour maintains a lively atmosphere but still feels manageable.
• Cost-Effective: For about $76, the tour combines sightseeing with practical access, though some feel the price is slightly steep for what’s offered.
• Limited Ellis Island Experience: Despite the name, this tour doesn’t include a visit to Ellis Island itself, which many visitors might expect.

The Itinerary in Detail

Manhattan Skyline and Brooklyn Bridge

The cruise begins with a panoramic view of Manhattan’s skyline, which is truly breathtaking. You’ll get ample opportunities to snap photos of towering skyscrapers, especially if you opt for the early morning or evening sailings when the lighting is more dramatic. Along the way, the boat glides past the Brooklyn Bridge, offering close-up views of one of NYC’s most iconic structures.

While the cruise doesn’t stop here, being able to see the bridge from the water provides a new angle you can’t get from land, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Some reviews highlight the quality of the views, mentioning that they’re only accessible via boat, which makes this part of the cruise worthwhile.

Liberty Park and the Freedom Towers

Next, you cruise past the World Trade Center’s Liberty Park, where the Freedom Towers dominate the skyline. From the water, the towers appear more monumental and striking than from afar. The cruise gets reasonably close for good photo opportunities, although, as one reviewer pointed out, the windows can sometimes be rather dirty, hampering clear views.

Battery Park and SeaGlass Carousel

Sailing by Battery Park and the SeaGlass Carousel offers a chance for visitors to appreciate Downtown Manhattan’s bustling waterside. The carousel, with its shimmering glass structures, makes for good photo material, provided your camera lens is clean.

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The main highlight is the close-up view of the Statue of Liberty, which is an experience in itself. The boat cruises within yards of Lady Liberty, giving you a sense of her scale and grandeur. Unlike typical ferry trips, this cruise emphasizes capturing angles for photos and enjoying the water-level perspective.

As for Ellis Island, the cruise approaches it closely enough for some impressive shots, but it’s not a stop during this tour. One reviewer expressed disappointment, noting that “Ellis Island is not part of the program,” which is important to keep in mind if your goal was to visit the island itself.

End Point

The cruise concludes back at Pier 36, where your ticket to One World Trade Center awaits.

Visiting the One World Trade Center

After the cruise, you can head straight into the One World Trade Center’s observatory with the included skip-the-line ticket. From over 100 stories up, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of New York City, which many describe as awe-inspiring. The indoor, climate-controlled environment is a welcome respite from the outdoor elements, and it’s easy to spend some time here soaking in the cityscape.

Although the tour doesn’t include a visit to Ellis Island itself, the skip-the-line advantage means you can maximize your time exploring the city afterward. For food, you might enjoy visiting ONE Dine or ONE Mix, both located on the 101st floor, for a meal or a drink with a view.

Practicalities and Tips

The tour departs from Pier 36 in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, with onsite parking available—though rates vary. Public transportation options like the F Train are nearby, making arrival straightforward.

To avoid missing out on seats and to get the best experience, arriving 45 minutes to an hour early is wise, as seating is first-come, first-served. The boat typically sails on time, so early arrival helps prevent missing the start.

Children are welcome, and the boat has restrooms onboard for convenience. There’s a cash bar onboard, selling snacks and drinks—though outside food and drinks are not permitted. Pets are only allowed if they are certified service animals.

What the Reviews Say

While the majority of feedback is positive regarding the spectacular views and knowledgeable guides, some travelers have expressed regrets about the limited scope of the cruise. One reviewer, Georges V, called the experience “quite expensive for what it is” and criticized the dirty windows and the rushed timing with the subsequent visit to One World Trade Center.

This highlights an important point: if you’re after a comprehensive Ellis Island experience or impeccable boat conditions, this tour might fall short. However, if your primary interest is a scenic cruise combined with quick access to a top observation deck, it’s a solid choice.

Final thoughts

This combined tour offers a convenient way to see some of NYC’s most iconic sights from the water, with the bonus of skipping long lines at One World Trade Center. The views from the boat are impressive, especially of Lady Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, making it an appealing option for first-timers or travelers with limited time.

That said, it’s worth managing expectations: the cruise doesn’t include Ellis Island itself, and window cleanliness can vary. The price is on the higher side, but it includes both the cruise and the observatory ticket, which can save time and hassle.

For those who enjoy water-based sightseeing, stunning cityscape vistas, and quick access to high-altitude views, this tour is a practical pick. It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a detailed historical visit or a more leisurely, in-depth exploration of the island sites.

FAQ

What is the departure point for this tour?
The cruise departs from Pier 36 in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, accessible by car, subway, or ride-share.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, onsite parking is available at the pier, though rates apply. Street parking may also be an option, and public transit is convenient.

What time should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive 45 minutes to an hour early to check in and secure a good seat, as seating is first-come, first-served.

Are there restrooms onboard?
Yes, there are restrooms on the boat for your comfort during the approximately 3-hour experience.

Can I bring my children?
Absolutely, this tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, making it a family-friendly outing.

Is there food or drinks available on the boat?
Yes, a cash bar offers snacks and beverages, but outside food or drinks are not permitted onboard.

How close does the boat get to the Statue of Liberty?
You’ll cruise within yards of her, providing an incomparable water-level view perfect for photos.

Does the tour include stops at Ellis Island?
No, the cruise approaches Ellis Island closely but does not stop there.

To sum it up, this tour is a smart choice for travelers wanting a scenic, water-based overview of NYC’s key landmarks combined with the convenience of skip-the-line access to one of the city’s tallest and most iconic buildings. While it might not satisfy those seeking a deep dive into the history or a more in-depth island experience, it offers a value-packed, memorable view of New York from the water—perfect for a quick, scenic, and practical sightseeing day.