Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise

Your ultimate guide to discovering New York City by Twilight

The Harbor Lights Cruise at dusk with the Statue of Liberty in the background

Experience the breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, and many other popular sites of New York City at dusk with the Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise.

This iconic two-hour sightseeing cruise offers a truly spectacular evening, allowing you to witness the city’s landmarks in the golden hues of sunset and the dazzling night lights.

This guide covers everything you need to know before booking your Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise tickets.

Top Tickets

Choose from the Harbor Lights Cruise, scenic Daytime Cruise, quick Liberty Express Cruise, or a relaxing Brunch Cruise—you’ve got the perfect option waiting.

Join the millions of passengers who have chosen Circle Line Sightseeing, the most popular choice for New York Harbor cruises, featuring large and comfortable boats.

Your cruise comes with temperature-controlled cabins with large panoramic windows, ensuring comfort in any season. Plus, you will have access to a spacious outdoor deck offering a sweet experience with the breeze on your face.

As you sightsee, you can enjoy insightful commentary from your guide, who provides insightful narration and a vast knowledge of the surroundings, keeping your attention.

Remember to bring your headphones to use the downloadable audioguide.

You can purchase food and drinks from the fully stocked bar, which offers a selection of hot and cold beverages, beer, wine, and cocktails.

Ticket Prices

Adult (13+ years): $27.50
Child (2-12 years): $18.50
Infant (up to 1 year): free

Book This Cruise

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises set sail from 83 North River Piers, W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036, USA.

You must arrive 45 minutes before the 7 PM departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.

During your twilight adventure, you’ll glide past the legendary attractions, offering incredible photo opportunities.

You will enjoy the views of the Liberty Statue, with the boat sailing within 100 feet (30 meters) for a perfect photo stop. The ship also sails past Ellis Island, where millions of immigrants were processed.

The other iconic views you are expected to see are:

  • The High Line
  • One World Trade Center
  • South Street Seaport, Manhattan
  • Cruise under three famous bridges: the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge, and the Williamsburg Bridge
  • Dumbo, New York City
  • Chrysler Building
  • Empire State Building
  • Little Island Park
  • Battery Park
  • Governors Island
  • East Village
  • United Nations Building
  • USS Intrepid
The Circle Line cruise sailing under the Brooklyn Bridge at night
Image: Newyorkinfo.nl

The cruise route is designed to provide both sides of the vessel with excellent views, with the captain slowing down for the best photo opportunities.

After soaking in the dazzling New York City skyline, you’ll arrive back at the Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises pier.

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, the Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise offers a range of amenities.

✔️ Live English commentary by expert guides
✔️ Free Wi-Fi
✔️ Restroom facilities on board
✔️ Downloadable audioguide
✔️ Outdoor deck
✔️ Temperature-controlled cabins
✔️ Food and drinks are available for purchase
❌ Outside food or beverages
❌ Hotel pickup and drop-off

Save 40% and more! The New York CityPASS is a popular discount card that helps you save 41% on your ticket costs and also guarantees seamless entry to up to five attractions.

To make your experience smooth, here are some important tips.

  • Book early to secure the best rate, as prices are subject to increase closer to the travel date.
  • Benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if your plans change.
  • Visitors are advised to arrive at least 45 minutes before departure time for boarding and security checks.
  • The cruise is wheelchair accessible.
  • Non-English speaking guests can download the complimentary Circle Line Sightseeing app on their mobiles (Apple Store or Google Store) to access the guided tour in their preferred language.
  • Please bring your headsets, as they are not provided.
Brooklyn Bridge seen from the cruise at dusk, with the Manhattan skyline illuminated in the background
Image: Expedia.com

Absolutely! The Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise is highly rated by travelers, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

  • Reviewers frequently praise the spectacular views during sunset, the engaging and knowledgeable guides, and the overall value for money experience.
  • Many visitors love this evening cruise so much that they make it a tradition on every visit to NYC.
  • The comfortable seating, ample legroom, and both indoor and outdoor spaces ensure you’ll have the best vantage points for endless photo opportunities.

Just as a painter uses the setting sun to cast new light and shadows on a familiar landscape, the Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise offers a fresh perspective on the magnificent Statue of Liberty and New York City’s iconic landmarks. Book your tickets now to see Lady Liberty in a completely glowing spectacle.

How long is the Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise?

The cruise starts at 7 pm and lasts two hours.

Is there a tour guide on board?

Yes, there is a live English tour guide providing insightful commentary. Additionally, a downloadable audio guide is also available.

What languages is the downloadable audioguide available in?

The Circle Line cruise’s downloadable audioguide is available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Mandarin Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.

Can I purchase food and drinks during the cruise?

Yes, there is a full bar on board where you can purchase hot and cold beverages, beer, wine, and cocktails. Please remember that outside food or drinks are not permitted.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible.

What time does the cruise depart?

The scheduled starting time is 7 PM. All guests must arrive 45 minutes before departure.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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Researched & Written by
Mary Bency thrives on the beauty of starry skies, the rhythm of poetry, and the thrill of cultural exploration. As a traveler with a deep curiosity for history and hidden gems, she immerses herself in the cultures and traditions of every place she visits. She is passionate about astronomy and poetry. Inspired by the destinations she explores, Mary writes, capturing their essence in verse. Mary's natural curiosity and knack for connecting with people allow her to infuse her writing with a dynamic and relatable perspective, engaging her stories. Favorite travel movie: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Next destination: Chefchaouen, Morocco.

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