Statue of Liberty Express Cruise

Your Guide to a quick Liberty Statue experience

The Liberty Express Cruise passing near the Statue of Liberty on a clear day

This Statue of Liberty cruise is the fastest way to see Lady Liberty up close, offering a brilliant short cruise experience from Downtown Manhattan.

Liberty cruises are usually two hours long, but this cruise, which comes with an insightful tour and great photo spots, lasts only 50 minutes.

Before booking your Liberty cruise tickets, dive in to know everything about this Express cruise.

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. 

The first Express Cruise sails out from Manhattan at 10 AM, and there are a total of five sailings – one every 90 minutes. 

While booking your ticket, you must select from five time slots – 10 AM, 11.30 AM, 1 PM, 2.30 PM, 4 PM, 5.30 PM.

Even though there are expert guides on board, a downloadable audioguide is also available in nine languages. Remember to bring headphones.

If you want to soak under the sweet summer sun, you have the outdoor deck with great views.

If you are visiting in winter, you can relax inside the temperature-controlled cabins without missing the views, thanks to the large panoramic windows. 

Ticket Prices

Adult (13+ years): $24
Child (3-12 years): $19
Infant (up to 2 years): free

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Tourists taking photos of the Liberty Statue from the cruise
Image: Getyourguide.com

Your Liberty cruise departs from Pier 16 at 89 South Street in the famous South Street Seaport in Downtown Manhattan, New York, NY 10038, USA.

During your cruise around Liberty Island, you will be treated to the views of celebrated downtown New York landmarks.

Key sights you’ll pass by include:

  • The Brooklyn Bridge
  • The Financial District
  • One World Trade Center
  • Governor’s Island
  • Ellis Island, the once busiest immigration station in the United States

The main highlight of this cruise is getting an up-close view of Lady Liberty herself. The boat will pause multiple times around the Liberty Statue, allowing you to capture perfect photos.

Your journey concludes at Pier 16, where you can enjoy an array of shopping, dining, and other activities available.

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.

✔️ English commentary by expert guides
✔️ Free Wi-Fi on the vessel
✔️ Restroom facilities on board
✔️ A downloadable audio guide
✔️ Outdoor deck
✔️ Temperature-controlled cabins
✔️ Food and drinks are available for purchase on board
❌ Entry to or visits to the Liberty or Ellis Island
❌ Hotel transfers

Visitors enjoying the Liberty Express cruise on the deck
Image: Circleline.com

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable NYC Liberty cruise experience, keep the following in mind.

  • Prices are subject to increase closer to your travel date, so we highly recommend booking early to secure the best rate.
  • You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making your travel plans flexible. 
  • The cruise is wheelchair accessible.
  • Cruises sail rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather conditions.
  • Seating on board is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Remember to bring your passport or ID card.
  • Bringing your food on board is not permitted.

Yes, the Liberty Express Cruise is totally worth it. It is the fastest way to get up close to Lady Liberty, providing a comprehensive sightseeing experience from Downtown Manhattan.

At 4.6 out of 5 stars, the Express Cruise is rated highly by travellers. Many consider it a brilliant short cruise at a very good price.

Lasting only 50 minutes, it is a quick way to see the key sights if you are in a hurry or have a packed schedule for your perfect New York day.

With quick sightseeing and great customer reviews, the NYC Statue of Liberty Express Cruise delivers excellent value.

Before you hop on the Statue of Liberty Express Cruise, check out these popular visitor questions.

How long is the Statue of Liberty Express Cruise?

The Liberty Express cruise lasts for 50 minutes.

Where does this cruise depart from?

It departs from Pier 16 at 89 South Street in Downtown Manhattan, New York, NY 10038, USA.

Does the cruise go to the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island?

No, this cruise by the Statue of Liberty sails past both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for close-up views and photo opportunities, but it does not dock at the islands.

Are there other Statue of Liberty cruise options available?

Yes, there are Statue of Liberty cruise options, including a Statue of Liberty sunset cruise, a night cruise, a dinner cruise, and even a brunch cruise. There are also options, such as the free ferry to the Statue of Liberty, if you are seeking a free cruise to the Statue of Liberty.

Is there a tour guide on board?

Yes, a live English-speaking tour guide provides commentary.

Can I buy food and drinks on the boat?

Yes, there is a drink/snack bar on board with a variety of options available for purchase.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel my Statue of Liberty cruise ticket?

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

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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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