The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Sunset Cruise offers a captivating way to experience the iconic New York City skyline. Passengers aboard the Majestic Princess can witness the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a stunning visual display. With a maximum capacity of 250 travelers, the cruise ensures an intimate atmosphere for breathtaking photography and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this cruise provides a unique opportunity to see the city from a fresh perspective.
Key Points

- Offers scenic views of the New York City skyline, Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island during a sunset cruise.
- Ideal for photography enthusiasts with opportunities to capture iconic landmarks.
- Provides an intimate setting with a maximum capacity of 250 travelers.
- Pricing starts at $35.99 per person with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before departure.
- Cruise includes special events like 4th of July fireworks and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Cruise Overview
The Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise offers an opportunity to experience the New York City skyline from a unique vantage point.
The tour includes views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge. This sightseeing cruise is ideal for photography enthusiasts, especially during the stunning sunset.
With a maximum capacity of 250 travelers, the cruise provides an intimate setting. Priced from $35.99 per person, the experience also features a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start.
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Meeting and Logistics

Travelers can find the meeting point for the Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise at Pier 36 NYC, located at 299 South St, New York, NY 10002, USA.
Passengers should look for the Majestic Princess and arrive 15 minutes before departure. The cruise ends back at the same meeting point.
Passengers should look for the Majestic Princess and arrive 15 minutes before departure. The cruise ends back at the same meeting point.
The experience is:
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Wheelchair and stroller accessible.
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Allows service animals.
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Near public transportation, though infants must sit on laps.
Customer Reviews and Ratings

With a total of 28 reviews, the Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise has an average rating of 3.4.
Positive feedback highlights the amazing views, friendly staff, and enjoyable experiences.
However, negative reviews mention issues with directions, lack of facilities, and poor organization. Specific complaints include safety concerns, limited seating, and obstructed views.
While many customers appreciate the scenic views of the NYC skyline and landmarks, especially at sunset, some have experienced challenges like cancelled trips and overcrowding on the boat.
Suggestions for improvement include better communication and additional amenities.
Experience Highlights

One of the main highlights of the Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise is the scenic views of the New York City skyline and landmarks, particularly during the sunset.
The cruise offers opportunities for photography at iconic sites like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Customer experiences range from excellent service to disappointing conditions on board, highlighting the variable quality of the cruise.
Notable events, such as special cruises for events like July 4th fireworks, can further enhance the overall experience.
The key highlights of the cruise experience include:
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Breathtaking views of the NYC skyline and landmarks during sunset.
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Photo opportunities at renowned sites like the Statue of Liberty.
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Varied customer experiences, from exceptional to subpar.
Scenic Views of NYC Landmarks

The Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise offers breathtaking views of New York City’s iconic landmarks as the sun dips below the horizon. Passengers are treated to panoramic vistas of the towering Statue of Liberty, the historic Ellis Island, and the stunning Brooklyn Bridge.
| Landmark | View Highlights | Photographic Opportunities |
| — | — | — |
| Statue of Liberty | Majestic copper-green figure, illuminated by the setting sun | Capture the statue’s iconic silhouette and reflections on the water |
| Ellis Island | Awe-inspiring hub of immigration history, now a moving national monument | Document the island’s historic buildings and the New York skyline in the background |
| Brooklyn Bridge | Magnificent suspension bridge spanning the East River, its steel cables glowing | Shoot the bridge’s graceful arches and the city skyline framed through its structure |
These scenic wonders make the Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise an unforgettable experience for photographers and sightseers alike.
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Photography Opportunities

Passengers aboard the Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise have countless opportunities to capture breathtaking photographs.
The cruise itinerary is designed to showcase the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Some key photography tips include:
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Time your shots for the golden hour during sunset, when the lighting creates stunning reflections on the water.
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Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture unique vantage points of the skyline.
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Be prepared to move quickly, as the boat’s route provides a dynamic backdrop that changes with each passing minute.
Special Cruises and Events

Beyond the standard sunset cruise, the Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise offers special events that enhance the overall experience. Travelers can enjoy unique cruises on holidays like the 4th of July, complete with views of the city’s fireworks display. The cruise also operates during other notable events, such as Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, providing a front-row seat to the festivities. These special cruises allow guests to experience New York City landmarks in a new light, creating unforgettable memories. The table below outlines some of the special event cruises available:
| Event | Description | Pricing |
| — | — | — |
| 4th of July | View NYC fireworks | From $59.99 |
| Thanksgiving Parade | See the parade from the water | From $49.99 |
| New Year’s Eve | Celebrate the new year on the water | From $99.99 |
Addressing Reported Challenges

While the Statue of Liberty Sunset Cruise generally offers an enjoyable experience, the review data highlights several areas for improvement.
Firstly, the meeting location appears to lack clear signage and proper facilities, making it difficult for travelers to find and prepare for the tour.
Secondly, the issue of overcrowding and limited seating onboard the boat has resulted in some safety concerns and obstructed views.
Finally, the cruise’s vulnerability to weather conditions and subsequent cancellations has led to frustration over refund processes.
The Sum Up
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Sunset Cruise offers a breathtaking experience to witness the iconic New York City skyline at dusk. With stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, it’s a must-do for photography enthusiasts. The cruise’s intimate atmosphere and reasonable pricing make it an attractive option for travelers seeking an unforgettable evening on the water.
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