The 9 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Jersey City
Jersey City offers a fantastic vantage point for exploring New York City’s skyline and iconic landmarks, all from the water. Whether you’re seeking a private sail, a sunset cruise, or a festive dinner on the river, Jersey City has a range of options that turn a simple boat ride into a memorable adventure. From intimate private charters to lively themed cruises, there’s something for different tastes and occasions.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each of the nine top-rated cruises and boat tours, including what they offer, their standout features, and who they’re perfect for. We’ll help you understand how each experience stacks up in terms of value, scenery, and atmosphere, so you can choose exactly the right cruise for your trip—whether it’s a romantic sunset sail, a family celebration, or a festive New Year’s Eve party.
1. Private Sail Around New York City and The Statue of Liberty
This private sailboat experience really stands out for its personalized approach—offering you the chance to see NYC from a totally different perspective. Starting at Liberty Landing Marina, this 2-hour trip is perfect for small groups up to six people, at $650 per group. The itinerary includes close-up views of the Statue of Liberty and a chance to get on the water with a yacht tailored for relaxation or sailing activity.
What makes this trip special is the flexibility—sit back and enjoy the scenery or get involved in sailing if you want. The captain provides a safety briefing and familiarizes you with the vessel before departure, ensuring everyone feels comfortable. Since it’s a private charter, you’ll enjoy an intimate atmosphere, ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a unique view of Manhattan’s skyline. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating, highlighting friendly crew and unforgettable sights. Keep in mind, at $650, it’s best suited for small groups who value privacy and a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for small groups looking for a private, flexible, and scenic adventure on the water with unforgettable close-up views of the Statue of Liberty.
2. Private Sunset Sail of NYC Skyline and Statue of Liberty
Watching the city transition from day to night is hard to beat, and this sunset sail delivers just that with a touch of romance. Also starting from Liberty Landing Marina, this 2-hour private cruise costs $725 per group (up to six), and is perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting to witness NYC’s skyline bathed in the golden hour.
The experience mirrors the daytime private sail but during the magic hours of sunset. Expect to see the Statue of Liberty and city landmarks like Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline, all illuminated against a vibrant sky. The captain and crew are praised for their friendliness—the kind of people who make you feel like a guest in their home. The photos taken here are stunning, thanks to the dramatic lighting. Although slightly more expensive, the personalized attention and breathtaking scenery make it a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a romantic or special sunset experience with private access to iconic sights and a relaxed atmosphere.
3. NYC Skyline Dinner Cruise from New Jersey
For a different kind of night out, this dinner cruise combines dining with spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline. Departing from Weehawken, this 2.5-hour cruise costs around $140 per person and offers a chance to enjoy a chef-prepared buffet while sailing past landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and the Empire State Building.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of gourmet food and visual spectacle. The boat provides ample space for relaxing, dining, and taking photos, with a lively atmosphere. The views of the skyline at night are truly iconic, especially with the city lights reflecting on the water. The feedback notes the crew’s friendliness and the quality of the food, making it a solid value despite mixed reviews on the overall experience. It’s well-suited for visitors who want a classic NYC experience with a focus on scenery and good food.
Bottom Line: A popular choice for those wanting a scenic dinner with skyline views, suitable for couples, families, or groups celebrating special occasions.
4. New Jersey Mother’s Day Signature Brunch Cruise
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a relaxing brunch cruise on the Hudson and East Rivers. Starting from Jersey City, this 2-hour trip costs $20, making it an affordable way to enjoy spectacular city views while dining with family. The cruise includes a signature holiday buffet, offering a variety of breakfast and brunch items, plus classic cocktails.
The tour offers a warm, family-friendly environment, with plenty of outdoor deck space for sightseeing and photos. The itinerary highlights the Seaport, one of the world’s largest natural harbors, giving a sense of the city’s maritime history while providing stunning views of Manhattan’s skyline. Reviewers appreciate the laid-back vibe and the opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones. It’s a casual, yet scenic option, especially suitable for families or groups celebrating Mother’s Day.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, family-oriented cruise ideal for a special day with loved ones, emphasizing scenery and comfort.
5. New Jersey New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise
Ring in the New Year aboard this festive dinner cruise, offering a memorable celebration on the water. For $650, you get a 3-hour event with a chef-prepared buffet, top-shelf open bar, and music and dancing. The cruise departs from Jersey City and offers prime views of the midnight fireworks over the Hudson River—an experience many find unforgettable.
The highlight is the lively atmosphere, with many guests praising the entertainment and spectacular skyline views. The fireworks display over the river is a major draw, along with the elegant setting. The downside is the limited review count, but the overall theme of celebration and the inclusive Silver Package make it a compelling option for New Year’s Eve. This cruise is best suited for party-goers who want a lively, all-inclusive night to remember.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a lively, all-in-one New Year’s celebration with skyline views, food, drinks, and dancing.
6. New Jersey Father’s Day Buffet Dinner Cruise
Celebrate Dad with this Father’s Day dinner cruise on the East and Hudson Rivers. Priced at $179.15 per person, this 2.5-hour tour offers a chef-prepared buffet, classic cocktails, and impressive views of NYC’s skyline. Departing from Jersey City, the cruise provides a relaxed atmosphere suitable for all ages.
The itinerary includes views of the Statue of Liberty, giving everyone a chance to marvel at this iconic figure. The cruise’s casual ambiance makes it a great family outing, and reviews note the friendly crew and good food, though it lacks extensive ratings. It’s a good choice if you want a special occasion with scenic views without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: An accessible, family-friendly cruise ideal for celebrating Father’s Day with good food and memorable views.
7. New Jersey Father’s Day Brunch Cruise
For a more relaxed daytime celebration, this Father’s Day brunch cruise offers magnificent skyline views along with a chef-prepared buffet. Priced at $178.56 per person and lasting 2 hours, it departs from Jersey City. The cruise features views of the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty while you enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
The itinerary emphasizes scenic vistas and family-friendly fun, with reviews noting the quality of the food and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with a hearty brunch in a casual setting, making it a thoughtful way to celebrate Dad’s day.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, scenic brunch experience suited for families seeking a daytime celebration.
8. New Jersey Mother’s Day Signature Dinner Cruise
This Mother’s Day dinner cruise combines the magic of NYC’s skyline with a signature buffet, classic cocktails, and dancing. Starting from Jersey City, it lasts around 3 hours 15 minutes and offers a memorable family experience.
Guests enjoy spectacular views of city landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, as well as the city skyline. The cruise’s relaxing environment makes it suitable for families, and reviews highlight the lovely scenery and good food. It’s ideal for those wanting a leisurely, scenic way to celebrate mom.
Bottom Line: Suitable for families celebrating Mother’s Day with a scenic cruise, dining, and entertainment.
9. New Jersey Signature Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise
A lively way to spend a weekend afternoon, this bottomless mimosa brunch offers 2 hours of scenic views on the East and Hudson Rivers for $104.90 per person. It departs from Jersey City and is perfect for friends or groups looking to combine a casual brunch with sightseeing.
The cruise features views of the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty, making it a fun, relaxed way to see NYC’s skyline. The unlimited mimosas add a festive touch, and reviews praise the friendly crew and the lively atmosphere. It’s excellent for brunch enthusiasts or those celebrating a casual occasion.
Bottom Line: A fun, sociable brunch option that combines good drinks, good views, and a relaxed vibe.
How to Choose the Perfect Water Tour in Jersey City
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, group size, and what kind of experience you’re after. Private sails offer intimacy and flexibility, perfect for special occasions or romantic escapes. Dinner and brunch cruises are great for a leisurely meal with iconic skyline views, appealing for families and couples alike. Special themed cruises, like New Year’s or Mother’s Day, add a layer of celebration that makes the event extra memorable.
Book early, especially for holiday or peak summer dates. Think about your priorities: if you want a quiet, scenic escape, the private sails are ideal. For lively celebrations, the New Year’s Eve or bottomless mimosa brunch cruises fit the bill. The best choice depends on your interests—whether you’re after romance, family fun, or festive celebration.
Final Thoughts
Jersey City’s boat tours offer a rich variety of experiences that showcase New York City’s skyline from the water. For a private, personalized adventure, the Private Sail Around NYC is hard to beat. If you’re looking for a lively, scenic night, the NYC Skyline Dinner Cruise delivers both food and views. And for special occasions, the themed cruises like Mother’s Day or New Year’s Eve add a festive touch.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance is wise. These cruises tend to fill up quickly, especially during holidays and summer weekends. With options ranging from intimate sails to large celebration cruises, you’ll find a water adventure that matches your style and makes your Jersey City visit truly special.