The 4 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in New Jersey
New Jersey might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of cruise adventures, but it’s a surprisingly prime spot for exploring New York City’s iconic sights from the water. Whether you’re looking for a private yacht experience with stunning skyline views, convenient transfers to major airports, or reliable transportation to and from cruise ports, this state offers options that fit different interests and budgets.
In this guide, we’ll walk through four top tours — from a luxurious private yacht cruise that takes you past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, to private transfers between Cape Liberty Cruise Port and New York or LaGuardia Airport. We’ll cover what each tour includes, who it’s best suited for, and practical tips to help you pick the perfect option for your trip.
Quick Overview
This list features two cruises and two transfer services. The private yacht tour provides an exclusive way to see NYC’s skyline and major landmarks with drinks and lunch included. The round-trip transfer from Cape Liberty Cruise Port combines convenience and comfort for travelers heading to New York City. Meanwhile, the Cape Liberty to LaGuardia Airport transfer is a smooth solution for those catching flights, and the Cape Liberty to New York arrival transfer makes your cruise port arrival hassle-free. Each offers a different experience, depending on whether you prioritize sightseeing, convenience, or airport transportation.
1. Boat Tour NYC Skyline, Statue of Liberty, Private Yacht Tour
This private yacht tour is a standout for its exclusivity. Starting from Englewood, New Jersey, it offers around 4 hours of cruising down the Hudson River, passing under the George Washington Bridge. During the trip, you’ll enjoy views of two dozen landmarks: the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, One World Trade Center, Little Red Lighthouse, and more.
What makes this tour special is its private setting—up to six people can enjoy a personalized experience with a captain who tailors the cruise. It includes lunch, drinks, and snacks, making it feel like a floating restaurant with top-notch views. The half-day schedule is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed but immersive look at NYC’s iconic skyline without the crowds or hustle of land-based sightseeing.
This tour is perfect if you’re celebrating a special occasion, want luxury, or simply prefer a quiet, private perspective on the city’s famous sights. The $2,400 price might seem steep, but it covers the entire boat for up to six guests, making it a good value for a personalized experience. Some reviews praise the “breathtaking views and attentive crew,” making this a memorable highlight of any New Jersey-based trip.
Bottom Line: For those after an exclusive, flexible, and scenic way to see NYC’s landmarks from the water, this private yacht tour is hard to beat.
2. Cape Liberty Cruise Port to New York – Round-Trip Private Transfer
For travelers arriving or departing from Cape Liberty Cruise Port, this private round-trip transfer offers a hassle-free way to get to Manhattan. Costing around $228.98 per person, it promises door-to-door service with a professional driver waiting with a nameplate, ready to whisk you comfortably to your destination.
The journey takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, depending on traffic. One of the biggest advantages is avoiding long taxi lines or shared shuttles—your driver tracks your flight to ensure timely pickup, making it particularly handy for those with tight schedules or luggage. Vehicles are clean, and the service is private, making it a stress-free start or end to your cruise or sightseeing day.
While priced per person, it’s an excellent option for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who value convenience. The main drawback is that it’s less flexible for sightseeing and more tailored for transit. This transfer is best suited for cruisers or travelers who want a reliable, no-hassle ride from Cape Liberty to New York City.
Bottom Line: If arriving at or departing from Cape Liberty, this private transfer simplifies your journey and saves you the trouble of navigating public transit or waiting in lines.
3. Cape Liberty Cruise Port to LaGuardia Airport (LGA) – Departure Private Transfer
This private transfer from Cape Liberty to LaGuardia costs around $186.19 per person. It’s a perfect choice for cruise passengers with flights out of LaGuardia, aiming to avoid the chaos of airport traffic and long taxi lines.
The transfer lasts about 55 minutes, and your driver will meet you with a nameplate, tracking your flight to ensure punctuality. Vehicles are clean and comfortable, and the service is door-to-door, so you don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or sharing rides with strangers.
This service works best for travelers who value timeliness and comfort over sightseeing. It’s a straightforward solution to make your transition seamless, especially after a long cruise or before a flight. However, since there’s no sightseeing involved, it’s not suitable for those wanting to explore NYC en route or who have flexible schedules.
Bottom Line: This transfer provides peace of mind and comfort when heading to LaGuardia, especially for cruise passengers with early flights or tight schedules.
4. Cape Liberty Cruise Port to New York – Arrival Private Transfer
For those disembarking at Cape Liberty and heading into Manhattan, this arrival transfer is about $114.60 per person. It’s a speedy, 35-minute ride, with your driver waiting with a nameplate to escort you directly to your hotel or destination in New York City.
This private service is ideal for cruisers who want to skip the hassle of taxis or shared shuttles after a long voyage. It guarantees door-to-door comfort, with the driver tracking your arrival time. Plus, the no hidden charges policy gives peace of mind.
While reviews are limited, the service’s reputation for punctuality and professionalism makes it a reliable choice for travelers eager to start their NYC adventure immediately after docking. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a quick, comfortable transfer without dealing with the complexities of public transit or rideshare apps.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for cruisers arriving in Cape Liberty who want a quick, stress-free trip into Manhattan without the fuss.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best option depends on what you value most. If you want a private, luxurious sightseeing experience, the yacht cruise offers a unique way to enjoy NYC’s skyline. For straightforward transportation, the private transfers between Cape Liberty and New York or LaGuardia are reliable options. Consider your budget, travel schedule, and whether you prefer a scenic tour or stress-free transit.
Book early, especially during peak cruise season or busy travel months, to lock in your preferred times. For cruises, private transfers are best booked in advance, particularly if you have tight flight connections or want peace of mind after disembarkation.
Final Thoughts
New Jersey’s proximity to New York City opens up a variety of ways to enjoy the water and streamline your travel plans. The private yacht tour stands out for its exclusivity and scenic value, perfect for celebrating or impressing a loved one. The private transfers offer practical solutions to get around efficiently, whether arriving or departing.
For travelers prioritizing sightseeing, the yacht cruise delivers a memorable perspective of NYC’s skyline and landmarks. If your focus is on convenience and comfort, the private transfers will serve you well. No matter which you choose, early booking and clear planning will ensure your water-based adventures in New Jersey go smoothly.