What is the difference between a cruise and the ferry to the Statue of Liberty?

A cruise typically circles around the Statue of Liberty and other landmarks without stopping and offers a narrated tour. The ferry will transport you directly to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, where you can explore on foot.

What are the different types of Statue of Liberty cruise tickets available?

Choose between the <experience tgid="13389" type="Popup" title="Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sightseeing Cruise" id="f4DuikOH" /> and the<experience tgid="13390" type="Popup" title=" Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sunset Cruise" id="GwVjBO7p" /> that take you along the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and across the New York Harbor.

Can I get a discount on tickets?

Children below the age of 11 years can avail tickets at a discounted rate on the <experience tgid="13390" type="Popup" title="Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sunset Cruise" id="IeA0aUWr" />.

Does the cruise have guides?

Your Statue of Liberty cruise will have an expert English-speaking guide on board who will enrich your experience with witty anecdotes and commentary on the important landmarks of the city.

What are some sights covered on the cruise?

Apart from the New York Harbor, <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="5Rzq6I8j" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="683464fcd3daac3297d2cb0b" text="Ellis Island" uid="www.newyorktickets.com.statue-of-liberty.ellis-island" lang="en" />, and the <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="l14hJg9D" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6834647d464fee99b5320066" text="Statue of Liberty" uid="www.newyorktickets.com.statue-of-liberty.about" lang="en" />, the cruise also offers views of Staten Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, the One World Trade Center, and other skyscrapers that make up the <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="78wH3s32" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="682c3df7df6be16af709e943" text="New York" uid="www.newyorktickets.com" lang="en" /> cityscape.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Statue of Liberty cruises are wheelchair accessible.

Do Statue of Liberty cruises stop at Liberty Island or Ellis Island?

No. Statue of Liberty cruises sail close to <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="ROkIJzs5" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="68346607c1eca6a0a80f9fff" text="Liberty Island" uid="www.newyorktickets.com.statue-of-liberty.liberty-island" lang="en" /> for photo opportunities but do not dock. If you want to go on the islands or visit the museums, you’ll need <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="k8Dn1Thl" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="68346599464fee99b53210ec" text="ferry" uid="www.newyorktickets.com.statue-of-liberty.ferry" lang="en" /> or <experience type="Popup" tgid="846" title="guided tour" id="DFjfhXF6" /> tickets instead.

What’s the difference between a Statue of Liberty cruise and the ferry?

Cruises are sightseeing experiences that circle the harbor with narration and skyline views. Ferries transport visitors onto <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="dT4n5afu" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="68346607c1eca6a0a80f9fff" text="Liberty Island" uid="www.newyorktickets.com.statue-of-liberty.liberty-island" lang="en" /> and <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="JoiR7LHz" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="683464fcd3daac3297d2cb0b" text="Ellis Island" uid="www.newyorktickets.com.statue-of-liberty.ellis-island" lang="en" /> and include access to museums and grounds.

Can I bring food or drinks on board?

Outside food and drinks are not allowed, but many cruises have snack bars or onboard beverage counters where you can purchase refreshments.

Are Statue of Liberty cruises suitable for kids and families?

Yes. Sightseeing cruises are family-friendly, with open decks, indoor seating, and engaging narration that appeals to all age groups.

Statue of Liberty Cruises New York

From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Gerardo

Mexico

Feb 2026

‌

Honestly, it was a very simple visit without much interaction. The welcome speech was great, and the view of New York's past in the elevators was also great, but honestly, nothing out of the ordinary. Obviously, the observatory is beautiful, and the views are great. We would have liked more interaction with the views of New York's past, more information, something more entertaining. We found it a bit too simple for the cost.

Julia

Australia

Feb 2026

‌

I booked tickets directly on the Headout app, which in itself was extremely easy, once at the venue I went to the front desk and they scanned our tickets with no issues at all. The museum itself wasn't my cup of tea I enjoyed some aspects of it but I probably wouldn't reccomed the natural history museum to others. The Headout app however I would recommended for sure! I have a few more ticketed events I've booked through Headout still to do whilst we are in New York for the next week!

Jarvis

United States

Jan 2026

‌

My kids loved their first trip to NYC and to make it even sweeter their first time to a museum! An incredible experience!

Talha

United States

Feb 2026

‌

+1 more

Yeeaaay It was soo much fun first of all statue city cruise took us to the liberty island. My family had a great time at cruise and statue of liberty also ellis island .Cruise by it self was nice and clean, staff was professional . My kids had some great time at cruise because of birds and pigeons. Over all 10 out of 10 . I would recommend this next 100 times.

Jennifer

United States

Jan 2026

‌

The ferry ride and self guided tours of the SOL and Ellis Island were fun. Disappointed that the ticket did not include the pedestal. I thought when I read before booking included the pedestal. The Edge was great yet windy and cold.

Richard

United States

Jan 2026

‌

Edge NYC was unforgettable: stunning views, thrilling glass floor, smooth entry, and a skyline moment I'll never forget.

Valerie

Colombia

Jan 2026

‌

It was wonderful from the moment I walked in, the logistics were fantastic. Everything was very well organized; you get on the elevator and it has sounds that make you feel like you're floating up to the 92nd floor in an instant. The view of NYC is spectacular! And playing with the balloons is simply amazing. I would definitely do it a thousand times over! Guaranteed fun!

Helen

United Kingdom

Jan 2026

‌

Booking was easy did from England Communication , emails from head out very good Summit one was amazing Very organised , Amazing views , great photo opportunities . We had a very Bright clear day . Empire state at night was magical it was quiet , clear views , the art deco building and history fab , staff dressed in 1920's Uniforms Would definitely recommend head out to book with and do both experiences Thanks

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Quick overview: Statue of Liberty cruise options

Cruise options: Choose between sightseeing cruises (typically 50–90 mins) or dining cruises (around 2–3 hours). Sightseeing cruises operate during the day or at sunset, while dining options are available as lunch, dinner, or happy hour sailings with live entertainment.
Routes & duration: Shorter cruises follow a core New York Harbor route, focusing on close-up views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Lower Manhattan. Longer sightseeing and dining cruises extend along the Hudson and East River, adding skyline landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center in one continuous loop.
Boats & seating: Sightseeing cruises run on large, climate-controlled boats with indoor cabins and open decks, and seating is first come, first served. Dining cruises take place on yacht-style vessels with reserved tables, offering a more relaxed, social experience with music and service.
Boarding hubs & arrival buffer: Sightseeing cruises typically depart from Pier 36, Pier 78, or Pier 83, while dining cruises board at Pier 61, Chelsea Piers. Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early for check-in, and carry a valid photo ID for boarding.
When to book: Sunset sailings and weekends sell out first, especially from spring through fall. Evening departures are limited, so availability tightens closer to travel dates.

Find your best Statue of Liberty cruises match here

Cruise type	Route / sights	Boarding point	Inclusions	Boat / seating	Typical duration	Booking link
Short sightseeing cruises	Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, NYC skyline highlights	Pier 36 / Pier 83 (varies by option)	Live guide or multilingual audio guide, photo stop near Lady Liberty	Climate-controlled boat with indoor cabin + open deck, first-come seating	50–75 min	Book now
Extended sightseeing cruises	Statue of Liberty + Brooklyn Bridge, One World Trade Center, Manhattan skyline	Pier 36 / Pier 78 / Pier 83	Live narration, comfortable seating	Large sightseeing boat, indoor & outdoor areas	90 min–2.5 hr	Book now
Sunset sightseeing cruises	Harbor loop with Statue of Liberty at golden hour	Pier 36 / Pier 83 / Pier 16	Multilingual audio guide, sunset photo stop	Semi-open boat with outdoor decks	60–90 min	Book now
Guided Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island tours (with ferry)	Liberty Island, Statue of Liberty Museum, Ellis Island & Immigration Museum	Battery Park (Castle Clinton)	Round-trip ferry, expert guide, museum access	Ferry + walking tour, small-group format	2–4 hr	Book now
Dining & party cruises	Statue of Liberty, NYC skyline by night	Pier 61, Chelsea Piers	Lunch/dinner or drinks, live music/DJ, rooftop lounge access	Yacht-style vessel, reserved tables	2–3 hr	Book now

What to expect on your Statue of Liberty cruise?

1/5

Get on a convenient and relaxing cruise

Cruising is a comfortable and convenient way to see the statue, without having to deal with the bustling tourist influx. On a cruise, you can just take in the sights while someone else handles the navigation!

Multiple unique photo ops

Take better pictures of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the New York City skyline from the cruise, than what you could from land. The cruise keeps you close enough to the Statue of Liberty that you can get clear shots, but at a distance that makes sure you can shoot the entirety of the statue.

Cruise while getting expert insights

The cruise comes with live commentary with fascinating insights about the history and significance of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and their roles in American history.

Convenient food options available in one place

Drinks and food are available for purchase on board the cruise which makes it convenient to get refreshments as and when you need them.

A wonderful way to navigate the Hudson River line

Sail toward the Statue of Liberty and beyond on the river cruise. Soak in the Manhattan cityscape along the Hudson River including Freedom Towers and Manhattan's Battery Park. Be privy to close up views of Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge and more!

Things to know before booking your tickets

If you want a comprehensive tour, opt for the longer New York City Downtown & Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise which covers multiple New York landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Manhattan skyline
Those with limited time can check out the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sightseeing Cruise which is a shorter option and focuses on up-close views of the Statue of Liberty.
For a more romantic experience, opt for the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sunset Cruise that offers a serene atmosphere excellent for photography enthusiasts and couples.
Day cruises give clear views and calmer logistics, sunset cruises are the most popular for photography and couples, and evening/dining cruises suit celebrations and special occasions.
50–75 min cruises are best for tight schedules and families, while 1.5–2.5 hour cruises offer broader skyline coverage.
Opt for live guided tours or cruises if you want storytelling and Q&A in English. Choose audio guide cruises (available in multiple languages) if you prefer a flexible, self-paced experience.

Plan your visit

Operating hours: 11am to 7pm

Boarding times: 11am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:30pm, 6pm and 7pm

Best time to sail: The best time to go on a Statue of Liberty cruise is during the sunset, as the statue is beautifully illuminated against the twilight sky, providing a mesmerising backdrop for photographs. For a less crowded experience, consider visiting during the off-peak months, avoiding June through August.

Statue of Liberty Timings

The following facilities are available aboard your Statue of Liberty Cruises:

Free Wi-Fi onboard
Audio Guide in 6 languages (English, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, & Japanese)
Live commentary throughout the cruise
Restrooms
Restaurant and Bar
Wheelchair-friendly
Pram/stroller-friendly

Infants must be seated on the laps of their guardians. No extra seats will be provided.
Only Service animals and authorized guides are welcome.
Photography with handheld cameras is permitted.
Smoking is prohibited on the ferry.
Food and drinks are not allowed on the cruise, however, you can purchase refreshments on the ferry.