4th of July Cruises

4th of July cruises in New York are the best way to experience Independence Day. See the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and the icing on the cake; fireworks lighting up the sky over the East River. If you are in New York on the 4th of July, I highly recommend booking one of the below cruises and make this typical American holiday an unforgettable experience!

Option 1: Circle Line: 4th of July Fireworks Cruise

Enjoy the 4th of July fireworks on this festive cruise while the DJ plays music. This 4th of July cruise is a buffet themed dinner, which includes beer and wine. You’ll first cruise along the Hudson River and see the Statue of Liberty before you finally dock on the East River to catch the highlight of Independence Day: Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show. You will return to the departure point around 11:00 p.m.

Practical Information

Duration: 5 hours
Departure Point: Pier 83
Departure time: 6:00 p.m. (boarding begins at 5:15 p.m.)
Age limit: the cruise is suitable for all ages, alcohol only from 21 years

Book the Circle Line 4th of July Fireworks Cruise here

Eric’s Tip: I tested this cruise last year and I really recommend it. It offers good value for money and the atmosphere on the boat is very nice. There was a mix of people, and the music, food and drinks were all great. The boat had several bars, so I never had to wait too long for my drinks.

Option 2: 4th of July Cruise with Dinner Buffet

Celebrate the 4th of July in style with this boat tour including a dinner buffet and desserts. Take in the beautiful skyline view whilst enjoying the buffet. After dinner, the boat docks in the harbour where you can get a fantastic view of the 4th of July fireworks.

Practical Information

Duration: 3.5 hours
Departure Point: Pier 81
Departure time: 6:45 p.m. (boarding starts at 6:15 p.m.)

Book the 4th of July Cruise with Dinner Buffet here

Option 3: Luxury 4th of July Dinner Cruise on the Bateaux

The Bateaux is my favourite boat in New York. Due to its huge floor to ceiling windows, you have a beautiful view from every seat on the boat. Book this dinner cruise on Independence Day and gaze at the illuminated skyline of Manhattan whilst enjoying a 3-course plated dinner. There are also upgrade options available.

Practical Information

Duration: 5 hours
Departure Point: Pier 61 (Chelsea Piers)
Departure time: 6:00 p.m.

Book the Luxury 4th of July Dinner Cruise here

Option 4: Family Friendly 4th of July Cruise

Do you want to celebrate the 4th of July with the whole family? Then this boat tour is perfect for you! Whilst you cruise through the New York Harbour and enjoy the view, the light buffet and the open bar, the children will be entertained with toys and giveaways. The DJ will take care of the music along the way to get the entire family on their feet.

Practical Information

Duration: 5-6 hours
Departure Point: Pier 36
Departure time: 6:00 p.m. (boarding starts at 5:00 p.m.)
Age limit: the cruise is suitable for all ages, alcohol only from 21 years

Book the Family Friendly 4th of July Cruise here

Option 5: 4th of July Fireworks Dinner Cruise

Enjoy the beautiful view of the skyline, Lady Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge during this buffet dinner cruise on Independence Day. While you admire the view, you’ll dine on a variety of dishes from the buffet. After dinner enjoy the spectacular Macy’s Fireworks Display.

Practical Information

Duration: 5 hours
Departure Point: Pier 61 (Chelsea Piers)
Departure time: 6:00 p.m.

Book the 4th of July Fireworks Dinner Cruise here

Option 6: Fireworks Cruise and 2 – Hour Sightseeing Tour

This package is perfect for those wanting to combine a day of sightseeing with the 4th of July celebrations. You begin with a 1.5 to 2 hour sightseeing tour of the city. The bus departs from Midtown Manhattan at 3:15 p.m. for a guided tour of the city, ending next to the Hudson River. Here, you will board the boat where you cruise the river and enjoy a buffet dinner while watching the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks. At the end of the cruise, the bus will bring you back to the departure point in Midtown.

Practical Information

Duration: 8 hours
Departure Point: Midtown Manhattan
Departure time: 3:15 p.m.
Dress Code: Neat casual attire. Sleeveless shirts (for men) as well as cutoffs and torn clothing will not be permitted.
Age limit: the cruise is suitable for all ages, alcohol only from 21 years

Book the Fireworks Cruise and 2 – Hour Sightseeing Tour here

Eric’s Tip: I recommend that you find yourself a spot at the back of the boat. Most of the boats turn around when the fireworks are about to start, so when you’re at the back you’ll have a front row spot!

Option 7: Full Day Programme with BBQ, Bus Tour and Cruise

To get the most out of this holiday, book this full day programme. You’ll start with a barbecue lunch consisting of steak, ribs and more, with great views of Midtown Manhattan. Next is a bus tour of Lower Manhattan. The guide will tell you everything you want to know about this area. After the tour you’ll be dropped off at the departure location of your evening cruise. Admire the skyline and fireworks while enjoying a dinner buffet.

Practical Information

Duration: 10 hours
Departure Point: Midtown Manhattan
Departure time: 10:30 a.m.
Dress Code: Neat casual attire. Sleeveless shirts (for men) as well as cutoffs and torn clothing will not be permitted.

Book the Full Day Programme here

Option 8: 4th of July Cruise with 5-course Dinner

During this 4th of July cruise you’ll enjoy a 5-course seated dinner and drinks, such as wines and craft beers, from the open bar. Take a stroll on the rooftop and dance the night away on the music of the DJ. Don’t forget to admire the beautiful skyline and the Macy’s fireworks.