When you grow up near New York City, it’s easy to take its iconic landmarks and attractions for granted. As a kid who lived in both NY and NJ in the ‘8os, I remember hearing Circle Line commercials all the time (“the only way to see New York is to circle it on the Circle Line”) but I didn’t go on a cruise until I was an adult when my cousins were visiting from overseas. Seeing the city’s skyscrapers lit up at night from the water was pretty special.
Last week, I had the opportunity to board another Circle Line cruise (this one holiday-themed) with my teen daughter and her friend. What exactly makes it a holiday cruise? As you sail around the Statue of Liberty and under the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg bridges, you’ll hear a soundtrack of Christmas music. The boat is decked out in gorgeous holiday décor and its crew serves up festive drinks, too.
Circle Line’s Holiday Harbor Lights Cruise is a two-hour New York City boat ride with indoor and outdoor decks. The half-Manhattan island tour offers close-up views of the Statue of Liberty (we had plenty of time to snap some great pics with the Statue in full view!), the Freedom Tower and Ellis Island. Sailing below the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges provides spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline illuminated, including the Chrysler Building and Hudson Yards. Make sure the kids know it’s a two-hour ride so they know what to expect since there is no leaving early (obviously).
Pick a seat on the outdoor deck or sit in a temperature-controlled indoor cabin with panoramic window views. It rained the night we sailed but we still got some great pics of the views from under coverings on the boat and in its indoor areas. Once Mariah came on, the dancing began and guests took part in a fun “Create-Your-Own Santa Hat” station to customize their own Santa hats.
Seasonal cocktails inspired by Radio City’s Christmas Spectacular are on the menu. Highlights include the Rockette-tini, a salted caramel martini; the Kick Line, a festive twist on classic rum punch we highly recommend; a Poinsettia, made with champagne, cranberry juice, and orange liqueur; Irish coffee, hot toddies, beer, wine and more. The kids can try a peppermint hot chocolate. Food is also available to buy and the menu includes basics like pizza, sandwiches, salads, warm pretzels, nachos and more.
The Holiday Harbor Lights Cruise sails from November 29 through January 5. Circle Line will offer two ornament giveaways for all ticketholders on November 29 and Christmas Eve, while supplies last. The boat departs from Pier 83 at West 42nd Street and 12th Avenue. If you’re driving into NYC, Circle Line has convenient parking (a huge plus!) at the pier where you board for $40 per car. Cruises depart daily at 7 pm and ticket prices vary depending on the date you reserve but start at $47. For more info and to book a boat tour, head to circleline.com.
Take a look at the festive cruise on our Instagram page.
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Read More:
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