New York City Sightseeing and Seals Boat Tour

New York City , United States of America

New York City Sightseeing and Seals Boat Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Join us for a boat ride aboard one of our classic motor yachts for an exciting cruise to Swinburne and Hoffman Islands apart of NY Harbor's Lower Bay. Take in the winter wildlife of NY Harbor and these amazing islands with rich history that now serve as a seal destination in winter.

Seal sightings are not guaranteed, but they have been a constant inhabitant of Swinburne and Hoffman during winter for the past several years.

Our expert Urban Naturalists Guides will regale you with fascinating tales of these iconic islands and historic waterways and illuminate the stories of the migrating birds who inhabit the harbor this time of year.

Throughout the journey, learn insights into the conservation efforts aimed at preserving these precious ecosystems.

Available options

New York City Sightseeing and Seals Boat Tour

What's included

One drink (additional drinks available for purchase on board by credit card)

A light snack (additional snacks available for purchase onboard by credit card)

A narrated sightseeing and winter wildlife cruise

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Pass by Manhattan's financial district and the One World Trade Center as we cruise to Hoffman and Swinburne Islands

Stop 2 Pass by

We'll pass by Ellis Island and see the buildings in the distance as we cruise into NY Harbor

Stop 3 Pass by

We'll pass by the Statue of Liberty so folks onboard can get an up-close view from NY Harbor

Stop 4 Pass by

We'll cruise under this suspension bridge connecting the New York City boroughs of Staten Island and Brooklyn

What's not included

Gratuity

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We recommend bringing binoculars for this tour!

Please coordinate with the operator in advance if assistance is required for boarding or if you have any questions about general accessibility. Accessibility varies by boat

Service animals are permitted; Emotional Support animals and pets are not permitted

Large group bookings are not permitted. Multiple bookings are subject to added fees or cancellation by operator

Our Urban Naturalist Guides vary - either Gabriel Willow or Russell Jacobs will guide this tour

Elegant tables assigned to each booking. Tables may be shared with a clear partition divider depending on party size

Meeting point

The boat departs from and returns to Chelsea Piers, on Pier 62, which is located at the northern end of the Chelsea Piers Complex. Our ticket booth is located on the water just steps from our dock. Please check in at the Classic Harbor Line ticket booth upon arrival.

Important notes

There's no need to print anything prior to check-in at the meeting point. Please bring a photo ID that matches the name listed on the reservation to the ticket booth and we'll issue boarding passes at check-in. Plan to arrive 15-30 minutes prior to the departure time. Boarding begins promptly 5 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. If lost, please call 212-627-1825

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information