90-Minute Starship Cruise

NYC: Starship Landmark 90 Minute Sightseeing Cruise runs through Starship Tours and Events. Rated 4.6 across 4,220 reviews. Runs 1 hour 30 minutes. From $34.99.

Overview

This 90-minute cruise leaves from Pier 78 at Hudson River Park and loops down the Hudson, around the harbor, and partway up the East River before returning to the same pier. The boat passes Hudson Yards, Little Island, Ellis Island and Governors Island, pauses for photos in front of the Statue of Liberty, then sails under the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges with views of Dumbo and the South Street Seaport before heading back.

A live English-speaking guide runs commentary the whole way, and one reviewer praised the balance between talking, music and quiet stretches rather than nonstop narration. The listing also notes later departure times in winter months, which one reviewer used to see the city in daylight and lit up on the same trip.

On board there are open-air decks, a climate-controlled interior and restrooms, plus a snack bar with a full bar for anything extra. It suits visitors who want the full Lower Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty and two bridge crossings in one short outing, without leaving Manhattan or committing a half day. One complimentary digital photo is included, though not one taken at the Statue of Liberty.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at Pier 78Board at Pier 78 in Hudson River Park, on the north side of the pier by the blue tents. Arrive 30 minutes before boarding with the booking QR code ready.
2. Hudson River cruiseThe 1.5-hour cruise begins, gliding past Hudson Yards, Little Island, the Colgate Clock and Chelsea Piers.
3. Harbor landmarksSightseeing passes by Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Governors Island and One World Observatory, with dedicated time for photos in front of Lady Liberty.
4. Bridges and East RiverThe boat sails under the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges, passing Dumbo and the South Street Seaport, then makes a brief run up the East River.
5. Return to Pier 78The cruise comes back to the original departure point at Pier 78.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will make the trip smoother, based on the listing and what repeated reviewers describe.

• Arrive early. The listing asks travellers to be at the pier 30 minutes before boarding. Look for the Starship banners and blue tents on the north side of Pier 78, and have the QR code from the confirmation ready to scan at the gate. Only board with staff in Starship uniforms.
• Dress for decks. The boat has open-air decks as well as a climate-controlled interior, so a layer for the wind on the water is sensible. One reviewer described standing at the top-deck rail for the whole trip, which suggests the outdoor space is a popular spot.
• Food onboard. Snacks, soft drinks and a full bar are available to purchase on board, and one reviewer found the prices better than in the city. Outside food, drinks and coolers are not allowed, so plan to buy anything you want on the boat.
• Photo stops. The crew holds the boat in front of the Statue of Liberty for photos, and there is also a chance to buy a photo taken by the crew with a good camera, as one reviewer described. The included item is one complimentary digital photo, excluding Statue of Liberty and other landmark shots.
• Commentary style. Multiple reviewers praise the guides, and one reviewer also noted the PA system was clear and easy to hear. Expect stories and context about the landmarks from a live English-speaking guide, with music mixed into the commentary rather than constant narration.
• VIP upsell. VIP lounge tickets are sold as an extra, purchasable on the boat. One reviewer skipped the paid extras and enjoyed the rail on the top deck instead, while some travelers reported the VIP perks and restrictions could have been explained more clearly.

Common issues. Outside food, drinks, alcohol and coolers are not permitted, and everything consumable on board must be bought there. VIP deck access is a paid extra, and the review summary notes some travelers found the upsell pitches and onboard restrictions confusing. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so travellers make their own way to Pier 78.

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