The 8 best dinner cruises in NYC for spectacular views of the Big Apple in 2024

Departing from Chelsea Piers, Bateaux offers frazzled New Yorkers a relaxing three-hour, three-course getaway cruise along the Hudson. Pair a romantic view of the Manhattan skyline from a glass-enclosed deck with a veritable feast: Entrées include dishes like miso-glazed cod with oyster mushrooms and sugar snap peas and jumbo lump crab cakes with corn succotash. Sip on cocktails, wine and beer from a fully loaded cash bar while live jazz musicians provide the soundtrack for a twinkly evening aboard this dinner cruise.

Where is it? Head to Pier 61 South, Chelsea Piers.
Budget range? A pretty decent price to see this dazzling city lit up as you float along it.
Time Out Tip: There's a semi-formal dress code for this floating shindig, so skip the sandals and bring a tie. 

Seriously. What could beat tucking into a buttery lobster roll while enjoying peaking sunsets over the Hudson? If this sounds like your vibe, then get ready to kick back at this floating three-deck lobster shack, spanning 9,000 square feet between the outdoor top deck and bi-level interior dining space and lounge. Set off on a two-hour cruise headed to the Statue of Liberty, while enjoying a menu featuring a raw bar and fresh New England seafood like Maine lobster, fish tacos and clam chowder. Pair your meal with red and white wine selections, bottled beers and summery signature cocktails served by the glass or pitcher.

Where is it? Over at Pier 81.
Budget range? A cheap and cheerful option ft cold buckets of beer 
Time Out Tip: Happy hour is 4-7 pm (Monday - Wednesday), so if you want to keep em' coming, head to the boat before then. 

Not into lobster? Head next door to get your hands on the banging street tacos aboard this one-of-a-kind three-level floating Mexican restaurant made for good times. Situated on a luxury yacht, La Barca boasts a large outdoor deck area, and two temperature-controlled indoor decks, accompanied by three bars that serve a selection of agave-based spirits, tequila and more. The boat takes several cruise trips a day, meaning you and the gang can enjoy swaying to a mix of Latin pop, salsa and dance hits—taking in the city's skyline as you float along the Hudson River. 

Where is it? La fiesta begins at Pier 81. 
Budget range? An affordable dining experience for those who like to party. 
Time Out Tip: After Darka on Sunday night is where the real fun is  - Free tequila and mezcal tastings and a live DJ guaranteed to make you 'get off your ass' and onto the dancefloor. 

If a premier cruise experience is your kind of cruise experience, look no further. This all-glass luxury ship is all about free flowing mimosas, live entertainment and decadent three-course meals for every (eating) hour of the day. With a  brunch, lunch and dinner cruise option on hand, this luxury sail will take you past iconic New York City landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Brooklyn Bridge, with the whole thing set to the sweet sounds of a live band. Dancing is encouraged.

Where is it? Pier 61 Chelsea Piers, Manhattan, New York. 

Budget range? A pricey one, but well spent for an evening cruise through New York's harbor accompanied by some keys.  
Time Out Tip: There aren't many seats on the top deck, so it's worth getting there a little earlier to skip the queue. 

Cruise both the Hudson and East Rivers on this two-and-a-half-hour venture set to music from a quality pianist playing classic jazz, blues and Broadway hits. While aboard you'll be served a lavish three-course dinner as you marvel at Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Freedom Tower and the Empire State Building. You'll set a course from Pier 61, and be able to dance and eat the night away with some of the best views of the city going.

Where is it? Board at Pier 61 Chelsea Piers, West 23rd St.
Budget range? Unobstructed panoramic views of New York's most iconic landmarks for less than 100 bucks. Steal. 
Time Out Tip: Think smart casual when it comes to the vibe of this cruise ship - the perfect excuse to grab the buds and set sail. Just be sure to book together to avoid a seating mishap. 

This 3-hour cruise down the Hudson River combines delicious food with dazzling sights. Sail past the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island while sipping on premium drinks and snacking on a decadent charcuterie board packed with cheese, meat delicacies, nuts, jam and olives. Once you‘ve admired the view and the plush boat interior, which features rare wood finishes and collectables, it’s time to sit down to dinner and tuck into gourmet salads and special desserts, while you’re serenaded by a live jazz band. 

Where is it? Head to Pier 36, NYC. 
Budget range? A good price for top-notch food, views and live music. 
Time Out Tip: Gratuities aren’t included, so make sure you bring cash. 

Gather your clocked-out coworkers and friends and board the Alive After Five cruise, which makes the most of happy hour—it actually lasts two hours—along the Hudson River in City Cruises’ Sensation yacht. You’ll have two climate-controlled decks to choose from, plus a covered roof deck, multiple dance floors if and a DJ to get the party moving. This isn't just a cocktail cruise, there's pasta, Tex-Mex and other food options depending on the admission level you choose.

Where is it? The yacht departs from Pier 15 at 78 South st. 
Budget range? Live it up on this classic yatcht without needing to break the bank.  
Time Out Tip: Drinks aboard this vessel are a little dearer than usual (even for New York), so you might have to sweet talk the bartender a little.

Spend four hours sailing the NYC harbor, gazing out over landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building. In the height of comfort, no less, as the decks are climate controlled. There's also a DJ onboard, a dancefloor and an American buffet offering three courses, from short ribs and grilled bruschetta chicken to lemon sole stuffed with crabmeat–stuffed lemon and pasta. It's worth knowing that Skyline caters for brunch and lunch too.

Where is it? Board at World's Fair Marina.
Budget range? A spot aboard this stellar cruise is a little pricier, but who could resist twirling around a rooftop dancefloor?
Time Out Tip: Planning on popping the question? Skyline can customize your booking to make it a night to remember.