Top boat parties to enjoy in NYC this summer
This summer, escape the heat by heading out on the water. For the adventurous, kayaking in NYC's rivers is a great option, while those who prefer to stay on land can enjoy the city's popular waterfront restaurants and boat bars. If you have a taste for nautical fun, a boat party in NYC is a top summer activity. Enjoy open waters, refreshing sea breezes, and breathtaking views of Manhattan on a booze cruise in NYC, complete with full bars, delicious food, and live music.
Elevate your summer celebrations by joining one of these fantastic NYC boat parties. There’s something for everyone, from cantina-themed boats and lobster-focused trips to fine dining cruises and relaxed happy hour floats. You can dance away on a rock 'n' roll cruise, and cocktails taste even better on a yacht. Explore these NYC boat parties for an unforgettable nautical summer.
Narwhal Yacht Charters
A party is all about what you make of it, especially when you customize it. For more privacy, groups of up to six can rent a private trip with Narwhal Yacht Charters. It is on the expensive side, but the experienced charter service is worth it, having just celebrated its 10th season on NYC’s waters. The captain supplies the essentials (bottled water, sodas, ice, napkins, etc.), but the rest is up to you. Grab food from your favorite restaurant, bring your preferred drinks, and set sail with your closest friends.
Evening Cocktail Cruise
Make your way to Chelsea Piers and enjoy an evening cocktail party on a 1920s-inspired yacht, an intimate vessel that offers a 1.75-hour cruise featuring modern twists on classic cocktails, such as a Sake Gimlet or a Rosemary Rickey. The charter company, Sail NYC, runs a well-organized operation—literally, given the yacht's smaller size—that ensures you'll be enjoying drinks in no time. While the focus is mainly on the beverages, the yacht's large windows also provide stunning views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Ellis Island.
Rocks Off Concert Cruises
If you’re seeking yacht rock, this isn’t the place: the astute organizers of this boat-based concert series feature hard rock bands such as Murphy’s Law, Badfish, and Electric Six, attracting devoted fans for intense and frequently very sweaty rock performances. They’re experienced in hosting these maritime parties, so prepare yourself for lots of drumming and more demands for encores than for mutiny.
Evening Jazz Cruise
This one is perfect for those romantic vacationers looking for the ultimate NYC experience. Enjoy a sunset sailing cruise with a live jazz band as you watch the sun set over Manhattan. Aboard a 1920s sailing boat, you'll pass by NYC’s most iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, while a live band plays a mix of classic favorites and contemporary R&B tunes. With an alcoholic drink in hand, live jazz music filling the air, and the city lights twinkling across the water, you're set for an unforgettable evening.
North River Lobster Company
During the summer, North River Lobster Company offers four daily sailings at 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, and 7 pm from Wednesday to Sunday each week. The afternoon cruises last 1 hour, while the 7 pm cruise is a two hour trip to the Statue of Liberty and back—how beautiful! The menu features Maine Lobster Rolls, seafood platters, burgers, and shareable appetizers. This year's new menu items include tuna tartare, clam dip and chips, The Skagen shrimp roll, and sweet lobster clawsicles in four flavors (mango, piña colada, strawberry, and lime). One of the best deals on board might be the $17 glass of rosé with three oysters, or you can splurge on the epic 28-inch lobster roll for $149, perfect for a group.
Bateaux New York Dining Cruises
Is it truly a party if you're seated? Absolutely it’s known as a dinner party. This elegant event (semi-formal attire recommended) takes place on a dinner cruise aboard the European-styled Bateaux New York, a glass-roofed vessel that offers stunning views of Manhattan's illuminated skyline after dark as it cruises along the East and Hudson Rivers. Enhancing the experience is live music provided by a two-piece acoustic band featuring a female vocalist, and the dinner itself is elevated with offerings such as seafood towers, filet mignon, and lobster tails.
La Barca Cantina
La Barca Cantina, the sole Mexican eatery located on a boat in NYC, offers a summer street food-themed menu that's sure to kick off a great time for you and your friends. Situated at Pier 81, adjacent to its sister establishment North River Lobster Company, La Barca features three levels. The top deck boasts a spacious outdoor area with a bar and table seating, while the bi-level interior includes two bars, additional table seating, and booth-style tables, making it ideal for larger groups. Plus, the boat embarks on short cruises several times a day, five days a week, providing stunning views of the NYC skyline.
© 2024-2025 tourismgaide.com. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy