Trade busy streets for open water with a private daytime harbor sailing tour from NYC in New York, New York, a relaxed two-hour escape on the Hudson River. Step aboard a classic sailboat with just your group and an experienced captain, then glide past some of the city’s most iconic sights including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. It’s a quieter, more laid-back way to take in the city from a completely different angle.

With space for up to six guests, the experience keeps things intimate and flexible. Bring along your own snacks and drinks, settle in, and enjoy the rhythm of the water as the skyline drifts by. Whether it’s a casual outing with friends or a unique way to see NYC, this private sailing charter offers a refreshing break from the usual sightseeing routine.

Any restrictions to participate?

• Age: All age groups are welcome, but recommended for 5+
  • Children under 5 years old are welcome aboard, though the experience may be better suited for older children who can more fully enjoy the sail. Children under 2 years old are not recommended but are permitted. USCG-approved life jackets for infants are available on board.
• Health limitations: Guests prone to motion sickness should take precautions before the sail.
• Children: All passengers, including infants and children, count toward the maximum of 6 passengers as required by USCG regulations.
  • Children age 12 and under are required by New York State law to wear a life jacket at all times on board. Life jackets are provided. Parents or guardians are responsible for determining whether children ages 13–17 must also wear a life jacket. The person booking the charter is required to share the life jacket policy with all members of the party before boarding.
• Pets: Sorry, pets are not permitted.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

• Duration: 2 hours.
• What's included: A fully private 2-hour sailing charter of New York Harbor aboard the sailboat Tara, with a USCG-licensed captain.
  • The sail takes in views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Governors Island, and the Freedom Tower.
  • Bottled water is provided for all guests on board.
  • Plastic cups, small plates, utensils, and a wine opener are provided.
  • Spray jackets are available on board if the weather turns.
• Who will be present: A professional captain will be present at all times. The USCG maximum for this vessel is 6 passengers total (including all children and infants). The charter is entirely private.
• Spectators: No spectators are allowed; all guests on board must be included in the booking.
• Photo/video: Photos and videos are highly encouraged. A preferred on-board photographer, John Marolakos, is available to book separately.
• Specific rules to follow:
  • Marijuana and cannabis products are strictly prohibited on board.
  • Alcohol must be consumed responsibly; charters will be ended early if this policy is not respected.
  • Please limit glass items — beer bottles and wine bottles are acceptable but glass wine glasses or champagne flutes are not permitted on board.

How to prepare?

• Weather dependency: The charter will proceed in light rain, cloudy skies, cold/hot temperatures, humidity, and small craft warnings. The charter will only be cancelled by the captain in the event of truly inclement weather (thunderstorms, excessive winds, or rainstorms). Weather forecasts alone are not grounds for cancellation or rescheduling. The captain monitors conditions hourly and will attempt to notify guests at least 2 hours before the scheduled sail if a cancellation is necessary. Plan to arrive on time regardless of the forecast.
• Arrival: Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes before the scheduled sail time. For private charters, the boat will wait if guests are running late, but the sail will conclude at the scheduled finishing time. If running late, call the provider as soon as possible.
• Parking: The closest parking garage is Gateway Plaza Garage, 339 South End Avenue, New York, NY 10280.
• What to wear: Dress in layers, it is typically cooler on the water than on land.
  • Soft-soled shoes (boat shoes or sneakers) are required for safety. Guests wearing hard-soled shoes or high heels will be asked to go barefoot.
  • In spring and fall, bring a jacket or sweatshirt; blankets are on board. In summer, bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• What to bring:
  • Food and snacks are welcome, pack as if going on a picnic (no formal table on board). Sandwiches and easy-to-eat items are recommended
  • Adults 21+ may bring beer, wine, or alcohol. Beer bottles and wine bottles are acceptable; glass wine glasses or champagne flutes are not permitted. Plastic cups are provided on board
  • Bluetooth music is available via the on-board speaker — a playlist or device is recommended
• Restrooms: The Tara has a bathroom on board for limited use. Using public restrooms before boarding is strongly recommended.

Anything else I should know?

• Tipping is optional but appreciated — suggested amount is 15%–20%.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 14 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 8 days before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 8 days in advance means losing the value of your experience.