This is the most romantic way to watch the sun drop over New York Harbor: a nearly two-hour cruise aboard the city's biggest tall ship, sails unfurled, live jazz drifting across the deck as Lower Manhattan lights up behind you. You'll pass close by the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island at magic hour, cocktail in hand, with the skyline turning gold then indigo. If you want a date-night or golden-hour photo op that feels quintessentially New York, this sunset sail is hard to beat.
What to expect
Board at the Seaport and settle onto open teak decks as the crew raises the sails and a jazz duo or trio plays. The route hugs the harbor's landmarks while the bar serves beer, wine and cocktails, and the light shifts from golden hour to a glittering nighttime skyline over the roughly 105-minute sail.
Good to know
- Departs from Pier 17 at the South Street Seaport — arrive early to board on time
- Nearest trains are the 2/3 to Fulton St, a short walk to the water
- Decks are open-air; bring a layer as it cools on the water after sunset
- Flat or deck-friendly shoes are smarter than heels on a moving boat
- Great for couples and photographers chasing skyline-at-dusk shots
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Common questions
Is there live music on board?
Yes, the Sunset Jazz Sail features live jazz musicians performing throughout the cruise.
How long is the sail?
It runs roughly one hour and 45 minutes, timed around sunset over the harbor.
Are drinks included?
A full cocktail bar with beer, wine and cocktails is available for purchase on board; drinks aren't included in the base fare.
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