Are children allowed on the CHRISTEEN tours?

Children over the age of 3 are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

What happens if the cruise is canceled due to weather?

You can choose a refund (minus processing fees) or reschedule your tour.

Is food or drink available onboard?

No food or drinks are provided, so you may want to bring your own non-alcoholic refreshments.

Can I bring my pet on the tour?

Pets are not allowed on the CHRISTEEN for safety and comfort reasons.

What is the maximum number of passengers per cruise?

The CHRISTEEN holds up to 24 passengers to ensure an intimate group experience.

How do I book a tour?

Bookings are available through The WaterFront Center’s reservation system, and require at least 8 passengers to confirm a tour.

Harbor Sailing Adventures with The WaterFront Center | History Tour | Boat Tour

Oyster Bay, located on Long Island’s northern coast, offers a rich blend of maritime history and natural beauty that unfolds spectacularly aboard The WaterFront Center’s CHRISTEEN Harbor Tours. This historic two-hour sail introduces adventurers to the quiet charm of Long Island’s shores, winding through Oyster Bay’s calm waters with panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. The CHRISTEEN, a classic vessel with capacity for 24 passengers, provides an intimate setting to gather friends and family for a memorable escape on the water.

The tour’s route spotlights the unique geological features of Oyster Bay, including rocky shorelines and salt marshes that sustain diverse birdlife. As you glide past the iconic Oyster Bay Community, keep an eye out for osprey and great blue herons, which are common in the area. The waters here have shaped a local culture connected deeply to fishing traditions and early American maritime history, visible in historic waterfront homes and landmarks dotting the shoreline.

What makes this experience stand out is the blend of accessibility and authenticity—the CHRISTEEN invites both locals and visitors to gain a fresh perspective on one of Long Island’s most scenic harbors without the crowds typical of larger vessels. With knowledgeable crew on board, you’ll gain insight into oyster farming heritage and the environmental stewardship efforts helping maintain Oyster Bay’s water quality.

Whether a casual outing or a special occasion, this cruise offers a reliable, scenic, and enriching way to enjoy New York’s coastal environment. For those seeking a relaxed yet immersive outdoor experience within driving distance of New York City, the CHRISTEEN Harbor Tours invite you aboard for a slice of maritime life that lingers long after you’ve returned to shore.

About The WaterFront Center

The WaterFront Center in Oyster Bay, New York, operates hands-on maritime programs and rentals focused on sailing, paddling, and coastal ecology. Founded to make the harbor accessible to families, learners, and community groups, the center offers guided Ecology & Wildlife Cruises aboard the historic CHRISTEEN with Naturalists, private charters on the IDA MAY, Discover Sailing lessons, and public sails.

Programs include two-hour Ecology & Wildlife Cruises on CHRISTEEN with touch tanks and sail-handling; private IDA MAY charters for up to 44 guests; and CHRISTEEN private charters for up to 24 guests. Discover Sailing provides intimate two-hour instruction with a certified instructor for up to four guests. Sailing rental season passes permit regular access to the center’s Sonar fleet after a check-out exam. Returning sailors can confirm qualification through a 30-minute Returner’s Recertification Test featuring a 20-question assessment to rent Sonar, Hobie Getaway, or Hobie Wave boats.

Paddle programming includes single and double kayak rentals, stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals, Paddle Group Tours, a Monthly Paddle Pass, and a Paddle Rental Season Pass. Specialty offerings feature SUP Yoga and the Puppy Paddle, led by instructor Deanna from Salty Soul Yoga, where dogs wear lifejackets. The WaterFront Center also runs sunset cruises, harbor tours, fishing charters on the IDA MAY, community open sails, and themed events. As a visible Oyster Bay resource, the center combines certified instruction, community-focused programming, and a mix of private and public water experiences. Booking information, schedules, and safety policies are available through the center's official program listings online.