Is the brunch menu suitable for children?

Yes, the brunch includes kid-friendly options and a cookie-decorating station to keep children entertained and well-fed.

Are specialty holiday cocktails included in the ticket price?

No, specialty cocktails are available for purchase onboard, while coffee, tea, and juice are included.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

While the Grande Mariner has some accessibility features, it is best to contact NYC Water Cruises directly to discuss specific needs.

Where is the boarding location?

Boarding takes place at Pier 36, located in Lower Manhattan.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

Outside food and drinks are not permitted; all meals and beverages are provided onboard.

What happens in case of bad weather?

The boat is equipped for winter weather, but in extreme conditions, the cruise may be rescheduled or canceled with notification to guests.

Holiday Magic on the Hudson: A Festive Family Brunch Cruise in New York City | Events | Boat Tour

There’s something uniquely special about experiencing New York City’s winter charm from the water, and the Holiday Magic on the Hudson brunch cruise aboard the Grande Mariner offers exactly that. Departing from Pier 36 in Lower Manhattan, this two-hour festive voyage invites families to celebrate the holiday season sailing along one of the world’s most iconic skylines. As the cold air brushes the cheeks, the warmth of holiday cheer and seasonal delights sets the perfect scene for making lasting memories. The cruise unfolds with panoramic views of Manhattan’s towering skyscrapers, the Statue of Liberty standing proud to the south, and the gently rippling waters of the Hudson shimmering beneath crisp winter skies. This floating holiday celebration combines seasonal cuisine, live entertainment, and interactive fun designed to delight every generation aboard. Guests begin their experience with a plated holiday brunch featuring carefully curated seasonal dishes complemented by a Danish and muffin basket to start, followed by festive entrées and a generous dessert spread. A sweets and cocoa bar, complete with a cookie-decorating station, caters especially to children, while adults can indulge in specialty holiday cocktails like Santa’s Spritz and Candy Cane Cocoa, each crafted to add extra sparkle to the occasion. Adding to the joyful ambiance, caroling elves roam the vessel, filling the air with traditional holiday tunes, and Mrs. Claus herself appears for storytelling and memorable photo opportunities against the backdrop of New York’s skyline. The Elf Dance Party invites young guests to dance along to festive hits, blending entertainment seamlessly with family bonding. This cruise is more than a meal or a boat ride; it’s a celebration of seasonal traditions seen through a new lens—the Hudson River’s tranquil flow and New York’s twinkling lights. The Grande Mariner, a well-appointed river cruiser, ensures comfort and excellent views from every seat, emphasizing why NYC Water Cruises is a standout operator for combining urban scenery with outdoor adventure in the region. For visitors planning a holiday trip to New York City, this cruise offers an enchanting daytime activity to complement bustling city explorations or winter markets. It’s ideal for families seeking to escape the typical tourist paths without missing the city's signature holiday spirit. Booking in advance is recommended during the busy season, as this experience fills quickly. Whether you’re a local or a traveler looking for a festive outing on the water, the Holiday Magic on the Hudson cruise offers a unique way to create joyful holiday memories while admiring one of the world’s greatest city skylines in winter.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.

Wildlife

Seagulls circling the harbor
Occasional sightings of harbor seals in the Hudson

History

The Hudson River was a vital route during New York City's growth and played a key role in trade and transport since the 17th century.

Conservation

NYC Water Cruises follows sustainable boating practices including waste management and minimizing fuel emissions to protect the river ecosystem.

NYC Water Cruises is a New York City–based maritime tour operator offering a diverse collection of harbor experiences. Operating from New York, New York, the company runs whale watching excursions, sightseeing cruises, themed seasonal sailings, and luxury dinner events aboard multiple vessels. Key experiences include a five-hour Whale Watching Cruise with an expert guide, narrated Sightseeing Cruises aboard the Grande Mariner, and upscale dinner cruises on the Louisa and Eternity featuring multi-course gourmet menus and live music. Passengers can choose from sunset cruises with DJs and live bands, holiday specials such as Christmas and New Year’s Eve dinner cruises, family brunch sailings, and a Fall Foliage Oktoberfest cruise along the Hudson. Vessels feature VIP decks, premium bars or open bars, live entertainment, and spacious accommodations suited for celebrations and corporate gatherings. The Whale Watching Cruise emphasizes marine viewing opportunities, while sightseeing and signature dinner cruises highlight skyline panoramas including the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. Bookings are suitable for families, couples, event planners, and groups seeking curated waterfront experiences in New York Harbor. As a locally based operator featured on The Adventure Collective, the company presents a range of licensed, scheduled departures and special event sailings. Customers should consult official schedules and reservation pages for exact departure times, pricing, and on-board amenities. All trip descriptions reflect available public information about trip durations, menus, entertainment, and routes. Specific accessibility options, group policies, and safety procedures are available on booking pages and via customer support before each scheduled departure time window.

Base locationNew York, New York

Tours offered12+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace