Discover New York Harbor's magic on a private Sunset Sail with Empire Yacht Charters. Enjoy stunning city views, peaceful waters, and a memorable evening as the sun sets over Manhattan.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; easy boarding and minimal physical activity required.
Wildlife
History
The New York Harbor has served as a vital port since the 17th century, shaping the city’s growth and identity.
Conservation
Empire Yacht Charters prioritizes eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction and responsible boating to preserve the harbor’s beauty.
Empire Yacht Charters
Discover New York Harbor's magic on a private Sunset Sail with Empire Yacht Charters. Enjoy stunning city views, peaceful waters, and a memorable evening as the sun sets over Manhattan.
Empire Yacht Charters is a New York City–based provider of private sailboat and yacht experiences that operate on the Hudson River and New York Harbor. The company offers a curated range of private cruises, including sunset sails, daytime excursions, themed movie nights, proposal packages, and seasonal trips such as a Palisades sail.
Many experiences take place aboard a classic Hinckley sailboat and a restored 1960s yacht, providing a balance of modern comfort and vintage character.
Captain Andy leads select voyages, bringing hands-on sailing expertise and personalized route planning to each charter. Catering options and curated dining are available to customize celebrations, proposals, romantic evenings, and group outings. Empire Yacht Charters emphasizes tailored itineraries, private bookings, and small-group capacity to create intimate, memorable trips for guests.
Having been featured on The Adventure Collective, Empire Yacht Charters is presented to travelers seeking private, local-guided sailing adventures in New York City. Descriptions of offered trips highlight key landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline, ensuring guests experience iconic views from the water.
Bookings are structured as private charters with defined trip themes—Sunset Sail, City Lights Cruise, Daytime Cruise, Sailboat Charter, Palisades Sail, Romantic + Proposal Sail, and the MOVIE NIGHT SPECIAL—each designed for small groups and customizable with food and route preferences. This focus on private bookings, experienced captains, and classic vessels positions Empire Yacht Charters as a specialized option for those seeking personalized sailing experiences in NYC.
Reservations are available year-round subject to vessel availability online.
Location
New York, NY
Sails from NYC waters
Capacity
Up to 6 guests
Intimate private charters
Trips Offered
7 experiences
Variety of private sailings
Vessels
Hinckley + 1960s yacht
Classic and restored boats
Reserve a Sunset Cruise, Proposal Sail, or Movie Night Special aboard classic vessels and enjoy iconic skyline views with a dedicated captain.
Arrive Early for the Best Views
Getting on board 15-30 minutes before sunset ensures optimal positioning for sunset photos and a relaxing experience.
Dress in Layers
Evening breezes can be cooler, so bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Bring Your Camera
Capture the stunning skyline and colorful sunset with a good camera or smartphone.
Book in Advance
Private boat experiences are popular; reserve your spot early to secure your preferred date and time.
Layered Clothing
Layered clothing ensures comfort as temperatures vary at sunset and evening.
Windbreaker or Light Jacket
A windbreaker keeps you warm and protected from breezes on the water.
summer|fall|winter
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning sunset views and cityscapes during the cruise.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during the initial part of the cruise if the sun is still strong.
summer|spring