1.5 - 2 Hours - All Ages
Catch Fleet Week from the deck of the tall ship Clipper City—short, accessible sails from Pier 36 put you up-close to visiting naval vessels and the Manhattan waterfront. Perfect for photographers, families, and maritime buffs.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; able to stand and move on deck and climb short stairs.
Wildlife
History
Fleet Week brings visiting naval and Coast Guard vessels to New York each year, creating a long-standing public celebration of service members and maritime tradition.
Conservation
Stay on designated deck areas, secure loose trash, and avoid feeding wildlife to minimize disturbance to harbor species and reduce marine debris.
Manhattan by Sail
1.5 - 2 Hours - All Ages
Manhattan by Sail operates passenger sails in New York, New York, offering public and private cruises aboard the Clipper City, New York’s largest passenger tall ship. The company’s scheduled experiences include Sunset Jazz sails, Afternoon Golden Hour Cocktail sails, Evening Wine & Jazz concerts, City Lights evening cruises, and daytime harbor sails. Private charters for celebrations and reunions are also available and listed events include birthday and class reunion sails.
Each itinerary sails through New York Harbor, passing signature landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge, with close views of the Manhattan skyline. Public trips advertised include a 90-minute Afternoon Golden Hour Cocktail sail and multiple evening jazz and wine cruises that combine live music and scenic harbor passages. The Clipper City features spacious wooden decks and a full bar with cocktails and wine; some offerings also note snacks and hors d’oeuvres during private events.
Manhattan by Sail markets both ticketed public excursions and privately booked events, providing options for couples, friends, and groups seeking skyline views or music-focused evenings. Trip summaries reference live jazz ensembles, wine selections, cocktail service, and photo-friendly sunset opportunities. Routes and featured experiences vary by departure, with specific sails emphasizing music, cocktails, or city lights.
All information on this page reflects listed trip summaries and locations for Manhattan by Sail as published for each advertised experience in New York Harbor. Ticket availability, pricing, and exact departure times are published with each trip listing. Check individual listings for booking details.
Location
New York, NY
Sails operate in New York Harbor
Trips Offered
8 Trips
Public and private listed experiences
Duration
Varied (including 90 min)
Some public sails are 90 minutes
Vessel
Clipper City
New York’s largest passenger tall ship
Check individual trip listings for departure times, ticket availability, and private charter options.
Arrive early
Allow extra time for security screening at Pier 36 to avoid missing boarding.
Layer up
Temperatures are typically about 10°F cooler on the water; pack a windproof layer.
Bring ID
Government ID is required for check-in—have it accessible to speed boarding.
Cash or card for bar
The onboard bar accepts cards and cash; small bills are handy for tips.
Windproof jacket
Blocks wind and spray during cool, breezy sails.
spring
Sunglasses with strap
Reduces glare from water and keeps eyewear secure in windy conditions.
summer
Small day pack
Carries layers, ID, camera, and any snacks while keeping hands free.
fall
Camera with zoom lens
Captures ship details and distant naval vessels without crowding the deck.