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The 9 new york city boat tours with the best views.

Escape the crowded city streets and admire the iconic skyline from the water.

The 9 New York City Boat Tours

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Taking a boat tour is a must-do when visiting New York City , as it gives you a full view of the mighty Manhattan skyline and many of its famous bridges and buildings. Whether you're looking for a leisurely kayak trip along the Hudson River or a romantic sunset sail, you'll find a cruise to suit your interests. Consulting both expert opinion and traveler sentiment, U.S. News gathered nine of the best New York City boat tours.

Classic Harbor Line – AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour

Price: Adults from $116; students from $86 Duration: 2.75 hours

Admire some of the city's most significant architecture on this cruise from Classic Harbor Line. With a member of the American Institute of Architects as your guide, you'll spot towering residential buildings, Little Island at Pier 55 and more. Guides will also discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic will have lasting impacts on cities. Reviewers who enjoy the cruise's quiet, intimate atmosphere describe it as the highlight of their trip and say it offers a unique perspective compared to other boat cruises in the city.

Tours depart once or twice daily; between January and March, tours only operate Thursday through Sunday. The company also offers sunset, brunch and jazz cruises.

Check prices & availability on:

Circle Line Sightseeing – Best of NYC Cruise

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $38 Duration: 2.5 hours

See all of the Big Apple's top landmarks with this cruise from Circle Line Sightseeing. The tour, which departs from Pier 83, completely circles Manhattan. During the trip, you'll see the Empire State Building , the Statue of Liberty , the Brooklyn Bridge , Yankee Stadium and more. Reviewers say the tour provides a great overview of the city and describe onboard guides as engaging storytellers. Others note that if there's a high tide you will not be able to do a full circle of Manhattan.

Tours typically depart multiple times daily, though specific times vary depending on the season. Boats are equipped with free Wi-Fi and an onboard cafe. The company also offers an express cruise to the Statue of Liberty and an evening Harbor Lights cruise, among others.

The BEAST Speedboat Ride

Price: Adults from $32; kids from $25 Duration: 30 minutes

Those who love a good thrill may want to check out The BEAST Speedboat Ride. The boat reaches speeds of about 45 mph as it makes its way from Pier 83 to the Statue of Liberty. Reviewers say the ride is fast and fun and warn you'll likely get wet if you sit in the back.

Tours, which last about 30 minutes, run from early May through the end of September and depart hourly from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

New York Media Boat – Adventure Sightseeing Tour

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $75 Duration: 1 hour

Designed for photographers, the Adventure Sightseeing Tour takes riders on a U.S. Navy-designed boat past key city sights like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge and Chelsea Piers, among others. The captain stops the boat multiple times throughout the narrated cruise for photo opportunities. Participants praise the informative guides and say the tour is a great option for kids, who are sure to enjoy the thrilling boat speeds. Others say the cruise delivers on its promise of yielding great photos.

Tours run multiple times daily. The company also offers private charters.

Manhattan Kayak Company – Skyline Kayak Tour

Price: From $65 Duration: 90 minutes

For a unique perspective of the New York skyline, consider this tour from Manhattan Kayak Company. The Skyline Kayak Tour, designed for kayakers with little to no experience, spends some time teaching you how to kayak followed by a paddle on the Hudson River. The tour includes a few stops so that guides can share information about the city's history. Reviewers say it is a great value and a fun way to see the city.

Participants must be 12 or older, and kids 12 to 14 must be in a tandem kayak with an adult. Tourgoers must also weigh less than 225 pounds. Tours depart at varying times Thursday through Tuesday. There is an occasional Wednesday tour during the fall months. Manhattan Kayak Company also offers intermediate and advanced kayak tours, as well as stand-up paddleboard tours.

City Experiences – New York Signature Brunch Cruise

Price: Adults from $74; kids from $63 Duration: 2 hours

This tour glides by sites like the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center while you enjoy a buffet brunch complete with unlimited mimosas, music, games and open-air decks. Reviewers say the staff is welcoming and they had a great experience.

The tour departs from Pier 61 on Sundays at noon. City Experiences also offers a traditional sightseeing cruise of the city.

Manhattan By Sail – Clipper City Day Sail

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $35 Duration: 90 minutes

This cruise takes you around the city on the largest tall ship in New York City. The boat offers large decks perfect for enjoying skyline views – as well as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island – as you cruise around the New York harbor. Plus, you can purchase snacks and drinks on board. Reviewers describe the tour as interesting, relaxing and informative and say the crew is personal and professional.

Tours operate weekly, though specific days and times vary. Manhattan By Sail also operates a Wine & Jazz cruise, a sunset cruise and more.

City Experiences – New York Bateaux Premier Lunch Cruise

Price: Adults from $72; kids from $53 Duration: 2 hours

Enjoy an elegant cruise on a European-style, glass-enclosed boat with Bateaux New York (operated by City Experiences). The cruise, which takes passengers past top New York City landmarks, also includes a buffet lunch, a pianist and narration about the city. Alcohol is available for an additional cost, and casual attire is recommended. Reviewers say the service is excellent, though the food receives mixed reviews.

Cruises depart weekly, though specific times and days vary. Bateaux New York also operates brunch and dinner cruises.

Brooklyn Sail – Group Sail

Price: From $80 Duration: 2.5 hours

Climb aboard the Enchantress with just five other passengers for a cruise with Brooklyn Sail. During your outing, you'll see Governors Island, Tribeca, the Statue of Liberty and more. Plus, you're welcome to bring your own food and drink (though the company asks you to avoid red wine and messy foods). Tour-takers say it's an amazing experience, with many noting it makes a great gift.

Tours depart several times daily, but sailings are limited in the colder months. The ship departs from Pier 5 in Brooklyn Bridge Park . Brooklyn Sail also runs private charters and offers sailing lessons.

Interested in more New York City tours? Check out the:

• Best New York City Tours
• Best New York City Food Tours
• Best New York City Bus Tours
• Best Statue of Liberty Tours
• Best New York City Walking Tours

Tags: New York City , Travel , Tours , Vacations , New York Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations , US Vacations

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The 11 best boat tours in NYC

All aboard! Book these NYC boat tours for incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and other iconic landmarks

In all of planet Earth, there is no other skyline quite like that of New York City. Whether by air or by land , the Big Apple’s skyscrapers and landmarks are iconic. But there’s one way of touring NYC that beats out the rest, hands down—by boat.  Whether from the upper deck of a yacht or hunkered down on a speedboat, views from the harbor show NYC at its absolute finest. From the Statue of Liberty to the One World Trade Center, you can take in all the biggest sights without dealing with packed subway cars and endless traffic jams. Below are some of the Big Apple’s biggest and best boat tours.

How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines .

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Best NYC boat tours

1.  Luxury Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise

So this is how to really do an NYC boat tour. Choose which fine dining food option you fancy and then settle into a blissful tour around New York Harbor, with a live pianist your exceptional aural entertainment. And sure, the luxury dining and the music might be pretty good but you wait until you gaze out across the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center from your private table with 360-degree panoramic views. 

Don't miss: The sultry sounds of the onboard jazz pianist who's on a mission to get people dancing.  

2.  Statue of Liberty Express Cruise

Perfect for the sightseer who knows exactly what he or she wants, this Circle Line express tour goes right to the Statue of Liberty – no pit stops this time. Listen to an expert guide point out some lower Manhattan landmarks before pausing for photos right next to Lady Liberty. And since this cruise only takes an hour, it’s easy to fit into even the busiest itinerary.

Don't miss: The perfect photo opp of the famous sculpture and other harbor landmarks. 

3.  New York City Sunset Sailing with Wine Tasting

Here’s one for the schmoozy, romantic vacationers. The NYC sunset sailing with wine tasting gives you the chance to gaze out as the sun drops below Manhattan, seeing NYC’s biggest landmarks (including the Statue of Liberty) all lit up in a golden glow. And to top it all off, you’re on a luxurious sailing boat, which is equipped, crucially, with a full bar. Not that you'll need it after your third cab sauv.

Don't miss: The snacks and cheese that have been expertly paired with the wines. 

4.  Manhattan: Private Sailing Yacht Cruise

Don’t want to share your views of the city skyline? You don’t have to on this private tour of the Hudson River at sunset. It’s your party, so you can bring any food or drinks you like on board. You’ll feel like a high roller as you kick back on your private yacht for the evening.

Don't miss: Chill with your crew on any of the three lounge areas, including the outdoor deck and sun pad. 

5.  Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

How better to get your bearing in a city as enormous as NYC than by circumnavigation? The Circle Line’s two-and-a-half-hour tour does a full loop of Manhattan Island, taking passengers past plenty of the city’s most popular sights in the process. Spanning three rivers and all five boroughs, you’ll even pass within touching distance of Lady Liberty herself. In other words, get your camera ready!

Don't miss: Non-English speakers can download the Circle Line app for a translated commentary. 

6.  New York City: Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise

Get a taste of the Big Apple’s nightlife scene with this happy hour boat tour on the Hudson River. The Alive After Five cocktail cruise has everything you need: a fully stocked bar, a dance floor, and a killer DJ. Did someone say tequila? 

Don't miss:  Views of the Manhattan skyline as the sun goes down and the lights turn on. 

7.  New York Water Taxi Cruises

You can't miss the water taxis, they look just like the car versions: big, bright and yellow. These little beauties cruise round New York Harbor daily, passing major sites like the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. You can stay on and complete the entire loop in 70 minutes, or hop on and off as you please, exploring the greats eats, shops and attractions in NYC's waterside neighborhoods.

Don't miss: They have a team that can help you create a custom route for your journey. 

8.  AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour

The area south of 59th Street is packed with architecturally significant buildings; there’s the Chrysler Building, the Woolworth Building, the Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center, just to name a few. This 90-minute boat tour led by a member of the New York chapter of the American Institute of Architects will cover all of Manhattan’s most significant structures, plus the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty.

Don't miss: Sip complimentary beer, wine, or Champagne from the bar while you learn about infrastructure, parks, and architecture.

9.  Staten Island Ferry

Put your purse away, because the Staten Island Ferry is totally free. That's right, in one of the most expensive cities in the world, you can find a free ride. This old chugger has been going since before any bridges were built, transporting folks from the 'burbs to Manhattan in 25 minutes. Boats leave South Ferry at Battery Park and run 24 hours a day.

Don't miss: The stunning panoramas of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

10.  1920s Schooner Cocktail Sail

Fresh air, ocean waves, Champagne cocktails, and a massive brunch spread of sandwiches, baked goods, fresh bread, fruit and more – it’s fair to say that this midday cruise on the Shearwater really does have it all. Sit back and relax as the crew guides the restored 1929 sailboat out into the harbor. If you’re lucky, the captain will even let you take a turn at the helm.

Don't miss: Each passenger is entitled to four Champagne-based cocktails – make sure you get your fair share! 

11.  Circle Line: Beast Speedboat Ride

Adrenaline junkies will want to book tickets for this supercharged half-hour ride through New York Harbor. The 70-foot speedboat known as the  Beast  zooms toward the Statue of Liberty at 45 miles per hour, kicking up plenty of waves. In fact, the ride can get so intense that guides recommend wearing wetsuits.

Don't miss: The ride is accompanied by a thumping soundtrack to really kick things into high gear.

Keen to beat the summer heat?

Where to go in NYC when you don’t have air-conditioning

• Things to do

When it’s as hot as it is humid in New York City, that leaky window unit just isn’t going to cut it

Want to rent your own boat?

The best boat rentals in NYC

Debating between a two-hour hire or a full-day trip along the Hudson? Choose a boat to start your adventures around NYC

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New York Water Tours

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Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

New York Water Tours - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

New York Water Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

New York Water Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

NEW YORK CITY WATER TOURS

Explore nyc from the water.

• Hour Glass 2 hours

2 Hour Sightseeing Tour

See downtown Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and New York City harbor on a two hour tour with a group of up to six people.

• Hour Glass 2 hours or more

NYC Sailing Tour

Go sailing nyc.

Sail across the water to the best views of the city. Discover NYC’s nautical wonderland, an urban archipelago with Statue of Liberty close-ups and panoramic views.

• Hour Glass 2 hours , 3 hours

Romantic Sail for Two

Slip away together aboard a private yacht. Just the wind, water, and a breathtaking skyline opening before you. Lounge on deck in private luxury while sailing across the harbor.

Sunset Sail

Sail into the sunset aboard a luxury yacht. Lounge on deck while sailing across the harbor to the best views of the city. Enjoy a close-up with the Statue of Liberty.

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NYC Boat Tours Compared

Cruise around manhattan.

This post compares New York City boat tours and cruises to help you choose the best one.

We include cruises around Manhattan, hop-on-hop-off tourist cruises, lunch and dinner cruises, speedboats, sailboats, and more.

As local tour guides, we lead thousands of visitors each week throughout NYC. And some of us narrate on boat cruises as well.

One of the most oft-asked questions we answer has to do with choosing the right boat tour, cruise, ride, (whatever you call it).

We've used our expertise and experiences to help craft this post.

Additionally, we also used tips and opinions from the roughly 250k members of our popular NYC Travel Tips Facebook group .

Our group is comprised of locals, like our tour guides, expats, and regular visitors, as well as newbies to NYC.

You don't need to join the group to search for and read the posts, comments, and suggestions.

Check out the group once you are finished reading this post. A link can be found at the bottom of the page.

Now, on to our analysis.

• Single Trip Cruises
• Hop-On-Hop-Off
• Dinner + Night Cruises
• Speed Boats
• Statue of Liberty Cruises
• Free + Cheap Options

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

NYC BOAT CRUISES

These cruise options are typically short, sweet, and focused on specific areas of the city. You can expect to see a lot of the best landmarks alongside the New York harbor.

Tourist cruises will require you to arrive at a specific time. 

Many of these choices are included for free or at a concession on the New York Pass , New York Sightseeing Pass or Explorer Pass .

Read our guide on whether a tourist concession pass is a good fit for you. 

CIRCLE LINE CRUISES  

Probably the most popular of the cruise service companies, the Circle Line offers 3 different main sightseeing tours around Manhattan, as well as a number of themed tours, such as a sunset tour .

Cruises run daily and run from 1 - 3 hours in length.  

Sightseeing commentary is provided throughout the tours and there is a bar onboard where guests can purchase drinks. 

Where does Circle Line depart from?

All Circle Line boats leave from Midtown Manhattan, 42nd Street on the Hudson River.

The cost of the trip varies depending on which cruise you select.

However, Circle Line Cruises are included for free on the New York Pass , Explorer Pass , and New York Sightseeing Pass , so guests can really save money by taking advantage of one of the tourist passes!  

Does Circle Line go around Manhattan?

Yes, they currently have two different cruises that will take you around Manhattan (more or less).

This company currently has a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read the reviews ).

Although there are some negative reviews, an overwhelming majority of customers felt that the views and commentary provided on their cruise were excellent.

Also, according to members of our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group , premium seating is generally accepted as a necessary thing to purchase.

Liberty Cruise

This 1-hour cruise (which is also referred to as the Statue of Liberty Express) covers the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the One World Trade Center.

This cruise gets very positive reviews .

• Departs several times daily.
• Adult - $31 | Child - $26 
• More information or to book .

Included for free with the purchase of many of the tourist concession passes .

This cruise is also sometimes included as part of a combo package with a Big Bus hop-on-hop-off bus ticket .

If you're interested in visiting Liberty Island, make sure to read our post on Statue of Liberty cruises for more details.

Landmark Cruise  

This 90-minute cruise focuses on Lower and Midtown Manhattan, with the highlights being views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and other notable architecture.  

This cruise also gets very positive reviews .

• Departs 2-3 times daily.
• Adult - $37 | Child - $31 | Senior - $34
• More information and to book . 

Included for free with the purchase of any of the tourist concession

Best of NYC Cruise

This 2.5-hour NYC sightseeing cruise circles around the entire island of Manhattan and includes commentary on the Lady Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Harlem, and Yankee Stadium, among other things.  

This is their flagship tour, and it offers excellent views of the Manhattan skyline.

• Adult - $44 | Child - $37
• Departs 2 - 3 times per day
• More information or to book online .

This cruise is also included for free with the purchase of the  New York Pass  and the NYC Explorer Pass , both tourist concession cards.  

CITY SIGHTSEEING NEW YORK

This company offers a 90-minute Skyline Cruise that departs from Midtown Manhattan on the Hudson River and travels south, past the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge. 

This is actually their hop-on-hop-off cruise, but in this case, you just wouldn't get off.

With an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and Viator ( read the reviews ), it’s clear that the cruises offered by City Sightseeing are pretty popular.

Negative reviews tend to focus on poor customer service, but there are several comments from happy guests suggesting that this isn’t a very big problem.

Skyline Cruise

This 90-minute cruise is the only non-hop-on, hop-off boat tour offered by CitySightseeing.

It can also be booked as a night cruise .

• Boats depart from Pier 78 ( map ) 
• Several departures daily.
• $35 - Adult | $25 - Child

Predominantly a dinner and jazz cruise company in New York City, Hornblower also offers a 90-minute sightseeing tour called the International Sightseeing Cruise that includes views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty.  

This tour departs from South Street Seaport in Lower Manhattan.

Hornblower offers a free app that can be downloaded at home or at the pier that has an audio tour for the ride in 9 languages.

International Sightseeing Cruise

• Several departures Thursday - Sunday
• Tickets are $37 - For adult | $27 - Child 
• More information and to book .

At 3 ½ out of 5 stars  on TripAdvisor, Hornblower has the lowest review rating on our list. Even so, there are far more positive reviews than negative, indicating that most customers enjoy this cruise ship.

Those who didn’t enjoy their experience complained that their boat is getting old and the seating isn’t as comfortable as it once may have been. 

HOP-ON, HOP-OFF FERRY SERVICES

A hop-on, hop-off ferry allows you to travel by water around the city at your leisure.

The main advantage of this service is that you can use it whenever you wish within operational hours.

You won’t be required to arrive at a specific time and plan your day around this boat tour!

Many of these ferries are free with tourist concession passes .

NYC - CITY SIGHTSEEING CRUISE

Unlike their single trip sightseeing cruise, this is a hop-on, hop-off service with several terminals.

This boat makes stops at South Street, DUMBO, the World Financial Center, and Midtown. City Sightseeing also offers twilight and night tours.

They also offer a rainy day guarantee, which allows you to use your boat ticket at a number of popular indoor attractions.

The entire route takes 90 minutes if you do not get off. 

• $35 - Adult | $25 - Child
• Schedule posted below

The cruise service is also usually included for free with the purchase of the Sightseeing Pass and in their multi-day bus passes .  

Ferries run between 9:45 am - 3:45 pm, daily. Tours depart at the following times:

• Pier 78 in Midtown Manhattan  - 9:45 am, 11:45 am, 1:45 pm, 3:45 pm
• Brookfield Place Terminal in Lower Manhattan - 10:20 am, 12:20 pm, 2:20 pm, 4:20 pm

Reviews for this hop-on-hop-off cruise are generally very favorable. Although there were a few complaints, the majority of reviewers were very happy with their trip.

The only significant complaint was about how infrequently the boats run.

NEW YORK WATER TAXI 

Like their competitors, New York Water Taxi offers a hop-on-hop-off boat service that takes 90 minutes in total to complete.

However, you are free to jump off and explore the city at your own pace, hopping back on whenever you wish at several stops throughout the city.

NYWT offers 6 piers to explore compared to the 4 offered by City Sightseeing.

Although this isn’t technically a boat tour, they do provide recorded narration describing some of the sights you’ll see on the cruise.

This company runs about as frequently as similar services.

With a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Viator ( read the reviews ), New York Water Taxi might even be more popular than their competition.  

Ticket Costs:

• $37 - Adult | $26 - Child
• Departure every 30 - 40 minutes from each stop (10 am to 7 pm).

All-Day Access Passes are sometimes available at no extra cost with the New York Pass . This is not currently being offered, but it will likely return to the pass very shortly.

EAST RIVER FERRY  

This commuter ferry is the most economical choice for hop-on-hop-off service.

As the name suggests, this ferry service rides the East River and is a commuter boat, with single-ride tickets costing $4. 

If you’re looking for transportation that will allow you to enjoy a self-guided tour of NYC, this could be one of the most affordable options.

Despite the fact that they aren’t a cruise company, the East River Ferry actually has a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor.

Most passengers are very pleased with this affordable service, indicating that the ferry is an easy way to get around the city.

Find out about the many NYC ferries, by reading our  visitor's guide to riding NYC ferries .

NIGHT AND DINING CRUISES

This section covers evening cruises and we have a special post dedicated to dinner cruises.

There are a lot of different dinner cruises to choose from in New York City. Some offer better meals while others focus more on entertainment.

Whether you’re interested in hearing some great live music while you drift along the water or you want to wine and dine a loved one with a truly romantic experience, there are several great options to choose from.

If you’re curious about which cruise will best fit your desires, please read our post covering the  best dinner cruises in NYC .

In this post, we provide a list of the best dining cruises in the city based on 5 different criteria: lowest price, best dinner, best music, most romantic, and best specialty cruise.

We also include information about how to save money on these services with tourist passes and offer sites, making it easier to get a good deal on your dinner cruise.

Circle Line

If you're looking for a sunset cruise, consider one of these outings.

This company offers a 60-minute Statue by Night Tour. See the Statue of Liberty after dark!

Cruises depart at 7:30 pm (19:30) from Pier 16/South Street Seaport ( map ).

Harbor Lights Tour

There is also a 90 min Harbor Lights Tour which departs just before sunset so you can enjoy the skyline while the sun goes down!

Departs at 7 pm (19:00) from Pier 81 ( map ).

This cruise is well-reviewed ( read the reviews ).

• Adults/$41 | Children/$34

Included for free with the purchase of the New York Pass and the Explorer Pass .

Statue by Night Cruise

• $31 – Adult | $19 – Child
• Departs at 7:30 pm (19:30) from Pier 16/South Street Seaport ( map )

NYC   SPEEDBOATS

There are 2 speedboat companies, which offer guests a bit of a thrill ride as well as a tour!

These speedboats are usually a huge hit with families. If the typical boat tour or cruise doesn’t sound like fun, consider this alternative instead.

Although most of these services are not included on tourist passes, there is at least one speedboat cruise that is offered for free with an attraction pass .

THE BEAST  

Operated by the Circle Line company mentioned above, the Beast travels at 45 mph (73 kph) and gets within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty.

The Beast Speedboat Ride has earned a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( see the reviews ).

Very few people have left negative reviews, indicating that this speedboat tour is a pretty fun experience. 

How much does the Beast NYC cost?

• $30 - Adult | $25 - Child
• Departs every hour on the hour 11 am – 6 pm from Pier 81 ( map ).
• Available Wednesday - Sunday.

Included in the Go City New York Explorer Tourist Pass .

RIB New York

A new and incredible way to experience the New York City skyline by riding a RIB. This “Rigid-hulled Inflatable Boat” is safe, exciting, and perfect for sightseeing.

If you’re interested in a RIB ride in NYC, this company also provides high-speed cruises around the city.

With speeds of up to 50mph, there’s a good chance that you’ll get splashed while seeing such popular sites as the Statue of Liberty, Battery Park, The World Trade Center, and more.

This boat will also slow down near popular landmarks to give guests the opportunity to take photographs.

• Tickets start at $39 per person
• Not currently available due to the pandemic.
• If you're looking for an alternative, the New York Media Boat also offers a speedboat service.

This service is sometimes offered through the New York Sightseeing Pass .

NYC SAILBOAT CRUISES 

If you’re not in the mood for the usual cruise or a ferry ride, consider the more traditional route with a sailboat trip.

These services will allow you to sail around the city and go wherever the wind takes you.

  Ticket prices are a bit higher than some of the other options on our list, but you can also enjoy some of these services for free with various attraction passes .

Manhattan by Sail 

Manhattan by Sail has 2 different types of boats including the Shearwater and Clipper City , and each runs a huge variety of tours.

Sailing adventures include trips near the Statue of Liberty, NYC Skyline sightseeing, and sunset outings around the city.

Manhattan by Sail is a good option for those using a tourist pass, as several different attraction passes usually include this service.

Currently, Manhattan by Sail offers at least one of their cruises on the New York Sightseeing Pass .

• Adult Tickets: $45 and up
• Children Tickets: $25 and up
• More information and to book

Much like their competitors, Manhattan by Sail has received respectable reviews with an overall score of at least 4½ out of 5 stars ( read reviews here ).

Guests note that the prices are very reasonable and they provide excellent service. Customers also report that it’s pretty easy to get around on the boat despite there often being pretty big crowds.

Classic Harbor Line  

There are 3 types of boats available, including the Luxury Yacht Manhattan, the Schooner Adirondack, and the Schooner America 2.0.

Each offers different tours of surrounding sites, as well as a brunch option. You can expect sails at sunset, around the Statue of Liberty and providing views of the NYC skyline.

• Adult Tickets: $60 and up
• Children Tickets: $28 and up

Reviews for this service are pretty good, with most people giving Classic Harbor Line at least 4 ½ out of 5 stars ( read reviews here ).

The only complaints anyone seemed to have were that the boats can get crowded at times.

Aside from those issues, most people report that the views are spectacular and the service is excellent.

What Boat Ride in NYC is Free?

This section is a summary of the various free, and almost free, options for you to get out on the waters of NYC.

Though none of these options are "official" boat tours, each offers guests incredible views of the New York skyline, Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, and more.  

• Staten Island Ferry
• East River Ferry
• IKEA Shuttle Ferry
• Kayaking + Rowb oats

Budget Tip:  If you are planning on purchasing the one of the New York City tourist passes, most have boat tours included in the price. Read our post to see if one of New York tourist passes are for you . 

1.   Staten Island Ferry  

This may be the best known "secret" in the Big Apple. This is a free commuter ferry.

It just so happens that this ferry offers one of the best views of the New York skyline including a pretty close look at the  Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

The ferry departs Lower Manhattan and takes approximately 25 minutes to reach Staten Island, where you could get off and explore or just get back on and return to Manhattan. The ferry departs from Whitehall Terminal.  

The Staten Island Ferry operates 24 hours a day, so consider making this also a fantastic thing to do at night for a sparkling view of the city. 

Riding the ferry before or after our Lower Manhattan Tour  is a great way to spend half a day without spending half your budget!

We also offer this tour as a GPS-enabled audio tour .

2.  East River Ferry  

This is the cheapest boat ride in NYC, after the free Staten Island Ferry.  This is also a commuter ferry and costs the same as a subway, just $4 one way. 

The East River Ferry connects Lower and Midtown Manhattan making stops in Brooklyn and in Queens along the way.

In the summer, the ferry also goes to  Governors Island , located just near the tip of Manhattan.

From start to finish a ride is about 45 minutes.

Riding the ferry will give you great views of Lower Manhattan , the Freedom Tower, the Brooklyn Bridge (you ride right under it), the Manhattan Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge and a lot more.

Read our East River Ferry  post for all the details, schedules, stops and how to buy your ticket.

3. Water Taxi IKEA Shuttle Ferry  

This ferry service runs from Wall Street Terminal to Red Hook in Brooklyn.

It's free on weekends and $5 on weekdays. If you make at least a $10 purchase at IKEA (lunch?), then your weekday ride is free.

It's a great way to get to Red Hook Brooklyn and back without taking the subway.

4. Free Kayaking

Okay, so this option is definitely not a boat tour... but, it's an awesome idea and it's free!  

The Downtown Boathouse , one of the organizations that run the kayak rides is an all-volunteer organization. Donations are accepted.

They have four locations: Pier 26, Governors Island, Pier 40 and Pier 96.  

The Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse also offers free kayaking, where you can kayak underneath the Brooklyn Bridge .

5.  Village Community Boathouse  

Perfect for a more adventurous soul, Village Community Boathouse offers guests the chance to participate in completely free community rowing sessions after dusk from April - November.  

On Sundays they also have an additional rowing session at noon, as well as a variety of other activities intermittently throughout the year.

During the winter, guests can join in for a free boat-building lesson.

Is the Statue of Liberty ferry free?

No. Although there are many ways to save money on this activity, it is not free to visit the Statue of Liberty.

The Statue of Liberty ferry is the only way to reach this island. If you only want to see the landmark from a short distance, consider taking a Statue of Liberty cruise instead.

For more details about this service, please read our post covering how to visit the Statue of Liberty .

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10 Best Eco-Tours You Can Take In New York City

• Choose eco-friendly transportation: Use the highly efficient and cheap mass transit system of subways and buses in NYC to reduce carbon footprint and contribute to sustainable tourism.
• Explore NYC's top attractions sustainably: Opt for these eco-friendly NYC tours that have a minimal impact on the environment and showcase the city's history, parks, and cultural landmarks. Walk, cycle, or take an eco sailboat tour to experience the Big Apple while being environmentally conscious.
• Embrace sustainable food options: Join a walking food tour that showcases quintessential New York street food while walking through the city's streets instead of using vehicles. By supporting local eateries and choosing sustainable transportation, tourists can contribute to a greener New York City.

Eco-tourism and eco-travel in New York City? Yes, the world's busiest cosmopolitan does a lot to make it an environmentally friendly destination. The best example of this is its highly useful and used mass transit system of subway and bus services. Citizens and visitors are highly encouraged to use this super efficient and cheap mode of transportation within the city.

Sustainable tourism is conscientious travel, and this means being careful with the environment and respecting the community. Visitors can contribute towards this effort by choosing mass transit over taxis, staying at eco-friendly New York City hotels or homestays that make an effort to be “green,” shopping at a locally owned store, and eating at a diner or coffee shop instead of at a branded fast-food chain. Plus, New York City recycles its bottles and cans (including bottled water), and travelers can look for containers for recyclables before discarding litter.

Outside of the everyday small things that people can do to be eco-friendly during an NYC vacation, they can also be kind to the environment while sightseeing and having fun in the Big Apple. Tourists have an incredible amount of interesting things to do in NYC, and the city offers them lots of eco-friendly options while doing so - in the form of eco-friendly NYC tours. Here is a list of some of the best eco-tours in New York City that let travelers explore its top sights and sounds while ensuring a low-impact, low carbon footprint at the same time.

The following eco-friendly tours in New York City were selected based on their minimal impact on the environment, low carbon footprint, and appreciation and value of nature. From walking and cycling tours to excursions to botanical gardens and farms that highlight nature's importance, these environmentally friendly NYC tours are worth it for eco-conscious travelers.

Historic NYC Downtown Walking Tour

Downtown New York City! No other historical neighborhood can lay claim to so much impact or influence in the world over a relatively brief period in global events, and so a tour like this one is an essential item on the bucket list of things to do in NYC for anyone.

The tour retraces the evolution of Lower Manhattan, the historic role of New York Harbor, and the covert activities of the Revolutionary War. While on the tour, visitors will explore key historical locations like Wall Street, Stone Street Historic District, Trinity Church, Federal Hall, Hamilton's grave site, etc., and discover how Lower Manhattan has transformed since 9/11.

Downtown Manhattan is one of the most densely populated places in New York City, and a walking tour is a refreshing and most eco-friendly way of seeing this iconic city.

• Price: $50 per person
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Meeting Point: Upon reservation, travelers will receive a confirmation with maps and the best mode of transportation to get to the meeting point
• Reservation: Click here for reservations

Related: Just 25 Beautiful Photos Of New York City's Skyline

Central Park Walking Tour

Central Park is certainly one of the most popular places in New York City. They say even a few days walking through Central Park (which is free to visit) will not be enough to cover its many hidden corners and stories. The only way to see the park to justify the park's true potential is by walking, and this expert-led Central Park Walking Tour offers views and entrance to areas unavailable to even cyclists.

It is a relaxing stroll of a little over two hours covering the history, structures, plants, animals, and movies filmed in the park, told in a way both entertaining for adults and children. Visitors are expected to have a moderate fitness level of being able to walk for 2 hours at a comfortable pace. Being a rather large park, it's best to follow a guide who knows it very well to have a richer experience.

• Price: $45 per person
• Duration: 2 hours
• Meeting Point: CENTRALPARKHORSES, 7TH AVE &, Central Park S, New York, NY 10019

This tour will have a maximum of 12 travelers.

New York Botanical Garden Visit

Located in the Bronx, the 250-acre New York Botanical Garden is nature's paradise in every season of the year. With 50 breathtaking gardens, indoor rain forests and deserts, 50 acres of native forest, a river, waterfalls, and rolling green hills, the Garden is a blessing for the environment and a must-see destination for NYC visitors.

The garden is open Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays. Most of the Garden consists of outdoor spaces and are open in all weather conditions. Visitors are advised to dress for the weather and exploration. Refreshments are available at the Pine Tree Café within the property.

• Price: $35 per adult, $31 per student/senior (65+), $15 per child (2-12), Free (children under 2, members)
• Duration: All day pass
• Location: 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 10458

Related: The New York Botanical Gardens Are Home To NYC's Old Growth Forests, But That's Not The Only Reason To Visit

New York City Skyline Night Sailboat Tour

Seeing New York City's lights at night is a spectacle that just cannot be missed. City Lights Sail on America 2.0 is a breathtaking eco-friendly cruise through the waters of New York Harbor, sailing past One World Trade Center, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty, all lit up brilliantly to offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience that begs to be repeated, and more than just once.

This incredible eco-friendly ride is one of the best places to view the New York City skyline . It's better enjoyed with a romantic companion or a close group of friends who want to have a quiet, relaxed evening and watch the most admired skyline in the world. Each seat allows a complimentary beer, wine, champagne, or soda, and additional beverages are available for purchase by credit card.

• Price: $76 per person
• Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

Extreme high winds, fog, torrential rain, extremely low temperatures, etc., may contribute to a cancelation decision.

New York Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

New York City isn't just a bustling financial capital. With its rich history of culture and cuisine, it is also a food capital of the world, with delicacies from around the globe in fine dining restaurants as well as finger-licking street food.

This tour allows visitors an opportunity to contribute towards a greener New York by walking the vehicle-riddled streets of Manhattan instead of using a cab or bus, all the while sampling several quintessential New York street food favorites like classic bagels, New York-style pizza and gourmet doughnuts. The local tour guide takes visitors to some of New York’s best under-the-radar eateries.

• Price: $85 per person
• Duration: 2.5 - 3.5 hours
• Meeting Point: IFC Center, 323 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014

This tour requires a minimum number of 12 travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, guests will be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Hudson River Greenway Bike Tour

Nothing could define an eco-friendly activity more than people using their energy while exploring nature. This is a small-group guided bike tour along the Hudson River in New York City on one of the most popular places to ride, offering beautiful water views, fresh unpolluted air, and a dedicated bike path that is closed to car traffic.

The use of a bicycle and a helmet is included in the Hudson River Greenway Bike Tour, so visitors have one less thing to be concerned about. Just land up there with comfortable clothing and shoes (suggested shorts or track pants with sneakers and a T-shirt) and get ready to spend some time refreshing yourself from the city's bustle. The tour prefers small groups of no more than 15 to allow a more personal experience for the group.

• Price: $53 per person
• Duration: 30 - 45 minutes
• Meeting Point: Pier 84 at Hudson River Park, 555 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036

Infant seats are available on request.

A Day In Brooklyn Bike Tour

Brooklyn is one of New York City's coolest neighborhoods. This bicycle tour through Brooklyn explores tough-to-reach areas that most tourists often miss. The eco-friendly ride also goes through popular landmarks and hidden gems, like areas under the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, including breweries and eateries to stop and refuel.

Photo stops and complimentary tastings along the way make this a popular choice for active New York City visitors, especially those who prefer environment-friendly activities that are fun, informative, and don't leave a carbon footprint.

• Price: $118 per person
• Duration: 5 hours
• Meeting Point: Under the Manhattan Bridge - Brooklyn, NY 11205. (This location is a Lock away SeflStorage. Guests are requested to wait at the front gate for a tour guide to meet them here)

This tour will have a maximum of 12 travelers. The minimum age for travelers is 13 years old.

Prospect Park Walking Tour

Prospect Park is a 585-acre park located in the center of Brooklyn. On this tour, the experienced guide helps the visitors discover hidden treasures, natural wonders, and little-known tales of Prospect Park .

While taking in the beauty of this iconic park’s woodlands, waterways, wildlife, and landmarks, visitors also get to explore layers of history, flora, and the architecture of the surroundings. The tour gives an insight into how the park supports environmental conservation, historic preservation, and recreational and cultural access for locals and visitors from around the world.

• Price: $25 per person (children under 5 are free)
• Meeting Point: Brooklyn Public Library Central Library, 10 Grand Army Plaza

Related: The Ultimate Eco-Travel Checklist: 10 Things To Be Aware Of When Traveling

Farm.One Classic Tasting Tour

Farm.One’s indoor hydroponic farm uses LED lighting, hydroponics, and technology to grow hundreds of culinary plants with no pesticides or chemicals and up to 90% less water than a traditional farm. The tour offers visitors a chance to connect with fellow plant lovers while experiencing new flavors and culinary plants in a sensory experience not easily found anywhere else in New York.

This 1 hour guided tour takes visitors to the grow room, display racks, and packing room. It allows guests to taste rare herbs, microgreens, and edible flowers. Each visitor gets a complimentary 0% ABV beverage crafted with Farm.One greens.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Location: 625 Bergen Street in Brooklyn, New York

Exploration Day At Randall’s Island Urban Farm

Despite its concrete density, New York City has hundreds of farms and gardens that produce fruit, vegetables, and herbs that are distributed and consumed within the city. Randall’s Island Urban Farm, set on 1 acre of land, grows hundreds of plants and teaches visitors about sustainable farming practices like pollination and composting.

The farm also has rice paddies, berry bushes, and greenhouses, all of which are open to the public on Exploration Days during weekends in the summer months. Throughout the year, the farm hosts over 200 free public events on the grounds of Randall's Island Park Alliance, including tours, waterfront activities, annual Earth Day and Harvest Festivals, and more.

• Price: Free
• Duration: Subject to individual interest
• Timing and Reservation: There are specific days when visitors can explore the farm. Please check for relevant information .

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5 Unique NYC Party Boat Experiences

Set against one of the world’s most iconic skylines, the waters surrounding New York City make for a magical boat party.

(Photo: FeverUp.com)

If the myriad of opportunities for partying on land in New York isn’t enough to satisfy, then revellers also have the opportunity to let their hair down on the water. The Hudson River that surrounds New York Harbour plays host to a large number of party boats that invite guests to soak up the views of the city’s famous landmarks from a unique vantage point, all while enjoying lashings of food, drink and live music. We’ve picked out 5 of the best NYC party boat experiences currently on offer.

A Tribute to ABBA – Disco on the Hudson Yacht Cruise Party

Dust off your platform shoes, put on your glittery outfit, and dance the night away to the iconic hits of ABBA –  the iconic Swedish pop supergroup that took the world by storm in the 1970s – during this 4-hour yacht party. As you sail down the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty, you’ll get to pay tribute to the cherished pop band by singing your heart out to “Dancing Queen”, “Mamma Mia” and all your other favourite ABBA hits into the small hours. An onboard bar serving alcoholic and soft drinks will help lubricate proceedings. The cruise runs from 10pm-2am. From $35 per person.

Book at Feverup.com

Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise

(Photo: City Cruises / Courtesy GetYourGuide.com)

This 2-hour sunset cruise invites you to kick back and unwind in the company of friends or colleagues aboard a classic yacht. With cocktails available to purchase by the dozen and pulsating live music courtesy of an onboard DJ, you’ll have plenty of excuses to let your hair down as your charming vessel traverses the Hudson River, with such spectacular landmarks as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge for scenery. The cruise starts and ends at Pier 15 in Downtown Manhattan. From $58 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide

Bailar Reggaeton: NYC Boat Party

Every Friday and Saturday night throughout New York’s summer months, a luxurious boat sets sail on the Hudson River with the distinctive beats of reggaetón emanating from the deck. This is Bailar Reggaeton NYC Boat Party, featuring its very own on-board fiesta brought to you by special DJ guests. Spanning three levels, including an open-air dance floor, the party offers a night to remember for all who experience it. Upgraded tickets include a glass of champagne and a buffet-style dinner. From $34.95 per person.

Live Jazz Sail

(Photo: Manhattan By Sail /. Courtesy GetYourGuide.com)

Take in the mesmerising views from New York Harbor while listening to live jazz by acclaimed group “The Boat Band” during this 2-hour sailing trip aboard a traditional schooner. Relax against the familiar but never dull backdrop of the city while sipping champagne, wine, beer, or a soft drink and soak up your surroundings as the sun begins to set.  A complimentary alcoholic drink of your choice is included in the tour price, and additional drinks are available for purchase onboard. From $109 per person.

Book at Viator

New York Harbor Live Holiday Jazz Cruise

An alternative jazz cruise is this slightly shorter version designed for the entertainment of couples, families, and friends alike. Providing the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, guests are invited to indulge in snacks and refreshments from the onboard bar as the dulcet tones of a live jazz band create a relaxing atmosphere. One alcoholic drink is included in the tour price, with more available for purchase. Cruises start and end at Chelsea Piers, at Pier 62. From $120 per person.

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Lakes & Water Adventures

Get outside and explore New York's greatest water adventures. From vacations on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean to canoeing or kayaking trips on lazy upstate lakes, you'll love to dip into New York water. You'll also discover tour boats on almost every large lake and waterway in the state, where you sit back and enjoy the scenery. If the romantic notion of a magnificent castle only accessible by water on Heart Island excites you, you'll love Boldt Castle and the tale of its origins. Adirondack Water Ski and Wakeboard School's certified instructors make New York water activities fun and safe with all levels of lessons for Lake George skiing, wake skating/surfing, barefooting, tubing, and more! For high river adventures and family fun, try whitewater rafting at challenging upstate rivers, water skiing at Daggett Lake, or fly fishing on Ausable River.

Explore even more water adventures in New York below

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Tyla gets CARRIED UP Met Gala steps like a living doll after struggling to walk in tight sand dress... as Water singer returns to spotlight after canceling tour over mystery injury

• READ MORE: Met Gala 2024 LIVE BLOG: All the red carpet looks and guest list gossip

By Sharon Mai For Dailymail.Com

Published: 23:14 EDT, 6 May 2024 | Updated: 09:36 EDT, 7 May 2024

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Tyla was carried like a doll up the steps at the Metropolitan Museum of Art during the 2024 Met Gala  in New York City on Monday evening.

In viral footage and photographs from fashion's biggest night , the Water singer, 22, had to assemble team of four people to pick her up and help her ascend the red carpet stairs.

Wearing a sand-textured dress, which appeared to be molded to her body, the Grammy winner required assistance with not only the long train but also with her mobility.

This comes after the Johannesburg-born musician previously canceled the North American leg of her Tyla Tour due to an undisclosed injury , which she explained had 'tragically worsened' over time.

She also postponed her European dates, which she was previously expected to kick off in March, before her North American leg.

Tyla was carried like a doll up the steps at the Metropolitan Museum of Art during the 2024 Met Gala on Monday evening

In viral footage and photographs from fashion's biggest night , the Water singer, 22, had to assemble team of four people to pick her up and help her ascend the red carpet stairs

Despite needing assistance, Tyla oozed confidence as she posed for a slew of stunning snaps

In her first appearance since she shared the news of her injury, however, she made a public appearance at her inaugural Met Gala for this year's Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion event. 

For her debut at fashion's biggest night, she collaborated with Balmain to design a dress inspired by the sands of time for the night's Garden of Time theme.

Not displaying any obvious physical injuries, she wore a pair of tall stilettos to go with her figure-forming dress. 

And teamed with her bold look, she carried a hourglass and rocked a short bob.

During her red carpet appearance, she appeared to be in high spirits even as she had to be assisted up the steps. 

The singer was previously scheduled to travel through North America as part of her tour but had to cancel due to a longstanding injury. 

She released a statement on her Instagram page and opened up about an injury she has been 'silently suffering with' in the past year. 

She explained that 'the pain has only become more agonizing' but did not disclose the ailment.

Wearing a sand-textured dress, which appeared to be molded to her body, the Grammy winner required assistance with not only the long train but also with her mobility

This comes after the Johannesburg-born musician previously canceled the North American leg of her Tyla Tour due to an undisclosed injury, which she explained had 'tragically worsened' over time

In her first appearance since she shared the news of her injury, however, she made a public appearance at her inaugural Met Gala for this year's Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion event

For her debut at fashion's biggest night, she collaborated with Balmain to design a dress inspired by the sands of time for the night's Garden of Time theme

Not displaying any obvious physical injuries, she wore a pair of tall stilettos to go with her figure-forming dress

And teamed with her bold look, she carried a hourglass and rocked a short bob

During her red carpet appearance, she appeared to be in high spirits even as she had to be assisted up the steps

She couldn't stop giggling as she made her way up the stairs 

While posing inside of the gala, she posed while holding  onto a nearby tree trunk as she showcased her outfit's gritty details

For that reason, she said she had to cancel her North American concerts completely and also could not perform at this year's past Coachella.

She also shared her plans to reschedule her upcoming nine tour dates in the United Kingdom and in Europe, which she was scheduled to kick off on March 21 in Oslo, Norway.

'I am absolutely heartbroken to have to say this but as of right now I won't be able to proceed with the tour,' she shared in her statement. 

'In consulting with medical professionals it's become increasingly clear that continuing any festival or tour dates would jeopardize my long-term health and safety.'

Share or comment on this article: Tyla gets CARRIED UP Met Gala steps like a living doll after struggling to walk in tight sand dress... as Water singer returns to spotlight after canceling tour over mystery injury

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Middle East Crisis Netanyahu Again Vows to Invade Rafah ‘With or Without’ Cease-Fire Deal

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• A Palestinian man passing destroyed buildings in Khan Younis, in southern Gaza. Mohammed Saber/EPA, via Shutterstock
• The funeral of an Israeli reserve soldier in Carmiel, northern Israel. Ariel Schalit/Associated Press
• A displaced Palestinian woman in Rafah, southern Gaza. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• An Israeli artillery unit fires toward Gaza from near the border. Amir Cohen/Reuters
• An aid airdrop over the northern Gaza Strip. Abdel Kareem Hana/Associated Press
• Palestinians in Deir el-Balah. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

Netanyahu’s pledge to invade Rafah could undermine efforts to reach a cease-fire deal.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel once again pledged on Tuesday to launch a ground invasion into the southern Gazan city of Rafah, a move that could undermine efforts to negotiate a cease-fire agreement after seven months of war in the Palestinian enclave.

The United States, Qatar and several countries have been pushing to get a cease-fire deal, with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken visiting the region and expectations rising that Hamas and Israel might be edging closer to an agreement.

But with Hamas arguing that any agreement should include an end to the war, and with right-wing politicians in Israel threatening to leave the government coalition if the long-planned incursion into Rafah is delayed, Mr. Netanyahu made clear that Israel would reserve the right to keep fighting.

“The idea that we will halt the war before achieving all of its goals is out of the question,” he said in a meeting with the families of hostages held in Gaza, according to a statement from his office. “We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate the Hamas battalions there — with or without a deal, in order to achieve the total victory.”

Israeli officials have said repeatedly that they plan to move into Rafah, but over the weekend, they made clear they were open to holding off if it meant they could secure the release of hostages taken when Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7. One official also suggested that Israel was using the threat of an imminent military maneuver to press the armed group into a hostage deal.

In anticipation of an offensive, some families in Rafah have been moving north into areas of Gaza that had already been attacked by Israeli forces, but on Tuesday, the scale of the evacuation remained unclear. As of last week, more than one million Gazans, many of them previously displaced from other parts of the territory by Israeli bombardment, were still sheltering in the city in makeshift tents.

American officials and other allies have been pressing Israel to either avoid an assault on Rafah or develop specific plans to adequately minimize civilian casualties.

On Tuesday, Mr. Blinken met with officials in Jordan to discuss the war between Israel and Hamas, and to press for peace and an increase in humanitarian aid. There was no immediate reaction from the State Department to Mr. Netanyahu’s remarks.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of Britain spoke to Mr. Netanyahu on Tuesday, his office said in a statement. The British leader “continued to push for an immediate humanitarian pause to allow more aid in and hostages out” and said that Britain’s focus was on de-escalation, it said.

For weeks, cease-fire talks had been at a standstill. But Israeli officials have said that negotiators have reduced the number of hostages they want Hamas to release during the first phase of a truce, opening up the possibility that the stalled negotiations could be revived.

A senior Hamas official said on social media on Monday that the group was studying a new Israeli proposal.

A Hamas delegation met with officials in Egypt’s intelligence service on Monday, according to a senior Hamas official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to talk about sensitive discussions between Hamas and Egypt.

Adam Rasgon contributed reporting.

— Damien Cave

The White House presses Hamas to accept the cease-fire deal on the table.

The White House said on Tuesday that “time is of the essence” for cease-fire talks in the Middle East as negotiators tried to broker a deal to pause the war in Gaza and secure the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas since the Oct. 7 terrorist attack.

President Biden’s advisers feel a sense of urgency to finally break through the months of stalemate while Israeli leaders appear open to an agreement and before they open their long-threatened military assault on Rafah, the southern Gaza city where more than one million Palestinians have taken refuge.

“I wouldn’t say that we’re overly confident,” John F. Kirby, a White House spokesman, told reporters, attempting to lower expectations given the history of failed talks until now. “I would say we’re being very pragmatic about this. This is a good proposal. This is a very good proposal and Hamas ought to jump on it and time is of the essence.”

The American-sponsored proposal would halt the war for about six weeks in its first stage in exchange for the release of women, older men and hostages with health conditions. Israel has agreed to lower the number to be released in that first stage to 33 from 40 and would also release hundreds of Palestinians held in its prisons.

Mr. Kirby made clear that the United States remained opposed to an Israeli ground offensive against Hamas in Rafah without an effective plan to protect civilians, which American officials have said they have not seen. “We don’t want to see a major ground operation in Rafah,” Mr. Kirby said. “That hasn’t changed.”

But he gave Israel credit for doing more to ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza since Mr. Biden threatened to rethink his support for Israel’s military operation during a call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel four weeks ago.

He said more than 5,000 trucks of food, medicine and other goods have entered Gaza since then, with about 200 more trucks a day and sometimes as many as 400.

— Peter Baker

As Israel plans to invade Rafah, a family makes the difficult choice to uproot itself again.

Mohammed Foara said his wife could not stop talking about how much she wanted to flee Rafah, where their family was among more than a million people who had sought safety from Israeli bombardment and fighting elsewhere in Gaza.

Their oldest child had already been killed by an airstrike in Nuseirat, in central Gaza, where the family had sheltered before they came to Rafah. As Israel warned it was preparing to invade Rafah, she asked him: Is that not reason enough to leave?

Finally, Mr. Foara agreed, he said, and the family packed up their meager possessions and moved for a fifth time in nearly seven months of war. They joined some Palestinians who have begun to flee, once again, this time leaving Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city, before a widely anticipated Israeli attack.

“I escaped Rafah just to keep the other children alive and safe,” said Mr. Foara. He has been haunted by the death of his son, Anas, 21, who was killed by an airstrike when he went out to find cigarettes.

“I fear for them more and more,” he said of his four surviving children.

Israel has called Rafah the last Hamas stronghold in Gaza, and said that invading the city is key to its goal of dismantling the group behind the Oct. 7 attack, which Israeli officials say killed about 1,200 people.

The war in Gaza has killed more than 34,000 people, according to local health authorities. Some 1.7 million — in a territory of roughly 2.2 million — have been driven from their homes, many of them multiple times, according to the United Nations.

The Foara family fled their home in Gaza City early in the war, where they moved within the city twice, and then spent four months in Nuseirat. They went to Rafah after their son was killed.

They are now in an area near the central Gazan city of Deir al Balah, in a camp that is so new that there are not yet any humanitarian groups working there, and there is no medical assistance, either, Mr. Foara said. They received a nylon-and-cloth tent from local residents marked with the number 170.

“That means there are more than 170 families in this area,” Mr. Foara said on a recent day last week, the hot sun beating down. “I hope to not evacuate this place.”

Residents in the area who have remained in their homes amid the war helped Mr. Foara build the tent, he said, and gave his family water.

At the entrance to the camp, there are vendors selling falafel and other food at prices that have been inflated by the war. A tank of water costs about $100, but before the war it cost about $25, Mr. Foara said.

That is too much for Mr. Foara, who before the war was paid about $400 per month as a civil servant for the Palestinian Authority, a rival to Hamas. He is determined to keep his family alive, but sometimes the weight of the tragedy that has befallen them — and the rest of Gaza — is almost too much to bear.

“I feel like I am just a block of negative feelings — anxiety and depression,” he said. “We used to watch these scenes of tents in Yemen and Syria, and now it is a reality here.”

— Liam Stack and Bilal Shbair

The U.N.’s top court declined to ban Germany’s weapons sales to Israel.

The United Nations’ highest court on Tuesday rejected a request from Nicaragua to order Germany to stop supplying arms to Israel.

The judges on the International Court of Justice said no special court order was required, citing Germany’s arguments that it has stringent licensing standards to avoid the misuse of weapons and that it had issued few export licenses since late last year.

The judges’ decision pertained to a broader case brought by Nicaragua against Germany with potentially wide implications on whether suppliers of military aid to Israel share some responsibility for how the weapons are used.

Still, the judges did not grant Germany’s request to throw out the main complaint that Nicaragua has filed against Germany, meaning that case is likely to go ahead.

Nicaragua has argued that Germany is violating the 1948 Genocide Convention because its military and financial aid to Israel is facilitating the possible commission of genocide in Gaza.

A final decision on that Nicaraguan complaint may have to await the court’s decision on a separate case brought by South Africa, alleging that Israel has committed genocide. The decision in the South African complaint could take up to two years.

With the death toll rising from the conflict in Gaza, however, Nicaragua had also asked the I.C.J. to issue an emergency order for Germany to halt its arms exports to Israel altogether and to ensure that weapons already supplied were not unlawfully used.

A majority of the panel declined the request in a 15 to 1 vote, but the court said in its ruling that it “remains deeply concerned about the catastrophic living conditions of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.”

The ruling, signed by the court’s president, Nawaf Salam, reminded nations of their obligation to avoid providing arms that might be used to violate the Genocide Convention. “All these obligations are incumbent upon Germany as a State party to the said Conventions in its supply of arms to Israel,” the decision said.

William Schabas, a professor of law at Middlesex University in London, said that warning “has provided ammunition to lawyers who will challenge arms shipments to Israel before domestic courts, as is happening right now in several countries.”

The German Foreign Ministry welcomed the court’s ruling.

“Germany is not a party to the conflict in the Middle East — on the contrary: We are working day and night for a two-state solution,” the ministry said in a statement on social media.

The statement added that Germany was also working to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches Gazans and that Hamas was responsible for setting off a “spiral of suffering” in the region, against which it said Israel had a right to defend itself.

Germany and Nicaragua are parties to the 1948 Genocide Convention, which binds them to act to prevent genocide, defined as the intent to destroy a group not only by killing or causing serious bodily or mental harm, but also by inflicting “conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.”

Israel has repeatedly denied accusations that it is carrying out a genocide in Gaza, arguing that its military has worked to preserve civilian life and that Hamas has used civilians as human shields.

Earlier this year, the I.C.J. found in the South African case that the risk of genocide taking place was plausible. The court issued separate interim orders, requested by South Africa , specifying that Israel must prevent its forces in Gaza from taking actions that are banned under the Genocide Convention, must prevent and punish public statements that constitute incitements to genocide, and must allow more access to humanitarian aid. The judges also called for immediate release of all hostages still held by Hamas.

Germany, a staunch ally of Israel, is second only to the United States in providing it with military assistance. But in presenting its case before the I.C.J., it argued that its shipments to Israel are always licensed under German and European rules. The main thrust of Germany’s argument was that almost all of its recent military assistance to Israel was nonlethal aid.

Unlike Germany, which has given the I.C.J. full jurisdiction, the United States has shielded itself and on most issues has to consent to a case. It has protected itself even further from the Genocide Convention, signing the convention but explicitly refusing the court’s jurisdiction here.

Critics of the Nicaraguan government say that its pursuit of Germany for breaking international law is hypocritical: A recent U.N. report accused Nicaragua of “systematic human rights violations” and increasing repression of government opponents at home.

Erika Solomon contributed reporting.

— Marlise Simons reporting from Paris

Germany’s military support of Israel is being challenged, despite the I.C.J.’s decision.

Even as the U.N.’s highest court declined to order Germany to stop sending arms to Israel, another lawsuit in a German court sought to cut off the flow of military aid.

Several rights groups filed a joint lawsuit against the German government in an administrative court in Berlin in early April. The suit seeks to suspend the delivery of weapons yet to be sent to Israel under current export licenses issued by the German government, and to block any additional arms deliveries. This week, the court said it expected that Germany would not authorize any more exports until it had issued its ruling.

Germany, a staunch ally of Israel, is the second-largest provider of military aid to the country after the United States.

Earlier this month, Nicaragua brought a case against Germany at the International Court of Justice, where it argued that Germany was violating the Genocide Convention by providing Israel with military and financial aid amid Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. On Tuesday, the I.C.J. decided against issuing an emergency order that would have required Germany to stop providing arms to Israel.

Germany’s legal team had argued before the I.C.J. that most of its exports to Israel were nonlethal, such as protective gear, communications equipment and defense equipment against chemical hazards .

But Nicaragua and the rights groups have mentioned that Germany has delivered 3,000 antitank weapons, as well as items like spare parts for vehicles, which could be used as part of the ongoing military offensive even though they were described as nonlethal.

The Berlin-based European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights, or E.C.C.H.R., joined with three Palestinian legal and human rights organizations to file the lawsuit on behalf of five Palestinians living in Gaza who have lost family members during Israeli rocket attacks.

The lawyers argue that Germany is violating its obligations under international law, as well as its own weapons control act, by supplying arms to Israel. The weapons, they say, are “being used to kill and displace civilians, destroy civilian infrastructure in Gaza, as well as control and limit the transfer and distribution of humanitarian aid.”

On Tuesday, Berlin’s administrative court said it had told the German government last week that it must not issue any additional export licenses while the case is being deliberated, and to inform the court if it intends to export any more weapons so that the court could make an emergency ruling on the matter. A ruling is currently expected by June, according to German news media reports.

“A basic prerequisite for a rules-based and human rights-oriented German foreign policy is respect for the law in its own decision-making,” Wolfgang Kaleck, the general secretary of the E.C.C.H.R., said in a statement when the lawsuit was filed on April 12. “Germany cannot remain true to its values if it exports weapons to a war where serious violations of international humanitarian law are apparent.”

Israel’s conduct in the war has increased both international and domestic pressure on the German government to take a tougher stance toward Israel.

In recent months, Germany has begun to signal the limits of its support for Israel’s military campaign: It has voiced objections to Israeli plans to attack the southern border town of Rafah, where more than a million Gazans have sought shelter. Annalena Baerbock, the German foreign minister, said during a visit to Israel last month that she would send a delegation to the country to “remind” it of its obligations under international humanitarian law.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel once again pledged to launch a ground invasion into Rafah, despite ongoing efforts to negotiate a cease-fire agreement in the war in Gaza.

— Erika Solomon and Christopher F. Schuetze

Blinken’s Mideast tour continues in Jordan, where he discussed humanitarian aid for Gaza.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken visited a warehouse in Jordan on Tuesday where workers were loading trucks for the first attempt to send medical and food aid overland from Jordan to the Israel-Gaza border crossing of Erez. He praised the start of the new aid corridor and also said a pier being built by the U.S. military to bring aid by sea to coastal Gaza would be operational in about one week.

“This is real and important progress, but more still needs to be done,” he told reporters traveling with him across the Middle East this week. “And in particular, we have to make sure our focus is not on inputs, but on impact and really measuring whether the aid that people need is getting to them in an effective way.”

Distribution of aid in Gaza has been a challenge, especially in the devastated northern part of the strip. That has been made more difficult by the fact that the Biden administration recently said the United States had stopped giving money to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, the main aid agency operating in the strip, after Israel accused some of its workers of taking part in the Oct. 7 attacks in southern Israel.

The trucks bound for Erez are organized by the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization, and the aid has been donated by various international groups. The first of these trucks were scheduled to leave the warehouse near the city of Zarqa, Jordan, on Tuesday night and to arrive at Erez on Wednesday, when Mr. Blinken will be in Israel to speak with Israeli officials. Workers put wooden pallets of boxes of aid onto the trucks using forklifts.

Shortly before arriving at the warehouse in the early evening, Mr. Blinken met with several Palestinian women who had left Gaza during the war and who still have family members there.

“I heard the suffering that they endured and that their friends and family continue to endure every day,” Mr. Blinken said.

Mr. Blinken also called on Hamas to commit to an agreement to release some civilian hostages in exchange for a temporary cease-fire and the liberation of scores of Palestinian prisoners.

The Biden administration is trying to increase pressure on Hamas to accept the deal. Israeli officials said this week that they were willing to lower their demand for the number of hostages in an initial release to 33 from 40.

Mr. Blinken discussed the proposed deal at meetings in Saudi Arabia on Monday and again in Jordan on Tuesday. He planned to do the same in Israel on Wednesday, according to State Department officials.

After arriving in Jordan on Tuesday afternoon, Mr. Blinken first went to separate meetings with the foreign minister, Ayman Safadi, and with King Abdullah II.

Matthew Miller, a State Department spokesman, said Mr. Blinken and the Jordanian king discussed the cease-fire proposal along with Jordan’s humanitarian aid contributions to Gaza.

On his seventh trip to the Middle East since the war began last October, Mr. Blinken and his aides have been trying to work on a range of issues, including Israel’s continuing need for U.S. weapons, the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza and a plan for a political solution to the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Before he went to the aid warehouse on Tuesday, Mr. Blinken also met with Sigrid Kaag, the United Nations coordinator for Gaza, to discuss humanitarian aid needs in Gaza.

“This is a critical moment in making sure that everything that needs to be done is actually being done,” Mr. Blinken said at the start of the meeting.

In talks with Jordanian officials, Mr. Blinken also spoke about issues involving the leadership of the Palestinian Authority, which governs the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

The Biden administration has called for a more technocratic Palestinian Authority, which is considered by many Palestinians to be authoritarian and corrupt , in the hopes that it could help govern postwar Gaza — an idea that Israel’s government opposes. Jordanian officials have close ties with Mahmoud Abbas, the head of the authority, and other prominent Palestinians in the organization. Mr. Blinken has not met with Mr. Abbas on his trip.

— Edward Wong traveling with the U.S. secretary of state in the Middle East

Officials from Hamas and Fatah, longtime rivals, met in China.

Officials from Hamas and Fatah, the main Palestinian factions that have long competed for power in Gaza and the West Bank, met in Beijing recently for what Chinese officials on Tuesday called “in-depth and candid talks on promoting intra-Palestinian reconciliation.”

The discussions in Beijing were not expected to produce much. Israel’s bombardment of Gaza has deepened support for Hamas in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where the Palestinian Authority — controlled by Fatah — has administered cities and towns for decades. U.S. officials have suggested that the Palestinian Authority could help govern a postwar Gaza, though that would most likely require approval from Hamas.

And that kind of power-sharing would require more compromise than currently seems possible. Fatah and Hamas met in late February in Russia without any apparent progress toward a unified government. They remain canyons apart on many issues, especially with Fatah demanding that Hamas dismantle its armed wing — a move that the militant group has repeatedly dismissed in the past.

And yet, for Beijing, the meetings most likely served a larger purpose: to present China as a great power and peacemaker in opposition to the United States.

Beijing helped restore diplomatic ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia , and it has also floated a set of principles to end the conflict in Ukraine, although Ukraine and its Western allies have said those principles lack credibility . Declaring solidarity with the Palestinian cause adds to the case China hopes to make to smaller countries around the world that feel alienated by the West, according to analysts.

“The thread which ties these initiatives to Beijing’s broader foreign policy is its claim to be able to represent developing countries, or what they like to call the ‘global south,’” said Richard McGregor, a senior fellow for East Asia at the Lowy Institute in Sydney.

“Such gestures, and they are in large part gestures for the moment,” he added, “fits with China’s current priorities, which is to learn the habits of a great power with the heft and skill to bring warring parties to the table.”

The officials who attended the gathering in the Chinese capital included Mousa Abu Marzouk, a senior member of Hamas’s political wing, and Azzam al-Ahmad, a member of the Fatah Central Committee, according to Palestinian officials.

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, told a news briefing on Tuesday that representatives of Hamas and Fatah had “recently” held talks in Beijing and had agreed to continue a dialogue. He did not specify when the meeting was held.

Fatah and Hamas have a fraught history . When Israel withdrew all its troops and citizens from Gaza in 2005, it handed power there to the Palestinian Authority. But Fatah lost a legislative election the next year to Hamas. In 2007, Hamas seized power in Gaza in a short and brutal civil war, dividing the Palestinians not only territorially, but politically.

Joy Dong contributed research.

— Damien Cave and Adam Rasgon reporting from Jerusalem

Biden speaks to the leaders of Egypt and Qatar to press for Hamas’s agreement on a new cease-fire.

President Biden spoke on Monday with the leaders of Egypt and Qatar as he sought to increase pressure on Hamas to accept a deal that would result in a temporary cease-fire in the war in Gaza and the release of some of the hostages held there.

According to a statement from the office of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, he and Mr. Biden discussed the negotiations and Egypt’s efforts to broker a cease-fire. They also reiterated their support for a two-state solution, discussed the importance of containing the conflict to the region and emphasized their opposition to a military escalation in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza, which Israel seems poised to invade.

Mr. Biden also spoke on Monday with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the emir of Qatar. According to the White House, Mr. Biden urged the Qatari leader “to exert all efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas,” saying that “this is now the only obstacle” to an immediate cease-fire.

Mr. al-Sisi and Mr. al-Thani have been prime intermediaries with Hamas through months of fitful negotiations to reach a deal to halt the hostilities, and Mr. Biden hopes they will prod the group’s leader, Yahya Sinwar, to accept the U.S.-brokered proposal on the table. On Sunday, Mr. Biden spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, expressed a hopeful view of the prospects for an agreement. “In recent days, there has been progress in talks,” she told reporters at the White House.

Like other American officials, Ms. Jean-Pierre said that Hamas, not Israel, was the obstacle to an agreement.

“The onus is indeed on Hamas,” she said. “There is a deal on the table, and they need to take it.”

— Peter Baker reporting from Washington

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