Frequently Asked Questions

Announcements

  • 01 March via CLD

    NYWT is so excited and honored to welcome Sergeant Aaron Hale and his family today! Thank you for all you have done for our country

  • 28 February via CLD

    Effective 3/1: There will now be a 9 am Footsteps to Freedom Tour. Come check it out!

  • 28 February via CLD

    Effective 3/1: There will now be a 9 am Footsteps to Freedom Tour-Come check it out!

What does Circle Line do at the South Street Seaport?

The two Circle Line Harbor Cruises vessels that are operating out of the South Street Seaport at Pier 16 are ZEPHYR and Shark.

What kind of boats are the ZEPHYR and Shark?

ZEPHYR is a catamaran. Shark is a speed boat.

What do you see on ZEPHYR?

Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Navy Yard, WTC, World Financial Center, Chrysler building, Colgate Clock, NJ, Empire state building, Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island. It's a one hour tour offering two hours worth of views.

What can you see on Shark?

Shark is a high speed thrill ride. You will see the skyline and up-close views of the Statue of Liberty.

How fast do the ZEPHYR and Shark go?

ZEPHYR reaches speeds of up to 30 mph, Shark can go up to 35 mph.

Is parking available?

Yes, depending on the location of your function. See NY downtown or call ZEPHYR sales for event parking locations for your guests.

Can I charter the ZEPHYR for a private event?

Absolutely! Past clients have told us that holding their private events aboard our iconic ships made for unforgettable and successful events. Contact the Charter Sales Department to learn more!

How much does it cost to charter the ZEPHYR?

There are a number of factors that will determine the cost associated with a charter. Like food and menu, bar, docking fees, yacht rental, length of cruise, service charge and sales tax. The final price will be a combined price, which will include each of the services listed above. If you would like a basic price quote contact us at Mbuckley@nywt.com

Are animals allowed on board?

Only “assisted life” and “seeing eye” dogs are allowed on board. No other animals are permitted.

Are the boats accessible to the handicapped?

Yes! All our boats are designed to be fully ADA Compliant, as are all our docks. For additional safety reasons, wheelchairs do not have access to the top deck.

Can I bring food?

We do not allow outside food and beverage on any of the tours as we have our concessions on all of our tours and products (except Ikea Service).  The only exception is the schooner Pioneer.  We do allow Outside Food and Beverage (Non-Alcoholic) on the Pioneer as we do not have Concessions on this particular vessel.

How do I buy tickets?

You may buy a ticket one of three ways: through our website, by calling (212) 742-1969, or by purchasing at your point of departure.

What is the age limit for a child ticket?

All passengers are required to have a ticket.  Passengers 3 and under receive a free ticket and 3-12 are eligible for a child ticket.   

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes! We love groups and will do everything possible to accommodate your needs! Please contact our Tourism & Group Sales Department.

Do you sell a monthly pass?

No! We do not offer monthly passes.

Can I use my MTA MetroCard?

No! We do not accept them at this time.

Do you allow smoking on the boats?

New York Water Taxi boats are smoke-free.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Our boats operate rain or shine. All of our boats have indoor seating so regardless of the weather outside, you will be comfortable inside our climate controlled cabins. If the Captain determines that weather conditions make it unsafe to sail, the service may be terminated by the Captain at any time. If you reserved a ticket for a boat that is cancelled, we will work with you to exchange your ticket for another boat.

How many passengers do the boats carry?

The New York Water Taxi vessels can accommodate either 64 or 149 passengers depending on which class of water taxi boat.
The ZEPHYR Cruise Boat can accomodate 600 passengers.
The SHARK Speedboat can accomodate 135 passengers.
Learn more about our vessels!

Can I sit on the top deck?

Yes! Our viewing decks are the best! Our first-come/first-served decks offer 360-degree views that are unparalleled. Capacity is based on U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

Do you have a Lost & Found?

If you are missing something, please contact our call center.