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The Heart of Classic Harbor Line

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four trays of hors d oeuvres on a boat

Below Deck with Chef Nikki: The Heart of Classic Harbor Line

We are excited that Chef Nikki was recently featured in Downtown Magazine NYC. The article showcased the unforgettable dining experiences on Classic Harbor Line yachts in New York Harbor. Guests often remember our stunning skyline views first, and then they think of Chef Nikki’s wonderful cuisine right after. Her carefully crafted menus turn every Classic Harbor Line dining cruise into a complete sensory experience.

The feature, titled “Below Deck with Chef Nikki: The Heart of Classic Harbor Line,” celebrated the creativity in her cooking. It also looked at the emotional connection that guests make while aboard our classic New York yachts. From sunset cruises to elegant dining sails, every detail means a lot to us.

Why We Love Her!

Chef Nikki’s work reflects our commitment to hospitality, comfort, and memorable experiences by the water. Downtown Magazine beautifully described the soothing rhythm of sailing through New York Harbor. Guests often relax as soon as they see Manhattan’s skyline gliding by our yachts. The city noise fades, conversations get deeper, and dinner becomes part of the evening’s adventure.

Chef Nikki designs her menus to match the relaxed yet refined vibe aboard every cruise. Her culinary philosophy focuses on freshness, balance, and memorable flavors for every guest. Seasonal ingredients inspire her menus for sightseeing cruises, jazz sails, and specialty dining events. Guests enjoy beautifully prepared dishes while taking in views of the Statue of Liberty and the skyline.

About the Food

These experiences create lasting memories that you cannot find in traditional Manhattan restaurants. The article particularly noted Chef Nikki’s inclusive approach to modern dietary needs and preferences. Vegan guests, gluten-free diners, and adventurous eaters all receive equally thoughtful culinary experiences on our yachts. Her famous vegan meatballs impressed even skeptical diners during the Downtown Magazine interview on our cruise. Scratch-made sauces, vibrant textures, and balanced flavors define her unique culinary style across every menu.

Chef Nikki also re-imagined classic favorites with surprising ingredients and innovative techniques aboard our cruises. Her pesto-infused tzatziki added vibrant Mediterranean flavors to dining experiences on New York Harbor. Fresh hummus, harissa spices, and carefully layered ingredients turned simple bites into memorable highlights. Guests enjoy elevated cuisine paired with stunning views during every sailing experience in New York Harbor.

The History of Our Beloved Chef

The article also highlighted Chef Nikki’s inspiring journey to becoming the Executive Chef of our fleet. She first learned about Classic Harbor Line through a Craigslist ad seeking chefs interested in waterfront hospitality. Starting as a prep chef, she advanced steadily through hard work, creativity, and incredible culinary talent.

Today, she leads unforgettable dining experiences aboard some of New York’s most elegant yachts. Her passion goes beyond just food. Chef Nikki truly values teamwork, hospitality, and genuine guest experiences on every cruise. This warmth shines through in our crew and creates the welcoming atmosphere that guests remember. Dining aboard Classic Harbor Line feels personal because every meal gets thoughtful attention below deck.

What’s to Come

Downtown Magazine also hinted at summer menus featuring lobster, truffle, oyster mushrooms, and Dutch chocolate. These luxurious ingredients perfectly fit fireworks cruises, sunset sails, and special event charters throughout New York Harbor. Guests looking for elevated NYC dining experiences will find something truly unique aboard our yachts.

Thank You Downtown Magazine!

We are honored that Downtown Magazine recognized Chef Nikki’s exceptional contribution to the experiences at Classic Harbor Line. Her creativity makes each cruise more than just sightseeing or dining. She helps to forge emotional connections between guests, food, skyline views, and memorable moments on the water. Experience Chef Nikki’s remarkable cuisine while seeing New York City from a whole new angle.

CHL on WNYC

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Group of friends sitting at a table inside a classic yacht, cheering drink glasses
Two friends standing on the deck of the schooner america 2.0 clinking cocktails

We are excited to share that Classic Harbor Line was featured on a WNYC segment about how to staycation in NYC. During the segment, listeners were directed to a Gothamist article highlighting local experiences across the city. As we shared in our recent blog post about our Gothamist feature, this recognition reflects a growing shift toward local, meaningful travel. It is an honor to be part of a broader conversation about rediscovering New York!

About the Feature!

The WNYC segment focused on how locals can explore the city without ever leaving it. Travel right now can feel overwhelming, expensive, and unpredictable. A staycation offers a simpler, more attainable alternative. It allows people to reconnect with the city in a more intentional way.

At Classic Harbor Line, that idea has always been central to what we do. Our cruises create space to step away from the busyness of the concrete jungle. As we mentioned in our Gothamist feature blog post, the moment you leave the dock, everything shifts. The skyline opens up, the air changes, and the pace softens.

Both WNYC and The Gothamist highlight our cruises as an easy, local escape. Instead of navigating airports, guests can head straight to Pier 62 at Chelsea Piers. Within minutes, you are surrounded by water and open views. It feels like a reset, even if you only have a few hours.

About Our Tours

We offer a wide range of NYC boat tours designed for different interests. Guests can choose architecture cruises, one of our various Eco-tours, sunset sails, or music cruises featuring live jazz. Each cruise offers a new way to experience familiar landmarks. Even longtime New Yorkers often see the city differently from the water.

One of the biggest advantages of a harbor cruise is flexibility. You can plan ahead or decide on the same day. Cruises fit easily into an afternoon or evening schedule. That simplicity makes it easier to actually enjoy the experience.

As you move through the harbor, the city reveals itself in layers. The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and iconic waterfront neighborhoods come into view. Bridges stretch overhead, connecting boroughs and histories. It is a perspective that feels both expansive and personal.

Settle In and Relax

There is also a calm that comes with being on the water. The constant noise of the city fades into the background. Conversations slow, and people settle into the moment. That shift is what makes a staycation feel real and restorative.

Thank you WNYC!

We are grateful to WNYC for amplifying this message and to The Gothamist for the original feature. Together, they highlight the value of exploring what is already here. Classic Harbor Line remains committed to helping guests rediscover New York from the water. Sometimes, the best getaway is closer than you think.

Staycation in New York

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Guests on the deck of schooner America 2.0 in NY Harbor
Couple on the bow of Manhattan II taking a picture of the Statue of Liberty

We are thrilled to announce that Classic Harbor Line was featured in the Gothamist article “Travel is hell. You should staycation in New York.” This piece reflects a sentiment many New Yorkers understand all too well. Nowadays, travel often feels draining, costly, and anything but relaxing. Sometimes, the best getaway is right outside your door.

Vacation in your backyard

At Classic Harbor Line, we have always believed that New York Harbor provides that escape. You don’t need a plane ticket to feel like you’re in a new place. The skyline changes, the air opens up, and the pace instantly slows down. Stepping aboard one of our yachts feels like escaping the city without ever truly leaving it.

Gothamist highlights our cruises as a simple alternative to traditional travel. Instead of lengthy itineraries, guests can enjoy a meaningful experience in just a few hours. Our routes showcase New York from perspectives that many rarely see. Even locals who have lived here for years often tell us it feels completely new.

About Our Cruises

We offer a wide range of NYC boat tours throughout the year. Guests can choose architecture cruises, Eco-Tours, sunset sails, or music cruises with live jazz. Each experience is crafted to feel intentional, relaxed, and memorable. No two trips are exactly alike.

One of the biggest benefits of a harbor cruise is its flexibility. You don’t need weeks of planning or complicated logistics. You can book a cruise and be on the water that same day. This convenience is part of what makes a staycation feel like a genuine break.

What’s it like?

On the cruise, the city reveals itself in a different light. Landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island come into full view. Bridges stretch overhead, and you get a picture perfect view of neighborhoods that line the waterfront. It’s familiar, yet feels entirely refreshed from the water.

There’s also something deeply calming about being on the harbor. The movement of the boat and the rhythm of the water reset your senses. Conversations slow down, and people settle into the moment. It’s less about rushing and more about enjoying the experience.

This is why the idea of a New York City staycation continues to grow. People are looking for meaningful experiences without the stress of travel. They want connection, discovery, and ease. A harbor cruise provides all of that in one smooth outing.

Thank you Gothamist!

We are thankful to Gothamist for including us in this discussion. It highlights what we strive to offer every day on the water. Classic Harbor Line is here to help you rediscover New York, one cruise at a time.

Easter brunch in NYC

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Food on a table
Family on a boat in NYC

Classic Harbor Line is proud to be featured in the Time Out New York article “Where to get Easter brunch in NYC this year.” This recognition highlights one of our favorite spring traditions on the water. It also shows how travelers are rethinking holiday dining in New York City.

What Sets Us Apart

Our Easter brunch cruise offers a new way to celebrate the holiday. Guests step aboard a custom-crafted 1920s-style motor yacht built for comfort and charm. The atmosphere feels warm and relaxed, carefully curated for the occasion. Subtle pastel accents and seasonal touches create a festive yet simple setting.

The three-course brunch menu focuses on spring flavors. Guests enjoy dishes like a festive frittata and French toast with apple glaze. Mini carrot cakes provide a nostalgic and playful end to the meal. Each dish feels familiar while still offering a little something special.

Every adult guest gets one complimentary beverage with their brunch. Choices include a mimosa, Bloody Mary, wine, beer, or Champagne, as well as many non-alcoholic choices! These small touches enhance the overall experience without being overwhelming. It’s about balance, comfort, and enjoyment.

What Will You See?

The journey itself makes this experience truly exceptional. Over nearly three hours, the yacht completes a full circumnavigation around Manhattan Island. Guests pass under twenty bridges while taking in sweeping views of the skyline. Landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island come into sight.

Spring is one of the best times to be on the water. The air feels lighter, and the city starts to open up again. Guests can enjoy both indoor seating and outdoor views. This flexibility makes the cruise perfect for families, couples, and small groups.

Thank you TimeOut NY!

Time Out New York’s feature reflects a larger change in how people celebrate holidays. Many are looking for experiences that feel immersive and memorable. A brunch cruise offers more than just a meal; it combines dining, sightseeing, and connection in one smooth outing.

We are happy to have our Easter brunch cruise included in this list. It shows the care our team takes with every detail. From the menu to the route, every element is thoughtfully designed.

Recognizing The Jazz Gallery!

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Jazz Gallery NYC logo
The Jazz Gallery at Sea Digital Flyer

We are thrilled to announce that Classic Harbor Line was featured in W42nd St’s article “March Went Out Like A Lion.” The article highlights our partnership with The Jazz Gallery and our Jazz Gallery at Sea series. This recognition shows a growing love for live music experiences on New York Harbor. It also emphasizes how rewarding it is to bring jazz to the water.

The Jazz Gallery

Our Jazz Gallery at Sea cruises were created to celebrate International Jazz Month. We wanted to offer something intimate, immersive, and distinctly New York. These cruises connect rising jazz artists with curious, engaged audiences. Above all, the experience feels more like a shared moment than a traditional performance.

Guests board our classic yachts and instantly notice a change in pace. The city noises fade away as the boat departs from the dock. Inside, the atmosphere is warm, inviting, and designed for listening. Every detail enhances the music, from the acoustics to the seating, to the lighting.

About the Article

W42nd St captures this vibe perfectly with their phrase “syncopated seas.” It’s a playful description, but it rings true once you’re aboard. The rhythm of the water naturally complements the rhythm of jazz. This connection creates an experience you can’t replicate on land.

Each cruise features live sets from talented musicians curated by The Jazz Gallery. These artists bring fresh perspectives while respecting jazz traditions. Indeed! Guests often get lost in the performance. Conversations pause, and all attention turns to the music.

What’s it like?

As the evening progresses, the skyline adds to the experience. Lights reflect across the harbor, creating a moving backdrop. Landmarks quietly appear in the distance as the music plays on. It feels cinematic, yet personal and grounded.

We designed this series for both longtime jazz fans and first-time listeners. The setting removes barriers and makes the music feel accessible. Guests can enjoy cocktails, conversation, and world-class performances in one space. It has a relaxed vibe, but remains thoughtfully curated.

Experiences like this meet what travelers want today. People are searching for unique NYC nightlife and cultural events. In fact, they want something immersive, local, and memorable. Jazz on the water clearly meets that desire.

Thank you W42nd St!

We appreciate W42nd St for highlighting this collaboration. Specifically, their feature helps more people discover what makes these cruises special. Classic Harbor Line is committed to creating experiences that feel both timeless and fresh. We look forward to welcoming more guests aboard for jazz at sea.

Sail into Jazz

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Jazz Gallery NYC logo
Jazz band playing music aboard a classic yacht in NY Harbor at night

We are excited to share that Classic Harbor Line was featured in AMNY newspaper. The article is titled “Sail into Jazz: Classic Harbor Line Celebrates International Jazz Month.” This article highlights our ongoing partnership with The Jazz Gallery and our Jazz Gallery At Sea series. It’s an honor to see our collaboration recognized in New York City media. The piece captures what makes these cruises truly special.

International Jazz Month

This April, we’re excited to celebrate International Jazz Month on New York Harbor. Our Jazz Gallery At Sea cruises bring live jazz to an intimate, floating setting. Guests board our Manhattan yachts and feel instantly transported. The atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming, and deeply connected to New York culture.

The article focuses on our Tuesday and Thursday evening sailings throughout April. These cruises feature performances by emerging jazz artists shaping today’s sound. Musicians like Alfredo Colón and Gina Benalcázar-López bring amazing energy onboard. Each performance feels personal, expressive, and completely unique to that night.

About Our Boats

Inside our climate-controlled, glass-enclosed salons, guests enjoy great acoustics and comfort. The 1920s-inspired design adds warmth and character to the environment. Outside, the skyline transforms as the sun sets over the harbor. This mix of music and movement creates an unforgettable experience.

About The Jazz Gallery

The Jazz Gallery has long supported innovative artists in the jazz scene. Since 1995, they have provided space for musicians to develop their voices. Our collaboration brings that same spirit directly to the water. Guests aren’t just listening; they are part of the moment.

AMNY describes this experience as a perfect way to shake off winter. We couldn’t agree more. Live music and open water have a way of lifting your spirits. With the glow of the city skyline, it becomes truly special.

These cruises reflect what people want from New York experiences today. Travelers seek immersive, cultural, and memorable evenings. Jazz on the water offers all that in one place. It’s easy to plan, yet feels elevated and purposeful.

Thank you AMNY!

We are thankful to AMNY for showcasing this series. Their feature helps more people discover live jazz on the harbor. Classic Harbor Line remains committed to creating meaningful experiences in New York City. We look forward to welcoming guests aboard for more unforgettable nights at sea.

Jazz Gallery in Noticia NY!

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The Jazz Gallery at Sea Digital Flyer
The Jazz Gallery at Sea Digital Flyer

Classic Harbor Line is thrilled to be featured in Noticia NY! The article talks about how we are celebrating International Jazz Month with concerts aboard our lovely boats. We are working with The Jazz Gallery, and really excited to team up with them to continue to bring live jazz out on New York Harbor.

About the Article

The article focuses on this series called Jazz Gallery At Sea, which commences in April. These are small cruises on our classic Manhattan yachts, where people listen to live music while going around the harbor. It mixes the sounds of jazz with seeing the skyline and all that water vibe. Guests get this blend that feels special.

Each cruise has trios from up-and-coming jazz players in New York, like Alfredo Colón or Gina Benalcázar-López. They bring in different styles; representing where jazz is heading. In that close setting, it comes across as real, intimate, and not too polished. Some might say its the diversity that makes it stand out!

The yachts themselves have climate controlled glass salons, pulled from 1920s looks. The acoustics are top notch, and you can see the whole harbor. When the sun goes down, the city lights up including the Statue of Liberty in all her glory. That part gets a bit magical.

Noticia NY points out how the live jazz hits different on the water, with the rhythms matching the waves. Guest will end up feeling wrapped up in the music and the views. Its relaxing, and makes for a good night out in NYC, away from the crowds.

About Jazz Gallery

The Jazz Gallery has been around since 1995, helping new jazz folks get their starts. Its a big deal for innovative players. Teaming up with them means the artists perform right on the boat, so guests see that creativity up close.

These jazz cruises fit what people look for now. It’s those immersive and cultural nights that stick with you. Travelers and locals alike can experience something out of the ordinary and truly memorable.

Want more?

We have a host of cruises and tours all year long, like our Architecture Tours or Sunset sails, or even seasonal programming to fit everyone’s mood. Each gives a fresh take on the city from the water.

THANK YOU!

Thank you Noticia NY for covering this new program! At Classic Harbor Line, we strive to keep doing these types of curated events to celebrate culture. Looking forward to the April and see you aboard!

Favorite NYC Experience

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Deck of a classic yacht with the Statue of Liberty in the background
Live band playing holiday music on Yacht Manhattan II with a landscape of the city in the background

We’re thrilled that Classic Harbor Line landed a spot in the Travel + Leisure article, “We Asked 7 Travel Editors Their Favorite New York City Experience—Here’s What They Said.” Getting this kind of nod puts our harbor cruises right at the top for anyone looking for a new favorite NYC experience. It backs up what we already know—there’s something absolutely unforgettable about seeing the city from the water.

What Sets Us Apart

Travel + Leisure points out that New York’s a city of islands, and exploring by boat opens up a side of the city you just don’t get on foot or in a taxi. Our cruises make their way along the Hudson River, East River, and all around New York Harbor. Guests take in famous landmarks with open-air views and plenty of room to relax—no crowds, no traffic, just the skyline and that refreshing breeze. The article also spotlights our fleet of classic wooden motor yachts and schooners. There’s a lot of history in each vessel, and each one pairs timeless style with modern comforts. Every yacht is built in New York state and celebrates New York City’s seafaring roots. Step inside and you’ll find elegant finishes and panoramic windows that turn every cruise into a feast for the eyes.

Travel editor Paul Brady says harbor cruises are the most rewarding way to see the city in a big sweep. He loves skipping the subway and cabs and instead traveling by water. It just makes the whole experience better. Our cruises let you see more of the city with less hassle, moving smoothly between boroughs and letting you take in the scenery at your own pace.

About Our Cruises

One of the highlights of the article is our Evening Cruises with Live Jazz. Imagine watching the city light up as a jazz trio plays the soundtrack to your evening. It feels timeless, classic, and totally New York.

Travel + Leisure also gives a shout-out to our Urban Naturalist tours. These trips show off some of New York’s hidden wildlife and even some migrating creatures in the colder months. It’s a surprise for both visitors and locals who think they know the city inside out. Our naturalist-guided cruises take you to quieter spots and reveal lesser-known (abandoned) islands around the harbor. The guides share a wealth of knowledge about local ecosystems and migration patterns, so guests walk away with not just great photos, but a new appreciation for New York’s wild side.

We offer all kinds of boat tours—architecture-focused cruises, sunset sails, and seasonal specialty trips. Every experience is crafted to be comfortable, educational, and visually stunning, whether you’re bringing the family, planning a date, or just satisfying your curiosity.

Thank You Travel + Leisure!

Reading this feature in Travel + Leisure tells us we’re in step with what travelers want. People today are looking for immersive, efficient, and memorable things to do. Our cruises bring all that together: transportation, sightseeing, and a chance to truly relax, all in one trip.

We’re genuinely grateful to Travel + Leisure and Paul Brady for the recognition. Their recommendation affirms our passion for quality and authenticity. We’ll keep raising the bar for sightseeing in New York City and can’t wait to welcome more guests aboard for their next harbor adventure.

Spring Break in NYC

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Bow of Yacht Manhattan with the NYC Skyline in the background
Family on the bow of the Yacht Manhattan in NY Harbor with Classic Harbor Line

Spring break in New York City offers families endless ways to explore, learn, and reconnect together. If you are searching for the best things to do with kids in NYC during spring break, start with experiences that blend fun, fresh air, and iconic sights.

As the weather warms and the city blooms, outdoor adventures become the easiest way to keep children and adults engaged while avoiding crowded indoor attractions. Classic Harbor Line offers two standout spring break experiences on the water. Waterfront activities, skyline views, and interactive sightseeing tours consistently rank among the most memorable spring break activities for families visiting New York City.

Welcome Aboard

One of the top family-friendly spring break activities in NYC is a sightseeing cruise to the Statue of Liberty. The Statue and Skyline Cruise aboard Classic Harbor Line’s Manhattan yachts delivers panoramic skyline views and close-up access to Lady Liberty. Families board at Chelsea Piers (PIER 62) and relax on a 1920s-inspired yacht designed for comfort and the best views. During spring break, kids ride half-price Monday through Friday aboard Manhattan and Manhattan II, making this one of the best kid-friendly deals in NYC. You will cruise past Ellis Island, Governors Island, and the Statue of Liberty while enjoying fresh Hudson River air. This experience works perfectly for multi-generational families, visiting relatives, and energetic school-aged children.

Got Teens?

Parents looking for educational spring break activities in NYC should also consider an architecture boat tour. Classic Harbor Line’s fully narrated Architecture Tours are created in collaboration with the American Institute of Architects New York. Students ages 12 and older qualify for half-price student tickets throughout March and April, offering a meaningful learning opportunity outside the classroom. From the teak decks, families can view Hudson Yards, Little Island, iconic skyscrapers, and the evolving waterfront design. The narration balances accessible storytelling for visitors with deeper insights for curious teens and parents. This cruise is ideal for middle schoolers, high school students, home-school groups, and architecture enthusiasts.

See you on the water!

If you are planning spring break with kids in New York City, prioritize activities that combine sightseeing, education, and relaxation. Boat tours offer open space, structured narration, and iconic landmarks in one seamless experience. With half-price kids tickets on the Statue and Skyline Cruise and discounted student tickets on the Architecture Tour, families can enjoy premium NYC experiences at a reduced spring break price. For parents searching “best NYC spring break activities for kids” or “educational tours for teens in NYC,” these cruises provide direct, memorable answers.

The Jazz Gallery At Sea

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The Jazz Gallery at Sea Digital Flyer
Jazz Band playing on a boat at night in NYC

The Jazz Gallery At Sea with Classic Harbor Line 

A Special International Jazz Month Collaboration with Classic Harbor Line & The Jazz Gallery.

This April, The Jazz Gallery and Classic Harbor Line come together to present The Jazz Gallery At Sea — an intimate live jazz experience aboard Classic Harbor Line’s elegant MANHATTAN yachts.

Curated by The Jazz Gallery and presented by Classic Harbor Line in celebration of International Jazz Month, in fact, The Jazz Gallery At Sea brings some of New York’s most exciting young artists onto the water for an enchanting evening cruise through New York Harbor. Soon, guests will enjoy panoramic skyline views from a heated, glass-enclosed salon, accompanied by the warm acoustics of Classic Harbor Line’s 1920s-inspired yachts. Experience the music up close as the city glows at dusk in spring, all while enjoying the best hospitality and skyline views.

  • APR 2: Birsa Chatterjee Trio
  • APR 7: Gina Benalcázar-López Trio
  • APR 9: Nicola Caminiti Trio
  • APR 14: Alana Amore Trio
  • APR 16: Adam Lamoureux Trio
  • APR 21: Wayne Tucker Trio
  • APR 22: Alfredo Colon Trio
  • APR 28: Declan Sheehy-Moss Trio
  • APR 30: Dabin Ryu Trio

More information:

https://sail-nyc.com/public-cruises/the-jazz-gallery-at-sea-cruise/

About The Jazz Gallery

Founded in 1995, The Jazz Gallery is America’s premier venue for emerging artists who challenge convention, take creative risks, and chiefly lead their field as performers, composers, and thinkers. Through residencies, commissions, performances, and exhibitions, The Jazz Gallery provides a platform for artists to develop their unique voices while offering established musicians a home for continued experimentation and growth.

About Classic Harbor Line

Classic Harbor Line is dedicated to helping locals and visitors alike enjoy the unique wonders of New York City aboard one of their seven classic yachts. Offering Jazz Cruises, Architecture Tours, Sunset cruises, Sightseeing Tours, NY Harbor sailing excursions and more.  Available for ticketed cruises and private yacht charters.

Contact for press interview, photography, video, or reservation requests: Clough Communications (e: [email protected]; ph. 347-489-5148)