Due to the extreme heat, the route has changed: Amtrak has closed the Spuyten Duyvil Bridge, and we are unable to circle Manhattan. The boat will now travel up the East River to the Brother Islands and back.

Join Open House New York on a boat tour exploring the city’s rich maritime history and our connection to water. Andrew Gustafson of Turnstile Tours will lead a tour circumnavigating Manhattan, highlighting the waterfront neighborhoods along the Hudson, Harlem, and East Rivers, and revealing many of their fascinating stories.

New York City is 520 miles of waterfront, a world-leading port, and an archipelago of more than 40 islands that is best explored from the water. This tour will examine New Yorkers’ changing relationship with the waterfront, from its early history to the current moment. Even as the climate changes and sea levels rise, more and more New Yorkers are living, recreating, and commuting on the city’s waterways. The tour will highlight historic sites like the South Street Seaport and Brooklyn Navy Yard that built the city’s maritime heritage. We will see firsthand how waterfront development has shifted from public housing and heavy industry to luxury high-rises and public parks, and we will look closely at how vital waterfront infrastructure intersects with the city’s energy, transportation, water management, and flood protection systems.

Around Manhattan is part of Water Works, a yearlong series of tours, lectures, and other public programs exploring the city’s water systems and how climate change is reshaping our connections to water. The series is produced in collaboration with lead agency partner NYC Department of Environmental Protection and with support from the National Endowment for the Arts.

What happens in inclement weather?
Boat tours are rain or shine. The boat has indoor seating in the event of rain. Bring a poncho or a rain coat—open umbrellas are not allowed on outdoor decks. Except in the very rare instance when the cruise must be cancelled entirely, there will be no refunds for inclement weather.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
No, Circle Line’s policy prohibits outside food and beverages. There is a snack bar with options including hot dogs, sandwiches, and salads, and a full bar and non-alcoholic beverages on board.

Does my child need a ticket?
All persons, including children and infants, require a ticket to board the boat. Email info@ohny.org for information on purchasing discounted ($25) tickets for children 12 and under.

May I bring my pet?
Animals are not permitted on Circle Line boats, except for certified service animals. Service animals in training cannot be accommodated per Circle Line policy.

Can I cancel my ticket?
All ticket sales are final. There will be no refunds for bad weather, tardiness, unforeseen route modifications, or any other reason except in the extremely rare instance where the cruise must be cancelled entirely. If you have purchased a ticket but can no longer attend, we can donate your ticket to a community partner.

Is smoking permitted?
No smoking or vaping is permitted aboard the boat.

Guests utilizing wheelchairs can access the first level of the boat. Other levels are accessible by stairs only. The tour narration will be audible on speakers throughout the boat. Please email info@ohny.org with any questions about accessibility.