As the warm breezes sweep across the East and Hudson Rivers, there’s no better way to kick off summer than with a Memorial Day cruise around Manhattan. The city skyline takes on a special glow during this patriotic holiday weekend, as native New Yorkers and visitors alike gather on the water to honor our nation’s heroes while admiring American iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and more from the waterfront. Whether you’re with family, or friends, or out for a romantic adventure, City Cruises offers a diverse selection of Memorial Day Cruise options for every taste-from bottomless mimosa brunches to elegant dinner voyages, to lively party boats complete with DJs and dancing under the stars. Come aboard and see why there’s no better way to embrace the summer spirit to start the season in style.
Test Your Knowledge: Memorial Day Trivia
Although many consider Memorial Day the unofficial start of summer, its roots lie much deeper in American history. Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day emerged when General John A. Logan called on former soldiers to conduct ceremonies and decorate the graves of fallen soldiers in late May because flowers would be in bloom across the country. It became a federal holiday with the passing of the 1968 Uniform Monday Holiday Act by Congress in June and went into effect in 1971 on the last Monday of the month to create a three-day weekend allowing for travel. There are some surprising facts about the holiday you may not know.
- A customary moment of silence takes place at 3 p.m. each Memorial Day. Congress passed the law in 2000 requiring Americans to pause to honor fallen servicemen and women.
- Over 43 million people are expected to travel this Memorial Day Weekend.
- Memorial Day was originally observed on May 30th.
- The American flag is raised to half-staff from sunrise until noon, then displayed at full staff from noon to sunset.
- A wreath is placed annually on a significant memorial: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
- The poppy is the official flower worn in honor of Memorial Day to symbolize the blood shed by soldiers during times of war.
Sail into Summer: Unique Memorial Day Cruise Experiences in NYC 2025
Ready to make your Memorial Day weekend unforgettable? Join us for brunch, dinner, or sightseeing in the Big Apple with delicious food, stunning views, and the excitement of being out on the water. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back brunch, a festive dinner, or a leisurely sightseeing cruise, there’s something everyone will enjoy. With a variety of options to choose from, City Cruises New York City guarantees a fun and memorable way to usher in summer in the heart of the city.
This Memorial Day, treat yourself to a world-class experience with an exciting brunch cruise in a world-class city. Step aboard our glass-enclosed Bateaux for the New York Premier Bottomless Brunch Cruise, where you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering à la carte menu paired with breathtaking panoramic views of New York City’s iconic skyline. Honor our nation’s heroes as you sail past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center—each a tribute to America’s rich history and enduring spirit. With refreshing cocktails, live DJ entertainment, and unparalleled sights from the Hudson and East Rivers, this is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday.
Visit the Statue of Liberty
Take a Statue City Cruise to visit Lady Liberty this Memorial Day, honoring our nation’s history while enjoying breathtaking views of one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. Soak in the views with round-trip ferry service to Liberty Island (grounds of the Statue of Liberty) and Ellis Island (Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration) with three interactive galleries that tell the Statue of Liberty National Monument history. Audio tours are included and allow you to learn about the landmarks at your own pace with informative commentary.
New York Premier Dinner Cruise
Step aboard the Atlantica yacht for an unforgettable New York Premier Dinner Cruise, featuring a delicious prix fixe menu and stunning views of the
Manhattan skyline. Enjoy a front-row seat to some of America’s most iconic landmarks from the water, all while sipping refreshing cocktails and enjoying live music from our talented vocalist and acoustic band. Celebrate Memorial Day in style and start the summer with this exhilarating experience!
New York Alive After Five Cruise
Locals and visitors alike are hitting the Hudson River for a completely different way to do happy hour with a New York Alive After Five Cruise. Loosen your tie and let down your hair as our DJ provides the soundtrack to the sights of New York City as you sail into the holiday weekend. Alive After Five is a two-hour cocktail cruise, and the perfect outing for groups of almost any size, with a laid-back vibe, great drinks, a bite to eat, and good times while toasting our heroes.
New York Signature Dinner Cruise Pier 15
Kick off your summer in unforgettable style with our New York City Signature Dinner Cruise from Pier 15. Spend an enchanting evening dining and dancing on the Hudson and East Rivers while soaking in breathtaking views of the NYC skyline. Savor a chef-prepared buffet as you glide past iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center, inspiring a deep sense of patriotism as you celebrate Memorial Day. Choose between climate-controlled interiors or open-air rooftop decks for the perfect atmosphere. With a fully stocked bar, fun games, and lively music from our DJ, this is the ultimate way to enjoy a casual yet memorable night out.
New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise
For a holiday adventure on the water, the New York Bateaux Premier Plus Dinner Cruise offers the perfect way to enjoy the warm weather while honoring
those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Indulge in a delectable prix fixe menu as you take in stunning views of The Big Apple from the water, sailing past landmarks like Lady Liberty and more. Let the music set the mood as you create memories to cherish forever.
Lights, Liberty, and Laughter: Memorial Day Cruises to Remember
Instead of your usual Memorial Day routine, this year why not choose something fun and exciting to celebrate the holiday? Set sail on a scenic cruise and take in all that NYC has to offer in a relaxing yet adventurous way to spend time with loved ones. A Memorial Day spent aboard a City Cruises yacht offers the ultimate way to launch your summer, with unparalleled views, festive vibes, and the freedom of the open water-making it your perfect holiday escape in the birthplace of the holiday. As you bask in the warm weather and enjoy the long weekend, take a moment to reflect on the bravery of our nation’s heroes and express your gratitude for their service.
