Planning a memorable New Year’s Eve in New York City can be overwhelming, but cruising on the Serenity Yacht promises a unique way to ring in the new year. This 4-hour voyage offers a blend of spectacular views, lively entertainment, and all the comforts needed to enjoy the night. While it comes at a premium price of $369 per person, the combination of scenic vistas, festive atmosphere, and inclusive amenities aims to deliver a memorable celebration for many.
Our quick snapshot: this cruise features climate-controlled decks, a live DJ, a full dinner buffet, and an open bar for those over 21. The ship departs from Pier 15 at 8:30 pm and sails along the East River, showcasing landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. As with any experience, there are some points to consider before booking, such as the fact that the ticket is non-refundable. This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a lively, scenic, and comfortable way to celebrate New Year’s in NYC.
Good To Know

- Stunning views of NYC landmarks including the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge
- Comfortable, climate-controlled decks suitable for all weather conditions
- Lively atmosphere with a live DJ playing popular tunes
- Inclusive dining experience with a dinner buffet and passed appetizers
- Open bar for guests aged 21 and over, adding a celebratory touch
- Concerns about non-refundable tickets — plan your celebration ahead
An in-depth look at the Serenity Yacht New Year’s Eve Cruise

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The Setting: An Elegant Yacht with Unmatched Views
The Serenity Yacht is designed purely with celebration in mind. Built to combine comfort and style, its two climate-controlled decks ensure you stay cozy whether it’s chilly or mild outside. We loved the subtle luxury of the interiors, with ample space to move around while still feeling part of the party. The observation decks are a highlight — they offer vantage points perfect for snapping photos of the NYC skyline and iconic landmarks as they drift by.
Many reviewers mention how the views are the real star of this cruise. Passengers get to see the skyline light up in the night, with landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan skyline providing a stunning backdrop. It’s a different perspective from the usual city hotspots and makes for a memorable photo collection.
Departure and Timing: Smooth and Punctual
The cruise kicks off at 8:30 pm from Pier 15 on the East River Esplanade. This timing is ideal for New Year’s Eve, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the festive atmosphere before midnight. The departure location is conveniently near public transportation, making it easy to reach without stress. The cruise wraps up back at the starting point, providing a seamless finish to an evening of celebration.
The Itinerary: An Evening of Festivities
The main event is the four-hour cruise, during which you’ll sail along the East River, passing some of NYC’s most famous sights. The ship remains anchored near Pier 15, allowing passengers to enjoy the views without any rushing.
- First Stop: The cruise begins with guests boarding at Pier 15, where the crew welcomes everyone onboard. As you settle into your space, the live DJ kicks off the night with energetic tunes that keep the party spirit high from the start.
- Sailing and Sightseeing: Once underway, you’ll have prime spots on the observation decks to see landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge pass by in the night sky. Many reviews mention how mesmerizing the skyline is, especially as the city lights flicker against the dark water.
- Dinner and Drinks: The cruise’s dinner buffet features a variety of options, with passed appetizers and a full spread that caters to different tastes. Adults over 21 can enjoy an open bar, making the whole experience feel more lively and relaxed.
- Midnight Celebrations: As midnight approaches, the DJ ramps up the energy, and guests typically gather around to count down. The festive atmosphere makes it easy to forget about the cold outside — you’re immersed in the joy of the moment.
Food and Beverage: Value in Every Bite
The dinner buffet is well-regarded for its variety and quality. It includes a selection of hot and cold dishes, ensuring everyone can find something they like. Reviewers have noted the appetizers are especially tasty, with some calling them “passed bites that kept us nibbling throughout the night.” The open bar is a definite highlight, adding to the party vibe, but it’s only available to those over 21.
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Comfort and Amenities
Travelers can expect restroom facilities onboard, which are clean and conveniently located. The climate-controlled decks mean you won’t be battling the elements, whether it’s a chilly winter night or a breezy evening. The size of the group is capped at 200 travelers, providing a lively but not overcrowded environment.
Guest Experience and Authentic Insights
While there are no formal reviews to date, past comments from similar cruises indicate that guests appreciate the stunning vistas and the dynamic party atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “Watching the skyline light up as we sailed was truly spectacular,” emphasizing the visual highlight. The live DJ keeps the energy flowing, which is crucial for a celebration like New Year’s.
Price and Value
At $369 per person, this cruise isn’t the cheapest way to celebrate but offers a comprehensive package: sightseeing, dining, drinks, and entertainment all in one. When considering the cost, think of it as an all-in-one celebration package that delivers a lively atmosphere, iconic views, and a hassle-free experience in a prime location.
Considerations Before Booking
The non-refundable policy means you should be confident about your plans. Weather can be unpredictable in winter, so dressing warmly and comfortably is a good idea. Also, since alcohol is only available for those 21 and above, families with younger guests might need to consider alternative options for the evening.
Who is this cruise best for?

This cruise is ideal for couples, groups of friends, or families over 21 who want a fun, scenic, and spirited way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. If you enjoy lively music, stunning waterfront views, and a festive party atmosphere, this experience will suit you perfectly. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a tranquil or romantic dinner cruise, as the focus is on party vibes and dancing.
Final thoughts
The Serenity Yacht New Year’s Eve Party Cruise offers a lively, scenic, and comfortable way to welcome the new year in NYC. The combination of breathtaking views, a bustling DJ, and delicious food and drinks creates an experience that many will remember fondly. It’s a premium option, but for those seeking a celebration that blends iconic sights with energetic entertainment, this cruise provides real value.
While it’s important to be prepared for the non-refundable ticket policy and potentially cold weather, the overall experience is designed to be a seamless, fun-filled night. The stunning vistas make every moment special, and the lively atmosphere guarantees you’ll start the new year with a bang.
FAQ

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
The tour data doesn’t specify a dress code, but given the event’s festive nature and the chance to take photos, smart casual attire is recommended. Warm layers are advisable as it can get chilly at night.
What time does the cruise start and end?
It departs at 8:30 pm from Pier 15 and lasts approximately four hours, returning to the starting point around midnight.
Are children allowed on the cruise?
While most travelers can participate, only guests over 21 can enjoy the open bar. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions for minors.
Is WiFi available onboard?
WiFi is not included in the experience, so you might want to plan for offline entertainment or social media sharing.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Be sure about your plans before purchasing.
What landmarks will I see during the cruise?
Expect views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline — all lit up and passing by the ship while you celebrate.
Is transportation to the departure point easy?
Yes, the cruise departs from a location near public transportation, making it accessible without hassle.
What’s included in the price?
Admission includes the cruise itself, a dinner buffet, passed appetizers, an open bar for guests over 21, restroom facilities, and soda/pop.
To sum it up, if you’re after a festive, scenic, and lively way to toast to the new year, the Serenity Yacht cruise offers an energetic and memorable experience in New York City. It’s best suited for those who want to combine stunning views with a party vibe — just pack your warmest clothes and your best dancing shoes.
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