NYC: Sunset Jazz Sail aboard the ‘Clipper City’

Sailing through New York Harbor with live jazz playing softly in the background isn’t something most people get to do every day. This Sunset Jazz Sail on the tall ship Clipper City, operated by Manhattan By Sail, promises an evening of scenic views, smooth tunes, and a touch of maritime adventure.

Many who’ve taken this cruise highlight its stunning skyline vistas and friendly crew, but some reviews note that cancellations can occur unexpectedly due to weather. Still, it’s a rare way to experience the city’s iconic sights from the water, with a musical soundtrack to match. If you’re after a relaxed, atmosphere-rich outing that combines history, music, and spectacular views, this tour is worth considering.

What we love about this experience are the breathtaking backdrop of Manhattan’s skyline, the live jazz performances by talented musicians, and the unique sailing aboard New York’s only tall ship. On the flip side, potential travelers should be aware that cancellations do happen, particularly if weather conditions are less than ideal. So, if your heart is set on a specific sunset or weather-dependent experience, plan accordingly.

This cruise suits those craving a laid-back, scenic evening with good music, especially if you’re keen on a romantic date night, a special celebration, or simply want a break from the busy city streets with a view that never gets old.

Good To Know

• Unparalleled Views: Get close to the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan skyline—all during sunset for an unforgettable photo opportunity.
• Live Jazz: Enjoy performances by acclaimed musicians like Joe Cohn and Avram Fefer, adding a soulful soundtrack to your evening.
• Historic Tall Ship: Experience sailing aboard the Clipper City, a replica of 19th-century lumber schooners, with spacious decks and excellent visibility.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Limited to a 1.5-hour duration, perfect for an evening activity without feeling rushed.
• Value for Money: At $136, including up to 2 glasses of wine and the live music, many find this a worthwhile splurge.
• Weather Dependent: Cancellations for safety reasons are possible during storms or bad weather, which can be disappointing but necessary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Clipper City Sunset Jazz Sail

Setting the Scene: A Unique Perspective of NYC

From the moment you step onto Pier 17 at the Seaport, just below the Brooklyn Bridge, you’re greeted with the promise of a different look at this bustling city. The dock is accessible by foot, train, ferry, bus, or car, which makes the meeting point convenient regardless of your transportation choice. Allowing about 20 minutes to find the dock is wise if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

As the crew prepares the majestic Clipper City for departure, you’ll notice the ship’s classic lines and spacious decks. It’s a tall ship — a full-scale replica of historic lumber schooners — which adds an old-world charm to your modern skyline backdrop. The setting is perfect for those who appreciate a bit of maritime history combined with scenic sightseeing.

What the Cruise Entails

Once aboard, the sails are gradually hoisted, a process both visually striking and atmospheric. While the sailing isn’t a high-speed adventure, it’s a smooth, gentle float through the waterways, with the Hudson and East Rivers providing views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge, and the towering skyline beyond.

The music kicks in as live jazz musicians set the tone. You might be listening to a talented guitarist like Joe Cohn or a skilled saxophonist such as Avram Fefer, both well-known in jazz circles. Reviewers like Kenneth mention the “excellent” jazz band, noting that the music isn’t intrusive but adds to the evening’s relaxed vibe. The band plays for most of the cruise, though some guests have observed it’s only about half the time.

The Views: Iconic, Romantic, and Perfectly Timed

The highlight for many is the sunset. As the sun dips toward the horizon, the city’s skyline shimmers in a golden hue, creating picture-perfect moments. “The timing with sunset is just right,” comments Mark, who was left with a “beautiful, unforgettable experience.”

You’ll pass by famous sights like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. Some reviews, like that of a UK traveler, felt the Liberty visit was brief and more of a glance from a distance, but the overall effect of seeing these landmarks from the water is genuinely impressive.

One important point from reviews is the timing of the experience. If arriving late, you might miss the best sunset or have limited time at key photo spots, so punctuality is advisable.

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Comfort and Amenities on Board

The Clipper City’s decks are described as spacious and comfortable, with ample seating and a raised quarterdeck at the stern that offers uninterrupted views. The ship features a full bar, where you can enjoy up to two glasses of wine included in the ticket price. Reviewers like Gaurav appreciate the “beautiful experience” with the wine, although some note that staff could improve by offering wine service directly on the deck rather than couples having to queue at the bar.

The crew, led by a professional captain, is praised for being friendly and helpful. Some guests, like Mark, mention small issues like being overcharged slightly at the bar but appreciated the gesture of a free drink as an apology.

The Cancellations and Weather Considerations

A notable downside from reviews is the possibility of cancellations. Sadouki from France shared frustration about a cancelled cruise a week prior, with no refund yet. Another traveler, GetYourGuide reviewer from the UK, mentioned a storm forecast led to a cancellation but found it strange that the ship was sailing just an hour earlier with other providers.

This highlights that weather can impact the sailing schedule, especially during stormy or windy conditions. If a specific sunset experience is important, consider checking the weather forecast or rebooking if your plans can be flexible.

Overall Value

At $136 per person, including live jazz and two glasses of wine, many find the cruise offers excellent value for a memorable, scenic, and musical evening. Compared to other NYC activities, it combines multiple elements — sightseeing, music, a relaxed atmosphere — making it a worthwhile splurge, especially for those seeking a special date or celebration.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for music lovers who appreciate live jazz and want a unique setting. It’s also great for romantic couples, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a quiet moment amid the city’s hustle with a view that’s hard to beat. If you’re interested in history and sailing, the tall ship adds an extra layer of charm, giving you a taste of maritime tradition.

However, travelers should be prepared for possible weather-related cancellations, and those seeking a longer or more interactive tour might find the 1.5-hour length a bit short. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic experience rather than a comprehensive sightseeing trip.

Final Thoughts

The Sunset Jazz Sail aboard the Clipper City offers a distinctive way to see New York from the water. The combination of spectacular skyline views, live jazz, and the historic tall ship setting makes for a memorable evening. The inclusion of drinks and the friendly crew add to its appeal, although weather can sometimes interfere with plans.

For travelers seeking a romantic, scenic escape with a musical touch, this cruise delivers. Its value hinges on your appreciation for beautiful vistas and live music in an atmospheric setting. While cancellations are a consideration, the overall experience seems to leave most guests with lasting memories.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for all ages?
Yes, the cruise is generally suitable for adults and older children. It’s a relaxed experience that focuses on scenic views and live jazz, making it enjoyable for a broad age range.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect evening activity without feeling too long or rushed.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, guests are served up to two glasses of wine included in the ticket price, and drinks are available for purchase at the bar onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID for check-in. Given the outdoor setting, dress comfortably and consider bringing a light jacket, especially if the weather is cool or windy.

Is the sailing weather-dependent?
Yes, the cruise can be canceled for safety reasons during storms or adverse weather conditions. It’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

What are the best times to go?
The cruise is typically available in the evening, with sunset views being the highlight. Arriving early ensures you get the best vantage points for photos.

How accessible is the meeting point?
The dock at Pier 17 is easy to reach by foot, train, ferry, bus, or car, located just below the Brooklyn Bridge in Lower Manhattan.

In summary, the NYC Sunset Jazz Sail on the Clipper City is a wonderful way to combine scenic sightseeing with the soulful sounds of jazz. Perfect for a romantic evening or a special outing, it offers a distinctive perspective on the city’s skyline, history, and musical culture. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast, and you’re likely to have a memorable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: