Rent a Boat in New York, NY

From the glittering skyline of Lower Manhattan to the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, New York Harbor offers bucket-list vistas for every boater. Cruise the Hudson at sunset, loop under seven East River bridges, drop anchor off the Statue for photos, or venture east into Long Island Sound for a full-day escape—all without leaving the five boroughs.

What to know

The most popular boat rental styles in New York City include:

• Motor yachts and express cruisers for skyline sightseeing, cocktail cruises, corporate outings, and celebrations.

• Bowriders, deck boats, and RIBs for quick spins up the Hudson, sandbar stops near Sandy Hook, or harbor joy-rides.

• Classic sailboats and catamarans for relaxed afternoons under canvas, sunset charters, and team-building regattas.

If you’re new to the currents, commercial traffic, and security zones of New York Harbor, consider hiring a USCG-licensed captain who knows local rules, ferry lanes, and the best spots for unobstructed skyline photos.