When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Majestic Harbor Cruises
Why Majestic Harbor Cruises is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Majestic Harbor Cruises offers boat tours around New York City, delivering close-up views of iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and the NYC skyline. It provides a unique setting for friends and family to meet and enjoy a leisurely cruise that showcases stunning waterfront views and photo opportunities. While the cruise itself is relatively short, lasting around an hour, it is designed to offer a compact and scenic experience suitable for social gatherings or casual outings. The cruise includes limited amenities onboard like a bar and a gift shop, adding to the overall convenience. However, the boat’s seating arrangements and onboard comfort are modest, with limited chairs outside and inside, which might affect group comfort during the tour. The staff is generally friendly, contributing to a safe atmosphere for visitors, though the commentary system has been noted as difficult to hear while outside. Despite some limitations, the cruise can still serve as a memorable venue for meeting friends and enjoying views of New York Harbor's famous sights.
Here's what people think of Majestic Harbor Cruises
As of recent, Majestic Harbor Cruises holds a 2.5-star rating based on 130 reviews.
The overall user reviews for Majestic Harbor Cruises have been largely mixed, culminating in an average rating of 2.5 from 130 reviews. Many customers have pointed out various issues, such as poorly maintained facilities, with some describing the boat as feeling dirty and lacking sufficient seating. The commentary system was mentioned as being hard to hear during outdoor segments, and the staff sometimes appeared more focused on promoting additional products like food, drinks, and souvenir photos rather than providing an engaging narrative. One major complaint involved the difficulty in booking the cruise through Groupon vouchers, where customers reported lack of response, leading to missed opportunities to participate in the tours. Nevertheless, positive reviews highlight that the cruise offers good value by allowing close-up views of the Statue of Liberty and views of the NYC skyline. Customers appreciated the safe and friendly environment onboard and found the tour appropriately timed for a brief yet scenic experience. In summary, while some patrons commend the unique perspective offered on major landmarks and commend the staff's friendliness, others criticize the vessel’s upkeep and booking process, indicating that future improvements could enhance the overall customer satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mocha Delight
It all started with purchasing the tix for the event on the platform Fever. Then 2 days before the event they send out an e-mail stating “the event organizers has changed the boarding time to 11pm or you can credit your tix for a different date & time”… We decided to select the same date (7/4)with the later 11pm time. No problem, so we thought! Once we get to the pier, it was a total disaster! Good thing we left an hr early because the level of chaos trying to navigate where the boat is and which line to stand on was atrocious! There was nobody from the promotional team or event staff managing the line or directing you where to go for their yacht! Once we walked around aimlessly for 20mins we finally found our boat. Again, there were no clear lines for this boat, so we are just standing in a “concert” like crowd….There was ONE guy who looked like security out on the pier who was trying to organize the line once the boat was “clear” to board, but he was very frustrated with his screaming, yelling and threatening to fight patrons. Extremely unprofessional, then he walks off never to come back to help organize the line for the boat. Now the organizers prepare to let people on the boat, two girls started fighting ON THE BOAT upon entry!!! They removed the girls off the boat and proceeded to CHERRY PICK people to board the yacht! Remember this is a ticketed event where everyone standing here has purchased a ticket! VIP, tickets, Birthday celebrations, people flew in from out of town, and maybe the casual NY’er, all standing in a massive crowd of maybe 300ppl or so. The yacht’s capacity was 200! Are you doing the math…. People were now running, squeezing, pushing, shoving, just to be seen to be hand picked to get on the boat by ONE bouncer! To add insult to injury, not only did they over book the boat they had two separate promotional team’s hosting the party. Needless to say I and my party boarded the ship but that was after having to manoeuvre ourselves to the front of the bouncer so he can VISIBLY SEE US! Mind you, we were all the way in the back with the other sea of people, so if you didn’t move your feet to GET TO THE FRONT you wouldn’t have been able to be seen! At this point someone on the boat yells out “IF YOU ARE NOT ON THIS BOAT IN 20 MINS, YOU WILL GET LEFT”…. This causes mass hysteria, now everyone is pushing to be seen! Such a nightmare! We looked out of the window and seen a sea of people just standing there, these were the remaining paid patrons who were denied entry b/c of faulty promoters/organizers. Once on the boat, there were 2 levels. Beautiful interior however they allowed smoking of any kind. Cigars, weed, cigarettes, e-cigs. It was DISGUSTING! To make matters worse they did not open the deck so you were trapped in that God awful stench of tobacco and weed on the lower deck! Upstairs on the main deck was packed like sardines, but at least you were able to get some type of fresh air due to the structure of the boat allowing for air to ventilate through… Once it was all said and done and the cruise was over the boat was trashed. See the photos I have attached here… I will never board that yacht again until they properly vet their organizers of who will be chartering their vessel. Total DISGRACE!
Nico Archambault
I would give zero stars if I could. DO NOT PAY FOR THIS CRUISE. Came for a sunset birthday cruise, and it was a horrible experience. We all paid about $28 for our ticket, which isn't that crazy of a price, but it was what happened on board that was completely unacceptable. As expected they don't let you bring in any outside alcohol but the alcohol that they offered was insanely overpriced. They would give you a small mixed drink in a plastic cup and it would cost $30 (one shot worth). On the menu it said it was going to be 25 and they don't tell you until after they pour it that it's actually $30. Beer- $15 champagne bottles -$250 small Doritos bag- $10 Cup of ice -$2 etc... We were expecting at least market prices for mixed drinks, but they decided to overprice everything knowing that we're stuck on this boat and we don't have any other options. So what people ended up doing is just not drinking, which means everyone was for the most part sober and just not vibing. The hookah was overpriced and it was electric with that oil stuff instead of shisha. So we didn't even enjoy the hookah because it was trash.... The music they played was awful. I don't even know what the theme of the music was supposed to be downstairs but it was really chill club vibes, what you think would be okay but when it's a party bus and everyone's sitting down sober and not dancing it was lame. Apparently upstairs it was supposed to be house music but it was the same vibe as what they were playing downstairs. They didn't even take any song requests so nobody was able to vibe. The worst part is that you're stuck on the boat, and so once we realized this was absolute trash we just had to stay there for the next two and a half hours. Staff was so rude, boat dirty, overpriced, crap hookah, crap music, waste of money and time. I swear to God whatever you do, DO NOT PAY FOR THIS BOAT CRUISE. No matter how fun you think it might be it will not be worth it. Literally go anywhere else, any other club, any other restaurant. It will be worth your time and money to not come here.
whitney denise
My experience on the princess was amazing! All staff wad helpful and fun! I really loved that the people was helpful from barstaff to gift shop. I will recommend my more people to come.
C M S
Got a chance to do a 3hr fall foliage boat tour. Got the ticket from groupon its a good experience. Big boat,spacious,had a bar when you can buy food and drinks and small dining area to sit while eating and drinking Boat has 2 floors..
Jaime Arbelaez
The crew is friendly. They all know a lot about NYC and obviously about this specific tour. Also the burgers are amazing and the girl that does the announcements speaks Spanish, French and English which was very helpful.
How to reach Majestic Harbor Cruises
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Why Majestic Harbor Cruises may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Majestic Harbor Cruises with your friends?
Gathering with friends at Majestic Harbor Cruises offers a unique and memorable opportunity to experience New York City's iconic skyline and harbor from a breathtaking vantage point on the water. The appeal lies in the combination of scenic views, a relaxed cruise atmosphere, and a chance to enjoy quality time together away from the busy city streets. As you float past landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Ellis Island, the shared experience is both visually stunning and conducive to bonding conversations. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a new way to connect with friends, the cruise setting encourages laughter, storytelling, and creating lasting memories. Moreover, the onboard amenities like specialty cocktails, buffet dining, and live DJ music add to the festive ambiance, ensuring a comfortable and lively gathering spot. Despite some mixed reviews, many find the cruise to be an affordable and enjoyable outing with panoramic views and spacious decks perfect for socializing. This combination makes Majestic Harbor Cruises an appealing choice to rally with friends for an outing that balances excitement and relaxation on the water.
What activities does Majestic Harbor Cruises offer for group meetups?
Majestic Harbor Cruises provides a range of engaging activities well suited for group meetups, particularly for those seeking a maritime adventure with iconic city views. The cruises typically last about three hours and include options such as brunch or dinner buffets, enabling groups to share a meal while enjoying the surroundings. The menu features freshly prepared buffet-style dining alongside a well-stocked bar serving specialty cocktails, enhancing the social aspect of the trip. Onboard, an in-house DJ entertains guests, creating a lively atmosphere that invites dancing or simply relaxing to good music while taking in the scenery. The expansive decks and panoramic windows give everyone ample opportunities to move around and find the best vantage points for photos or casual conversations. Seasonal events such as the Santa Cruise during the holidays offer unique photo opportunities and festive treats like hot chocolate and cookies, broadening the appeal for family and friend groups alike. The cruise route covers key landmarks, including the Freedom Tower and the Brooklyn Bridge, making sightseeing a natural part of the experience. All these activities together create a well-rounded outing that can accommodate various interests within a group, from dining to dancing to sightseeing.
Why is Majestic Harbor Cruises perfect for group meetups?
Majestic Harbor Cruises is perfect for group meetups due to its spacious and comfortable setting aboard the Majestic Princess, which offers large decks and panoramic windows that allow groups to gather without feeling cramped. This ample space encourages mingling and movement, ideal for groups who want to socialize freely or split into smaller circles while still sharing the same experience. The three-hour cruise duration strikes a good balance between being long enough to enjoy a full meal and scenic ride, yet short enough to hold everyone's interest and energy. Its route provides continuous visual entertainment with landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, so guests have plenty to see and discuss throughout the cruise. The availability of buffet dining means groups can eat at their own pace without pressure, making the experience more relaxed and accommodating. Additionally, the onboard DJ adds an upbeat vibe, appealing to groups who want a festive environment to celebrate a birthday, reunion, or just casual get-together. Moreover, seasonal and holiday-themed cruises offer additional reasons to choose Majestic Harbor Cruises for special group events, highlighting its flexibility and appeal. This combination of factors makes it an attractive venue for anyone looking to host a casual yet memorable meetup on New York Harbor.
How accessible and convenient is Majestic Harbor Cruises for groups?
Majestic Harbor Cruises is accessible from Lincoln Harbor in Weehawken, New Jersey, which is reasonably close to Manhattan and the greater New York City area, making it convenient for locals and tourists alike to reach. This location allows groups to avoid the congestion of Manhattan piers while still providing extraordinary views of the city's skyline and landmarks. However, it's important to note that parking is not provided for cruise events, so groups should plan for public transport, ridesharing, or nearby parking options. The cruise company has faced some criticism for unclear departure times and customer service, so groups are advised to confirm details well in advance to ensure a smooth boarding experience. Despite these logistical considerations, the departure location offers a pleasant harbor setting and an escape from the city hustle, adding to the overall charm of the outing. The spacious vessel aboard which the cruise takes place is well-designed for groups, allowing ease of movement and gathering spots. Thus, with some planning, Majestic Harbor Cruises can be a convenient and enjoyable option for groups seeking a harbor experience within easy reach of the city.
What should groups consider before booking Majestic Harbor Cruises?
Groups considering Majestic Harbor Cruises should take into account some important factors to ensure a positive experience. While the cruise offers stunning views and a festive environment, recent reviews mention challenges such as limited seating in outdoor areas, cleanliness concerns, and issues with customer service and boarding procedures. These point to the need for groups to manage expectations and prepare for some compromises in service quality. It's advisable to book tickets directly through official channels and confirm the exact boarding times to avoid confusion at the pier, as some guests have reported long waits or missed sailings due to communication gaps. Additionally, since parking is not provided, advance planning for transportation and arrival time is crucial, especially for larger groups. Considering weather conditions is also important, as much of the scenic viewing happens on outdoor decks where seating is limited. Despite these drawbacks, the cruise remains an affordable way to enjoy scenic views with friends, so groups that prioritize atmosphere and sightseeing over luxury may find it worthwhile. Carefully weighing these factors prior to booking can help groups have a smoother, more enjoyable outing on Majestic Harbor Cruises.
How does the onboard experience enhance group gatherings on Majestic Harbor Cruises?
The onboard experience on Majestic Harbor Cruises plays a significant role in enhancing group gatherings by creating an atmosphere that combines entertainment, dining, and sightseeing in one venue. The inclusion of an in-house DJ ensures there is lively music throughout the cruise, which helps lift the mood and encourage interaction among guests. Groups can enjoy dancing, background music for conversation, or simply relax while listening to the curated playlist. The buffet dining service adds to the communal vibe, allowing group members to eat at their own pace without formal seating demands, encouraging movement and mingling. The bar offers specialty cocktails and drinks, providing another focal point for socializing and celebrating. Large panoramic windows and spacious decks give groups flexibility to gather inside or outside, offering photo opportunities and fresh air with breathtaking views. These elements collectively foster a festive yet comfortable environment ideal for birthdays, reunions, or casual meetups. The onboard amenities thus transform a simple sightseeing cruise into a dynamic social event that complements the natural beauty visible from the water.
What seasonal and special events does Majestic Harbor Cruises host for groups?
Majestic Harbor Cruises enhances its appeal for group events by organizing seasonal and special cruises that offer unique themes and activities to complement the regular sightseeing experiences. Notably, the Santa Cruise during the holiday season features festive photo opportunities with Santa Claus, alongside hot chocolate and holiday cookies, offering a family-friendly atmosphere ideal for groups that want to celebrate the season together. In autumn, the cruise route includes a journey up the Hudson River to showcase stunning fall foliage, adding a seasonal natural spectacle that groups can enjoy while aboard. These special cruises provide an attractive alternative to standard city skyline views, making the outing feel more festive and memorable. Groups can take advantage of these themed events to plan celebrations that align with holidays or seasonal interests, providing a focal point for their meetup. Such events typically include all the usual amenities—dining, drinks, music—but with added touches that create a more immersive experience for guests. Seasonal cruises therefore broaden the options for group gatherings, blending sightseeing with special holiday traditions or natural beauty.
What is the overall value proposition of Majestic Harbor Cruises for group outings?
Majestic Harbor Cruises offers a distinctive value proposition for group outings by combining affordability, iconic views, and a lively cruise experience in a single package. For groups looking to enjoy New York Harbor's landmarks without the high cost of private charters or upscale yachts, this cruise delivers an accessible way to gather and celebrate on the water. The three-hour duration, buffet dining, drink options, and onboard entertainment contribute to a well-rounded experience that caters to various tastes within a group. While some service and logistical concerns have been noted, many guests find the chance to see landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Freedom Tower from the water worth the moderate price point. The cruise’s ability to accommodate sizeable groups on spacious decks ensures everyone can participate in the outing comfortably, fostering a strong sense of togetherness. Its seasonal offerings and holiday-themed cruises add extra value for groups seeking something special beyond the usual sightseeing. Thus, Majestic Harbor Cruises presents a practical and enjoyable venue for friends and families looking to combine sightseeing, dining, and socializing in an iconic maritime setting.
By providing spectacular views and a festive environment with room for socializing, Majestic Harbor Cruises offers a memorable option for group meetups, provided guests plan ahead to accommodate some of the operational limitations. It stands out as a unique way to rally with friends or family while taking in some of the most famous sites that define New York City’s skyline.