New York Afternoon Fall Foliage Cruise with Lunch

Why we recommend this tour

We recommend this cruise for those seeking a relaxing, elegant way to experience New York's autumn beauty without leaving the city, ideal for couples or small groups wanting scenic views and a meal.

About this tour

This 2-hour New York City cruise aboard the 1920s-style yacht Manhattan II takes you north on the Hudson River to admire the vibrant fall foliage of the New Jersey Palisades while enjoying a fall-themed lunch. Guests can relax in the heated, enclosed observatory with large windows and skylights, or step out onto the open bow for a refreshing breeze. As you glide along, you'll capture dramatic photos of the changing seasons and New York's natural wonders. A lightly narrated tour provides context to the geological marvels of the Palisades. Each reservation receives a private table in the grand salon, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience. Your journey includes one complimentary beverage of beer, wine, Champagne, or soda, alongside a family-style lunch featuring soup, sandwiches, salad, and dessert. Hot cocoa, both regular and spiked, is also available onboard.

Highlights

• Cruise aboard the elegant 1920s-style yacht Manhattan II
• Admire vibrant fall foliage along the Hudson River
• See the dramatic geological features of the New Jersey Palisades
• Enjoy a complimentary beverage and a fall-themed lunch served family-style
• Relax in a heated, enclosed observatory or on the open bow
• Benefit from a lightly narrated tour about the riverside features
• Private tables assigned for each reservation in the grand salon

Who is this tour for?

• Couples seeking a romantic afternoon outing
• Visitors interested in New York's natural autumn beauty
• Anyone looking for a unique, comfortable fall experience
• Small groups celebrating a special occasion
• Foodies who appreciate a scenic meal on the water
• Photography enthusiasts wanting autumn landscape shots

Insider tips

• Book your tickets well in advance, as fall foliage cruises are very popular and sell out quickly.
• Dress in layers; while the observatory is heated, it can be breezy on the open bow.
• Bring a camera with a good zoom for capturing detailed shots of the Palisades foliage.
• Consider trying a spiked hot cocoa for an extra cozy touch as you cruise.
• Arrive a bit early to ensure a relaxed boarding process and find your assigned private table.

What's included

• One alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage
• Complimentary fare including soup, sandwiches, salad and dessert will be provided

What's not included

• Gratuities for the hardworking captain and crew (recommended)
• Additional beverages are available for purchase onboard by credit card

Itinerary

1. 1

   Stop 1

   Cruise north on the Hudson River and enjoy views of the Upper West Side of Manhattan along with fall foliage along the waterfront.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Cruise by Columbia University from the water as the boat heads north toward the Palisades.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Enjoy unique views of the bridge up-close as the boat cruises up the Hudson River

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Cruise by the Little Red Lighthouse located in Fort Washington Park on the Manhattan side of the George Washington Bridge.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   See the Cliffs of the Grand Palisades just after passing under this park and the George Washington Bridge

Frequently asked questions