The circle line sightseeing cruises has a harbor lights cruise that they say is timed to show you the city as the lights come on. However, their web site schedule for this time of year (next week) says they go at 7pm and last 90 minutes. It's nowhere near dark at 8:30 though. Can't find anything more on their web site and the phone is always busy. Anyone know if they go later at this time of year?

I guess you'll have to think of it as more of a sunset cruise. You happen to asking about the longest days of the year. While I don't know for sure, I doubt that they would change the schedule for a few weeks. By 8pm, while it may not be dark, the sun will be low in the west and you will definitely experience the city lights. Was dining along the harbor just last week and it was quite pretty to see at that hour. Not much definitive help here--sorry.

If the cruise is on the East River, the sun will already be behind all of the high rises to it will be pretty dark.

Does anyone know if you need reservations for the cruise or just show up?

thanks!

NY Waterway has a harbor cruise too, on the Hudson. Call 180053ferry for more info.