So many of you saw my post about the Hotel Giraffe. (Thank you for all your quick and helpful responses!) Anyway, in that post I explained that I am a native New Yorker, (born and raised in Manhattan), now living in Denver, bringing my boyfriend to meet my NY side of the family for the first time. So, in turn, it means I get to enjoy some of the touristy activities that I haven't done for a long time.

Now, my question is, I would like to do a Circle Line cruise, but I can't decide which one is best? Is the 3 hour one really all it's cracked up to be? Or does the 2 hour suffice? How about the 90 minute or the Harbor Light one that leaves just before dusk?

As you can see, I am very confused! Any input would be greatly appreciated!

Some people don't find the three-hour cruise worthwhile because they are bored with the final hour. The last hour goes along the northern parts of the East River (Upper East Side), Harlem River, and then south on the Hudson River. For many, this part doesn't have as much of interest to see.

I think the 2-hour cruise takes you south on the Hudson to the Statue of Liberty, then north on the East River as far as the U.N. and then returns the way it came.

I urge you to take the 2-hour cruise.

These are not the most exciting activities in NY.

Thank you!

Sounds like the 2 hour is better than the 3 hour. How about the night one?

Adu: I know it's not the most exciting thing to do, but I think my BF would enjoy it, since he has never ben to NY.

we took the full circle 3hrs - a little too long in my opinion...maybe the half circle would be better
the last hour is a little boring and not much happening

I think the daytime cruise is much more impressive if you really want to see any of the city. The night cruise shows you a lot of lights - but not that much of the city.

If you prefer you can do the free Staten Island ferry to see the SoL from a distance and have great views of the skyline coming back towards the city. The RT is about 1:15.

Recent guests opted for the 2-hr cruise out to Statue of
Liberty & Ellis Island; then up East River as far as the
UN. I was very pleased w/the announcer who made NYC
come alive w/his intermittent humorous fact-filled
announcements.
We opted for the inside first row topside which was
wise as the wind can get brisk for a 2-hr. stay. And
one can bring own refreshments aboard w/o buying the
pricy refreshments.