American Institute of Architects Scenic Cruise on the Manhattan

Key points about this tour:

• Private elegant tables assigned to each booking. Each features cushioned seating and a large exterior window.
• Offered aboard Manhattan or Manhattan II (1920s inspired yachts)
• Fully Circumnavigates the Island of Manhattan.
• Hosted and narrated by a member of the American Institute of Architects
• Indoor climate-controlled seating and outdoor seating available
• One complimentary beer, wine, Champagne or soda is offered. Additional beverages and light fare are available for purchase.

Step aboard the teak decks of our elegant 1920s style yachts, the Manhattan and Manhattan II, and enjoy NYC's architectural landmarks from the water.

The "Around Manhattan" tour narration, provided by members of the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) NYC chapter, is general enough for visitors yet detailed enough for the locals.

Aboard the yachts, experience a comfortable and unique tour through the Hudson, East, and Harlem Rivers from the climate-controlled and enclosed back-deck observatory or wander to the outer decks for fresh air and sunlight with a complimentary beverage in hand. Guests are treated to a complimentary beer, wine or champagne from the bar and light snacks as well as soda, water, tea or coffee. 

On this 2.75-hour cruise, we will circumnavigate the island of Manhattan (passing under all 18 bridges) while taking in monuments, architecture, parks and infrastructure.

Exploration of planning visions for both reclaiming the post-industrial waterfront, as the "6th Borough", and addressing rising sea levels

Highlights, topics and themes of the AIANY tour include:
 

• Insightful coverage of Manhattan's classic spires, including the Chrysler and Woolworth Buildings, as well as a sharp focus on the new World Trade Center buildings and recent local, national, and international award-winning architects; including buildings by Frank Gehry and other noted international and local architects
• The greater waterfront access allowed by new parks and recreation piers including the ecologically driven features designed by leading landscape architects
• The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the newest waterfront monument: Roosevelt Island's FDR Four Freedoms Park
• NYC's engineering masterpieces: the Brooklyn and George Washington Bridges as well as lesser known "swing bridges" along the Harlem River
• The adaptation of the Highline as an elevated, linear park and its role in the development of West Chelsea and Hudson Yards.
• The story of post WWII urban renewal and public housing along the waterfronts of the Lower East Side and East Harlem.

What Is Not Included?

Guarantee of a full circumnavigation of Manhattan is not included. On rare occasions, the Spuyten Duyvil train bridge is inoperable and cannot open for us to pass through. This is often times not known until our tour is underway. River closures may also occur for a number of reasons. There are no refunds for tours that cannot fully circumnavigate. We will accommodate such cases with a tour that features a double backing of the route and further detail of the waterfront sites.

Gratuity is not included but always appreciated.

Food is not included. Light fare options are available for purchase in advance with your tickets or once on board.