Frequently
Asked Questions
Boat Details, Safety, ADA compliance
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At Manhattan By Sail, Sailing is Prevailing.
For 23+ years now, our family-owned traditional historic sailing ships have been plying NYC’s iconic waters, providing uncompromising service levels to our corporate and private group clientele, and an engaging and personable experience to our FIT guests. There’s no guided megaphone tour. Your guests will experience both the modern wonders of NYC’s iconic Landmarks, and the profound connection to a bygone era of commerce and adventure from the deck of an 1854 clipper ship whose massive sails are raised and tended the old-fashioned way –by hand. The spectacle of the captain issuing commands to our engaged and competent crew. Your guests will be immersed in an authentic experience instead of a manufactured one. Have a question, please just ask any of our crew people. Just remember though, there may be times when your crewmember will be busy executing the captain’s commands and will have to .All departures sail the NYC Harbor, closely passing The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Governors Island, the NJ and NY skyline, and NY’s iconic bridges.
If you select one of our specialty sails, you will enjoy the sweetness of live jazz music, local craft beers, spicy performances from some of NYC’s premier burlesque performers, and more. -
- The Shearwater is best-suited for adults – perfect for a date night, a family get together and groups of friends. She offers an intimate experience taking you back in time to the Gatsby era and Gilded Age. Rich in history, the Shearwater was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009. She’s had books and movies written about her and has even been around the globe. Step aboard a piece of living history and enjoy an unparalleled NY adventure.
- The Clipper City is best suited for large groups, families and children of all ages. She permits wheelchairs and strollers on board, making her the ideal venue for family gatherings or a day out with the kids. Children and adults alike can help to hoist the sails or take a turn at the wheel to make the journey more memorable. Walk the gangway and get ready for an epic day on the water while enjoying a drink from our full service on board bar.
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- Both the Clipper City and Shearwater fit easily into your Downtown Manhattan itinerary.
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Nope, except for passengers 12 years & under and sailing on the Shearwater. No one else is required to wear a life jacket but you’re welcome to one if you’d like.
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While waterborne activities are inherently higher-risk, at Manhattan by Sail, passenger safety is our primary concern. As soon as you climb aboard, our crew will tell you everything you need to know about the particulars of our sailing vessels. Crew are trained and fully licensed/ Vessels are inspected by USCG and equipped with First Aid, Firefighting, Lifesaving, & Personal Flotation Devices. There is a safety speech given prior to departure and Captain and Crew will give instruction as needed. If you are worried that you are getting on a teeny sailboat, that is NOT the case; our vessels are quite stable. Once you have been on one of our boats you will see how comfortable you’ll feel.
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New York Harbor is a protected waterway and our vessels were built to sail across oceans, and are more stable than motor boats, so generally speaking, seasickness isn’t much of a concern. We do understand that some are more susceptible than others. If you think you might be one of them, you might consider taking Dramamine (or similar motion sickness drug). Keep in mind that Dramamine takes about two hours to take full effect, so if you’re taking them on board, it’s probably too late. Ginger capsules have also been found to be helpful. If you do get seasick, our crew will do everything they can to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible.
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- We strongly believe sailing should be accessible to all, regardless of mobility challenges.
- The Clipper City Tall Ship, although built prior to the A.D.A., is wheelchair accessible to 80% of the public deck space. Boarding the vessel usually requires an assist from one of our friendly crew as wakes from ferry boats and tidal change can create challenging conditions. Clipper City has a large main deck with restrooms on the same level. Bathrooms on the Clipper City cannot be entered whilst in a wheelchair, but you may transfer from chair to bathroom as we have grab bars inside. Please reach out to us so we can clarify and make arrangements to ensure the most comfortable and dignified experience aboard our vessels. We apologize but are unable to accommodate larger electric scooters and wheelchairs.
- Sadly, the Shearwater Schooner built in 1929 is not wheelchair friendly/accessible. That said, if you have “the will” to join us, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve, and will do everything in our power to figure out “the way” to allow you to sail on our ships in a manner that respects your needs. Bear in mind, the restroom is located below deck, down a spiral staircase.
- We strongly believe sailing should be accessible to all, regardless of mobility challenges.
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Of course! We couldn’t call ourselves sailors if we didn’t sail! Depending on the wind, we’ll utilize the sails for the majority of our power. If the wind is not so strong or there is challenging vessel traffic, we’ll turn on the motor to get around for portions of the trip.
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Yes! We gladly welcome our passengers to get in on the action and help us raise the sails.
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- Yes, there are restrooms available on both the Clipper City and the Shearwater. You might hear them referred to as “the head,” which is what they’re called on a boat!
- Clipper City is equipped with modern restrooms, located on the main deck.
- Shearwater’s restroom is located below deck, down a spiral staircase.
- Yes, there are restrooms available on both the Clipper City and the Shearwater. You might hear them referred to as “the head,” which is what they’re called on a boat!
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Our routes are ever-changing and depend on certain factors such as who the Captain is that day and the changing tides and winds. No matter the route, you will always be able to view NY’s iconic landmarks, bridges and the surrounding skylines!
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Our boats get as close to the Statue of Liberty as allowed by the U.S. Coast Guard, however, due to restrictions on National Landmarks, we do not disembark at the Statue of Liberty.
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Due to low water depths on the Statue’s “derrier”, we do not sail behind the Statue of Liberty, however, we do spend a decent amount of time in front of the Statue providing a nice photo opportunity.
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- There are places to sit on both boats – benches, lifejacket boxes, and other deck “furniture” and though your ticket does not guarantee seating which is “1st come, 1st served”. People tend to wander around different sections of the ship and flock to the railings to take in the gorgeous views. We operate historic boats with authentic on-deck fixtures.
- On the Clipper City, you can find a place to sit on benches throughout the main and raised quarter deck as well as deck boxes.
- On the Shearwater, there is limited proper seating as well as deck boxes or you can choose the owner’s favorite spot: directly on the original Rangoon teak deck
- There are places to sit on both boats – benches, lifejacket boxes, and other deck “furniture” and though your ticket does not guarantee seating which is “1st come, 1st served”. People tend to wander around different sections of the ship and flock to the railings to take in the gorgeous views. We operate historic boats with authentic on-deck fixtures.
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Our crew, from servers to deckhands, work hard to provide all guests with a unique and unforgettable experience, and tips are a wonderful way to let them know that you enjoyed your sail, please tip accordingly!
Food and Beverage Questions
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- We’re sailors! Of course we serve drinks – it comes with the territory. We offer an array of alcoholic (specified below) and non-alcoholic ice cold choices such as water, soda, and juice on both boats.
- The Clipper City proudly features a brand new, magnificent bar (thanks to @ParadiseLoungeNY) onboard.
- Shearwater has a server who walks around to bring you refreshing beverages including a selection of local and select beer & wines, premium mixed drinks, juice, soda and water as well as a delightful new line of NYC produced canned cocktails.
- We’re sailors! Of course we serve drinks – it comes with the territory. We offer an array of alcoholic (specified below) and non-alcoholic ice cold choices such as water, soda, and juice on both boats.
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Food Yes, Beverages No. Please remember, be considerate & make sure your food is non-greasy, easy-to-eat, won’t blow away in a strong breeze, and is easy to clean up. You may select a ready-to-eat option when booking a sail aboard the Clipper City, however, if you don’t purchase in advance, we will only have a restricted variety of snack items accessible for purchase once onboard.
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Nope. Our vessels are well equipped with a fully licensed cocktail bar with taps and a full range of beverage options . NYS liquor laws prohibit the public from bringing outside beverages to be consumed on licensed premises. Don’t worry, we got you. Our friendly bartenders will take good care of you….Juice or water for the little one, or a glass of bubbly to toast the occasion. Cocktails, Mocktails, private-label IPAs, and our own Pilsner, brewed in Brooklyn and single-select Rye Whiskeys are some of the special offerings we have waiting onboard for you…
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Depending on seasonal temperatures, we may serve hot beverages on board.
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Sailing is a (mostly) all-weather activity, and Manhattan by Sail’s boats will leave the dock rain or shine. Summer thundershowers – and those pesky storm emojis – are part of life in New York and you’ll soon see that braving the elements & trusting our mariners to make the safety decision is all part of the fun! Ponchos are available as needed. That said, if the captain deems weather conditions (or forecast!) unsafe,you will be notified via email or text (or both) up to 2 hours prior to departure. If you are a fair-weather sailor, no worrie!, just be sure to give our Reservation / Cancellation Policy a read.
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While we do not offer refunds unless you purchase the option for “Sail Cancellation Protection”. This add-on allows the option to cancel your reservation and transfer your tickets to a Future Sailing Credit (FSC), reschedule or receive a refund. Cancellations must be submitted via email to reservations@manhattanbysail.com (no texts or calls) no later than 2 hours prior to your departure time. 75% of funds, minus the cancellation protection taxes and booking fees, will be transferable or refundable. Once the 2-hour window has expired , booking is subject to MBS cancellation / rescheduling policy.
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Of course! We are always open to spur of the moment purchases. However, keep in mind that tickets are not guaranteed as we may be sold out. We highly recommend purchasing in advance to secure your spot.
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Yes! We accept all major credit cards (US as well as international) onboard both boats.
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Yes, you can select your country/region at checkout or when purchasing at the dock.
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Any child 12 years of age and below qualifies for our child rates. Including the littlest babe!! We don’t charge for children under 2 years but every soul on board needs to be accounted for (per USCG), so please reserve tickets in advance. If you have a child under 2 years in tow, please reach out via text / email toreservations@manhattanbysail.com or chat with us so we can adjust your reservation to include them. If we do not have them included on our manifest when you show up, your full group may not be able to sail.
Know Before You Go
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To find our boat location and to download directions CLICK HERE.
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Our boats leave on time, and although conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Manhattan, within a 20 minute walking distance of the Fulton Street train station, we don’t want you to miss the boat. We recommend planning to arrive 30 minutes prior to check-in because, as they say, “NYC Happens” and your taxi could be delayed by traffic or a slow subway. This will give you time to walk over, get oriented, find parking, or account for traffic as needed. Additionally, keep in mind that our vessels are traditional authentic sailboats and seating is ad hoc & “1st come, 1st served”.
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- Clipper City: We dock at Pier 17, an ADA-compliant facility that prides itself in providing dignified access to all guests, including those who require special accommodations. Guests who require special accommodations may enter the venue through our elevators located on Level 1 near the Box Office. ADA accessible restrooms are located on Level 4.
- Shearwater: There are restrooms available on the first floor within Brookfield Place. Entering from the west/marina, keep to the right and follow the signs to the restroom.
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Dress comfortably and prepare appropriately. We will sail rain or shine, and keep in mind that it is usually cooler out on the water than on shore, especially in the evening and night. We ask that passengers wear soft-soled shoes aboard the Shearwater as heels and boots can scuff the deck. Bare feet are also fine. There are no special requirements for Clipper City.
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Yes, you can bring strollers aboard the boats, however, we do not allow bikes on any of our boats. You will simply need to email or text our reservations team with a photo of the stroller and the dimensions for final approval and a customer service agent will make a note on the passenger manifest.
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We can accommodate most luggage that are carry-on size or smaller, limited to 1 bag per passenger. You will simply need to email or text our reservations team with a photo of the luggage and the dimensions for final approval a customer service agent will make a note noting on the passenger manifest.
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Small dogs who are happy to sit on leash & on laps are welcome on board with advance notice.