About Pier 83 Midtown
For decades, Pier 83 in Midtown Manhattan has served as a bustling gateway to New York City’s harbor. Located at the foot of West 42nd Street on the Hudson River, Pier 83 is part of Hudson River Park and is best known as the longtime home of Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. Since Circle Line first opened at this pier in 1945, its fleet of white sightseeing boats has carried tens of millions of passengers on scenic tours of Manhattan and beyond. In practical terms, Pier 83 is where gangs of tourists and locals line up to board boats for a cruise around the city. This gives it a very different character than a typical concert hall or theater. It’s essentially a working pier and cruise terminal with wide river views, not a performance venue.
The pier’s physical appearance is low-key and maritime: a long wooden dock and simple terminal building painted in Circle Line’s blue-and-white colors. You might see people gazing out over the water at the Statue of Liberty, the city skyline, or the nearby Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum across 12th Avenue at Pier 86. Though it lacks ornate architecture, Pier 83 has historic significance. Its transformation from an old cargo pier into the Circle Line terminal in the 1940s helped define the Hudson River Park area. To New Yorkers, it’s an iconic piece of Midtown waterfront because it connects the city to its waterways in a way that few other places do. Unlike street-side attractions, Pier 83 matters as the starting point for the classic New York harbor cruise experience.
Events and Programming
Pier 83 is not a performance arena in the usual sense. Instead of concerts, what happens here are boat tours and cruises of various kinds. On any given day, Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises departs with guided tours from this pier. Popular programs include “Best of Manhattan” or “Complete Circle Line” cruises (a full loop around Manhattan, roughly 2.5 hours), Landmark tours (about 1.5 hours), the “Liberty One-Hour” ferry to the Statue of Liberty viewpoint, and evening “Harbor Lights” cruises to see the skyline illuminated. These cruises use large, modern boats with indoor and outdoor seating. During the warm months, tours typically run multiple times per day. For example, you might find departures at 10:00 AM, 1:30 PM, and 6:00 PM or similar. In winter, the schedule is reduced but still offers daily tours at midday and factor in safety around ice.
Ticket prices vary by cruise length and time. As a rule of thumb, standard adult tickets for a mid-length sightseeing tour start around $30–$40. Longer or specialty cruises (like circle-the-island trips) run closer to $50–$60. Children’s tickets are usually half-price or free under age two (children under two sit on a lap). Many visitors opt for an optional “Premier” upgrade – a reserved front-row seating area on the upper deck – which costs roughly $20–$25 extra. Reviews often note that Premier seating is worth the upgrade if you want unobstructed views . Aside from public cruises, Pier 83 also handles private events and charters. Companies and groups frequently rent Circle Line boats for weddings, corporate outings or birthday parties (these charters can host hundreds of people with on-board bars and catering). In general, though, the vibe at Pier 83 is that of a tourist attraction: expect families, tour groups, camera-toting visitors, and fun-guides rather than rock concerts or sports.
Season and time of day affect programming. In summer months the pier sees extra demand, and there may be specialty cruises like Fourth of July fireworks cruises. From Thanksgiving through early January, Circle Line runs “Holiday Lights Cruises” at night so riders can see Manhattan’s decorations from the water. One notable non-cruise event is the summer “BEAST” speedboat thrill ride, which operates from Pier 83 on weekends (a 30-minute adrenaline tour along the Hudson) . But Pier 83 itself doesn’t host festivals or concerts – it remains focused on boating. In recent years, venues listings show zero scheduled concerts at Pier 83 , confirming that it functions solely as a cruise departure point and ferry terminal. In short, if you’re visiting, expect sightseeing, not a stage show.
Tickets and Booking
Most visitors book Circle Line cruises in advance. Tickets can be purchased on the Circle Line website or third-party travel sites, and there is a Circle Line box office at Pier 83 itself. The on-site ticket counter is typically open in the late morning through the afternoon (around 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, with weekend hours varying by tour schedule) . If you plan to buy at the pier, arrive at least 30 minutes before your desired cruise. For peak times – like summer weekends or holiday sailings – it’s wise to book online days or weeks ahead. Walk-up availability is limited when tours are popular.
Prices vary by cruise length and package. A basic one-hour Liberty Harbor tour is cheapest (around $25–$30 for an adult). Longer 1.5–2 hour tours are around $35–$50. Evening Harbor Lights tours, which include holiday periods or fireworks, may cost a bit more. If you pay extra for Premier seating on departure, add about $20–$25. No physical ticket printout is needed if you have a mobile e-ticket, but keeping your reservation number handy is a good idea. Accepted payment methods at Pier 83 include cash and all major credit cards. There are no special membership discounts; group rates are typically handled as reserved charters. Day-of tickets can sometimes be cheaper on sites like Groupon or Kayak, but those can sell out and may not allow refunds. Always avoid unofficial resellers on the street. In short, buy online or at the official box office, check departure times, and give yourself plenty of time before sailing.
Seating and Layout
Pier 83 itself is essentially a concrete dock with a boarding ramp; once aboard, seating is on the cruise boat. Circle Line’s vessels each have multiple decks of seating. The newer “Bronx-class” ships have three decks (two indoor levels plus an open top deck), while the older Manhattan-class boats have two decks. In practical terms, you’ll find bench seating and tables inside on the lower decks with large windows, and open-air stadium-style benches or standing room on the upper decks . There is not assigned seating – except for the Premier section. Without the upgrade, you can sit anywhere or even move between indoor and outdoor areas during the cruise.
For the best experience, most visitors head to the top deck before departure. The front rows of the top deck (Premier seating) have the clearest views toward the bow and sides of the ship. If you have Premier tickets, ushers will direct you there. Otherwise, arriving early lets you grab front benches on the upper deck. These seats give panoramic views of the skyline and landmarks. On sunny or windy days, that upper deck can get busy though, and when it’s cold it can feel chilly. As an alternative, the indoor area on a lower deck is heated/air-conditioned and still has big wrap-around windows: seats there are a good all-weather choice.
In terms of sight lines, you won’t be too far from the views anywhere on deck because the boats are relatively narrow. That said, try to avoid sitting directly against the window frames or railings if possible (a slightly off-center bench seat lets you lean open without obstruction). If listening to the guides matters, sit toward the front or middle by the speakers. The back of the boat has more engine noise and can be a rougher ride in choppy water, so unless many people have piled up in front, avoid extremely aft seats. Finally, remember that these are working passenger boats, not quiet theaters. People come and go during docking stops, so going for a grab-and-walk-on approach and snapping frames from different angles is perfectly fine. The crew will usually announce when it’s time to reboard and where to find remaining seats at each stop.
Getting There and Parking
Pier 83’s official address is 83 West 42nd Street, between 11th and 12th Avenues in Manhattan. If you’re using GPS or map apps, that’s the location to look up. Public transit is straightforward: the closest subway station is 42nd Street–Port Authority, where the A, C, and E trains stop on 8th Avenue . From there, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk west on 42nd Street to 12th Avenue. Alternatively, at Times Square–42nd Street (one block northeast of Port Authority) you can catch the M42 crosstown bus directly to 12th Avenue heading west. The M50 bus (running crosstown on 49th Street) also serves the area; it will drop you closer to 12th Ave if you board near 49th Street. Southbound lines like the 1 train (50th St/Broadway) or 7 train (Times Square–42nd) work too, but both require a few block walk west. If you’re on the East Side, consider taking the western crosstown M42 bus all the way to 12th Ave.
Taxis and rideshares (Uber/Lyft) can drop off at Pier 83 by exiting the West Side Highway or Lincoln Tunnel approaches onto West 42nd Street. The drop-off point is typically on 42nd near 12th Avenue. Keep in mind Manhattan traffic can be heavy, so build in extra travel time. One alternative is a short ferry ride: the NY Waterway Ferry’s West Midtown port (Pier 79 at 39th Street & 12th Ave) is a few blocks south of Pier 83. If you arrive by ferry at Pier 79, it’s a quick 4-block walk north on 12th Ave or a free shuttle bus over. (NYC’s East River ferries do not stop at Pier 83 or 79, so only NJ-bound or downtown-bound ferries serve the area.)
Driving and parking near Pier 83 can be challenging. Street parking is very limited on 12th Avenue and nearby, and meters fill up early. There is a private Circle Line lot at 559 12th Avenue just north of the pier (capacity ~300 cars) , but it tends to charge premium rates (around $40 for a couple of hours). Most drivers use public garages in Hell’s Kitchen. Some options: garages on West 42nd or 43rd Streets near 9th or 10th Avenues typically charge $20–$30 for a few hours. For example, parking lots on W 42nd between 9th and 10th are common. We recommend booking via apps like SpotHero for the best rates. Remember: if you park on the street, adhere to posted signs – 42nd Street at the West Side has kiosks for payment (use the ParkNYC app or local pay stations). A final tip: on busy days consider riding public transit into Manhattan to avoid parking hassles altogether.
Inside the Venue
What should you expect upon arrival? Pier 83 has a small terminal building where you check in. If you bought tickets in advance, a staff member will scan your QR code or ticket at the gate. There is minimal security – usually just a quick bag check – but no lockers or coat check. If you have bulky items or large backpacks, plan on bringing them onto the boat or leaving them in a car, as suitcases and large bags are discouraged. The crew will direct boarders onto the ship via a gangway ramp a few minutes before departure. Once on board, you can move freely between decks (obey the staff’s instructions about staying clear of edges while underway).
Inside each Circle Line cruise ship, you’ll find basic amenities. Every vessel has public restrooms on each deck – they’re usually marked and free to use. On the lower deck(s) is usually an indoor lounge area with padded bench seats and panoramic windows. The aft section of the boat is often open space or kept clear for doorways. Concession stands are available on most boats – selling soft drinks, beer, wine, water and pre-packaged snacks. Payment is typically by credit card (some may accept limited cash). Pro tip: hourly operators often sell bottled waters at affordable prices, which is handy if you need it. Outside food and drink are generally not permitted.
Wi-Fi is offered free on Circle Line cruises, so you can stay connected on your phone during the ride . This also powers the cruise’s translation app guides in multiple languages (English, Spanish, Mandarin, etc.). Feel free to use your devices, though remember others are taking photos too, so be courteous. Crew members will often roam with sales carts or photo boards if you want to buy a souvenir photo of the trip. Restrooms, if a concern, are in each indoor area; there is no other public bathroom on the pier itself aside from these. The general mood on board is casual. People usually dress comfortably – shorts or light pants in summer, a jacket or sweater on chilly evenings. Footwear should have decent grip for the sometimes damp deck (flip-flops are common, but be cautious). Aside from the sightseeing commentaries, it’s mostly a relaxed cruise, so you can chat, take photos, and enjoy the ride. Keep your ticket handy for re-entry if the boat docks at stops (e.g. Battery Park, if on a full Manhattan loop). Finally, keep an eye on your group, especially kids: the boats can get crowded at peak times.
Nearby Amenities
There are plenty of options for dining, drinks, and hotels within a short distance. Midtown West (Hell’s Kitchen/Theater District) has dozens of bars and restaurants catering to cruise visitors. For a sit-down meal before or after your trip, local favorites include Bocca di Bacco (Italian cuisine at 44th St and 9th Ave), 5 Napkin Burger (casual American burgers at 44th & 9th) , and Pio Pio 8 (Peruvian rotisserie chicken at 45th & 9th). You’ll also find Italian pizza/pasta at Sicily’s Osteria (45th/9th) and seafood/steak at Sea Fire Grill (42nd/9th) . If you need a quick bite, Hell’s Kitchen is dotted with delis and diners – e.g. Westway Diner (West 43rd, between 10th & 11th) and Sunac Natural Market (Broadway & 11th) for sandwiches and international food bars . Coffee shops like Starbucks lie just blocks away on 42nd and 9th Ave.
For pre-cruise drinks or post-cruise nightlife, you’re in the heart of barland. There are classic pubs (The Playwright on 53rd/9th, The Crisp on 57th/12th), comedy clubs (Gotham Comedy Club at 47th/8th) and wine bars not far. Also many sidewalk cafés. Because Pier 83 is right by Times Square, you’ll also stumble across avant-garde rooftop bars and lounges along 45th-50th Streets. In short, if you have spare time, you can explore the lively midtown restaurant scene just east of the pier.
If you’re staying overnight, Midtown West has hotels at all budgets. Notable nearby hotels include Pod Times Square (400 W 42nd St) and Courtyard by Marriott (34th St & 12th), both under 0.7 miles away . The Four Points by Sheraton Manhattan West (10th Ave & 44th) is only a few blocks from the pier . Closer to Times Square proper, the InterContinental (44th & 9th) and Riu Times Square (46th & 10th) are roughly 0.8–1.0 mile away. If you want luxury, Pendry Manhattan West (33rd St & 9th Ave) and Equinox Hotel (Hudson Yards) are within a 15-minute walk. Either way, you won’t have far to go after disembarking if you’re staying in Midtown. For late-night travel back home, note that subways and crosstown buses (M42) run 24/7, and taxis/Uber are plentiful in the area.
What Makes This Venue Special
Pier 83’s uniqueness comes from its role as gateway to Manhattan’s waterways. It isn’t flashy like Little Island or Pier 17, but it has character as a piece of New York maritime history. It was originally built to dock passenger liners and barges, and today it docks the newest sightseeing ships – a continuity many New Yorkers appreciate. One could say Pier 83 is “special” because it offers experiences you can’t get anywhere else in the city: a boat’s-eye view of the skyline, a close encounter with the Statue of Liberty, or a gentle ride along the old riverfront. In that sense, it culturally anchors the city to its river, which is pretty significant.
Locally, Pier 83 has been featured in countless family photo albums. Christmas cruisers in Santa hats and New Year’s Eve fireworks partiers have launched from here. It’s where many immigrants and New Yorkers have seen Lady Liberty for the first time, fulfilling a classic New York moment. The pier even occasionally pops up in films and TV shows (scene shots of NYC taken from on the water are often filmed out here). As part of Hudson River Park, Pier 83 connects to jogging and biking routes along the water, making it a focal point for both exercise and tourism. Tour operators feel it too: many have churned their life savings on launching here (a humorous local legend is that it’s impossible to actually center the circle without running into the ticket booth).
In short, Pier 83 is special because it works. It may not have a marquee name on Broadway, but it has the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building in its line of sight. Whether you’re sailing at sunrise or sunset, the experience is uniquely New York. This practical, gritty pier underpins some truly romantic and classic NYC memories. Both visitors and locals often remark that a trip from Pier 83 is their favorite way to see Manhattan, because the river setting and narration let you appreciate the city’s story in one trip. That blend of utility and romance is what makes Pier 83 Madden Midtown more than just a dock.
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** Pier 83 and the Circle Line boats are wheelchair-friendly. The docking ramp is wide and smooth, and even motorized scooters can roll on and off (the boats were designed with wide gangways) . The first level of the ships is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. If you require assistance, let the Circle Line staff know when you arrive – they can provide boarding help. An attendant must remain with any child’s stroller if you leave it on deck. The pier itself has flat surfaces and no steep stairs, so moving around with a cane or walker is usually fine.
**Arrival & Tickets:** Plan to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before your scheduled departure. Boardings often begin early (especially during peak season) and boats will leave promptly. If you’re driving, allow extra time to find parking or traffic. If you have a paper or e-ticket, keep it handy; wood gates are scanned by the crew. If you need to buy tickets at the last minute, the box office is near the pier entrance, but wait times can be long on busy days.
**What to Bring:** Cameras are a must for this venue – the skyline views are spectacular. Sunscreen and a hat are wise on sunny days. Even in summer, the river breeze can be cool – bring a light jacket for the upper deck. If you get seasick easily, consider motion-sickness medicine (boat rides on the river are mostly smooth, but some people feel it). Children often love this outing; if bringing a toddler (under 2), they ride free but must sit on your lap. Packs or bags should be small, as large luggage isn’t permitted onboard . You can bring a small backpack or tote with essentials (diapers, snacks, camera) but don’t overpack. Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed, so grab a bite in Midtown or wait for the snack bar on the boat.
**Age Restrictions and Policies:** There is no formal dress code – most people dress casually. Flip-flops and shorts in summer, jeans and sweaters in fall/winter. Smoking is banned on the boat and on the pier. Alcohol is sold onboard (beer/wine), but obviously no one under 21 can legally drink. Children under 16 should be supervised by an adult at all times. Pets are not permitted, except service animals in training (with backup documentation). All passengers (including infants) need a ticket (infants on laps are free, but you must still “buy” a ticket and present it for boarding).
**Common Pitfalls:** The most common mistake is confusing Pier 83 with Pier 16 (the South Street Seaport terminal). These are far apart (downtown vs. Midtown). Always double-check which one your ticket says. Also, arriving late is a problem – once the boat is closing doors, late stragglers won’t be let on. If you’re coming by subway, be mindful that the stops on 42nd Street can be up to a mile apart; Port Authority (A/C/E) is closer than Times Square (1/2/3/7/N/Q/R) despite what GPS might imply. Many newbies walk the wrong way! Check a map and consider an M42 bus if it’s a long walk. Lastly, be mindful of the weather. Rainy days can leave upper decks empty – and the indoor cabin can fill fast – so dress accordingly or carry a raincoat.
**Insider Tips:** If taking photos, try to time a walk outside on deck during the cruise (crew may not mind mid-journey). If you have an hour before a 2-hour cruise, you can often see Circle Line schedule boards by the pier entrance to double-check your boat. Crew often take group photos at boarding time that you can pre-order if you want them. If you like music, note that the boats do not have a DJ or live band – it’s all narrated cruise experience. Some guests like to play quiet music from their phones with headphones. Finally, if you plan to explore Hudson River Park after your cruise, the pier connects to a waterfront promenade that goes north and south – it’s a beautiful park space if you have extra time in the neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of events take place at Pier 83 Midtown?
Pier 83 isn’t used for concerts or stadium events. Its main “events” are boat cruises. Circle Line sightseeing tours, private boat charters, and theme cruises (like holiday lights tours or fireworks cruises) all depart from here. Aside from these water excursions, Pier 83 has no live performances. It functions as the launch point for harbor tours, not as a concert venue.
How do I buy tickets for a cruise at Pier 83?
You can buy tickets online in advance through the Circle Line website, which is recommended especially in peak season. Pier 83 also has a ticket booth on-site (usually open mid-morning to afternoon). However, last-minute walk-up tickets are not guaranteed on busy days. To ensure you get the cruise and time you want, we advise booking early. Same-day box office hours are roughly 10:00 AM–6:00 PM on weekdays (weekend hours vary) .
How much do Pier 83 tickets cost?
Pricing depends on the type of cruise. Shorter rides (e.g. Statue of Liberty Harbor tours) start around $25–$30 for an adult. Longer sightseeing cruises range from about $35 up to $50 or so. Evening or specialty cruises (e.g. holiday lights) may be slightly higher. There is an extra charge (about $20–$25) for upgraded “Premier” front-deck seating. Child tickets are cheaper (often half off, with toddlers under 2 riding free on an adult’s lap). Again, check the official site for current rates before booking.
Where is Pier 83 exactly and how do I get there?
Pier 83 is at West 42nd Street and 12th Avenue, on Manhattan’s west side. The easiest subway stop is 42nd Street–Port Authority (A, C, E trains at 8th Ave); from there walk west to the piers. You can also take the M42 crosstown bus (westbound) straight across 42nd Street to 12th Ave. Another subway option: the 1 train at 50th/Broadway, then a short taxi or bus. If coming by ferry, NY Waterway’s Midtown stop (Pier 79 at West 39th) is a 4-block walk south. By car, set GPS to “83 W 42nd St” and turn off the West Side Highway at 42nd Street (or exit the Lincoln Tunnel and head west).
Is there parking at Pier 83?
Direct parking at Pier 83 is very limited. There is a private Circle Line lot at 559 12th Avenue (north of 42nd Street) with ~300 spaces, but it charges premium rates (around $40 for a couple of hours) . Most people use nearby parking garages in Hell’s Kitchen (on West 42nd–44th between 9th & 10th Ave); expect to pay roughly $20–$30 for a short stay. Metered street parking on 12th Ave is scarce; if you find a meter get there early. Rideshares or subways are generally easier than parking for most pier visitors.
Which subway trains go to Pier 83?
The nearest station is 42nd St–Port Authority (A/C/E lines) . From there it’s about a 10-minute walk west. You can also take the M42 crosstown bus along 42nd Street to 12th Ave. If you come in on the east side (e.g. 4/5/6 or N/Q/R/W trains at Times Square–42nd), you can transfer at Times Square to the M42 bus or walk about half a mile west across Manhattan. Another option is the 1 train to 50th St–Broadway and connect via the M50 bus (49th St Weekday) to 12th Ave.
What is the seating layout on Circle Line boats?
Circle Line’s boats have multiple decks. On newer boats you’ll find three levels (two enclosed decks and one open-air deck on top), and on older ships two decks. Seating is unassigned except in the “Premier” section, which is the front-upper row. General passengers can sit anywhere or move around. The uppermost deck offers open-air seating for great views (but it can be windy). Indoor decks have booths and tables behind large windows. If you want prime photospots, try to board early to claim a front seat on the top deck. Otherwise, any seat on deck gives a view, just remember the river breeze can be cold.
Is Pier 83 wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Pier 83 has a gently sloping ramp onto the boats. The gangways are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters . All Circle Line boats have at least one accessible restroom and first-level seating for mobility devices. Guests with mobility impairments can board the boat as long as a companion helps them. If in doubt, mention anything needed when booking or upon arrival so staff can assist.
Can I bring food or drink to Pier 83 cruises?
Outside food and beverages are generally not allowed on board Circle Line boats. They have snack bars and a bar serving water, soda, beer, wine and light snacks. You may bring items like a small water bottle or a sandwich if needed, but large coolers or full meals are discouraged. It’s safer to grab a bite nearby (there are plenty of restaurants in the area) and then enjoy drinks on the boat if you wish. Smoking is prohibited on the boat and on the pier.
Are children allowed on Pir 83 cruises, and do they need tickets?
Yes, families are welcome. Every person of any age must have a “ticket” (even infants) to enter, though children under 2 ride free on a lap. (Strictly speaking, get a toddler ticket and show it, but it costs $0). Strollers are allowed and can be taken on board – though during busy boarding you may have to fold them and bring them through one at a time. For some children’s tours or events, Circle Line may have age restrictions (for example, if there is alcohol served). Always check individual cruise rules if you’re traveling with very young kids, but generally Pier 83 cruises are family-friendly.
What restrooms and facilities are available?
Restrooms are available only on the boats, not on the pier itself. Each deck of the ship has a public restroom (signs will point you to them). The piers in Manhattan’s west side park area are mostly open space without many indoor facilities. If you need to use a restroom before boarding, there are some at nearby restaurants or in the Port Authority Bus Terminal (about 3 blocks away). Once on your cruise ship, you are free to move to those onboard restrooms at any time.
What should I wear to a Pier 83 cruise?
Dress casually and in layers. Mornings and evenings on the river can be chilly, even in summer, so bring a light jacket or sweater. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip (decks can get wet). There is no formal dress code; people wear anything from shorts and flip-flops to khakis and polos. If you plan to spend most of the time outdoors on deck, a hat and sunglasses are useful. Rain gear (like a poncho or raincoat) is a good idea if the forecast shows showers. The main advice is: wear something weather-appropriate, since you’ll be exposed to the elements on the boat.
Does Pier 83 host any concerts or outdoor performances?
No. Pier 83 has not been used for concerts or large events; it’s primarily a cruise terminal. If you’ve seen Concerts or shows listed at “Pier 83,” those are usually incorrect or very rare. All programming here revolves around the water – sightseeing cruises, educational tours, and seasonal boat events. If you’re interested in live music by the water, nearby Pier 57 or Pier 17 might have concerts, but Pier 83 itself keeps to its sightseeing niche.
How early should I arrive before my cruise departs?
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Check-in and boarding often starts early, and lines can form. Arriving 20–30 minutes ahead of time ensures you have time to locate the ticket office (if needed) and find the correct boat. In high season or on holiday weekends, people line up even earlier. If you show up just a few minutes before sailing, you risk missing the boat, as the ramp closes shortly before departure.
Can I board Pier 83 cruises with a stroller or baby carrier?
Yes, strollers and carriers are allowed. If you bring a stroller, the crew will usually ask you to fold it or keep it compact during boarding. Most people then wheel it onto the decks and reopen it in an area that’s out of the way. The boats have space for families. If your baby is in a carrier or sling, that’s fine too. Just know that you’ll have to handle the stroller during any boarding or disembarking stops, and children under 2 need to be on a lap (they don’t require a separate seat).
Is smoking allowed at Pier 83 or on the boats?
No, smoking is strictly prohibited on the boats and on Pier 83 itself. All areas are designated smoke-free. If you need to smoke, you should do so off the pier before boarding or after you return, but definitely not during the cruise or on the dock.