New York Seals and Bird Watching boat tour
On the New York seals and wildlife boat tour, you will leave the city and head for nature. In the winter months, sail towards the Swinburne and Hoffman Islands, which are home to many animals, including seals and birds. In the summer months, you can explore several islands in the East River which are full of different bird species. A guide will tell you more about the wildlife around New York along the way.
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Seal Watching in New York
On this seal tour, you’ll board a luxury yacht in 1920s style. Cruise past the Manhattan skyline, pass the Statue of Liberty and sail under the Verrazzano Bridge towards the open sea. Off the coast are two islands: Hoffman Island and Swinburne Island, which attract seals in winter and are a breeding ground for birds all year round.
Chances are, together with the guide and a pair of binoculars, you can spot a variety of different animals. Of course, they are animals, so it cannot be guaranteed whether you will actually see the animals. You will also see views of the New York coast, including the Statue of Liberty. After sailing around the islands, the boat returns towards Manhattan.
Practical Information
As seals can only be seen on Hoffman Island and Swinburne Island during the winter months, the cruise is only available during this period.
- Duration: about 2 hours and 45 minutes
- Departure point: Chelsea Piers
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Wildlife on the East River
On this sunset tour, you’ll sail on a yacht to spot birds. The boat leaves from Chelsea Piers and sails past Lower Manhattan under the Brooklyn Bridge, right onto the East River. Along the way, you can thus enjoy the skyline views. The yacht will visit Belmont Island, Roosevelt Island, Mill Rock and North and South Brother Islands. This is where many different bird species live during the summer. The guide will tell you all about New York and its animals along the way.
Practical Information
The chances of spotting many birds are greatest in summer, which is why this boat trip is only available during the summer months.
- Duration: about 3 hours
- Departure point: Chelsea Piers
Book the East River wildlife boat tour here
Explore nature around New York
With a nature guide on board, you will learn all about the flora and fauna around New York. You can sit inside and enjoy the view through the large glass windows on this nearly 3-hour boat trip, and you will also be offered a free drink and snack. If you need anything else, you can order it.
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