NYC 4th of July Fireworks Cruises: See Macy's Fireworks from a Boat on the Hudson River

Every year around this time, we start getting emails from families asking for info on Fourth of July cruises in New York City. The idea of watching Macy’s Fireworks from a boat on the Hudson River sounds pretty awesome: You get amazing views of the star-spangled pyrotechnics and the city skyline, plus you don't have to battle the crowds like you do on land. But remember, once you're on the boat, if the kids get tired, restless or seasick, you can't leave.

We searched for the lowest cost Fourth of July fireworks cruises in NYC that welcome children. Here's what we found:

Circle Line – Midtown West
Departs Pier 83 at 42nd Street and the Hudson River
$89 per person
This 4-hour trip features a live DJ and dancing, plus food and drinks available for purchase.

City Sightseeing Cruises – Midtown West
Departs from Pier 78 at 38th Street and the Hudson River
$99 per person
NYC's newest tour operator is offering a similar outing: A 3½-hour harbor cruise with a live DJ and a cash bar for snacks and drinks.

NY Waterway – New Jersey
Departs from Weehawken
$100 for adults, $75 for children 4-11, free for kids under 4
Probably the best option for families in terms of price. And since all seats are on the top deck, everyone gets a great view. There will also be a live DJ and food and drinks for sale on board.

The American Princess – South Street Seaport
Departs from Pier 17 at the South Street Seaport
$100 per person
Families get sandwiches and soft drinks during this 4½-hour cruise. A cash bar is also available.

Sheryll Princess – Sheepshead Bay
Pier 8, Emmons Avenue and East 21st Street
Before June 23: $100 per person; after $125 per person
Extras include a complimentary buffet, dessert and a live DJ. A cash bar is also available.

Freedom Cruises – Sheepshead Bay
Pier 7, Emmons and Ocean Avenues
$135 for adults, $99 for children under 12
Hop on the Pink Lady and enjoy the fireworks, a buffet, beverages and a live DJ.

Water Taxi – South Street Seaport
Departs from Pier 17 at the South Street Seaport
$145 per person
Watch the sparklers from the deck of the yellow water taxi. The trip includes a boxed dinner with cookies and brownies for dessert. Beverages can be purchased from the bar.

Zephyr – South Street Seaport
Departs from Pier 16 at the South Street Seaport
$200 for adults, $125 for children under 12
Watch the fireworks from the Circle Line’s luxury yacht while enjoying hors d'oeuvres, a buffet dinner, a dessert bar and nonalcoholic beverages. Beer and wine will also be available for purchase.

Prefer to see Macy's Fireworks on land for free? Find out where to watch the Fourth of July fireworks in NYC and in New Jersey.