A BRUNCH CRUISE WITH HORNBLOWER NEW YORK

You may not expect that a stormy day in February was the perfect time to celebrate Valentine’s Day, especially on a yacht in the Hudson River. However, despite the foul weather we found ourselves having a pleasant time aboard Hornblower New York’s brunch cruise.

As we were ushered to our table, we were greeted with a chilled bottle of champagne and carafe of orange juice. Each section of the yacht had a waiter and we knew we were in good hands when ours consistently came by to make sure our ice bucket was well stocked.

With my impeccably poured mimosa in hand, we headed to the food tables to discuss our plan of attack. This was an unlimited brunch after all, and strategically tasting all the food was a necessity.

At the back of the vessel was a hot buffet featuring lunch and breakfast items, a DIY omelet and waffle station, and a yogurt parfait and pastry table for those looking for lighter fare. The highlight of the menu was a chocolate fondue fountain featuring a plethora of dippers!

The cruise was perfect for both friends and couples as it alleviated all the stress of planning a Valentine’s celebration. It had everything you could possibly want: delicious food, bottomless mimosas, a liquor bar, live music, dancing and gorgeous views of Manhattan.

Throughout the two-hour trip, we circled Lower Manhattan taking in the iconic skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The band knew Lady Liberty was a prime photo opportunity and played ‘New York, New York’ by Frank Sinatra as the yacht lingered nearby. It was classic New York and surreal at the same time.

As the cruise came to a close, everyone was having such a good time we could have stayed for hours; in fact, many guests postponed disembarking as long as they could (as did we!). All good things must come to an end.  

If you missed this cruise; Hornblower has sails every week. If you jump at any chance to see Manhattan from the water you’ll love this experience! Check out their site and head to Pier 40. New York is always better from the water.

Lindsey Messenger is a graphic designer by day, and a travel and adventure blogger running the site Seven Day Weekender. She is a contributing travel and local experience writer.

We were invited guests of Hornblower Cruises, however, our opinions are our own.