Cruising Through the Decades: Circle Line’s 80th Anniversary
Circle Line marks 80 years of iconic New York City sightseeing with nostalgic pricing, free cruises, new experiences on the Hudson, and community celebrations honoring eight decades of its beloved waterfront tours.
Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, a defining part of New York City’s skyline experience since 1945, is celebrating its 80th anniversary with a yearlong series of events, discounts, and fresh programming aimed at both visitors and longtime locals. The legendary cruise company announced today that the celebration will include everything from retro ticket pricing and commemorative giveaways to new evening cruises designed for today’s New Yorker.
Over the past 80 years, more than 85 million passengers have boarded Circle Line vessels to take in sweeping views of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan’s towering skyline. Now, the company is honoring that legacy with events that blend nostalgia with new ways to see the city from the water.
“For 80 years, Circle Line has been the ultimate front-row seat to New York City,” said Craig Kanarick, CEO of New York Cruise Lines. “We’re proud to have played a role in so many unforgettable moments, and we look forward to continuing that tradition for future generations.”
Among the most anticipated offerings is the Born in 1945 promotion, granting anyone also turning 80 this year a free cruise. Guests simply present a valid ID at Pier 83 or Pier 16 for a complimentary ticket to any daily sightseeing cruise.
The big anniversary bash will take place on June 14, Circle Line’s founding day, when the company will roll back the clock and offer its Best of NYC cruise for just $2.50 — the original 1945 ticket price. Passengers can expect 2.5 hours of vintage-inspired flair, complete with throwback uniforms, 1940s-era music, retro menus, and birthday surprises throughout the day.
“Circle Line is part of the city’s fabric,” said Alexis Melendez, Marketing Director for New York Cruise Lines. “Ask any local, and they’ll tell you about a field trip, a first date, a family visit — Circle Line holds a piece of New York memory for so many.”
In appreciation of the community that has supported them for eight decades, Circle Line is also introducing $20 Tuesdays — a discounted fare available all year for residents of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. The company is also inviting past passengers to share their personal memories on social media using the hashtag #OneTimeOnCircleLine, with select stories earning lifetime cruise passes.
Looking ahead, Circle Line is launching an all-new Sip ‘N Groove series — a midweek nighttime cruise experience starting this summer. Running on select Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings from June through August, the cruise will feature a live DJ, signature cocktails, and nighttime views of the illuminated skyline. It’s designed for birthdays, group outings, or anyone looking to unwind midweek with a one-of-a-kind view.
Eighty years after its first voyage, Circle Line continues to blend New York nostalgia with fresh perspectives — and its anniversary is shaping up to be one unforgettable ride.