Sea the City invites you to trade sidewalks for salt spray and discover New York from its most exhilarating vantage point—the water. Founded by lifelong New Yorker Adam Schwartz, this locally owned company has guided more than fif...
This outfit delivers genuinely thrilling NYC sightseeing from the water, and reviewers consistently rave about how it ranks among their best-ever city experiences. The guides—Curtis, Ruth, Jack, and others—earn special praise for being welcoming, safety-conscious, and patient with first-timers. They'll take great photos at landmarks, match your pace if you're going slower, and provide clear instructions that make even complete beginners feel comfortable. Beyond jet skis, they also offer unique hot tub boat experiences where the crew keeps drinks flowing and captures special moments for groups celebrating birthdays and bachelorettes. First-time riders should know that upper body strength helps, especially on windier days when waves get larger, though guides remind you that going faster actually makes it easier. You'll likely get wet, so dress accordingly or bring a change of clothes. The adrenaline rush of zipping past the Statue of Liberty and around Manhattan at full speed is unforgettable, with multiple visitors calling it unlike anything else they've done in New York. The whole operation runs smoothly from arrival through departure, making everyone feel like the experience is both exhilarating and safe.
went on the Sea the City tour for my birthday, and I just want to give a quick heads-up for anyone who experiences motion sickness or gets seasick—be mindful of what you eat or drink beforehand. Unfortunately, I was too nauseous to fully enjoy the experience, but I have to say the crew was incredibly kind, professional, and accommodating. They were very understanding about the situation, checked in on me, and even offered to dock and give me time to recover or see if we could move closer to the city. Even though I couldn’t continue due to how I was feeling, they handled everything with so much care and patience. That level of customer service really stood out to me. I’d definitely recommend booking with them, and I hope to try the experience again on a better day.
Jada Williams
March 24, 2026
went on the Sea the City tour for my birthday, and I just want to give a quick heads-up for anyone who experiences motion sickness or gets seasick—be mindful of what you eat or drink beforehand. Unfortunately, I was too nauseous to fully enjoy the experience, but I have to say the crew was incredibly kind, professional, and accommodating. They were very understanding about the situation, checked in on me, and even offered to dock and give me time to recover or see if we could move closer to the city. Even though I couldn’t continue due to how I was feeling, they handled everything with so much care and patience. That level of customer service really stood out to me. I’d definitely recommend booking with them, and I hope to try the experience again on a better day.
Jada Williams
March 24, 2026