Choices abound for boat trips off Manhattan. They are fun and easy—great for a different view of this magnificent city.  If you like architecture and design, I’d suggest the Architecture Boat Tour that goes all the way around Manhattan.  It’s a great way to get a perspective of the city and the many spectacular buildings and bridges.

 It departs from the Chelsea Piers, not too far from the High Line.  Would be nice to combine with a walk on the High Line, a visit to the Chelsea Market and maybe dinner or drinks at the Standard Hotel or one of the super trendy watering holes in the Meatpacking District nearby.

I was amazed with how big Manhattan is. You travel around the whole island while an architect describes what you are seeing and the history. Some of the old  buildings are a real contrast to the shiny new ones.

 It’s a little like the Architecture Boat tour of Chicago which I also recommend.  Very different experience but both are fun. Click here to read about that tour.

I loved going under the bridges. This tour is a terrific way to see the Statue of Liberty.

 I also enjoyed seeing some of the other boats.  Yachts. Sailboats. Water Taxi.  Even the NYPD  boat. A fun sight was the Music Barge.  We enjoyed a lovely evening on it a couple of years ago.

 There are some surprises and areas of the city now on my list to explore.  Like the huge golf driving range.  And a lively dock where the Frying Pan restaurant is located.  Great for a water view fix.

 We learned about the wooden water tanks on top of the buildings.  You might think they are relics of the  past but most are in use today.     If you are interested in learning more about them, click on this link.  You will be fascinated.  

 It was interesting to hear the story of this tiny light house under the George Washington Bridge. It is the only remaining lighthouse on Manhattan Island.  It was made famous by a book called The Little Red Lighthouse written by Hildegarde H. Swift in 1942.  For more details about this delightful New York landmark, click here. 

As always,  I love capturing the reflections in the water.

And this billboard expressed my feeling about the day.