The fireworks display on the 4th of July is always an exhilarating part of Independence Day celebrations. Many towns treat their residents to fireworks shows, which are nice events to enjoy locally with friends and family. However, none of these shows can compare to the Macy’s extravaganza on the East River in New York City. While you can watch it on TV, witnessing it in person is a popular Bucket List item. A great way to view this spectacular show is from the water, and one of the best ways to do so is by taking a cruise offered by NY Waterway. We took such a cruise, and I can confidently say that the four-hour-plus experience is worth every penny. Make sure to book it next year.

Our cruise departed from Port Imperial in Weehawken and sailed south on the Hudson River, offering breathtaking views of the New York City skyline. We smoothly sailed past some of NYC’s most famous landmarks, including the Empire State Building, Hudson Yards, Little Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, the World Trade Center, and, of course, the iconic Statue of Liberty. The ship left around 7 pm, giving us ample time to relax, enjoy drinks, listen to the DJ’s music, and witness the sunset over Manhattan and its magnificent waterfront.

As the night fell, our captain positioned the boat steadily around the Empire State Building, offering us a front-row view of the spectacle. Around 9:15 pm, the sky exploded with dazzling fireworks launched from five barges floating on the East River right in front of us.

It truly was an incredible experience that cannot be compared to the televised show. You can click here for a clip of the fireworks display. Make sure to gather your friends and family for the next Independence Day and also keep an eye out for NY Waterway‘s other summer and fall sails on the Hudson River.