While the sail was amazing (great winds the day we went), the business transaction was terrible. First off, we call the Shearwater to make a reservation (using our Go Pass). They tell us to book online and put in a credit card to reserve the date/time. So we do this. Then we check in at the dock on time. They scan our Go pass as we board and look at the reservation and tell us we are good to go (seems to me that the Go pass worked and we are good to go).
A week later I look at my credit card statement and see $110 FULL charge for two tickets? What gives? So I call. They tell me that the Go pass was not good for the "Sunset Sail" that we went on. Ok, then WHY would you scan the passes at the dock, and WHY wouldn't you tell the NYC tourist that your pass is only good for 50% off the full price unless you do a daytime sail??? Bait and switch? Not only this, but they didn't apply the 50% off to my the fee charged to my credit card. Basically, they scan the go pass so they can charge the GO pass people, but not give the user ANYTHING. They shouldn't have even needed to scan the pass, and a good employee would say, you can't use the pass for the sunset cruise at that moment. Not AFTER you look at your credit card a week later.
So I looked at the delta in the pricing for a sunset sail and a daytime or city lights cruise. The sunset cruise is SHORTER and costs $5 more than the daytime cruise. So basically, they get people on the fact that it is peak demand and that they THINK they get the sunset cruise included when really it isn't.
Could have been a great cruise and experience, but was ruined by poor customer support and staff. Very disappointed and would...
Read moreWhen we visit cities built on the sea side, we always go for a boat or ferry trip. This was a very enjoyable and relaxing one. We got upgraded for free to the sunset sail, after the larger sister clipper broke earlier in the day. The staff were really friendly and professional. They keep you safe but make sure you have fun, and pretty much let you take photos all over the boat. It sails close to the Statue of Liberty, gives a nice view of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge - and we enjoyed an awesome red sunset. You can bring your own food on board (Shake Shack :) and they have a good selection of drinks. I would heartily recommend this trip, it definitely leaves a happy memory. One thing to watch out for - the Google Map location is exactly correct but on their own leaflet it points to the other side of the marina, which resulted in a bewildered sprint for us, and should be made more accurate! (FYI, if you do go on the bigger sister ship, you can get a 25% discount using the Smart Destinations "build your own" city pass, but it's not available for...
Read moreTHIS SHOULD BE ON YOUR NYC MUST DO LIST! Sailing the Hudson on the historic 1929 Shearwater Schooner is an unforgettable experience. Beautiful skyline views, Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are all checked off the list; but what sets it apart is the personable crew. Captain Allen, Madeline, Trevor and Gavi extend BEST IN CLASS genuine hospitality. Cold beverages, wine and beer are available for your enjoyment and are a nice touch to one of the most relaxing, romantic and chillest sails I’ve ever been on. Excellent for small groups or couples and especially if celebrating a special occasion. I was celebrating my 50th birthday and was recognized with a complimentary round from the crew which I’ll never forget. You can even stand on the bowsprit!!!!! The schooner is immaculate, extremely well kept and they share its storied history protecting our waters during WWII. Be sure to arrive at least 5 minutes early to check in as the sail sets off promptly. FORGET the other sails and choose the Shearwater for an amazing experience….you will not be disappointed,...
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