Tickets for New York Harbor Lights Cruise

As the sun goes down, the daylight gets redder and softer. Cinematographers call it 'magic hour'. In New York, it's also when the lights come on. The hypnotic effects of a skyline springing to life as the dark descends is thrilling. Witnessing it on a two-hour guided cruise through the waters of the city? Unforgettable.

Settle in for two hours of nautical sightseeing as twilight descends. Turns out the observation deck of the Empire State Building isn't necessarily the only romantic place in the city.

As your boat heads out into the harbor, passing the World Trade Center and Ellis Island, it approaches the feet of the mighty Statue of Liberty. After a photo stop, it motors on, passing under several bridges – including the Brooklyn Bridge – before stopping close enough for a glimpse of Roosevelt Island (the prison here is where Mae West once served eight days on public obscenity charges).

The boat turns around and you'll get a second dose of wonderful New York City views, including the Empire State Building, Manhattan's amazing waterfront and, of course, Lady Liberty.

After the tour, a night in New York is yours for the taking. Just make sure to plan something special – this is a tough act to follow.