Everything you need to know before your charter on New York Harbor — your yacht, your route, your timing, your dock. Read what's helpful, skip what isn't. Text or call me anytime with questions.
Anchors away,
Captain Amal SalamehFounder · Big Apple Charters
First — thank you for choosing Big Apple Charters. You could have picked any boat company in New York. The fact that you chose us means a lot, and I'll make sure it's reflected in every minute of your time on the water.
What this guide is.
This is your private pre-trip portal — everything you need to know before stepping aboard. Tabs along the top cover arrival, your yacht, the route, food and drinks, what to wear, photo and music coordination, and answers to every question I'm typically asked.
If something isn't covered, text or call me — that's what I'm here for. No question is too small, and I'd much rather you ask than wonder.
A note on the experience.
Big Apple Charters isn't a boat rental company. We're a hospitality brand that delivers Nautical New York experiences. From the moment you arrive at Chelsea Piers to the moment you step off, every detail is handled and every guest is hosted — never processed.
Service is delivered naturally, never fake. Luxury is defined by ease, not excess. You should feel taken care of the entire time.
Three things worth knowing.
i.The boat leaves on time. Plan to arrive at Pier 59 about 15 minutes before your boarding time so we can get you settled, hand out life jackets, and depart on schedule.
ii.Bring whatever you want. Your own food, your own drinks, your own playlist, your own decorations. Just keep an eye on glass and red wine on a moving boat (we have champagne flutes and tumblers if you need them).
iii.If anything changes, I'll know first. Weather, water conditions, anything. You'll hear from me directly with any updates — usually well before the day of your charter.
★★★★★
"Going under the Brooklyn Bridge was iconic. Amal and her crew could not have been better. We cannot wait to come back again."
— Tiffany K. · Past Guest
Getting To The Pier
Arrival at Chelsea Piers.
Chelsea Piers is at the west edge of Manhattan, on the Hudson River. Pier 59 is the southernmost active pier in the complex. Here's everything you need to find us on the first try.
Dock Address
59 Chelsea Piers
New York, NY 10011
Pier Number
Pier 59
Hudson River at W 18th St
Closest Subway
14th St & 8th Ave
A, C, E, L · 8-min walk west
Parking
Chelsea Piers Lot
On-site at Pier 60 entrance
By Uber or taxi
Tell your driver "Pier 59 at Chelsea Piers" or "59 Chelsea Piers." The entrance is on the west side of the West Side Highway near W 18th Street. Driver should pull into the Chelsea Piers complex through the entrance — there's a security booth and they'll point you to the right pier.
If your driver looks confused, the Chelsea Piers Sports Center / Pier 60 entrance is the most recognized landmark. From there, walk south one pier to Pier 59.
By subway or walk-up
The closest stations are 14th St & 8th Ave (A, C, E, L lines) or 23rd St & 8th Ave (C, E lines). From either, head west toward the Hudson River — about 8-10 minutes on foot.
You'll cross the West Side Highway via a pedestrian crossing. The entrance to Chelsea Piers is immediately on your right after crossing.
If you're driving yourself
Chelsea Piers has a paid parking lot. Enter at the main complex entrance at W 17th Street and the West Side Highway. The garage is just past the security booth. Bring your ticket to the dock — sometimes we can validate.
Street parking is available on West Side Highway service roads but is competitive, especially on weekends and summer evenings. If your party is large, ride-share is easier.
Where Exactly To Stand
Once you're inside the Chelsea Piers complex, walk to Pier 59 (the southernmost pier). Look for the Big Apple Charters yacht — you'll see [YACHT NAME] at the dock. I'll be there waiting for you about 15 minutes before your boarding time, and I'll wave you down.
If you can't find me.
Call my cell directly: 212-401-4031. I'll talk you in to the pier from wherever you are — it happens, especially for first-time visitors to Chelsea Piers. No stress, no apology needed.
Your Vessel
Aboard [YACHT NAME].
A quick orientation to the yacht you'll be aboard — what's onboard, what's provided, and what's worth knowing before you step on.
Hudson Star · the flagship.
Your Vessel
Hudson Star
Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS · Our flagship vessel
38 ft
Length
Up to 12
Guests
3+ hrs
Min Charter
Cushioned bow seating with skyline views
Spacious aft (back) lounge area
Indoor cabin with seating & restroom
Bluetooth sound system — bring your playlist
Refrigerator & coolers for your food and drinks
Champagne flutes, wine glasses, tumblers available
Ice provided · USB charging
Coast Guard certified · life vests for every guest
Manhattan Mermaid · intimate luxury.
Or Your Vessel
Manhattan Mermaid
Intimate luxury · Up to 8 guests
Sleek
Profile
Up to 8
Guests
3+ hrs
Min Charter
Supple tan leather seating throughout
Bow views designed for skyline-facing seating
Sunset-ready ambient lighting
Bluetooth audio · USB charging
Refrigerator & ice provided
Glassware available — flutes, wine, tumblers
Coast Guard certified · life vests for every guest
Perfect for proposals, anniversaries, intimate celebrations
The Skyline · larger gatherings.
Or Your Vessel
The Skyline
For larger gatherings · expansive deck space
Spacious
Layout
Larger
Groups
3+ hrs
Min Charter
Expansive open deck for cocktail-style mingling
Full skyline-facing seating arrangement
Bluetooth audio · USB charging throughout
Refrigerator & ice provided
Glassware available — flutes, wine, tumblers
Indoor restroom · climate-controlled cabin
Coast Guard certified · life vests for every guest
Built for corporate events, milestone birthdays, family reunions
What's onboard for you.
◇Glassware: champagne flutes, wine glasses, tumblers, plastic ware
◇Ice: provided, plus an ice bucket
◇Refrigerator: for your food & drinks
◇Sound system: Bluetooth — connect your phone, pick your playlist
◇Restroom: indoor cabin
◇Charging: USB ports throughout
◇Safety equipment: life vests, first aid kit, emergency communications
Where We're Going
The route.
Your charter route can be customized — here's the most popular route. We'll cover the most iconic NYC landmarks from the water, with time for photos at each. If you want to adjust the route, just text or call before your trip.
1
Departure
Chelsea Piers · Pier 59
We push off from the dock at your boarding time. Captain runs through a brief safety orientation — life vests, restroom, sound system, what to do if anyone gets seasick (rare, but it happens). Then we head south on the Hudson.
2
~15 Min In
Hudson Yards & Midtown Skyline
Heading south, you'll see Hudson Yards' Vessel and The Edge observation deck rising over the river. The midtown skyline opens up to your left — Empire State Building in the distance, the new buildings of West Chelsea closer in.
3
~25 Min In
Lower Manhattan & Financial District
The dramatic Financial District skyline opens up — One World Trade, the Oculus, the Goldman Sachs tower. From the water, the scale is something different than seeing it from land.
4
~35 Min In
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
We slow down and circle as close to Lady Liberty as the Coast Guard allows. You can see the contours of her face from the water. Ellis Island is right next door — the same approach millions of immigrants saw arriving in America.
5
~50 Min In
Brooklyn Bridge & South Street Seaport
East along Lower Manhattan, under the Brooklyn Bridge. Going under the bridge from the water is one of those moments that makes everyone reach for their camera at the same time. The South Street Seaport is right there.
6
Return
Return to Chelsea Piers
Heading back up the Hudson, you'll have a different view than the way down — golden hour skyline if you're on an evening cruise, sparkling lights if you're sailing later. We arrive back at Pier 59 right on schedule.
Want to customize?
Routes are flexible. We can spend more time near the Statue of Liberty for photos, extend toward the Verrazano Bridge, head further up the Hudson toward the George Washington Bridge, or stay close to the skyline if you want a tighter focus.
Just text me your preference a day or two before — I'll plan the captain's route around what matters most to you.
Hour By Hour
Your timeline.
Here's how a typical charter unfolds, with timing markers. Yours may vary slightly — but this gives you a feel for the rhythm of the trip.
1
15 Min Before
Arrive at Pier 59
Walk into Chelsea Piers, head to Pier 59. I'll be at the dock to greet you and your guests by name. We'll get coolers loaded, decorations set up if you brought any, and everyone settled before we push off.
2
Departure
Safety briefing & push off
Brief safety orientation — life vests, restroom location, how to use the sound system. Then we push off from the dock and head south on the Hudson. Everyone usually gathers at the bow for the first big skyline views.
3
First 30 Min
Cocktail hour aboard
Drinks start flowing, music comes on, guests find their favorite spots (bow seating, aft lounge, indoor cabin). This is when conversations start and people start really relaxing into the experience.
4
Midpoint
Lady Liberty & photos
We slow down and circle near the Statue of Liberty. This is the photo moment of the trip — everyone wants their pic with Lady Liberty. We can stay longer here if you'd like, or move on toward the Brooklyn Bridge.
5
~1 Hour In
Under the Brooklyn Bridge
For most guests, this is the second iconic photo moment — passing under the Brooklyn Bridge from the river side. Look up. Nobody's ready for how it looks from below.
6
Last Hour
Sunset, dinner, or special moment
Depending on your charter — this is when sunset hits (if you're on an evening cruise), when dinner gets served (if you brought catering), or when the proposal happens (if you planned one). We adjust the boat's position to give you the best backdrop.
7
Final 20 Min
Northbound cruise back
Heading back to Chelsea Piers along the Hudson. Whether it's golden hour or after dark, the city looks different from the way down — give yourself a moment to take it in before we dock.
8
Return
Dock at Pier 59
We arrive back at Chelsea Piers on schedule. I'll help everyone off the boat, hand back any belongings, and walk you to the exit. Most guests don't want to leave — we hear "can we book again right now?" almost every trip.
Want To Extend?
If you're loving it and want more time on the water, ask me at the start of the trip. Depending on what's booked after you, I can often add 30-60 minutes. Easier to ask early than to scramble at the end.
Food & Beverage
Food & drinks.
Bring whatever you'd like aboard — or let us arrange catering through our preferred partners. Either way works. Here's how to plan.
Bring your own.
This is what most guests do — and it works great. Bring your own food, drinks, decorations, even a custom cake. We provide the refrigerator, ice, ice bucket, and glassware (champagne flutes, wine glasses, tumblers). No corkage fee, no minimums, no headache.
Pack tip: Hard-sided coolers work better than soft on a boat. Pre-cut anything that needs cutting (we have limited prep space). And red wine in plastic cups is wise — even calm seas have some motion.
Let us cater.
I work with several incredible NYC caterers who deliver right to the dock. Anything from a curated cheese board and crudité to a full multi-course chef-driven meal aboard. Pricing varies by caterer.
If you'd like me to coordinate: text or email me your guest count, dietary considerations, and the kind of vibe you're going for (casual graze, formal dinner, dessert & champagne). I'll send you 2-3 options the same day.
Popular setups.
— Cocktail Hour —
Curated cheese & charcuterie board
Hard cheeses, soft cheeses, cured meats, dried fruits, nuts, honey, crackers · perfect for grazing
Champagne & oysters
Best for proposals, anniversaries, and quiet intimate cruises · feels celebratory but isn't heavy
Wine & antipasti
Mediterranean-style spread with olives, roasted vegetables, prosciutto, fresh bread, Italian wines
— Full Meal —
Pre-made dinner from your favorite NYC restaurant
Order takeout from your favorite spot · bring it aboard · we'll plate and serve · works for any cuisine
Chef-aboard experience
Through our catering partners · 3-5 course meal prepared dockside, served onboard · advance arrangement
Pizza party
Yes — pizza on a yacht is incredible · we'll arrange pickup from one of NYC's best pizzerias on your way
— Celebrations —
Custom cake delivery to the dock
Birthdays, engagements, anniversaries · I have favorite bakeries who deliver same-day · let me know the occasion
Champagne tower
A statement moment for engagements and major celebrations · arranged in advance
Drinks worth noting.
BYOB is welcome — beer, wine, spirits, anything legal. We don't sell alcohol aboard; we provide everything else.
Non-alcoholic: bring waters, sodas, sparkling water, mixers — we have ice and a fridge.
Pro tip: wine bottles are easier to manage than open bottles of liquor on a boat. If you're bringing cocktails, pre-batch them in pitchers or pre-mix in a thermos for easy pouring.
Weather & What To Wear
Weather & dress.
Dressing for a yacht is different than dressing for the city. A few principles make a big difference — here's everything worth knowing.
The weather rule.
On the water, it's always 5-10 degrees cooler than what your phone says — and the wind makes it feel cooler still. Even on warm summer evenings, guests are often surprised by how chilly it gets once we're cruising.
My recommendation: wear a layer you can take off easily. A light jacket or wrap in summer. A real coat in fall. Hat and gloves if you're booking us in shoulder season.
A proper coat — not just a sweater · the wind matters
Sunset
Layer up
Temperature drops fast as sun sets · plan for an extra layer
After Dark
Coat + hat
Even summer evenings get cool · the wind doesn't quit
Shoe guidance.
Non-marking, flat or low-heel shoes only. Stilettos can damage the deck and are genuinely dangerous on a moving boat. Sneakers, boat shoes, sandals, low wedges — all great. Heels — leave at home.
Pro tip: if you want to wear heels for photos at the dock, bring flats to wear aboard. You can switch as you board and switch back when we return.
Styling for photos.
If photos matter to you (proposal, engagement, wedding party, birthday), here are a few things that consistently photograph well on the water:
◇Solid colors photograph better than busy patterns
◇White, cream, navy, blush, sage — all pop against the water and skyline
◇Flowy fabrics work well in light breeze — too tight, and wind disappears them
◇Bring a backup hair tie or clip — Hudson wind is committed
If the weather looks rough.
I monitor weather constantly leading up to every charter. If conditions look unsafe, I'll reach out to you as early as possible to discuss options — usually a free reschedule to another available date.
Light rain doesn't cancel charters — we have the indoor cabin, and umbrellas are available. Lightning, dangerous wind, or unsafe seas do. Your safety is non-negotiable.
Your Party
Your guests.
A few things to communicate with your party before they arrive, plus how to handle special considerations.
The send-to-guests message.
Here's a message you can copy and send to your guests directly:
"Hi everyone — quick details for our yacht charter: meet at Pier 59 at Chelsea Piers (59 Chelsea Piers, NYC), arrive by [BOARDING TIME]. Closest subway is 14th & 8th. Bring a light jacket — it's always cooler on the water. Flat shoes only. Can't wait to see you!"
Customize the time and any details. This one paragraph answers 90% of guest questions.
Checklist for your guests.
Pier 59 address sent to everyone
Include cross-street and "Chelsea Piers" — drivers occasionally get confused without it
Arrival time confirmed
15 minutes before departure — anyone arriving after we push off has to wait for the next charter (we can't turn around)
Dress code mentioned
Light layer + flat shoes. Cooler on water than you'd expect.
My phone number shared
In case anyone gets lost finding the pier — 212-401-4031
Anyone with mobility considerations? Tell me in advance
Step from dock to boat is small but real — we can help anyone who needs it. Just give me a heads up.
Any seasickness concerns?
Hudson Harbor is generally calm — but if anyone is sensitive, Dramamine or wristbands are worth bringing. The indoor cabin helps too.
If you're planning a surprise.
Proposals, surprise birthdays, surprise anniversaries — I love these. Text me in advance with what's happening, when in the trip you want the "moment," and any specific request (specific song, specific spot, specific timing with the skyline).
I'll coordinate everything from my end — adjusting the boat's heading, timing the music cue, having champagne ready, even handing you the ring at the right moment if you don't want to be seen carrying it. I've done dozens of proposals. None have ever gone wrong.
Pets & special considerations.
Pets: Yes! Well-behaved dogs are welcome aboard. Let me know in advance so I can prep. Bring a leash and water bowl.
Kids: Yes — we love kids aboard. Life vests sized for children are available. The youngest guest we've safely hosted was 18 months old.
Mobility considerations: The step from dock to boat is small (~12 inches), but real. Anyone with mobility concerns — let me know in advance and we'll make boarding easy.
Pregnancy: Generally fine through second trimester. Third trimester, check with your doctor — the boat is stable, but Hudson chop can be unpredictable.
Memory-Making
Photos & music.
The two things that make every charter feel personal. Here's how to plan both — whether you want pro-level memories or just great phone photos.
Music — your playlist.
Our sound system is Bluetooth. Build your playlist in advance on Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music. The moment you board, connect your phone and you're the DJ.
Tips for a great yacht playlist:
◇Start mellow during boarding — guests are still settling
◇Build energy through the first hour — that's cocktail hour vibe
◇Have a "Statue of Liberty moment" track ready — something epic for that photo
◇Slower wind-down music for the return cruise
◇Build for the full charter duration — playlists running out mid-trip is awkward
Photos — phone vs pro.
Phone photos: Modern phones take incredible shots on the water. Best moments to capture: skyline at golden hour, Statue of Liberty close-up, group shot under the Brooklyn Bridge, candid laughter shots.
Professional photographer aboard: Some clients bring a photographer for proposals, milestone birthdays, or content creation. Yes, we welcome this — just let me know in advance so we can plan boarding and gear logistics.
Drone photography: Possible but tricky — NYC airspace restrictions are real. If you want drone shots, we'd need to plan timing and location carefully. Text me to discuss.
The perfect photo moments.
1.Dock arrival. Before you board — yacht in the background, smile.
2.Push-off shot. Standing at the bow, Manhattan skyline behind, hair in the wind. Classic.
3.Lady Liberty close-up. The photo your friends will share. We'll position the boat for it.
4.Under the Brooklyn Bridge. Look straight up. Take the shot. It's iconic for a reason.
5.Sunset skyline. If you're on an evening cruise, the golden hour skyline shot is unbeatable.
Want Me To Take The Photos?
Hand me your phone and I'll grab the group shots. I've taken thousands of yacht photos and I know exactly where to stand and what to frame. Just ask.
Common Questions
FAQ answered.
The questions I'm asked most often. If yours isn't here, text me directly.
If the weather is unsafe — lightning, dangerous wind, severe storms — I'll proactively contact you to reschedule at no charge. We'll find another available date that works. Light rain doesn't cancel charters; we have an indoor cabin and umbrellas. Your safety is the deciding factor, not your comfort with light weather.
The step from the dock to the boat is approximately 12 inches and the deck has some uneven surfaces. We can accommodate most mobility needs with advance planning — please let me know in advance so I can make boarding as smooth as possible. We've had guests in wheelchairs, on walkers, and with crutches. Just give me a heads up.
Hudson Harbor is generally calm, especially in summer evenings. Seasickness is rare. For anyone sensitive, we recommend Dramamine 30 minutes before boarding, ginger candies, or sea-sickness wristbands. The indoor cabin helps. If someone does feel ill, we have a private restroom and can return to the dock if needed.
Absolutely. BYOB is welcome — beer, wine, champagne, spirits. We provide ice, glassware, an ice bucket, and refrigeration. We don't sell alcohol aboard. Pace yourselves — you're on a boat.
Yes — our sound system is Bluetooth. Connect your phone via Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, or any other app. Build your playlist in advance so you're not searching when guests are aboard. The system handles full charter volume comfortably without losing audio quality.
There's a private marine restroom in the indoor cabin. It works like a regular toilet — push the foot pump after use. Toilet paper provided. It's not glamorous, but it's clean, private, and functional.
The boat departs at your scheduled boarding time. If a guest is significantly late, we have two options: (1) wait briefly if there's flexibility before the next charter, or (2) depart without them. Once we leave the dock, we can't turn back. Communicate clearly with guests about arrival time — and add a 15-minute buffer to your invite.
Often yes — if there's no charter booked immediately after yours, we can add 30-60 minutes for the standard hourly rate. Ask at the start of your trip rather than at the end so we have time to confirm availability.
Gratuity for the captain and crew is appreciated but not included in your charter fee. The standard for charter service is 15-20% of the charter cost. Cash is preferred; Venmo also works. It's never expected and always appreciated.
Yes — banners, balloons, table décor, signage. Just avoid confetti and glitter (they end up in the water, which we can't allow) and anything with open flames (candles). Tea lights and battery candles are great. Let me know if you need help setting up before guests arrive.
Your yacht is listed at the top of this page in the trip info bar. If you'd like to switch (subject to availability), text me — we have two vessels: the Hudson Star (up to 12 guests, our flagship) and the Manhattan Mermaid (up to 8 guests, more intimate).
Cancellation policy was provided in your booking confirmation. If you need to reschedule, contact me as far in advance as possible — we'll work together to find another date that works. Weather-related cancellations are always handled at no charge.
Direct Message · Text Only
Message Amal.
This is your direct line to Amal — a clean text thread tied specifically to your charter. She prefers text over phone for non-urgent questions: it gives both of you a written record, lets you message anytime, and keeps every detail of your trip in one organized place.
⚓
Your Charter
[GUEST FIRST NAME] · [YACHT NAME] · [DATE] at [TIME]
First — check the answer already in this guide.
Most questions are already answered in the tabs above. Jump to the most common spots:
Where's the pier?What to wear?Food & drinks?Telling my guests?All FAQs
Still need to ask? Send a message.
Your trip details are auto-attached so Amal knows exactly which charter you're asking about. Response within one business day — usually within an hour during operating hours.
⌚Timing
◇Food & Drinks
◆My Guests
☀Weather
✦Surprise / Special Request
♪Photos / Music
+Something Else
✆
Direct text to Amal
Your message goes straight to Amal's phone with your trip details attached. She typically responds within an hour during operating hours.
Already filled in — adjust if you'd like Amal to see a different name.
Pro tip: ask one clear question at a time. Easier for Amal to answer fast.
What happens next.
When you tap "Send," your phone opens its native messaging app with everything pre-filled — your trip details, the subject you selected, and your question. Just tap "Send" in your messaging app to fire it off.
Amal responds: within one business day; usually within an hour during operating hours. The conversation stays in your phone's text thread, giving both of you a clean written record of every detail.
Day-Of Emergency Only
If something is time-critical
The portal text thread is best for advance planning. For anything happening day-of your charter — running late, lost on the way to the pier, weather emergency, last-minute guest changes — call Amal directly.
Available during operating hours · For active charters, Amal will pick up immediately
Your Captain
About Amal.
The captain and founder behind Big Apple Charters — and the reason this won't feel like a generic boat rental.
AS
Amal Salameh
Founder & Captain · Big Apple Charters
Amal founded Big Apple Charters to share her love of New York's nautical magic with residents and visitors alike. What began with one boat grew into the city's leading private luxury yacht charter — by choosing integrity over shortcuts and hospitality over volume. Big Apple Charters is proudly woman-owned, headquartered at Chelsea Piers, and committed to raising the standard of the NYC charter industry. Her friends call her the "Charter Queen." Her guests just remember the night.
Woman-OwnedNYC's #1 RatedTournament FishermanChelsea Piers Local
A note about how I work.
I started this company because I wanted to change what yacht charters in New York could feel like. The industry was "dirty old boats and dirty old men" — beautiful vessels run with a transactional, indifferent attitude. My guests deserve better.
What that means in practice: I'm involved in every charter. I greet you at the dock. I know your guests' names. I read the room. I'll quiet down if you want intimacy, narrate if you want context, disappear into the background if you're celebrating something private. You define the mood. I match it.
Why this matters.
You're not just renting a boat. You're trusting me with a moment — a proposal, an anniversary, your daughter's birthday, your team's offsite, your one weekend in NYC. I take that seriously.
Every detail you'd expect is handled. Every detail you wouldn't expect is also handled. That's the difference between a yacht rental and a yacht experience.
★★★★★
"I surprised my boyfriend. He was kind of blown away. Amal made it perfect. The boat is beautiful. Amazing day. Thank you!"
— Jen W. · New York City
★★★★★
"Love. Love. Loved it! Did the movie night charter. Anchored by Lady Liberty, watched West Side Story on the big screen. What a summer night."
— Past Guest · New York City
★★★★★
"Credit to Amal and her crew. Our event was a hit and our team loved the experience. Top level service. Thank you!"
— Past Corporate Client
Reach Me Directly
Stay in touch.
For everything tied to your charter — questions, requests, changes, surprises — use the Message Amal tab. It keeps everything organized in one text thread and lets us both keep a clean record.
Primary channel.
The Message Amal tab is built exactly for this. Your trip details auto-attach to every message, so you never have to re-explain which charter, what date, or who you are. Most guests find their questions are already answered in the tabs above — start there, then message me what's left.
If this charter goes well (it will), and you want to book another one — proposals, birthdays, corporate events, sunset cruises — message me through this portal anytime after your trip. Past guests get priority booking and word-of-mouth referrals are how I've built this business.
See you at the dock.
Whatever you're planning — a quiet evening, a milestone celebration, a moment that needs to live in family memory forever — I'll meet you on Pier 59 with everything ready. You bring the people you love. I'll handle the rest.
