Let’s face it: Between kids, work, family, your many obligations, and the day-to-day shuffle that parenting brings, there’s not much time left for you and the love of your life. But according to Tricia Stephens, LCSW, a psychotherapist practicing in Manhattan, “When parents schedule time for themselves they send a clear message that they value the other person and prioritize their relationship even after children enter the picture.” Stephens says that date night can make a couple more effective parents and foster a sense of support for each other. And since New York is the perfect backdrop for romance, there’s no need to go very far for some time alone. Offering fine dining, live music, and the sights of the city, cruising on the city’s public dinner yachts is a great way to take a vacation from the chaos-even if just for a night. 
The cruising experience is very much like dining in a traditional restaurant, except with panoramic views of Manhattan and its landmark bridges, the New Jersey waterfront, a breathtaking close-up view of the Statue of Liberty, and a live DJ and dancing thrown into the mix. Each yacht has a different floor plan, layout, and décor, yet all have climate controlled indoor dining levels so you can cruise all year long. Some offer an outdoor observation deck only while others utilize the space for dancing in the warmer months. Cruises typically last for 3 hours, and include traditional dining or a buffet, as well as a full drink menu. Check out our top picks:
World Yacht
Where: World Yacht Marina, Pier 81, West 41st Street at the Hudson River
When: Year-round, check the website for schedules
How much: $85-$111.25
For more information: 212-630-8100 or www.worldyacht.com
Bateaux New York
Where: Pier 61 at Chelsea Piers on West 23rd Street at the Hudson River
When: Year-round, check the website for schedules
How much: $35-$160 per person
For more information: 866-817-3463 or www.bateauxnewyork.com
Spirit of New York
Where: Pier 61 at Chelsea Piers on West 23rd Street at the Hudson River
When: Year-round, check the website for schedules
How much: $35-$160 per person
For more information: 866-483-3866 or www.spiritofnewyork.com
City Lights Cruises
Where: Cruises depart from two locations: the New York Skyport Marina, (East River at East 23rd Street and FDR Drive) and the South Street Seaport, (East River at Fulton Street and South Street, Pier 17)
When: Year-round, check the website for schedules
How much: $79.95 per person
For more information: 212-822-8880 or www.citylightscruises.com
