Circle Line’s The Beast Speedboat Ride: My Honest Review

Okay, so you are thinking about seeing New York from the water, but maybe you want more of an exciting adventure than just your usual, laid-back boat tour, right? I think a speedboat ride on Circle Line’s “The Beast” might be just what you are looking for. It’s almost a rollercoaster on the water, but with pretty sweet views of the city. I will tell you about my experience, along with all the tips that I wish I would have known before I went.

What Is ‘The Beast’ Anyway?

Circle Line, that is that famous sightseeing cruise company in New York, operates “The Beast.” So, basically, it’s a custom-built speedboat that roars out into the Hudson River and really gives you one heck of a ride. Don’t be fooled that it’s just about zipping through the water, though; the views of the Manhattan skyline really are spectacular, but you are seeing them at warp speed, if that makes any sense. “The Beast” sure is an amusing change from the slower sightseeing cruises and offers a totally different perspective of the city.

My Wild Ride on ‘The Beast’

We actually got to Pier 83, where Circle Line operates its cruises, more or less like, a half-hour early to find our tickets and maybe grab some sunscreen—totally needed. You know, the anticipation was kind of up in the air; you are surrounded by people also wondering just how soaked they are likely to get. Anyway, before we went, the crew really hyped things up, playing music and getting everyone amped. That really built excitement. After everybody was safely onboard and had stored their stuff in those handy dry bags they gave us, that boat took off!

The captain, very much a character, pushed “The Beast” to its limits very quickly. I think we reached about 45 mph out there! The turns were quick, and the spray from the water, it was totally refreshing on such a summer day. We sped south toward the Statue of Liberty and really zipped past a lot of the piers and got a thrilling view of the skyline. It actually felt like being on a fast-paced chase scene from, like, a movie.

What stood out too is the great view of the city. Even though you’re, like, rushing, you still get these flash moments to take in the huge buildings and busy waterfront. I even spotted a few familiar places and waved, even if nobody would have seen me, or so I thought. The ride back was just as fun, and the whole trip only took about half an hour. That was just the right amount of thrill.

Who Should Take ‘The Beast’ for a Spin?

I’d actually say if you love thrills, or so you’re someone that likes something different to see the city, this ride could be, very special for you. It is really great for families with teenagers, too, since it gives a surge of adrenaline. But, that is that I wouldn’t take really small children, since it gets really bumpy, and people with back problems probably ought to skip it too. This isn’t exactly a narrated tour, either; this is pure fun with a little bit of sightseeing sprinkled on the side.

Tips for Maximizing Your ‘Beast’ Experience

• Book Your Tickets Early: “The Beast” is really super popular, very. I think that booking your tickets online well in advance, especially during tourist season, would be smart.
• Dress Appropriately: You might be surprised to learn that you are going to get wet! Dressing in something quick-drying is a great idea. I would skip wearing anything you would hate to get drenched.
• Protect Your Valuables: They give out dry bags, that is that which is fantastic for your phone and such, but I might still think about leaving anything super expensive at home.
• Arrive Early: Getting to Pier 83 a little before your scheduled departure lets you find seats that are ideal, too.
• Check the Weather: They might call it off in very bad weather. It could be good to check before you go.
• Embrace the Fun: Honestly, just enjoy yourself! Yell, laugh, and take in those wonderful sights of the city.

Is ‘The Beast’ Worth It?

For someone looking for a unique twist, a bit, on NYC sightseeing, definitely, that would be what I’d say. Sure, this ride can be over so fast, and it’s possibly a bit pricey for, very little time, but the joy of really blasting through the water with the skyline whizzing by, well, that’s really something special, is that not right? If you consider that a boat tour is almost half a day, it really isn’t bad. You know, I still smile just thinking about how wild and crazy that ride was!