I was able to do this for my birthday.   Its surrounded by glass so you get an amazing view of the city.   Its about 2.5 hours and we cruised right in front of the statue of liberty, but there are other itineraries to choose from.  Very elegant, with a band playing music.  If you are celebrating anything they put a card on your table and they sing for you.  The food was ok....not top notch if you are going for the food.  The rating are all for the scenery and the elegance of the boat.  Staff was very friendly.   It could have been a 5 star if the food and dessert was better.