The Coronavirus has hit New York City hard. Our city is one of the hardest-hit, rendering frozen and ghost town-like what is usually the most exciting city in the world. People are staying home from work, cancelling plans with friends or long-distance trips, and almost completely cutting down their monthly shopping expenditures to save up and hunker down.

Social distancing is one of our most powerful tools against getting infected, even though New York City has seen some of the worst of the Coronavirus epidemic. But when we come on the other side of this crisis - and we absolutely will - life will thankfully spring back into action for the millions self-isolating in their homes.

Thank you frontline workers!

But there’s one group of people who are making it safe for us - frontline workers. Medical staff, law enforcement, social and mental health services, and so many more (let’s not forget the EMTs and sanitation staff as well) are putting their lives on the line to heal the sick and save as many lives as possible. 

While we all have a part to play, it’s these heroes who are showing up to work every day - often for more days and longer hours - and risking their lives to turn the tide on the Coronavirus. And we in the New York City business community want to help. 

Our community is stepping up and offering free meals, places to sleep, and incredible leisure experiences, sometimes free of charge, as long as you have proof of employment in a frontline capacity. Some businesses are helping all essential workers, while others are focusing on specific professions. 

Another way to give back to frontline workers is by making their time off more than just a time to sleep. With working taking up so much of their lives right now, quality time away from the chaos might just be what they need most. 

And we at New York Harbor Tours are here for frontline workers.

A Gift to Frontliners!

When we reopen on June 15th, frontline workers receive 25% off a Hudson River Harbor Cruise. Use COVIDFREE25 or SUMMERISHERE at checkout.

Our six-seat charter boat - captained by an experienced, USCG-licensed operator - sales through New York Harbor and down the Hudson River, offering a relaxing but invigoratingly beautiful perspective on the greatest city in the world. 

And we’re not alone. Scores of New York City businesses are pitching in to help frontline workers cope with the stress of the Coronavirus epidemic. Here are a few of our favorite business giveaways and discounts for frontline workers. 

Room-Mate Hotels

For a limited time, medical professionals working on the front line can receive free housing from Room-Mate Hotels. They offer contactless service with amenities available for the taking to lower the risk of transmission. It’s a comfortable stay where you don’t have to clean up, and you’ll be in close proximity to NYC hospitals and public transportation. 

Find more information here.

Katz’s Delicatessen

There’s really nothing more “New York” than a classic sandwich from Katz’s. The iconic NYC deli is donating its delicious fare to frontline workers in hospitals around the city. You can find out more about their offer, along with their history of supporting global crises below.

Find more information here.

Marriott Hotels

If you’re a frontline worker in New York City, you can get a free room at Marriott Hotels. The hotel chain’s charitable Coronavirus response Rooms for Responders is offering a clean, sanitary, and well-stocked hotel room to get away for a night or treat yourself before going back to work.

Find more information here.

Dough Doughnuts

One of the most craveworthy doughnuts in NYC are offering comfort to frontline workers who need a break. Dough Doughnuts is donating delicious dozens to hospitals in and around New York City. These hand-crafted treats are sure to make the day of any stressed-out doctor, nurse, or EMT. 

Find more information here. 

Citibike

If you’re taking a break, a nice bike ride might be just what you need to destress. Whether for leisure or transportation to work, Citibike is making frontline workers’ lives easier with free rides. Their offer - an entire year of the bike-sharing service for free to frontline workers - is a gift of convenience and a healthy new pastime.