New York City

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Ferry

Ferry services providing water transport between boroughs and nearby cities.

Sections

Overview of the NYC Ferry System

The NYC Ferry is a public transportation service operated by the NYC Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and managed by Hornblower. It connects various neighborhoods across the city’s boroughs via the East River and other waterways. The ferry is a great alternative to subways and buses, offering a more relaxed and scenic commute.

Costs and Ticketing Procedures

  1. Ticket Prices:

    • Standard One-Way Ticket: $4.00 (as of 2023).
    • Children Under 44 Inches Tall: Free (up to two children per paying adult).
    • Bikes: An additional $1.00 per bike.
    • Monthly Pass: $121.00 for unlimited rides (includes bike fees).

  2. How to Purchase Tickets:

    • NYC Ferry App: Download the app (available on iOS and Android) to purchase tickets, check schedules, and track ferries in real-time.
    • Ticket Machines: Available at ferry terminals. These accept cash, credit, and debit cards.
    • Onboard Purchase: Tickets can also be purchased onboard, but it’s recommended to buy them in advance to save time.

  3. Ticket Validity:

    • Tickets are valid for one-way trips only and must be activated before boarding.
    • Transfers between ferry routes are free within 90 minutes of activating your ticket.

Routes and Geographical Coverage

The NYC Ferry system currently operates seven routes (as of 2023), connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Below is a breakdown of the routes and key stops:

  1. East River Route:

    • Stops: Wall Street/Pier 11 (Manhattan), Dumbo (Brooklyn), South Williamsburg, North Williamsburg, Greenpoint (Brooklyn), and East 34th Street (Manhattan).
    • Highlights: Great for exploring Brooklyn’s waterfront neighborhoods and Manhattan’s Midtown.

  2. Rockaway Route:

    • Stops: Wall Street/Pier 11 (Manhattan), Sunset Park (Brooklyn), and Rockaway Beach (Queens).
    • Highlights: Perfect for a beach day at Rockaway Beach.

  3. South Brooklyn Route:

    • Stops: Wall Street/Pier 11 (Manhattan), Brooklyn Bridge Park (Dumbo), Atlantic Avenue, Red Hook, Sunset Park, and Bay Ridge (Brooklyn).
    • Highlights: Explore Red Hook’s art scene and Brooklyn Bridge Park.

  4. Astoria Route:

    • Stops: Wall Street/Pier 11 (Manhattan), East 34th Street (Manhattan), Long Island City (Queens), Roosevelt Island, and Astoria (Queens).
    • Highlights: Visit Roosevelt Island and enjoy the vibrant Astoria neighborhood.

  5. Soundview Route:

    • Stops: Wall Street/Pier 11 (Manhattan), East 90th Street (Manhattan), East 62nd Street (Manhattan), and Soundview (Bronx).
    • Highlights: A scenic ride to the Bronx with stops on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

  6. Staten Island Route:

    • Stops: St. George (Staten Island) and Battery Park City/Vesey Street (Manhattan).
    • Highlights: A faster alternative to the Staten Island Ferry, connecting Staten Island to Manhattan’s Financial District.

  7. Coney Island Route (Seasonal):

    • Stops: Wall Street/Pier 11 (Manhattan), Bay Ridge (Brooklyn), and Coney Island (Brooklyn).
    • Highlights: Seasonal service to Coney Island’s famous boardwalk and amusement parks.

Operating Hours

  • Ferries generally operate 7 days a week, with service starting as early as 6:00 AM and running until 10:00 PM or later, depending on the route.
  • Peak hours (weekday mornings and evenings) may have more frequent service, while off-peak hours and weekends may have reduced frequency.
  • Check the NYC Ferry app or website for the most up-to-date schedules.

Boarding Procedures

  1. Arrive at the terminal at least 10-15 minutes before departure to ensure you have enough time to board.
  2. Activate your ticket on the app or have your paper ticket ready.
  3. Follow the signs to the correct boarding area for your route.
  4. Boarding is on a first-come, first-served basis, so during peak times, ferries may fill up quickly.

Tips for Using the NYC Ferry

  1. Plan Ahead: Use the NYC Ferry app to check schedules, routes, and real-time ferry locations.
  2. Arrive Early: During peak hours or on weekends, ferries can get crowded, so arriving early ensures you get a spot.
  3. Bring a Camera: The ferry offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and more.
  4. Dress for the Weather: The outdoor seating areas can be windy, so bring a jacket or scarf, especially in cooler months.
  5. Explore Nearby Attractions: Many ferry terminals are close to major landmarks and neighborhoods worth exploring.

Nearby Landmarks and Attractions

Here are some notable landmarks and attractions near key ferry terminals:

  1. Wall Street/Pier 11 (Manhattan):

    • Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (via ferry from Battery Park).
    • Wall Street and the Financial District.
    • South Street Seaport and the historic ships at Pier 17.

  2. Dumbo (Brooklyn):

    • Brooklyn Bridge Park.
    • Jane’s Carousel.
    • Iconic views of the Manhattan Bridge.

  3. Long Island City (Queens):

    • Gantry Plaza State Park.
    • MoMA PS1 (contemporary art museum).

  4. Astoria (Queens):

    • Socrates Sculpture Park.
    • Astoria Park (with views of the Hell Gate Bridge).

  5. St. George (Staten Island):

    • Staten Island Greenbelt.
    • Staten Island Museum.

  6. Coney Island (Brooklyn):

    • Luna Park amusement park.
    • Coney Island Boardwalk and Beach.
    • New York Aquarium.

  7. Rockaway Beach (Queens):

    • Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk.
    • Surfing and beachside dining.

Accessibility

  • All NYC Ferry vessels and terminals are wheelchair accessible.
  • Priority seating is available for passengers with disabilities, seniors, and pregnant individuals.

Final Recommendations

  • The NYC Ferry is not just a mode of transportation but also a unique way to experience the city’s waterways and neighborhoods. Consider taking a ride even if you don’t have a specific destination in mind—just for the views!
  • If you’re visiting during the summer, the Rockaway and Coney Island routes are especially popular for beachgoers.
  • For a romantic or relaxing experience, try an evening ride to enjoy the sunset and city lights.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the NYC Ferry system and make the most of your time exploring New York City!