Staten Island Ferry | Staten Island

The Staten Island Ferry is one of the most iconic and efficient transportation services in New York City, providing free, 24/7 passage between Staten Island and Manhattan. This ferry is a crucial part of the city’s public transit network and also serves as a popular tourist attraction due to its scenic views of landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline.

Here’s a detailed overview of the Staten Island Ferry:

1. Route and Travel Time

The Staten Island Ferry operates on a 5.2-mile route between two terminals:

St. George Terminal on Staten Island.

Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan (near Battery Park).

Travel Time: The ferry journey takes about 25 minutes each way. The crossing allows passengers to enjoy beautiful views of New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and the skyline of lower Manhattan.

2. Schedule and Frequency

The ferry operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it highly accessible to commuters and tourists alike. The schedule varies depending on the time of day and the day of the week:

Weekday Schedule:

Morning Rush Hours (6:00 AM – 9:30 AM): Ferries depart every 15–20 minutes.

Evening Rush Hours (3:30 PM – 8:00 PM): Ferries continue every 15–20 minutes.

Off-Peak Hours: During the rest of the day, ferries run every 30 minutes.

Weekend Schedule:

On Saturdays and Sundays, ferries run every 30 minutes throughout the day, with less congestion than during weekdays.

Holiday Schedule:

On major holidays like New Year's Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day, the ferry operates on a weekend schedule, with departures every 30 minutes throughout the day.

3. Cost and Tickets

Free Service: The Staten Island Ferry is completely free. There is no ticket required for boarding, and it is one of the rare public transport services in New York City that does not charge passengers. Be cautious of individuals trying to sell "ferry tickets" as they are not authorized to do so.

Passengers do not need to make reservations or pay fares, and boarding is on a first-come, first-served basis. As a result, the ferry is especially popular for both commuters and tourists.

4. Terminals and Accessibility

St. George Terminal (Staten Island):

Address: 1 Bay Street, Staten Island, NY.

This terminal is located at the northern tip of Staten Island and offers easy access to the Staten Island Railway (SIR) for connections to other parts of the island. It’s also served by multiple bus routes, making it a convenient starting point for those using public transport.

Whitehall Terminal (Manhattan):

Address: 4 South Street, Manhattan, NY.

Located in Lower Manhattan near Battery Park, this terminal is accessible by subway (the R/W trains to Whitehall Street station), and several bus routes also stop nearby. It’s centrally located for tourists exploring lower Manhattan.

Both terminals are wheelchair accessible, and there are elevators, ramps, and other facilities to assist passengers with disabilities.

5. Passenger Experience and Scenic Views

The ferry ride itself is one of the best free sightseeing experiences in New York City:

Statue of Liberty: The ferry passes close to the Statue of Liberty, giving passengers a fantastic view of this iconic symbol of freedom. The ferry ride offers excellent photo opportunities for those on the right (starboard) side of the boat when departing Manhattan.

Ellis Island: As the ferry crosses the harbor, passengers can also see Ellis Island, the former immigration station that processed millions of immigrants arriving in the United States.

Manhattan Skyline: For great views of the Manhattan skyline, passengers should sit on the left (port) side of the boat when departing from Staten Island.

Outdoor and Indoor Seating: The ferry has both indoor seating areas with large windows and outdoor decks where passengers can enjoy the breeze and views. The outdoor decks, especially the upper levels, are popular in good weather. In colder months, passengers can stay inside where the views are equally impressive through the windows.

6. Bicycles and Other Items

Bicycles: Bicycles are permitted on the ferry. However, passengers must use designated areas to board with their bikes. It's also a good idea to check the ferry’s policy on bike storage, especially during busy hours when space may be limited.

Pets: Small pets are allowed on the ferry but must be kept in a carrier at all times.

Large Bags/Items: Passengers should ensure that any large bags or items they bring are properly stored in designated areas.

7. Accessibility and Special Considerations

The Staten Island Ferry is committed to accessibility for all passengers:

Wheelchair Access: The ferry and both terminals are equipped with elevators and ramps for passengers with mobility challenges.

Hearing Impairments: There are visual displays of announcements aboard the ferries to assist passengers with hearing impairments.

Passenger Assistance: There are crew members on board to assist with any special needs passengers might have, including help with boarding and disembarking.

8. Tourist Tips

Avoiding Crowds: The ferry can get quite crowded during rush hours (especially weekdays), so tourists may want to avoid those times for a more leisurely ride.

Photography: The best time for photography is typically during early morning or late afternoon when the sun casts a warm glow on the harbor and skyline.

Don’t Miss the Return Trip: Many tourists enjoy taking the ferry from Manhattan to Staten Island and then returning immediately to Manhattan for another view of the harbor and Statue of Liberty. There is no additional charge for returning on the next ferry.

9. Safety Measures

Safety Guidelines: Passengers should be aware of the safety protocols on board, including staying clear of restricted areas. There are announcements regarding safety, and life jackets are provided in case of emergency.

Weather Considerations: During extreme weather conditions (such as heavy snow or storms), service may be affected. The ferry typically continues to operate in most weather conditions unless the safety of passengers is at risk.

10. Connecting to Other Attractions

While the ferry is mainly a transport service, its terminals are close to several New York City attractions:

Staten Island: Once you arrive in Staten Island, you can visit attractions like the Staten Island Greenbelt, Staten Island Museum, and the Staten Island Zoo.

Manhattan: The Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan is close to Battery Park, where you can explore the 9/11 Memorial, Wall Street, and catch other ferries, such as those to Liberty Island.

Conclusion

The Staten Island Ferry is a unique and essential part of New York City’s transportation network. Not only does it provide a free and scenic way to travel between Staten Island and Manhattan, but it also offers stunning views of some of the city's most famous landmarks. Whether you are commuting or simply enjoying the ride as a tourist, the Staten Island Ferry is an experience that shouldn’t be missed when visiting New York City.