NYC Ferry
Experience breathtaking NYC skyline and Statue of Liberty views for just $4.50. A scenic, affordable, and essential way to see the city from its water...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour views
NYC Ferry
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking NYC skyline and Statue of Liberty views for just $4.50. A scenic, affordable, and essential way to see the city from its waterways.
"Skip pricey boat tours! The NYC Ferry offers incredible skyline and Statue of Liberty views for just $4.50."
🎯 Use the NYC Ferry App
Download the app to buy tickets easily and avoid lines.
💰 Budget-Friendly Views
Get amazing skyline and Statue of Liberty views for just $4.50.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
East River Skyline Cruise
East River Line (e.g., Wall St to E 34th St)
Experience breathtaking Manhattan skyline views for a fraction of the cost of a tour boat.
Statue of Liberty & Harbor Views
St. George Route (from Manhattan)
Catch uncrowded views of Lady Liberty and downtown NYC from the water.
Sunset Sail
Various routes
Enjoy magical sunset vistas of the city from the water – a truly unforgettable experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Affordable Skyline Views
Download the App
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Use the NYC Ferry App
Download the app to buy tickets easily and avoid lines.
💰 Budget-Friendly Views
Get amazing skyline and Statue of Liberty views for just $4.50.
💺 Sit on the Top Deck
For the best panoramic views, head to the upper deck.
🚶♀️ Avoid Subway Hassle
A scenic and stress-free alternative to crowded subways.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Use the NYC Ferry App
Download the app to buy tickets easily and avoid lines.
💰 Budget-Friendly Views
Get amazing skyline and Statue of Liberty views for just $4.50.
💺 Sit on the Top Deck
For the best panoramic views, head to the upper deck.
🚶♀️ Avoid Subway Hassle
A scenic and stress-free alternative to crowded subways.
🚲 Bike-Friendly Commute
Bring your bike for a small fee and explore the city.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers rave about the NYC Ferry as an affordable and scenic alternative to traditional sightseeing tours and crowded subways. Many highlight the stunning skyline and Statue of Liberty views for just $4.50, making it a must-do for both tourists and locals. While primarily a commuter service, its sightseeing value is exceptionally high.
"First time taking the NYC ferry and I'm glad we did. I heard about this from watching a YouTube video. Only $4.50 and it takes you different locations. Great way to see the skyline and avoid the subway. We will definitely take this again."
Mary Bock
"We took the ferry ride for the first time in years to do something different on my birthday — just to enjoy the city from the water and feel like tourists for a change.
Our original plan was to visit the Statue of Liberty, but for one reason or another, all the tickets were sold out and there were no reservations available until the next day. So, we opted for the sightseeing ferry instead — and honestly, we don’t regret it at all.
It turned out to be a really lovely experience. Even after living here for so long, we learned a lot of interesting facts we didn’t know. Our guide (Michael) was super funny, friendly, and charismatic — always finding ways to keep everyone engaged and entertained.
The tour felt like it flew by, but in a good way. An hour was just the right amount of time. We managed to get some beautiful photos of the city from some great vantage points. All in all, a really nice way to spend part of the day!"
Karina Turgut
"We parked across the river in New Jersey and took the NYC Ferry into Manhattan. It was easy, scenic, and a great way to avoid Manhattan traffic. The ride was calm, the views were beautiful, and boarding was simple. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a stress-free way to get into the city."
Joanna Diaz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
NYC Ferry operates from numerous terminals across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. You can find the closest terminal to you using Google Maps or the NYC Ferry app. Some popular terminals include Wall Street Pier 11, East 34th Street, and Midtown West 39th Street. +1
Yes, the NYC Ferry system includes routes connecting New Jersey (like Liberty State Park and Port Imperial) to Manhattan, offering a scenic commute.
Absolutely! Many travelers and commuters use the NYC Ferry to bypass Manhattan traffic and enjoy a more relaxed journey into the city.
Key routes include the East River Line (connecting Brooklyn and Manhattan), the South Brooklyn Line, the Rockaway Line, and the Soundview Line, among others. Each offers unique views and access points. +1
While the NYC Ferry doesn't go directly to the Statue of Liberty, some routes offer excellent views of it from the water, especially the St. George route. For direct access, you'll need to book tickets with Statue City Cruises.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A single ride on the NYC Ferry costs $4.50. You can purchase tickets via the official NYC Ferry app or at ticket vending machines at the terminals. +1
The easiest way to buy tickets is through the NYC Ferry mobile app. You can also purchase them at ticket vending machines located at each ferry terminal.
While standard fares are low, there aren't typically discounts for single rides. However, the low price point itself is a major draw for budget travelers.
It's recommended to buy tickets through the app to save time, but you can also purchase them at the terminal. Advance booking isn't usually necessary unless for special events.
Operating hours vary by route and day of the week. It's best to check the NYC Ferry app or their official website for the most up-to-date schedules for your desired route.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The East River route (e.g., Wall Street to East 34th Street) offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. The St. George route provides great views of the Statue of Liberty. +1
Yes, you can bring your bicycle on board for an additional fee. This is a popular option for commuters and recreational riders.
NYC Ferry vessels are generally accessible, with designated spaces for wheelchairs and strollers. Check the specific route and vessel information for details.
Ferries typically have indoor and outdoor seating, restrooms, and sometimes concessions. The upper deck offers open-air views.
Absolutely! The ferry provides fantastic vantage points for photography, especially of the skyline, bridges, and Statue of Liberty. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some NYC Ferry routes may offer concessions, but it's not guaranteed. It's a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially for longer rides.
Many ferry terminals are located in vibrant neighborhoods with plenty of dining options. For example, terminals in DUMBO or Williamsburg offer great choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The upper deck provides unobstructed views. Sit on the starboard side (right) heading east for Manhattan skyline views, and the port side (left) heading west for Statue of Liberty views.
Yes, sunset rides on the NYC Ferry offer spectacular lighting for capturing the city's iconic landmarks.
A versatile zoom lens is helpful for capturing both wide skyline shots and details of landmarks. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire cityscape.
Yes, several routes, particularly those heading towards Staten Island or along the East River, offer excellent photo opportunities of the Statue of Liberty.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, avoid using tripods that might obstruct other passengers, especially during peak hours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider routes that offer clear views of the Statue of Liberty or the Manhattan skyline, as these are often the most captivating for younger travelers. Pack snacks and drinks, and be sure to utilize the NYC Ferry app for easy ticket purchases. It's a memorable way to create family vacation photos with iconic backdrops.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize the ferry as a primary mode of transport between boroughs or to simply enjoy the views. Downloading the NYC Ferry app is key to seamless and affordable travel. You can cover significant ground and see major landmarks for the price of a single ride.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different routes to find your preferred angles. The East River and St. George routes are particularly popular for their iconic views. Remember to have your camera ready as the scenery changes rapidly, offering a dynamic range of photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the NYC Ferry System
With multiple lines like the East River, South Brooklyn, Rockaway, and Soundview routes, the ferry system offers access to diverse neighborhoods and attractions. Each route is designed to serve both daily commuters and visitors looking for a unique perspective of the city. The convenience of the NYC Ferry app for ticketing and real-time schedule updates makes planning your journey seamless.
Beyond its commuting function, the NYC Ferry is celebrated for its incredible value in sightseeing. For just $4.50 a ride, passengers can enjoy unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and iconic bridges, often rivaling the experience of more expensive tourist cruises. This makes it a must-do for budget-conscious travelers and anyone wanting to experience New York from its waterways.
The Best Views: Photography and Sightseeing
For the ultimate photo opportunities, consider the East River route, which provides breathtaking vistas of Manhattan as you travel between Brooklyn and Manhattan. The St. George route is ideal for capturing the Statue of Liberty and the Lower Manhattan skyline. Riding during the 'golden hour' before sunset or at night when the city lights twinkle offers particularly magical photographic moments.
Travelers often recommend sitting on the starboard side (right) when heading east for Manhattan views and the port side (left) when heading west for Statue of Liberty views. While tripods are generally discouraged on crowded ferries, a good zoom lens can help capture details from afar, making the NYC Ferry an essential part of any New York sightseeing itinerary.
Commuting and Practicalities
When planning your trip, it's crucial to download the NYC Ferry app. This app allows you to purchase tickets, check real-time schedules, and receive service alerts, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey. While tickets are affordable, having them ready on your phone can save time, especially during peak commuting hours.
For those looking to avoid Manhattan traffic and parking hassles, parking in New Jersey and taking the ferry into the city is a viable strategy. This approach can significantly reduce travel stress and offer a more pleasant start to your day in New York.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit