
Staten Island Ferry
Ride NYC's iconic, free ferry for breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. A must-do for every visitor!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Staten Island Ferry
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride NYC's iconic, free ferry for breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. A must-do for every visitor!
"The Staten Island Ferry is your ticket to iconic NYC views without the cost!"

🎯 Grab a Deck Spot Early
Head to the outer decks for the best views of the Statue of Liberty and skyline. Arrive before departure!
📸 Best Photo Angles
Stand on the right side going to Staten Island, left side returning to Manhattan for Statue of Liberty views.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Statue of Liberty Views
Harbor
Catch breathtaking, up-close views of Lady Liberty and Ellis Island from the ferry deck. It's a classic NYC photo op!

Manhattan Skyline Panorama
Harbor
Marvel at the iconic Manhattan skyline as you sail across the harbor. The perspective from the water is unforgettable.

Free Entertainment
Ferry Deck
Enjoy a scenic, 25-minute ride with unparalleled views – all for free! It's one of NYC's best budget-friendly activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Ride
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Grab a Deck Spot Early
Head to the outer decks for the best views of the Statue of Liberty and skyline. Arrive before departure!
📸 Best Photo Angles
Stand on the right side going to Staten Island, left side returning to Manhattan for Statue of Liberty views.
💰 It's Totally Free!
No tickets needed! This commuter ferry is completely free for everyone.
🚶♀️ Explore Staten Island
Don't just ride back! Explore the outlet mall near the terminal or enjoy local eats.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Grab a Deck Spot Early
Head to the outer decks for the best views of the Statue of Liberty and skyline. Arrive before departure!
📸 Best Photo Angles
Stand on the right side going to Staten Island, left side returning to Manhattan for Statue of Liberty views.
💰 It's Totally Free!
No tickets needed! This commuter ferry is completely free for everyone.
🚶♀️ Explore Staten Island
Don't just ride back! Explore the outlet mall near the terminal or enjoy local eats.
💨 Dress for the Weather
It can get windy and chilly on the water, even on warmer days. Layer up! :cloud:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers overwhelmingly praise the Staten Island Ferry for its incredible, free views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. It's consistently highlighted as a must-do, budget-friendly NYC experience. Some minor drawbacks include potential crowds during peak hours and limited onboard amenities.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main terminal in Manhattan is the Whitehall Terminal. You can easily reach it via the subway. Take the 1 train to South Ferry, or the R or W trains to Whitehall Street. It's located at the southern tip of Manhattan, near Battery Park.
The closest subway station is South Ferry, served by the 1 train. The Whitehall Street station (R, W trains) is also a short walk away.
While there isn't direct parking at the terminal, there are several parking garages in the Financial District. However, taking the subway is generally more convenient and cost-effective.
Yes, you can take a taxi or rideshare directly to the Whitehall Terminal. Just set your destination as 'Staten Island Ferry Terminal' or 'Whitehall Terminal'.
The Staten Island Ferry operates between the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan and the St. George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Staten Island Ferry is completely free! You do not need to purchase any tickets to ride.
The ferry runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with departures approximately every 15-30 minutes depending on the time of day.
The Staten Island Ferry is free! There is no Staten Island Ferry price or Staten Island Ferry cost associated with riding it.
Ferries depart roughly every 15-20 minutes during rush hour and every 30 minutes during off-peak times. It's a continuous service, so you rarely have to wait long.
Yes, you can disembark at the St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island and then re-board a ferry back to Manhattan for free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Staten Island Ferry ride duration is approximately 25 minutes each way.
For the best Statue of Liberty view, stand on the right side of the ferry when heading towards Staten Island, and the left side when returning to Manhattan.
You'll see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Manhattan skyline, and the New York Harbor.
It can get crowded, especially during morning and evening commute hours. Weekends and evenings can also be busy with tourists.
Yes, restrooms are available on the Staten Island Ferry boats.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can purchase snacks and drinks on board the ferry, though options are limited.
Yes, there are dining options near the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. For recommendations on Staten Island, check out restaurants near the St. George Ferry Terminal.
After arriving in Staten Island, you can find various dining options. Some popular spots include those near the St. George Ferry Terminal, offering diverse cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photos of the Statue of Liberty and skyline.
Use a steady hand or a tripod if possible. Consider a wider aperture for low light and a faster shutter speed to combat motion blur from the ferry.
Yes, you can take photos from inside, but the views are best from the outdoor decks. Be mindful of other passengers.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, avoid intrusive filming or photography that might disturb other passengers or crew.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Free Ride
Many travelers highlight the ferry as a fantastic way to see the Statue of Liberty without paying for a dedicated tour. The approximately 25-minute ride provides ample time to soak in the sights and capture stunning photographs. While it's a functional commuter service, the scenic beauty and iconic landmarks visible from its decks transform it into a beloved tourist activity. Remember to dress in layers, as it can be breezy on the water, and aim for the outer decks for the best, unobstructed views.
Maximizing Your Ferry Experience
Beyond the views, consider exploring Staten Island itself. Some visitors have discovered outlet shopping centers near the terminal, offering deals on popular brands. Others recommend exploring local eateries on Staten Island after your ride. This transforms the ferry from a simple transit into a gateway for further exploration, adding another layer to your New York City adventure. Remember that while it's a commuter ferry, it's also a fantastic, free entertainment option.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit