Staten Island Ferry
1 / 10

Staten Island Ferry

4.7
·7k reviews·, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Staten Island Ferry

Staten Island Ferry

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(7k reviews)

"The Staten Island Ferry is a must for first-timers and seasoned NYC lovers alike!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Ride for FREE!

This iconic ferry ride is completely free! No tickets needed, just hop in line.

📸 Best Photo Spots

For Statue of Liberty views, sit on the right when going to SI. For skyline views, sit left on the return.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Statue of Liberty Views

Statue of Liberty Views

Port side when heading to Staten Island

Catch a glimpse of Lady Liberty from the water without the ticket price. A classic NYC experience!

Manhattan Skyline Panorama

Manhattan Skyline Panorama

Starboard side when returning to Manhattan

Witness the breathtaking Manhattan skyline unfold as you sail back. A truly iconic sight.

Free Harbor Cruise

Free Harbor Cruise

The entire ferry route

Enjoy a leisurely 25-minute ride across the harbor, soaking in the sights and sounds of New York City.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Free Ride

The Staten Island Ferry is a fantastic, free way to experience iconic NYC views. Skip expensive boat tours and enjoy the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline without spending a dime. Just be prepared for security checks before boarding.

Timing is Everything for Views

For the best Statue of Liberty photos, aim for the right side of the ferry when heading to Staten Island, ideally before noon. For stunning city skyline shots, the left side on the return trip is prime. Sunset can be beautiful but may silhouette the Statue.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour city views
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Beautiful city lights
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sunset on the Staten Island ferry. #nyc #sunset
@tylerwayneglass
848K likes • 4.8M views

🎯 Ride for FREE!

This iconic ferry ride is completely free! No tickets needed, just hop in line. TikTokInstagram

📸 Best Photo Spots

For Statue of Liberty views, sit on the right when going to SI. For skyline views, sit left on the return. InstagramReddit

living the dream 🥹 nyc transition idea WELCOME TO NEW YORK 📍 times square 📍 st. patrick’s cathedral 📍 louis vuitton building 📍 statue of liberty (staten island ferry) #newyork #newyorkcity #newyorklife #newyorktravel
@adultingwithgm
199.1K likes • 1.2M views
New York City • Lower Manhattan from Staten Island Ferry 🚢🥰 #boat #ferry #statenisland #statenislandferry #nycferry #lowermanhattan #oneworld #wtc #worldtradecentre #edge #theedge #ny #newyork #nyc #newyorkcity #nycity #iloveny #welovenyc #frenchexpat #frenchexpatusa #francaisauxusa
cece.in.newyork
260 likes • 3.8K views

⏰ Ferry Runs 24/7

Ferries depart every 15-30 minutes, offering flexibility for your schedule. Instagram+1

♿ Accessible Bathrooms

The ferry is ADA compliant and offers accessible bathrooms for passengers. Reddit

pov: you ride the Staten Island Ferry, passing by the Statue of Liberty 🥹 Shot on iPhone 4k at 30fps new york #newyork #nyc #newyorkcity #cinemasb
cinema_sb
11.4K likes • 111.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Ride for FREE!

This iconic ferry ride is completely free! No tickets needed, just hop in line. TikTokInstagram

📸 Best Photo Spots

For Statue of Liberty views, sit on the right when going to SI. For skyline views, sit left on the return. InstagramReddit

⏰ Ferry Runs 24/7

Ferries depart every 15-30 minutes, offering flexibility for your schedule. Instagram+1

♿ Accessible Bathrooms

The ferry is ADA compliant and offers accessible bathrooms for passengers. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore Staten Island

Don't just ride back! Explore shops, restaurants, or the ballpark on Staten Island. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Staten Island Ferry is overwhelmingly praised as a fantastic, free way to see iconic NYC landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Passengers appreciate the regular schedule and the opportunity for great photos, though some note the Statue is distant. It's a must-do for budget travelers and first-time visitors.

"Ferry is a great and free way to see the statue of liberty 🗽🗽🗽
Departure every 30mins.
If you want to make a great picture so from NYC to Staten Island way you should be on the top right side. In this way you can make a great photo of statue.

On the way back from Staten Island to NYC you should find the place on the top left.
Be quick. The spots are limited and always overbooked.

There isn't any ticket. Just stay in line and get in for free.
For the way back you need to leave the ferry for security reasons."

ImdioR

"Nice ride on a nice day. Lots of space indoors. Outdoors gets you the best view of Lady Liberty without going to it directly. Leaves regularly so you can catch the next one. Drops you near Staten Island Mall and ball park."

Kevin Markman

"You do get a decent view of the Statue of Liberty for being free, although it is a bit far away to really appreciate. If you really want to take in all the details and symbolism (and get good pictures), get the Liberty Island ferry / tour. It is totally worth it for one of the most iconic sites in the world.

The best time to take this ferry (if you want to see the statue) is BEFORE 12PM, not after! Sunset is the worst time because all you see is a black silhouette!

The one actually awesome thing you get to see is the New York skyline. Brilliant and picturesque."

Guru Prasanna

What People Like

Free iconic views
Great skyline photos
Regular departures

What People Dislike

Statue of Liberty distant

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Whitehall Terminal is easily accessible via subway. Take the 1 train to South Ferry, or the R/W trains to Whitehall St. Several bus lines also stop nearby. TikTokInstagram

The Manhattan terminal is the Whitehall Terminal, located at the southern tip of Manhattan. The Staten Island terminal is the St. George Ferry Terminal. Instagram+1

While there isn't direct parking at the terminal, several parking garages are available in the surrounding Financial District. It's often easier to use public transport. TikTok

Yes, taxis and rideshares can drop you off directly at the Whitehall Terminal. Be aware of potential traffic in Lower Manhattan. TikTok

The most straightforward way is to take the downtown 1 train directly to South Ferry station, which is adjacent to the ferry terminal. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Staten Island Ferry is completely free! You do not need to purchase any tickets. TikTokInstagram+1

The ferry operates 24/7, with departures approximately every 15-30 minutes depending on the time of day. Instagram+1

The Staten Island Ferry is absolutely free for all passengers. It's one of the best free attractions in NYC. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is a security screening process similar to airport security before you can board the ferry. Reddit

Yes, you can bring luggage, but it will be subject to security screening. Large bags may need to be checked. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The ferry ride itself takes approximately 25 minutes each way. Instagram+1

You'll get excellent views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island when heading to Staten Island (sit on the right). On the return, the Manhattan skyline is spectacular (sit on the left). InstagramReddit

Yes, the ferries are equipped with bathrooms, and they are ADA compliant. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can disembark at the St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. You will need to go through security again to board the ferry back to Manhattan. Reddit

It can get crowded, especially during rush hour and on weekends. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography Tips

For Statue of Liberty photos, sit on the right side when traveling from Manhattan to Staten Island. For Manhattan skyline views, sit on the left side when returning. InstagramReddit

Early morning (before noon) offers good light for the Statue of Liberty. Late afternoon and sunset provide stunning skyline views, though the Statue might be silhouetted. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, you can get decent photos of the Statue of Liberty from the ferry, though it's a distance. For close-ups, the Liberty Island ferry is recommended. Reddit

Use a wider aperture (lower f-number) for better low-light performance and to blur the background. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or filming may require permits. Always be mindful of other passengers. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Staten Island Ferry is a fantastic, free activity for families visiting NYC. Kids will be thrilled by the boat ride and the chance to see the Statue of Liberty up close (from the water, at least!). It's a great way to break up a day of walking and offers plenty of space for little ones to move around. Pack snacks and drinks, and be sure to point out the sights to keep them engaged. TikTok+1

Remember to position yourselves for the best views: the right side heading to Staten Island for Lady Liberty, and the left side returning for the skyline. The ferry is also ADA compliant with accessible bathrooms, making it a comfortable option for families with diverse needs. The security check is quick, and the ride itself is smooth, making it an enjoyable experience for all ages.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Staten Island Ferry is an absolute must. It offers iconic New York City views for free, saving you money that can be spent on other experiences or delicious food. You get to see the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline without paying for a dedicated tour boat. TikTokInstagram+2

This ferry is a prime example of how to experience NYC like a local without breaking the bank. Combine it with other free activities like exploring Central Park or walking the Brooklyn Bridge for a truly cost-effective itinerary. Just be prepared for the security screening, which is the only 'hurdle' to this incredible free adventure.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Staten Island Ferry provides unbeatable photographic opportunities for both the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. To capture the best shots of Lady Liberty, aim for the right side of the ferry on your way to Staten Island, ideally before noon for optimal lighting. InstagramReddit+1

On the return journey, the left side offers a dramatic perspective of the towering skyscrapers of Lower Manhattan. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' before sunset for warm, dramatic light on the city. While the ferry offers a good view, remember that for detailed shots of the Statue, a dedicated Liberty Island ferry is still recommended. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Staten Island Ferry Experience

The Staten Island Ferry is more than just public transportation; it's a quintessential New York City experience. For decades, this free ferry has shuttled commuters and tourists alike across the Upper New York Bay, offering unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. It's a budget-friendly alternative to paid harbor cruises, providing a genuine slice of local life alongside breathtaking scenery. TikTokInstagram+1

Operating 24/7, the ferry runs approximately every 15-30 minutes, making it a convenient option for any time of day. The journey from the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan to the St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island takes about 25 minutes. While the primary purpose is transit, the ferry has become a beloved attraction for its scenic route and the opportunity to capture iconic photos without spending a dime. Instagram+1

Travelers often highlight the strategic importance of seating for the best views. Sitting on the right side of the ferry when heading towards Staten Island offers prime views of the Statue of Liberty, while the left side on the return journey provides a spectacular panorama of the Manhattan skyline. This simple tip can significantly enhance the photographic and visual experience of the ride. InstagramReddit

Navigating the Staten Island Ferry: Schedules and Terminals

The Staten Island Ferry operates continuously, offering a reliable and frequent service. Ferries depart from the Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan and the St. George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island. During peak hours, you can expect departures every 15-20 minutes, while off-peak times see departures around every 30 minutes. This consistent schedule ensures minimal waiting times for passengers. Instagram

Both terminals are well-equipped to handle passengers. The Whitehall Terminal is a major transit hub in Lower Manhattan, easily accessible by various subway lines, including the 1 train to South Ferry and the R/W trains to Whitehall St. The St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island is also a central point, connecting to local buses and the Staten Island Railway. TikTokInstagram

It's important to note that while the ferry runs 24/7, the frequency of departures can vary. Always check the official MTA schedule if you have a very specific time constraint, though the general frequency is quite high. Passengers must disembark at the destination terminal and re-enter through security for the return journey. Instagram