Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry departs from the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. You can easily reach it via subway lines 1, R, or W to the South Ferry station, or the 4 or 5 lines to Bowling Green.

The ferry operates 24/7, with departures approximately every 15-30 minutes during peak hours and every 30-60 minutes during off-peak hours and overnight. Check the official MTA schedule for precise timing.

The ferry ride itself takes about 25 minutes in each direction.

Yes, the ferry runs in both directions. You can depart from the St. George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island and travel back to Manhattan.

Yes, there is a large paid parking garage at Empire Outlets, which is connected to the ferry terminal. It's often more affordable than other Manhattan parking options. +1

The Staten Island Ferry is completely free to ride! You do not need to purchase any tickets. +2

No, you can get a great view of the Statue of Liberty for free by riding the Staten Island Ferry. Avoid paying for expensive boat tours. +2

Yes, you are allowed to bring your own alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the ferry ride.

Yes, all passengers must disembark the ferry at the St. George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island. You can then re-board the next ferry back to Manhattan.

No special tickets or passes are required. The Staten Island Ferry is a public transit service and is free for all passengers.

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for skyline and Statue of Liberty photos. Night rides provide stunning views of the illuminated city. +1

The rear of the ferry, especially on the outdoor decks, offers unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty as you approach and depart.

Absolutely! The ferry provides excellent vantage points for capturing the entire Lower Manhattan skyline, including iconic buildings.

Yes, it's a fantastic and free option for photography enthusiasts looking to capture iconic NYC landmarks and cityscapes.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline, while a telephoto lens can help get closer shots of the Statue of Liberty. A tripod might be useful for low-light conditions, but be mindful of space.

The ferry itself does not have extensive food options, but you can bring your own snacks and drinks.

In Staten Island, you can find pizza at Pier 76 or explore various shops and restaurants near the St. George Ferry Terminal. +1

While there are no onboard cafes, passengers are welcome to consume food and non-alcoholic beverages they bring with them.

The area around Whitehall Terminal has numerous dining options, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.

Staten Island offers a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from Italian and Thai to casual American fare.