Millions of New Yorkers rely on the Staten Island Ferry to get to and from Lower Manhattan.The ferry is a popular attraction that is beloved by locals and visitors alike.It's a good idea to plan ahead so that you don't face too many obstacles on your trip.
Step 1: If you are going to the ferry, pay to park in a garage or a nearby lot.
Since no vehicles are allowed on the ferry and New York is almost always busy, try and plan parking ahead of time.There are two municipal parking lots at the St. George Ferry Terminal.You can buy 3-month permits for $300.The parking garage at 81 Whitehall Street is the closest to the terminal and costs $40 a day.You can park in the garage for $55 a month.If you can, avoid private parking lots.
Step 2: You can take the ferry during rush hour.
The ferry runs every 15 to 20 minutes during rush hour.The weekend rush hour service runs every 30 minutes on Saturdays and Sundays.On holidays, the ferry runs every 30 minutes.There are updates and exceptions on the Station Island Ferry website.
Step 3: You can take the ferry during off-peak hours.
It is the least busy during the week.During off-peak hours, the ferry leaves every 30 minutes.The busiest times during the week are between 12 and 3 p.m.Wednesday is the busiest day of the week.
Step 4: For your trip, set aside at least 60 to 90 minutes.
The ride takes 25 minutes each way.You may not be able to ride the same ferry back.You will be forced to join a queue if this is the case.You have to get off the ferry at the Staten Island terminal.
Step 5: You can visit the ferry terminals in Lower Manhattan or Staten Island.
You can choose the terminal closest to you.Both are accessible by public transportation.There used to be a fee to ride the ferry, but it was eliminated in the late 1990s.As you prepare to board, keep an eye on the children.Kids can become separated from the crowds at peak times.
Step 6: The ferry terminal is close to the subway.
The R train goes right to the street.South Ferry station is 1 minute northeast of the ferry.You can take the 4 or 5 trains to Bowling Green Station, which is 7 minutes north of the ferry.You can take the subway to the ferry terminal.The subways travel to the terminal.If you use a MetroCard, the cost of the subway is $2.75 while using SingleRide tickets is $3.00.MetroCards can be purchased at subway station booths, neighborhood merchants, and MetroCard vending machines.SingleRide tickets can only be purchased through vending machines.
Step 7: You can travel to the St.
The St. George Terminal is located at 1 Bay Street on Staten Island.SingleRide bus tickets can be purchased through vending machines.Purchase a MetroCard and ride the bus for only $2.75.These cards can be found at subway station booths, neighborhood stores, MetroCard buses, vans, and vending machines.
Step 8: The bus will take you to the terminal.
The Whitehall Terminal is located at 4 South Street in Manhattan.SingeRide bus tickets can be purchased through vending machines.Paying for a bus fare with a MetroCard is cheap.You can buy these cards at MetroCard vans, buses, and vending machines.
Step 9: The ferry will arrive in the terminal waiting room.
The lower or upper level is where you can board.People with disabilities can board the ferry from the lower level.If you have a disability, make a boarding arrangement before you travel so you don't have to.Unless muzzled or caged, pets are not allowed on the ferry.
Step 10: Take in the view during the ride.
There is plenty of time to relax and enjoy the view on a one-way trip on the ferry.You should head inside if the weather isn't great.If you're taking the ferry for work, a pleasant boat ride across the harbor with the gentle breeze offers a great opportunity for a nap.
Step 11: The Statue of Liberty can be seen on the ferry's right side.
You can head upstairs after boarding if you make your way to the right side.You can find a spot near the railings if you walk as far south as possible.The best place to get a clear view of the Statue of Liberty is this area.You can't disembark from the ferry at the Statue of Liberty.
Step 12: The sights of New York can be captured with a camera.
The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge are some of the landmarks that the ferry passes.You can buy disposable cameras from the concession stand if you don't have a camera.
Step 13: If you are hungry or thirsty, you can go to the concession stand.
The food menu at ballparks offers quick meals, breakfast sandwiches, burgers, and refreshing drinks while traveling between boroughs.You can buy greeting cards for $5.50 and a Polaroid camera for $189.Beer is the only alcoholic beverage on the ferries.
Step 14: 5 minutes before the end of the trip, gather your belongings.
The front of the boat is where embarrassment occurs.Make your way to the front at least 5 minutes before your arrival.Make sure to keep an eye on the children as well.