Most visitors—and even some New Yorkers—don’t know that the Staten Island Ferry makes its own daily excursion within Polaroid distance of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Governor’s Island. And riders pay absolutely nothing for the great views. You simply board the ship (be sure to wait for one of the older orange-and-green boats, because the newer ones don’t have decks for viewing) and, as with the Circle Line, sit on the right side (stay at the back of the ferry for the best view of the Manhattan skyline). It’s a joke in New York that this is the best “cheap date” in the city, so don’t be shy about toting along a bottle of wine, some bread, and cheese. But be sure to dress warmly: In winter the outdoor decks can be frigid. One-way, the trip takes approximately a half-hour, after which you’ll disembark and take the next ferry back.
New York City
Travel Guide
New York City› Attraction
Staten Island Ferry
Departs from the Whitehall Ferry Terminal at the southern tip of Manhattan

Our Rating
Hours
Open 24 hours, departures roughly every 15 minutes during rush hour, every half-hour or hour during nights and weekends
Transportation
Subway: N, R to Whitehall St.; 4, 5 to Bowling Green; 1 to South Ferry (ride in one of the first 5 cars)
Phone
718/727-2508
Prices
Free of charge.
Web site
Staten Island Ferry

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.