I have to say this is something even native New Yorkers need to come here and see at least two or three times in your life. The ride itself was pretty good. Over the holiday season, I did come here recently with some cousins from out of town. We got the chance to go over when it was still daylight around then had to wait about ten minutes or more for the return trip to NYC at the Staten Island terminal side. This made the views even better seeing everything lit up now this time. Honestly, even I did get to enjoy my time on the ferry since it has been a few years since I did travel on there. It is a free service and not bad to check out. In December, it was definitely cold on the water but still worth it for the journey. There were chances to go back inside and use the restroom ( if necessary ), then go right back outside to take more pictures and videos on your ride. Give this one five stars from me, great atmosphere and great views in the daytime and at night in the darkness. read more

We took the Staten Island Ferry for a quick round trip on our final day of our NY visit. The trip was great in spite of the drizzly April weather and we were able to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island on our way to Staten Island and then quite a bit of the NY skyline as we made our return commute to Manhattan. The terminals were well organized for loading and unloading passengers with clear signage and announced direction via the overhead speakers. The lines always seemed to move quickly with minimal waiting. Plenty of comfortable seating on the ferry indoors or outside with multiple levels. read more

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Offering one of the best views of the Statue of Liberty without an actual trip to Lady Liberty herself, the Staten Island Ferry offers free ferry service between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island. Running every 15 to 20 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes at other times, the ferry operates 24hrs a day, 7 days a week. The ferry boats are huge and has a very large occupancy rate with indoor seating on both levels, as well as outside seating on the 2nd level. If you want the best shot of the Statue of Liberty, make sure to snag a spot outside on the 2nd level near the railings. As it gets very crowded up there as the ferry passes by the statue. The Whitehall terminal in Lower Manhattan is very large, with a multitude of different vendors selling food and souvenirs as you wait for the next ferry to arrive. The lines are long, so I recommend getting in line 10mins before the arrival of the next ferry so you can be near the front. read more

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The best place to see the Statue of Liberty for free. If you're visiting New York, this is one of the things you can do for free as a tourist. Not only is this very functional for the people of New York to travel back-and-forth for free from Staten Island to the city. This ferry runs 24 hours a day it has some of the best views of the city , but definitely a VIP to one of the biggest landmarks in the world. This Staten Island ferry goes to the Whitehall terminal. read more

The Staten Island Ferry is the perfect hidden gem to see a great view of the Statue of Liberty, and for free! It is not so hidden to many locals, so there will be a long line to join. However, the ferry can fit many people, so you should be able to board when you want to! It is a relaxing, quick ride where you can just hop back on the Ferry to head back after your view! read more

Staten Island Ferry - Statue of Liberty view - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

While exploring The Battery, one of the features was the Staten Island Ferry! The Staten Island ferry connects to Lower Manhattan across the New York Harbor. The ferry provides a free 25 minute ride! If you're visiting New York City for the first time, it is a very scenic route between the boroughs! On the Ferry, you can see views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Manhattan! The ferry does run 24 hours a day, seven days a week! What's best about this is that it's free! There were some services that you can pay for, but you can just hop on the Staten Island Ferry for free! There are two terminal facilities. Whitehall in Manhattan and St. George on Staten Island. Both areas have food venues, waiting areas, as well as access to other transit options! If you haven't had a chance to ride the Staten Island ferry yet, I'd highly recommend it! read more

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One of the great free things to do while in New York. The Staten Island ferry runs on a very timely schedule of a 30 minute interval. Wonderful views of some skylines and the Statue of Liberty. You can sit inside or choose a bench seat on the outside. You can stand at the railing as well to see some of the sites in a closer view point. Please exit as soon as the ferry docs. Staff will ask you to leave promptly. read more

Staten Island Ferry - Statue of Liberty - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

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My husband and I were looking for the best way to cross off seeing the Statue of Liberty without actually having to do a whole tour, so after looking up recommendations online, the Staten Island Ferry seemed to be the clear answer. First off, it's FREE! Don't let the hundreds of scammers outside pressuring you to buy a ticket fool you. It was actually super easy: just wait in the terminal and walk right on. The ferry leaves every 30 minutes and can hold a lot of people, so we had no issue going to and from. We very much appreciated the indoor areas of this ferry during the crippling February weather... But, there's also a rooftop and some outdoor spots to hang around too. I felt like everything was very spaced out, so you do not feel like you are on top of everybody or fighting for a place to sit. In terms of seeing the statue, it gets a fairly close distance! It's great for snapping some selfies and goes slow enough to where you've got plenty of time to soak in the views. Even just the ride itself is pretty fun and relaxing. read more

Staten Island Ferry - View of the Statue of Liberty from the ferry! - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

Perfect if you want to get a closer view of the Statue of Liberty for free! I took my son and he loved it! read more

Staten Island Ferry - System Island Ferry Entrance - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

Cool, inexpensive way to see the Statue of Liberty and Staten Island. I enjoyed the ride! There is a line to board the ferry. Be patient. The ferry is huge. read more

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Fitting that I'm writing my review aboard the ferry. I checked in and noticed for some reason, I never wrote a review. Not to mention, I'm currently on a Yelp field trip, so to speak to Staten Island. I believe my first experience on the ferry was in 2005 or 2006- I was actually afraid to board. At that point, I had to go the courthouse, for work, and had to get on. It turned out to be a simple, but joyful adventure from Lower Manhattan. You'll see a bunch of tourists who apparently have this trip on their bucket list. I mean, it is free. You get a nice breeze, especially in the spring and summer, and some wonderful sights. read more

Staten Island ferry is always packed at the Whitehall terminal and St. George terminal in Staten Island because there are Staten Island commuters, tourists and it is free plus it is the best way to see the Statue of Liberty. The ferry runs every 15 minutes on weekdays and 30 minutes on weekends. When you get on the ferry you can go upstairs, go outside or stay inside. There is also a small cafe where you can buy donuts and coffee. Overall, a great experience and worth the ride if you are a tourist and experience if you are new to New York. Plus it is free. read more

Staten Island Ferry - View - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

The Staten Island Ferry is one of the best things about New York City. I'm sure the well-heeled will beg to differ. They can take the helicopter to the airport. Basically, it connects the base of Manhattan, near the Financial District, to the top end of Staten Island, a very large but not particularly populous borough compared to the city's others. Since Staten Island is somewhat wide but mostly lengthy, most will be using a bus or that one MTA rail line to get to the ferry, which leaves at its northern end from Richmond. There is a sense of anticipation and purpose as the mechanical ramps descend and people embark or disembark. Some are going to work. Some are going to school. Some are running errands. And some are on vacation in the Big Apple. I could easily see why a local would ride it every now and then just to ride it. Quite different from the more natural scenic trajectory of the Washington State Ferries (WSF) based in Seattle, this trek is completely urban. You are crossing Upper New York Bay within the confines of the Narrows, and, at any time, looking at the boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, or parts of New Jersey to the west. The people watching is great - well, it's New York City. Locals tend to sit inside, relax, read, or are on their phones or laptops. The tourists are outside snapping photos. Walk by them and you might be able to tell what country they're from. The ferry itself has plenty of seating on a few levels, most of which is inside, with some along its exterior decks. There is a food concession. There are bathrooms, for which you must consider it's public transportation ... and it's free. Then, the ferries are nice enough ... maybe not as outfitted where there's the more "genteel" and politically correct personal style of Seattle or Vancouver BC, but still very good. The views are captivating as you let someone else do the driving during this unique "commute." As you pull away from or approach Manhattan, you'll have many vantage points onto that famous New York skyline, and, depending on which way you look, you'll see the Brooklyn Bridge or the new crop of New Jersey high-rises in Jersey City. Along the thirty-minute trip, you'll pass both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Finally, when near the Richmond terminal on Staten Island, the Verrazzano Bridge will always be within sight. There's always another ferry you'll pass going the other way, making for more photo opportunities and for which one might happen onto stellar backdrops. The icing on the cake may be following one of the big passenger liners into or out of the harbor, with people from both vessels waving at each other. read more

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Simply called "The Ferry" by us Islanders is a dependable and cheap way to get into the City from the Island. The boats are clean and the ride normally quick back and forth. The ride offers great views of the lower Hudson River and the bay. You can take awesome photos of the lower Manhattan skyline, Jersey City, Downtown Brooklyn, the Statue of Liberty, Governor's and Ellis Islands. Recently, they reopened the commissary on the boats where you can pickup snacks and drinks. They used to sell canned beer and wine but I'm not sure if they started doing that again. I've been on The Ferry countless times over the years. It still is a nice relaxing way to get into Manhattan and back home (former home) to Staten Island. It's one of the things I miss about the City. read more

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Who doesn't love something that's free. This is a great option for individuals who are looking to get a glimpse of Statue of Liberty from a distance, but still great views. The ferry was very clean and the operation was run seamlessly. there's indoor and outdoor seating available in restrooms on board. They are also staff around to help with questions and or concerns. The schedule for the ferry can be found online and is posted at the venue. The Staten Island ferry is a good way to get around the city without having to pay expensive Uber and or cab fees. In another great way to get to Staten Island to try some of the amazing food. read more

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Quick update to my previous review.... The first time I rode, the ferry was during normal hours on a weekday, and the snack bar was closed. I recently was back in New York and wrote it again, again, during normal hours on a weekday, and this time, it was open. I don't know if it was temporarily closed, or what. Your mileage may vary. It doesn't matter to me, because there's plenty of food and drink options on either side.. The ride is still wonderful. read more

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I am so glad I decided to take the Staten Island Ferry, it was free and easy to take. I was happy that I read the previous reviews as they mentioned to sit on the right side and outside to see the Statue of Liberty. It runs every few minutes as the there are 2 ferries. The only negative is the crowd rushes the entrance to the ferry like you're at disney so keep your party close or stand in front of the terminal door. On the Staten Island side there was shopping right outside the terminal with stores like old navy and H&M. Also there are fast food places to grab food at each terminal. read more

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It was fun although it was cold and foggy. Couldn't see the top half of the Statue of Liberty.

Definitely an experience for a first timer. NOTE the ferry ride is FREE! Hop on and hop off and hop back onto the ship to get back to Manhattan side of the city (where you boarded on at the ship). Never felt so claustrophobic in my life when we were in line for the ferry ride. Going to Staten Island, you will want to be on the right side to see city and Lady Liberty on top deck.coming back best seat is standing right outside on the entry deck and standing on your left again. read more

Staten Island Ferry - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

It's been a minute since I took the Staten Island (SI) ferry but am so glad I did, especially on a clear, blue-skies day like today. As a native New Yorker, I cannot recommend the ferry enough. Cost: $0; the ferry is free for all! Views: You get beautiful views of the water and attractions like the Statue of Liberty. It's especially nice at sunset or on a clear day like today. Amenities: Bathroom - check; Accessibility - check; Food - none. There's a decent bathroom on the ferry, so it's great for the elderly and those who worry about finding a restroom. I believe every ferry boat (there are newer vs older ones) has an elevator, and to board and deboard the ferry, one must use a ramp. No food, however. Other notes: The ferry ride runs for 25-mins in each direction. A lot of tourists take the ferry one way to Staten Island, and once on Staten Island, get back on the return ferry to Manhattan. That being said, Staten Island is a gem with a lot of great things to see. Consider making it a day or half day trip. Head out to the Empire Outlets right by the ferry terminal, or head over to Snug Harbor (a fav of Jackie O., apparently!). Try out Enoteca Maria for a meal and book a show in advance at the St. George Theatre. Whatever you decide, wishing you a nice, relaxing ride on the Staten Island ferry! Highly recommend! read more

Staten Island Ferry - View from the deck of the Staten Island ferry - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

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Great free way to see the Statue of Liberty. Fast and reliable. Ferry after ferry ran on time, packing the passengers in. It's hard to imagine how annoying myself and all of the other tourists are for the people that use this as a daily commute. The final destination is not made for tourists it's really more about the trip. read more

Great ferry ride ! If you visit , or just take the ride. Can't go wrong! Scenery- picture taking - etc. read more

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Came by the other day and it was a complimentary tourist attraction, compliments of the NY DOT! Staten Island Ferry runs every half hour from Manhattan and Staten Island on weekends. There is a M15 bus that stops right in front of the Manhattan terminal in addition to the 1 Subway line. On the Manhattan side, there is an escalator to the ferry terminal along with several eateries along with a loo. There is security present. At the designated time, the gates open and people walk onto the ferry with a choice of two levels. The Staten Island Ferry goes by the Statue of Liberty and is perfect for locals and tourists alike. The inside of the ferry is heated which was perfect for winter months. Upon boarding, there were a couple NYPD officers for visibility as well. read more

Staten Island Ferry - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

Want a great view of the Statue of Liberty without the hassle of getting on and off Liberty Island? Look no further than the Staten Island Ferry -- a 25 minute boat ride from South Ferry (Manhattan) to St. George Port on Staten Island. The ride takes you right in front of Lady Liberty, and is free to ride in both directions. As of June 2024, the ferry runs every 30 minutes (on the :00 and :30) in both directions. It's a great way to see an iconic national monument and explore a lesser-seen borough of the city -- I'd highly recommend! read more

Staten Island Ferry - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

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The best thing about the ferry is that it's free but it also means that it can get very busy in the terminal with everyone trying to get on and rush to the front but there's no need as the ferry is huge with two decks and plenty of space to roam around to get a view of the iconic statue of liberty and manhattan skyline. read more

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If you want a nice, free cruise where you can see some beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island without stopping at them, this is a great option. The ferries come every 30 minutes, and if you want to turn around and immediately get back on the ferry for a 1 hour round trip cruise, you can. The ferry is clean and organized. My one complaint: there are official signs all over the ferry saying you are not permitted to play music without headphones. There are also lots of employees in the ferry. Despite this, a woman blared her annoying music the entire ferry ride and no one did anything about it. When it was pointed out to an employee, he shrugged. It ruined such a nice boat ride. read more

My new favorite way to get over to into Manhattan. The schedule runs every 30 minutes and is 24/7. Was a bit crowded but I would definitely use this versus driving into the city. Plus you get a nice view of the Statue of Liberty and governors island. read more

An iconic mode of public transport here in NYC. Paid for by local taxes, there is no fee or ticket to buy - it's FREE! (Tourists: Don't get tricked in paying for a ticket! Invariably there are always some scammers milling about outside the station on the Manhattan side). Ferry does a pretty good job of running on time, and you can enjoy some pretty magnificent views of downtown Manhattan as well as the Statue of Liberty. Although the some tourists will take the very next ferry back to Manhattan, I'd encourage y'all to hang out and spend time in Staten Island - in my opinion, it is seriously underrated as far as boroughs go. read more

Staten Island Ferry - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

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Thank you Staten Island for this free, ferry service. Nowadays nothing is for free and what a beautiful ride. We parked in the lot for $12/ whole day. Took the ferry into Manhattan while snapping shots of Lady Liberty. Then returned back at night with all the buildings and Statue of Liberty all lit up! Best parts: affordable parking, free, views galore, avoiding the hassle of driving into Manhattan. read more

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Terrific free opportunity to see some of NYC's most iconic sites. So here's your best tip for a unique uncrowded way to enjoy the sights. After boarding, head to the stern of the ship then take the stairs down to the lowest level. It's usually empty and you will have an unimpeded view of the Manhattan skyline from the back and Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty from starboard. Plus bridge views as well. read more

Staten Island Ferry - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

This is a free commuter that takes New Yorkers between the southern tip of Manhattan and Staten Island. It is every 30 minutes. It is not the most convenient schedule, but is a lifesaver for people who live in Staten Island. A lot of tourists will research and then take this ferry because they hear it's an option to see the Statue of Liberty instead of paying for the official ferry that goes to the statue's island. I recommend you do not. The view is not great (see attached photo). Why come all the way to New York City and skip seeing the statue up close? read more

Staten Island Ferry - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

Listen- you can't beat the cost of this-- it's FREE and honestly a must do if visiting the city. I am pretty sure I saw a YouTube video about taking this Ferry for great views. I wish I knew which video so I could give credit for the tip. If you want amazing pictures of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline- please take this ferry. A little bit of info about this spot: - this is one of the last operational ferry systems in the state - fleet includes 10 vessels - about a 25 min ride - runs 24/7 -this ferry is ran to provide transpiration for the people who need it!! Ok- to find the ferry head to The Battery. There is a huge sign on top of the building that reads Staten Island Ferry. There is no need to obtain a ticket or anything. Simply head upstairs at the station and wait at door 1. Once the ferry is ready the doors will open and everyone will start boarding. If the goal is to get your picture of lady liberty I suggest going all the way to the right and upstairs. This is what I did so I can't speak to the views from anywhere else on the ferry. The ride was enjoyable! It was raining on and off the day I went so the nice breeze created felt amazing while on the water. One thing to note- everyone must get off the ferry once it arrives to Staten island. If your only goal is to enjoy the ride, simply get off and go back to wait for the ferry to depart back to Manhattan. I really hope that if you are reading this you are planning to make your way to the ferry! I hope you enjoy and appreciate it as much as I did! read more

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As a tourist visiting NY, this was a fantastic thing to do. Beggars can't be choosers, so zero complaints from me for the free ride across the waters to see the Statue of Liberty and the beautiful Manhattan buildings. This was back in March, so it was very cold. But had to brave the chills and sit on the outside benches to get unobstructed views (get on the right side leaving Manhattan). Would be even more fantastic during warmer days. And the night views would be beautiful as well, if you happen to be around the area to use this 24 hour/7 days a week service. When you get to the Staten Island, you will have few minutes to exit and go around the terminal to get back on the return ferry right away. (I chose to get on the left side leaving Staten Island to be on the Statue side again) Runs every half hour, with 1 way taking less than 30 mins for the ride (seems to run more often during commuting hours on weekdays according to the schedule), so why not take a 1 hour round trip as a tourist not rushed for time? (but still felt some pressure due to street parking time, lol) I'd say it's a must do for tourists. You won't be kissing the Statue of Liberty from this ride, but close enough to view at no charge and a good chance to relax. Good enough for my neighborhood! read more

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I rode the Staten Island ferry. I was on the 8:15 boat. September 17 2025. Here are some pictures. The bathroom looked like a blood bank.Blood was everywhere it looked like a murder scene!! Please don't go there especially if you have children and if you do no matter what don't use the bathroom. I spoke to the ferry that cans about this.They acted like it was a joke.This blood comes from IV drug users.They carry a lot of diseases hep.A.B and c h I v to name a few. Please be careful on the ferry!!!! Your taking your life in your hands. read more

Ferry comes every half-hour, 24/7, and is completely free. Easy access from the 1 train (5 min walk, can't miss the terminal). It does get pretty packed, especially during rush hour (5-7pm on weekdays) and it's first come first serve for seating and space (although I find there's never a lack of either on the ferry). There are small food vendors and gift shops at the entrance, and fairly clean bathrooms are on the left hand side. The ferry ride is rather calm; I usually get a little seasick on any boat, but I didn't need to pop a Dramamine at all. If you're coming from the Manhattan side, best view of the statue of liberty is on the right (starboard) side. read more

Staten Island Ferry - Statue of Liberty - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

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It's Thankful Thursday and every tourist coming to NY will be thankful for this review. Best Statue of Liberty hack ever! It's Free..,Don't think you're being cheap... every New Yorker knows this. In fact, it wasn't until I was in my 20's and working in NY, that i found out you could actually go yo the Statue of Liberty. The ferry leaves every 30 minutes from Whitehall Terminal in downtown Manhattan. The 5.2 mile boat ride takes you right past the Statue of Liberty. When the ferry lands you must exit. There's an outlet mall and some local craft breweries within walking distance on Staten Island, or you can just get back in line to ferry back to Manhattan. Truly, the best free hack ever. read more

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Its a free commuter Ferry to and from Staten Island. If you want a closer view of Lady Liberty but don't want the tour guide or waiting in the long lines to take a tour, this is a great option. Just remember, o ce you get to Staten Island, you must depart the ferry, and go back in line to get back on the returning ferry to Manhattan. Its pretty easy flow and many people do it so you just follow the crowds. The ferry is huge and fits over 3,500 people so it wasn't hard to find a seat. While headed to Staten Island, sit in the right side of the boat as you enter for views of the Statue of Liberty. Plenty of NYPD presence on the boat so it felt safe. read more

Staten Island Ferry - Lady Liberty - Ferries Near Me - New York, New York

I have a picture of my now 20-year-old son looking excitedly at the Statue of Liberty for the first time when he was a toddler. We were on the Staten Island Ferry for the first time thanks to the great recommendation by a NYC taxi driver. We have been the NYC many times since and we always make a point to take the ferry. For some years, we went over to see the minor league Staten Island Yankees play in a field next to St. George ferry terminal. That team doesn't exist anymore but there are some outlet stores to check out if you want. It's worth it just to go across, get off, and get back in line to go back to Manhattan. It's free and the sights are beautiful! And if you time it right, you can catch a beautiful sunset and the skyline of Manhattan all lit up! read more

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Great view of the Statue of Liberty. Let off at the shopping center in staten Island. People do hover by the entrance to load the ferry. I didn't realize how large it is inside. It fits a lot of people but I guess most people try and get to the front or cut in line because they want the best seats. I felt like there was still plenty of room and seats even boarding last. read more

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I can't believe this is free. Our first time riding this and we had a great experience both ways.