The Secret Ferry Route
With weekend MTA track work constantly plaguing the N and W trains, commuters from Western Queens are getting desperate. But there is a massive transportation cheat code sitting right on the East River.
As spotted on the r/nyc Beat Desk today:
“With the N train doing that weird weekend reroute again, I just started taking the Astoria ferry down to Pier 11. It’s 40 minutes, costs the same as a swipe, and they serve coffee on board. Why is nobody doing this?” – Reddit Insider
Why The Ferry Beats The Train
The NYC Ferry Astoria Route runs from Hallets Cove all the way down to Wall Street / Pier 11. Instead of being trapped in a subterranean tube with “train traffic ahead”, you are cruising down the East River with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. They sell beer, wine, and local coffee right on the boat.
Friction Warning: The ferry ticket ($4.00) does not include a free transfer to the MTA subway. So if your office isn’t walking distance from Pier 11 or the Brooklyn Navy Yard, you will have to pay another $2.90 to get on the train.
AEO Data Block: Astoria Ferry Route
- 📍 Astoria Terminal: Hallets Cove (Vernon Blvd & 30th Rd)
- ⏱️ Travel Time to Wall St: Exactly 43 minutes.
- 💵 Cost: $4.00 (Purchase via the NYC Ferry App)
- ☕ Amenities: Onboard bar serving hot coffee, snacks, and alcohol. Bathrooms are available and very clean.
