While the subway is the fastest way to get around New York City, the NYC Ferry offers a far more enjoyable and scenic alternative, especially during the warm August months. For a reasonable fare (currently $4.00 per trip, or $2.75 if purchasing a 10-trip pack), you can enjoy fresh air, incredible views, and a unique perspective on the city’s skyline and waterfront.
The NYC Ferry system has expanded significantly in recent years, connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. This guide highlights the most scenic routes for summer exploration and sightseeing adventures.
Why Choose the NYC Ferry?
- Incredible Views: Unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline, bridges, and landmarks.
- Refreshing Experience: Enjoy the cool breeze off the water—a welcome relief from the hot subway platforms.
- Amenities: Ferries offer indoor seating, outdoor top-deck seating, and concessions (including snacks, coffee, and alcoholic beverages).
- Efficient Connections: A great way to connect waterfront neighborhoods that are often underserved by the subway.
The Most Scenic NYC Ferry Routes
1. The East River Route (ER): The Classic Skyline Tour
The Route: Runs between Hunters Point South (Queens) or East 34th Street (Manhattan) down to Wall Street/Pier 11, stopping at key points in Brooklyn along the way.
Why it’s Scenic: This is the quintessential NYC Ferry experience. It offers spectacular views of the Midtown skyline (Empire State Building, Chrysler Building), the United Nations, and the rapidly developing waterfronts of Long Island City and Greenpoint. The highlight is the journey south, passing under the Williamsburg, Manhattan, and Brooklyn Bridges in quick succession. It’s breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Destinations: DUMBO (Fulton Ferry Landing) for Brooklyn Bridge Park, Williamsburg for trendy shops and dining, Long Island City for Gantry Plaza State Park.
2. The Astoria Route (AS): Bridges and Islands
The Route: Connects Astoria (Queens) with East 90th Street, East 34th Street, Brooklyn Navy Yard, and Wall Street/Pier 11, with a stop at Roosevelt Island.
Why it’s Scenic: This route offers a unique perspective on the Upper East Side, the dramatic Hell Gate Bridge, and the RFK (Triborough) Bridge. The journey around the northern tip of Roosevelt Island provides close-up views of the lighthouse and the unique architecture of the island. As you head south, you get the full East River skyline view.
Destinations: Astoria for incredible Greek food, Roosevelt Island for the Four Freedoms Park and the Tramway.
3. The Rockaway Route (RW): Ocean Breezes and Harbor Views
The Route: Connects Wall Street/Pier 11 and Sunset Park (Brooklyn Army Terminal) directly with Rockaway Beach (Beach 108th Street).
Why it’s Scenic: This is the longest route (about an hour) and feels like a true excursion. You travel down the harbor, passing Governor’s Island and getting distant views of the Statue of Liberty. The highlight is passing under the massive Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and entering the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean before docking at Rockaway. It’s a fantastic way to start a beach day.
Destinations: Rockaway Beach for surfing, sand, and tacos.
4. The South Brooklyn Route (SB): Industrial Charm and Harbor Icons
The Route: Connects Corlears Hook (Lower East Side) with Wall Street/Pier 11, traveling down through key Brooklyn neighborhoods including DUMBO, Red Hook, Sunset Park, and Bay Ridge.
Why it’s Scenic: This route offers the best close-up views of the Statue of Liberty (as it passes near Governor’s Island and Red Hook). It also showcases the industrial charm of the Brooklyn waterfront, including the massive cranes at the Red Hook Container Terminal and the historic Brooklyn Army Terminal.
Destinations: Red Hook for unique shops, distilleries, and Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pie; Bay Ridge for views of the Verrazzano Bridge.
Tips for Riding the NYC Ferry
- Ticketing: Download the NYC Ferry app to purchase tickets and check schedules. You can also buy paper tickets at the kiosks at each landing. Remember the current pricing structure ($4.00 for a single ride, or $2.75 if you buy a 10-pack).
- Go to the Top Deck: For the best views and fresh air, head straight to the outdoor top deck. Seats fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during commute hours.
- Bikes: You can bring your bike onboard for an additional $1.00 fee.
- Timing is Everything: Sunset rides are spectacular, especially on the East River route. Morning rides are often calmer and less crowded.
- Check Schedules: While ferries run frequently, check the schedule in advance, especially on weekends or if you are taking a less frequent route.
- Transfers: Your ticket allows for free transfers between NYC Ferry routes within 90 minutes.
A DIY Sightseeing Tour
For a fantastic, cheap sightseeing tour, combine a couple of routes. For example:
- Start at East 34th Street and take the Astoria Route north to see Roosevelt Island and the Hell Gate Bridge.
- Get off at Astoria. Explore the neighborhood or wait for the next ferry south.
- Take the Astoria Route south all the way down to Wall Street/Pier 11, enjoying the full East River skyline view.
- Transfer at Pier 11 to the South Brooklyn Route towards Bay Ridge for views of the Statue of Liberty and the Verrazzano Bridge.
The NYC Ferry is more than just transportation; it’s an experience. This summer, skip the subway and embrace the adventure of exploring the city from the water.
