East River Ferry Guide – Routes, Prices & Parking

Exploring the East River Ferry

The East River Ferry isn’t just a utilitarian mode of transportation; it’s a curated experience that transforms your daily commute or leisurely exploration into a memorable journey. As you glide along the iconic East River, you’re treated to a constantly evolving panorama of New York City’s architectural marvels. The Manhattan skyline, with its towering skyscrapers and historic landmarks, unfolds before you, offering a unique perspective that’s impossible to capture from street level.

The East River Ferry is just one of the many routes offered by the New York Ferry system, connecting you to the heart of the city’s waterfront. The waterfronts of Brooklyn and Queens, each with their distinct character and burgeoning cultural scenes, reveal themselves in a way that highlights the dynamic energy of these boroughs.

The East River Ferry service offers a welcome respite from the often-stressful rhythm of city life. Instead of navigating crowded subway cars or sitting in traffic-choked streets, you can relax and enjoy the fresh air and open water. Whether you’re a daily commuter seeking a moment of tranquility or a visitor eager to capture that perfect Instagram shot, the East River Ferry provides an unparalleled vantage point. It acts as a vital link between key neighborhoods, enabling effortless access to waterfront parks, trendy restaurants, and a wealth of cultural attractions, making it an essential part of the modern New York experience.

East River Ferry Schedule

Weekday schedule

During weekdays, the East River Ferry operates with a carefully calibrated schedule to accommodate the ebb and flow of commuter traffic. Peak hours, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, see an increased frequency of ferries, ensuring minimal wait times for those heading to and from work. Throughout the midday period, a consistent flow of ferries maintains a reliable service, catering to those traveling for appointments, errands, or leisure.

Weekend schedule

Weekend service adopts a more relaxed pace, reflecting the shift in travel patterns. Ferries run at slightly less frequent intervals, providing ample time for passengers to embark on leisurely explorations of waterfront destinations, engage in weekend activities, or simply enjoy a scenic ride along the East River.

Arriving at Wall Street/Pier 11

Departing from Wall Street/Pier 11

East River Ferry ticket pricing

A single ride on the East River Ferry is offered at a flat fare of $4.00, making it an exceptionally affordable and accessible transportation option for both daily commuters and casual travelers. This consistent pricing structure eliminates the complexities of zone-based fares or distance-related charges, simplifying the ticketing process and enhancing the overall passenger experience.

East River Ferry: reaching your destination

Wall Street/Pier 11

• Subway: Accessible via the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, R, and W subway lines, providing seamless connections from various points across Manhattan and beyond.
• Bus: Numerous bus routes, including the M15 and M55, serve the area, offering alternative transportation options for those traveling from different parts of the city.
• Taxi/Uber/Lyft: Readily available in the bustling Financial District, ensuring quick and convenient access to the ferry landing.
• Walking: A short and pleasant walk from the heart of the Financial District and the historic South Street Seaport, allowing passengers to combine their ferry journey with a stroll through these iconic areas.

DUMBO/Brooklyn

• Subway: Accessible via the A and C subway lines at High Street-Brooklyn Bridge and the F line at York Street, providing direct connections from Manhattan and other parts of Brooklyn.
• Walking: DUMBO is a highly walkable neighborhood, with its charming cobblestone streets and scenic waterfront promenades.
• Bike: Numerous bike lanes lead to DUMBO, making it a popular destination for cyclists.

North Williamsburg

• Subway: Accessible via the L train at Bedford Avenue.
• Walking: North Williamsburg is very walkable, with easy access to many shops, restaurants and parks.
• Bike: Many bike lanes lead to North Williamsburg, and bike parking is readily available in the area.

South Williamsburg

• Subway: Accessible via the J, M, and Z trains at Marcy Avenue.
• Walking: South Williamsburg is very walkable, with easy access to the waterfront and surrounding neighbourhoods.
• Bike: Many bike lanes provide access to South Williamsburg.

Greenpoint

• Walking: Greenpoint is a very walkable neighbourhood, with many shops and restaurants along Manhattan Avenue and Franklin Street.
• Bus: The B24, B32, and B48 bus routes serve Greenpoint.
• Bike: Greenpoint is bike friendly, with many bike lanes.

East 34th Street

• Subway: Accessible via the 6 train at 33rd Street, and a short walk from the N, R, and W trains at 34th Street-Herald Square.
• Bus: Numerous bus routes serve 34th Street, including the M15, M34, and M101.
• Taxi/Uber/Lyft: Readily available in the Midtown East area.
• Walking: Centrally located in Midtown East, making it easily accessible on foot.

Hunters Point South

• Subway: Accessible via the 7 train at Hunters Point Avenue, and a short walk.
• Walking: Hunters Point South is very walkable, with a beautiful waterfront park.
• Bike: Bike lanes lead to Hunters Point South.
• Bus: The Q103 bus route serves the area.

East River Ferry – your waterfront journey awaits

The East River Ferry provides a unique and stress-free way to navigate New York City. With its regular schedule, affordable fares, and stunning views, it’s an ideal choice for commuters and tourists alike. Whether you’re seeking a scenic commute or a leisurely waterfront adventure, the East River Ferry provides an unforgettable experience.

East River Ferry Guide – Routes, Prices & Parking was last modified on 14 April, 2025 23:16 EDT by Emma Northoff. Published: 16 February, 2025 01:37 EST