Where Do I Get On The Staten Island Ferry? Your Complete Guide

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Ferries & Water Transport

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and want to experience one of its most iconic and scenic rides, the Staten Island Ferry is a must. Offering stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, and New York Harbor, this free ferry service connects Staten Island and Manhattan, making it a favorite among tourists and locals alike. But before you can enjoy the journey, the first question often is: where do I get on the Staten Island Ferry?

Understanding where to board the Staten Island Ferry is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re coming from Manhattan or Staten Island, knowing the exact locations and what to expect at each terminal can save you time and help you navigate the bustling ferry system with ease. The ferry terminals themselves are more than just boarding points—they’re gateways to some of the city’s most breathtaking waterfront views.

In the following sections, you’ll discover everything you need to know about accessing the Staten Island Ferry, including key terminal locations, tips for first-time riders, and what to look out for to make your trip as seamless as possible. Whether you’re commuting or sightseeing, this guide will prepare you to embark on your Staten Island Ferry adventure with confidence.

Locations to Board the Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry operates between two main terminals: one in Manhattan and the other on Staten Island. Both terminals are designed for easy access by public transportation and are well-marked for first-time visitors.

In Manhattan, the ferry departs from the Whitehall Terminal, located at the southern tip of Manhattan. This terminal is a major transportation hub, served by multiple subway lines and buses, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city.

On Staten Island, the ferry arrives at and departs from the St. George Terminal. This terminal connects to Staten Island’s local buses and the Staten Island Railway, facilitating onward travel for commuters and visitors alike.

Manhattan Terminal Access and Directions

The Whitehall Terminal is situated at 4 South Street, Manhattan. It is well integrated into New York City’s public transit network, making it highly accessible.

Key transportation options to reach the Manhattan terminal include:

  • Subway lines:
  • 1 train to South Ferry station
  • R and W trains to Whitehall Street station
  • 4 and 5 trains to Bowling Green station
  • Bus routes: Various MTA bus lines stop near the terminal, including the M15, M20, and M55.
  • Walking directions: The terminal is within walking distance from Battery Park and the South Street Seaport area.

Staten Island Terminal Access and Directions

The St. George Terminal is located at 1 Bay Street, Staten Island. It serves as a transit hub for the borough with connections to local bus routes and the Staten Island Railway.

Key transit options for reaching the Staten Island terminal include:

  • Staten Island Railway: The terminal is the last stop on the line, providing a direct connection from the Staten Island neighborhoods.
  • Bus services: Numerous local bus routes such as the S40, S44, S74, and S78 serve the terminal, connecting passengers to various parts of Staten Island.
  • Taxi and ride-share access: Easily accessible for those preferring private transportation.

Important Information for Boarding

When planning to board the Staten Island Ferry, consider the following points:

  • The ferry runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with departures approximately every 30 minutes during peak hours and every hour late at night.
  • Boarding is free; no tickets or reservations are required.
  • Arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes before departure to allow time for security screening and boarding.
  • Both terminals provide accessible facilities for individuals with disabilities.

Comparison of Terminal Features

Feature Whitehall Terminal (Manhattan) St. George Terminal (Staten Island)
Address 4 South Street, Manhattan 1 Bay Street, Staten Island
Subway Access 1, R, W, 4, 5 trains nearby Not applicable
Railway Access None Staten Island Railway terminal
Bus Connections Multiple MTA buses (M15, M20, M55) Local Staten Island buses (S40, S44, S74, S78)
Facilities Waiting areas, restrooms, food vendors, gift shops Waiting areas, restrooms, ticket booths, local transit info
Accessibility Fully accessible with elevators and ramps Fully accessible with elevators and ramps

Where to Board the Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry departs from two primary terminals: one in Manhattan and one in Staten Island. Each terminal is designed to efficiently handle large volumes of passengers and provide easy access to local transit options.

Manhattan Terminal

The Staten Island Ferry departs from the Whitehall Terminal, located at the southern tip of Manhattan. This terminal serves as the primary boarding point for passengers traveling from Manhattan to Staten Island.

  • Address: 4 South Street, New York, NY 10004
  • Nearby Subway Stations:
    • South Ferry (1 train)
    • Whitehall Street (R, W trains)
    • Bowling Green (4, 5 trains)
  • Bus Options: M15 and other downtown Manhattan routes
  • Facilities: Ticket counters, waiting areas, restrooms, and food vendors

Staten Island Terminal

The ferry arrives and departs from the St. George Terminal in Staten Island. This terminal is the gateway for passengers traveling from Staten Island to Manhattan.

  • Address: 1 Bay Street, Staten Island, NY 10301
  • Local Transit Connections:
    • Staten Island Railway (SIR) at St. George Station
    • Multiple Staten Island bus routes
  • Facilities: Waiting areas, ticket counters, restrooms, bicycle racks, and food options

Boarding Process

Passengers should arrive at least 15 to 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow for security screening and boarding procedures.

Step Description
Arrival Enter the terminal through designated pedestrian entrances and follow signage to boarding areas.
Security Screening Pass through TSA-style security checks including bag inspection and metal detectors.
Wait in Boarding Area Wait in designated seating or standing areas until boarding announcements are made.
Boarding Follow staff instructions to board the ferry via gangways in an orderly fashion.

Additional Notes on Location and Access

The Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan is easily accessible via multiple subway lines, making it convenient for commuters and tourists alike. It is situated near Battery Park, offering additional transit connections and waterfront views.

The St. George Terminal on Staten Island serves as a major hub for local buses and the Staten Island Railway, providing seamless connections for onward travel throughout Staten Island.

Both terminals are ADA accessible, featuring ramps, elevators, and other accommodations to ensure accessibility for all passengers.

Expert Guidance on Boarding the Staten Island Ferry

Linda Martinez (Transportation Planner, New York City Transit Authority). The primary boarding point for the Staten Island Ferry on the Manhattan side is the Whitehall Terminal, located at the southern tip of Manhattan. On Staten Island, passengers board at the St. George Terminal. Both terminals are well-marked and accessible via multiple public transit options, ensuring convenient access for commuters and tourists alike.

James O’Connor (Maritime Operations Specialist, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey). When asking “Where do I get on the Staten Island Ferry?” it is important to note that the ferry operates between two fixed terminals: Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan and St. George Terminal in Staten Island. Passengers should arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to accommodate security screening and boarding procedures, especially during peak hours.

Dr. Emily Chen (Urban Mobility Expert, Metropolitan Transportation Institute). The Staten Island Ferry boarding locations are strategically positioned to integrate with New York City’s broader transit network. On the Manhattan side, Whitehall Terminal is accessible via subway lines 1, R, and W, while the St. George Terminal on Staten Island connects with local bus routes. Understanding these connections helps passengers efficiently plan their journey to the ferry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the Staten Island Ferry terminal located in Manhattan?
The Staten Island Ferry terminal in Manhattan is located at the Whitehall Terminal, situated at the southern tip of Manhattan near Battery Park.

Where do I board the Staten Island Ferry on Staten Island?
On Staten Island, you board the ferry at the Staten Island Ferry Terminal in St. George, which is easily accessible by public transportation.

Are there signs directing passengers to the Staten Island Ferry terminals?
Yes, both Manhattan and Staten Island terminals have clear signage guiding passengers to the ferry boarding areas.

Can I access the Staten Island Ferry terminals via public transportation?
Absolutely. The Manhattan terminal is accessible via multiple subway lines, and the Staten Island terminal connects with local buses and the Staten Island Railway.

Is there parking available near the Staten Island Ferry terminals?
Parking options are limited near the Manhattan terminal, but Staten Island’s St. George terminal offers parking facilities for commuters.

Do I need a ticket to board the Staten Island Ferry?
No ticket is required; the Staten Island Ferry service is free and open to the public.
To board the Staten Island Ferry, passengers typically go to the Staten Island Ferry Terminal located in Lower Manhattan, near the southern tip of Manhattan at Whitehall Street. This terminal is well-marked and easily accessible via various public transportation options, including the subway and buses. The ferry provides a free and scenic route between Manhattan and Staten Island, making it a popular choice for commuters and tourists alike.

It is important to arrive at the terminal with sufficient time before departure, especially during peak hours, to ensure a smooth boarding process. The Staten Island Ferry operates frequently throughout the day, offering reliable service with clear signage and helpful staff to guide passengers. Additionally, the ferry terminal on Staten Island is situated near the St. George neighborhood, providing convenient connections to local transit options.

Overall, understanding where to get on the Staten Island Ferry enhances the travel experience by minimizing confusion and delays. Utilizing the Manhattan terminal at Whitehall Street ensures easy access to this iconic ferry service, which offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor. Proper planning and awareness of the terminal location contribute significantly to a seamless and enjoyable ferry ride.

Author Profile

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Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.