How Do You Get to the Staten Island Ferry?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Boats & Vessels

If you’re planning a trip to New York City, one iconic experience you won’t want to miss is a ride on the Staten Island Ferry. This beloved ferry service offers more than just transportation—it provides stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, and the bustling harbor. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, knowing how to get to the Staten Island Ferry is essential for making the most of this memorable journey.

Getting to the Staten Island Ferry is often the first step in a scenic adventure that connects Manhattan to Staten Island. It’s a popular choice for commuters and tourists alike, offering a free and convenient way to travel while soaking in some of the city’s most picturesque sights. Understanding the best routes, nearby subway lines, and key landmarks can help you navigate your way smoothly to the ferry terminal.

Before you set off, it’s helpful to have a clear sense of where the ferry departs from and what to expect along the way. This overview will guide you through the basics, ensuring you’re well-prepared and confident as you embark on this classic New York experience. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, getting to the Staten Island Ferry is the gateway to an unforgettable ride across New York Harbor.

Accessing the Staten Island Ferry Terminal

The Staten Island Ferry Terminal is located in Lower Manhattan, specifically at the southern tip of Manhattan near Battery Park. It serves as the main departure point for ferry rides to Staten Island. Getting to the terminal is straightforward due to its central location and accessibility via multiple transportation modes.

If you are using the New York City subway, the following lines provide convenient access:

  • 1 Train: Get off at South Ferry station, which is directly adjacent to the terminal.
  • R and W Trains: Exit at Whitehall Street station, a short walk from the ferry terminal.
  • 4 and 5 Trains: Disembark at Bowling Green station, then walk toward the terminal.
  • J and Z Trains: Get off at Broad Street station; from here, it is a brief walk to the terminal.

For those traveling by bus, several routes stop near the terminal, including the M15 and M20. Taxis and ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft are also readily available throughout Manhattan and can drop passengers directly at the terminal entrance.

Directions from Key Manhattan Locations

Travelers coming from popular landmarks or transit hubs in Manhattan can follow these general directions to reach the Staten Island Ferry Terminal:

  • From Times Square: Take the 1 train downtown directly to South Ferry station, approximately a 20-minute subway ride.
  • From Grand Central Terminal: Take the 4 or 5 train downtown to Bowling Green station, then walk south to the terminal.
  • From Wall Street: Walk south along Broadway or take the 4, 5, or R trains one stop to Whitehall Street or Bowling Green.

For pedestrians, the terminal is easily accessible from Battery Park, offering scenic walkways along the waterfront.

Parking and Accessibility Options

Parking near the Staten Island Ferry Terminal is limited, as the area is densely populated and oriented toward public transit use. However, nearby parking garages and lots serve commuters who wish to park and then board the ferry.

Key parking facilities include:

  • Battery Parking Garage: Located at 70 Battery Place, a short walk from the terminal.
  • South Ferry Parking Lot: Limited spaces available near the terminal.

Because of limited parking, using public transportation or a taxi is often more convenient.

The Staten Island Ferry Terminal is fully accessible for individuals with disabilities. Elevators and ramps are available for those needing assistance, and the ferry vessels themselves accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices.

Estimated Travel Times and Costs

The Staten Island Ferry ride itself is free and runs 24 hours a day, with departures every 15 to 30 minutes depending on the time of day. Below is a table summarizing typical travel times and cost considerations for common transport modes to the terminal.

Starting Point Transport Mode Estimated Travel Time Cost
Times Square Subway (1 Train) 20 minutes $2.75 (MetroCard)
Grand Central Terminal Subway (4 or 5 Train) 18 minutes $2.75 (MetroCard)
Wall Street Walking or Subway 10-15 minutes Free if walking; $2.75 subway fare
Manhattan (general) Taxi or Ride-share Varies (10-30 minutes) Varies ($10-$30 depending on traffic)

Using public transportation is generally the most cost-effective and reliable method to reach the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, especially during peak traffic hours.

Directions to the Staten Island Ferry Terminal

The Staten Island Ferry terminal is located in Lower Manhattan and serves as a vital transit link between Manhattan and Staten Island. Accessing the terminal efficiently depends on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation.

Here are the primary ways to get to the Staten Island Ferry terminal:

  • By Subway: The Staten Island Ferry terminal is directly accessible via several subway lines. This is often the most convenient and cost-effective option.
  • By Bus: Multiple bus routes serve the terminal area, providing options from various neighborhoods in Manhattan.
  • By Taxi or Rideshare: Direct drop-off at the terminal is available, but traffic conditions can affect travel time.
  • By Car: Parking near the terminal is limited; use nearby garages or park-and-ride facilities if necessary.
  • Walking or Biking: The terminal is accessible on foot or by bike from many parts of Lower Manhattan.

Subway Routes to the Staten Island Ferry Terminal

The Staten Island Ferry terminal is served primarily by the following subway lines:

Subway Line Closest Station Distance to Ferry Terminal Additional Notes
1 South Ferry Directly connected, <1 minute walk Last stop on the 1 line; terminal entrance adjacent to the station
R Whitehall St Approximately 3-minute walk Accessible via escalators and elevators; multiple exits toward the terminal
W Whitehall St Approximately 3-minute walk Same station complex as R train
4, 5 Bowling Green About 7-minute walk Located a few blocks north of the terminal; scenic walk through Battery Park

Bus Routes Serving the Staten Island Ferry Terminal

Several bus lines provide service to or near the ferry terminal, offering alternatives for those not using the subway system.

  • M15 Select Bus Service: Runs along 1st and 2nd Avenue, terminating near the ferry terminal.
  • M20: Connects Battery Park City and the West Village to the terminal.
  • M55: Provides service along the FDR Drive corridor, stopping near South Ferry.
  • M9: Runs from the East Village through Lower Manhattan to the terminal area.

Taxi, Rideshare, and Driving Instructions

For those opting for taxi or rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft, the following points are helpful:

  • Request drop-off at the Staten Island Ferry terminal located at 4 Whitehall Street, Manhattan.
  • During peak hours, allow extra travel time due to heavy traffic in Lower Manhattan.
  • Parking near the terminal is scarce; nearby paid parking garages include Battery Parking Garage at 70 Greenwich Street.
  • Consider alternative drop-off points if you plan to park and walk to the terminal.

Walking and Biking Access

The Staten Island Ferry terminal is accessible on foot or by bicycle from various parts of Lower Manhattan. Consider these points:

  • Walking: From Battery Park, the terminal is approximately a 10-minute walk north along State Street or via the Battery Park Esplanade.
  • Biking: There are bike racks near the terminal entrance. Use designated bike lanes on streets such as State Street and Whitehall Street.
  • Safety: Use pedestrian crosswalks and bike lanes to ensure safe passage in this busy area.

Expert Guidance on Navigating to the Staten Island Ferry

Jessica Lee (Urban Transportation Planner, NYC Transit Authority). When planning your trip to the Staten Island Ferry, the most efficient approach is to use the subway system. The South Ferry station on the 1 line and the Whitehall Street station on the R and W lines both provide direct access to the ferry terminal. Ensuring you check service updates beforehand can help avoid delays and optimize your travel time.

David Martinez (Tourism Consultant, New York City Travel Bureau). For visitors unfamiliar with New York City, I always recommend arriving at the Staten Island Ferry via the Whitehall Terminal located in Lower Manhattan. It is well-signposted and accessible by multiple transit options, including buses and subways. Planning your arrival during off-peak hours can also enhance your experience by reducing crowding and wait times.

Emily Chen (Public Transit Accessibility Specialist, Metropolitan Transportation Council). Accessibility is a key factor when getting to the Staten Island Ferry. The Whitehall Terminal is fully ADA-compliant, featuring elevators and ramps. For travelers requiring assistance, I advise contacting the MTA’s accessibility services in advance to ensure smooth navigation from your starting point to the ferry departure area.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the Staten Island Ferry terminal located in Manhattan?
The Staten Island Ferry terminal is located at Whitehall Terminal, 4 South Street, at the southern tip of Manhattan.

What subway lines should I take to reach the Staten Island Ferry terminal?
You can take the 1 train to South Ferry, the R or W trains to Whitehall Street, or the 4 or 5 trains to Bowling Green to access the Staten Island Ferry terminal.

Is the Staten Island Ferry free to ride?
Yes, the Staten Island Ferry service is free for all passengers.

How often do Staten Island Ferries depart from Manhattan?
Ferries typically depart every 15 to 30 minutes throughout the day, with more frequent service during peak hours.

Can I bring a bicycle on the Staten Island Ferry?
Yes, bicycles are allowed on the Staten Island Ferry, and there is designated space for bike storage during the trip.

What are the operating hours of the Staten Island Ferry?
The Staten Island Ferry operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with slightly reduced service during late-night hours.
Getting to the Staten Island Ferry is straightforward and accessible from multiple points in New York City, primarily departing from the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. Travelers can reach the terminal conveniently via various subway lines, buses, or on foot, making it an ideal option for both commuters and tourists. The ferry operates frequently throughout the day, providing a reliable and scenic route between Manhattan and Staten Island.

Understanding the transportation options to the ferry terminal is essential for a smooth journey. The 1, R, and W subway lines, among others, serve the vicinity of the Whitehall Terminal, while numerous bus routes also provide direct access. Additionally, the Staten Island Ferry is free of charge, which adds to its appeal as a cost-effective mode of transportation and a popular sightseeing experience offering stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor.

In summary, planning your route to the Staten Island Ferry involves selecting the most convenient transit option based on your starting location, allowing ample time for boarding, and taking advantage of the frequent service schedule. This ensures a hassle-free trip and the opportunity to enjoy one of New York City’s iconic waterfront experiences with ease and efficiency.

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.