I was a young man the first time I rode the Staten Island Ferry, a bit more lonely but surely less bitter than I am now. I had just moved to the upper west side with foolish hopes of falling in love and settling down. The catch is I had never even kissed a woman, much less been in love. Bouncing from part time job to part time job, mostly night shifts, I had a lot of time to explore the city. Of course once I had been to every park and hole in the wall in manhattan, I started branching out to the other borroughs--Staten Island next. I will never forget the feeling that came over me when I spotted her from the top deck of the ferry, her eyes gazing out over the hudson river. Brilliant, powerful, and green from oxidation. I had only ever seen Lady Liberty from a distance, as part of a skyline or between cracks, but up close she exerted a force on me I later came to learn was love. When I got to the station on the other side, I just stayed on and went back again to get another audience with the Lady. Whenever I could I would go see her, getting on the first ferry before dawn and riding it back and forth until late at night. I missed too many shifts at my job and was fired, but for me that was simply an opportunity to see her more. I got a job on the ferry instead so I could gaze into those passionate bronze eyes and admire her posture, her clothes, her torch every day. Everything about the Lady was beautiful to me. Oftentimes I would get in trouble at work, for what was characterized as a "chronic daydreaming". Not completing tasks, not answering my radio, not responding when approached. Imagine how trivial such things as radios and questions seemed to me as I stood staring out and my first and only love, imagining the things we could do together. One day in which I was feeling particularly enamored, I hear people start to shout "staff, someone, help us! There's a man overboard!". Even this seemed to me of not much import to me while I was getting lost in my Lady's eyes, though it was my job to save him. I woke up a week later in the hospital. They said that I had been found unbreathing washed up on the shores of Liberty Island. The paramedics tried cpr but nothing worked. They were about to pronounce me dead when my eyes shot open and stared right up at lady liberty. My heart started beating, I spewed out gallons of water and yelled "my Lady you have saved me!" before falling unconscious.
I still ride the Staten Island Ferry every once and a while. It makes me feel silly to see her now, at least from a far. She's nothing more than a hunk of old metal. But when I get close up and look into her eyes, everything comes...
Read moreA Spectacular Journey Across the Waters with the Manhattan to Staten Island Free Ferry:
Review: The Manhattan to Staten Island Free Ferry is an absolute gem of a transportation option in New York City. Offering stunning views of the city skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the bustling harbor, this ferry ride is an experience that should not be missed.
First and foremost, the fact that this ferry service is free is incredible. It's not often that you come across a transit option that not only offers convenience but also an opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the surroundings without costing a dime. Boarding the ferry at the Whitehall Terminal was incredibly smooth and efficient, with helpful staff members guiding passengers through the process.
As the ferry pulls away from the terminal, the real magic begins. The panoramic views of Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island are absolutely breathtaking. It's a photographer's dream come true! The spacious outdoor observation decks and comfortable seating areas allow for the perfect vantage point to capture memorable photos or simply soak in the stunning vistas.
The ferry ride across the harbor is smooth and relaxing, making it ideal for both tourists and locals alike. Whether you're commuting to Staten Island or simply taking the ride for the views, the journey is always enjoyable. Onboard amenities include clean restrooms, snack bar options, and ample seating, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant experience throughout.
Arriving at Staten Island, passengers have the option to explore the area or return on the next ferry without any additional cost. This allows for a flexible itinerary and the chance to discover charming Staten Island sites such as the Staten Island Museum or the picturesque St. George neighborhood.
Overall, the Manhattan to Staten Island Free Ferry offers a fantastic opportunity to journey across the waters while admiring New York City's iconic landmarks. With its affordability, convenience, and unparalleled views, this ferry ride is truly a must-do when visiting the city. Prepare to be captivated by the sights and create lasting memories that will stay with you long after the...
Read moreDeck gets full fast so you might not get a seat, (also some people crowding the view on the bow etc). You need to patiently wait standing in line on the dock (wear sunscreen). Then once crowd is full and your incoming ship is emptied you pile on like 3rd class passengers entering the lower berths of the Titanic. 🛳Ferry is fast, views of the bridges, skyline, ships coming in and out are great. Don't drop your phone. Seeing Lady Liberty get closer is inspiring imagining you're a refugee who left oppression from 1970s communist Hungary, N. Vietnam or the Congo with nothing but an extra pair of socks and half your family alive⚒️. And you thank God you made it and will find employment and work your way up the ladder in this land of opportunities💼. Once you arrive you can go left and borrow the AUDIO TOUR🎧🦻. Otherwise you can go right to the flag pole 🇺🇲and join a ranger 🐻tour who talks as you walk around the outside.