Statue City Cruises Battery Park — Attraction in New York

We utilized this tour company to visit the most popular attraction in New York City. I purchased tickets prior to in advance for Sunday, August 14, 2022. It is located at the Battery Park. Upon arrival, we had to enter through an airport type of security setting. We had to take all of our belongings out of our pockets and undergo TSA type of measures used at the airport. We entered the docking area and got on board the Miss New York. We had sweeping views of NYC and the Statue of Liberty from the top deck of the ship. The ship does sell refreshments including hotdogs and other souvenirs. The ship itself was clean and spacious. Upon arrival to the Statue of Liberty, it was a magnificent view just as we have seen in media. I advise to reserve pedestal tickets in advance, up to one week at least. I would advise not to bring large backpacks and purses. It is not allowed and you will have to rent a locker. There is a small museum area with photos and information about the Statue of Liberty. We entered the pedestal and walked up the stairs which took about five minutes. You can also take the elevator up, if you have mobility issues or just don’t feel like walking up those stairs. Once we reached the top pedestal area, it was even more beautiful. There were sweeping views with a nice breeze, since it was hot this day. We were able to take beautiful photos up here and take in all of the sites of New York City. I was informed that there is no crown access since COVID. Once we reached the bottom, we got refreshing lemonades from one of the stands. It was quite tasty and nice portion sized. We were able to view the Statue of Liberty Museum which is in the same complex. This museum is free and was a great collection of artwork displays, including 3-D displays of the Statue of Liberty. There’s also a theater in here which features a film on the Statue of Liberty. The Statue of Liberty is a must do in New York City, especially if it is your first time visiting. It was really supposed to be a symbol of blacks being freed after the Civil War. Unfortunately that story has been erased and was forced to be changed. America does not want the world to know how evil they were to Black people during slavery. This is how we choose to commemorate the Statue of Liberty. It was a symbol of freedom for our ancestors, whom were enslaved. The ferry does dock about every 10 to 15 minutes. There are signs everywhere to inform you of whether you are going to New Jersey or to New York. We got back on the ferry and rode it to Ellis Island, which is a short dock away. The Ellis Island grounds include old buildings which are currently being restored. The Ellis Island Museum has three floors. Once we entered the front of the museum, we were able to peruse and read facts about our ancestors in this country. The museum was very organized and had directories everywhere to indicate where to go. There wasn’t much for us to see, since our ancestors were never immigrants. This country is our native land. However, there were many artifacts and information on immigrants of this country. These people came way after we got here. The most interesting thing we saw in this museum was the Black Madonna. She has been heralded as a savior throughout the centuries by many people. This heavily includes many Europeans. There’s quite a bit of walking around the museum and the Statue of Liberty. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing. There’s also a café in Ellis Island Museum for patrons to partake in food if they become hungry. There’s also another café outside near the Statue of Liberty Museum. There were several Park Rangers on hand if guests needed assistance. Once we docked the ship to go back to New York, it was an easy process and we were able to get off right back where we started in Battery Park. I would highly recommend this excursion to everyone in New York City that would like to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis island. Statue City Cruises is a great tour company to utilize for this due to their organization, safety measures, and...

Statue City Cruises is the official ferry service to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, offering an essential and efficient way to visit these landmarks. Here’s a breakdown of the common experiences and feedback from visitors:

Pros: Convenient and Organized: Most travelers praise the overall organization of the ferry service. The boats generally run on time, and the ticketing process is straightforward. It’s easy to find departure points at Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey.

Views: The ferry ride itself is often a highlight. Passengers enjoy panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, New York Harbor, and the Statue of Liberty. The journey to and from Liberty and Ellis Islands offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Multiple Stops: Statue City Cruises stops at both Liberty Island (for the Statue of Liberty) and Ellis Island. Most visitors appreciate the flexibility to visit both landmarks in one trip.

Helpful Staff: Many reviews mention the professionalism of the staff, from the ticket agents to the crew onboard the ferry. They are generally described as friendly and informative, ensuring a smooth experience for tourists.

Onboard Amenities: The ferries are equipped with restrooms, snack bars, and seating options, making the trip comfortable even for those traveling with families or elderly passengers.

Cons: Long Lines and Crowds: One of the most common complaints is the long wait times, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer, holidays). Despite the best efforts of the staff, lines to board the ferry can be extensive, leading to frustration.

Security Checks: Similar to airport-style security, passengers go through rigorous screening before boarding the ferry. While necessary for safety, these checks can feel repetitive and slow, adding to the wait.

Weather-Dependent: Since it’s a ferry ride, poor weather can impact the experience. Wind, rain, or cold temperatures may make the ride less pleasant, and sometimes ferries can be delayed or canceled due to weather conditions.

Limited Ferry Capacity: At times, especially during peak hours, the ferries can feel overcrowded, and it can be difficult to get good spots for viewing or seating. Some travelers also mention that getting back on the ferry from Liberty or Ellis Island can involve long waits.

Ticket Pricing: Some visitors feel that the ticket price is a bit high, especially when traveling with larger groups or families. However, given the experience and what it includes (ferry ride, access to the islands, and museum entry), many still find it worthwhile.

Tips for a Better Experience: Buy Tickets Online in Advance: This saves time at the ticket booths and ensures you get a spot, especially if you plan to visit the Statue of Liberty pedestal or crown. Arrive Early: Getting to the departure point early (before 10 a.m.) helps you avoid the largest crowds, especially on weekends or holidays. Pack Snacks and Water: Although the ferry has food available, bringing your own can save time and money, particularly if you’re traveling with kids. Plan for Security: Prepare for the security screening by avoiding any prohibited items and packing lightly. Overall: Statue City Cruises offers a reliable, scenic, and generally positive way to visit two of New York’s most significant historical sites. Despite the potential drawbacks like long lines and crowds, the company’s well-managed service, helpful staff, and beautiful ferry rides make it a must for anyone visiting the Statue of Liberty and...

Ferry runs every hour...on the hour...from 9am - 3pm.

The ferry from Manhattan goes to Liberty Island first and then Ellis Island. After Ellis Island, it will return to Manhattan.

Purchase timed tickets (from NY) online for about $32. ($25 cost + $7 fee) All three options, general admission, pedestal access and crown access are all the same price.

There is a line for general admission, which is quite long, compared to a separate line for those who chose the pedestal or crown access. I would say, if available, choose the pedestal/crown access for the sole purpose to get on that line...even if you have no interest in visiting the pedestal or crown.

Either way...shortly after your ticket is scanned toward the "front" of the line, the two lines merge just before going into the TSA-style security check area. There you will remove all metal objects (you can keep your shoes on) and walk through a metal detector.

After clearing security, you will then be directed to the holding area where you will board the ferry. Once the ferry arrives, it will take some time for the returning passengers to unboard before you can board it.

The ferry is big with three levels...lower, middle and upper. The lower and middle are mostly indoors. The upper is all outdoors. There is a food/drink shop on the lower level. The steps between the levels can be a bit steep...so be careful, particularly when the boat is rocking.

For reference, on a nice Friday afternoon with general admission, it took almost an hour from the time I got onto the line until I boarded the ferry. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, comfortable (and weather appropriate) clothes, a hat (helps from the sun) and an umbrella (if rain in expected). Also be mindful that much of the line in under trees...so those allergy-sufferers may want to keep an antihistamine handy.

Ferry terminal is close walking distance from the 1 (South Ferry), R/W (Whitehall Street) and 4/5 (Bowling Green) train stations.

Be very careful to only purchase tickets from Statue City Cruises...while I was there, there were multiple signs warning visitors to be wary of vendors selling fake tickets near the ferry terminal. Statue City Cruises is the ONLY vendor authorized to sell ferry tickets.

Overall, despite the long lines, waits and crowds...I think they do a good job at getting all those people screened, boarded and unboarded. It is quite a task if you think about...