Your Ferry Ride Explained

From New York

The ferry ride from New York departs from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan and follows a direct route to Liberty Island, where the Statue of Liberty is located. The ferry ride usually consists of two stops. The first stop on the ferry ride is Liberty Island, where you have the opportunity to disembark and explore the grounds surrounding the Statue of Liberty. Here, you can visit the Statue of Liberty Pedestal, the Statue of Liberty Museum, and take in breathtaking views of the New York skyline.

Your tickets also include a stop at Ellis Island. Ellis Island served as an immigration station in the past, and you can explore the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration to learn about the experiences of immigrants who passed through its doors.

Departure point: Battery Park, New York, NY 10004, United States | Find on Maps

From New Jersey

The ferry ride from New Jersey departs from Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The route will first take you to Ellis Island and then across the Hudson River towards the Statue of Liberty and Liberty Island.

At Ellis Island, you can explore the National Immigration Museum and other unique exhibits like the Wall of Honor and the Peopling of America Center. The next stop is Liberty Island, where you can disembark and explore the grounds of the Statue of Liberty, similar to the New York ferry ride.

Departure point: Liberty State Park, 1 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City, NJ 07305, United States | Find on Maps

Getting to the Statue of Liberty >

Know Before You Go

Follow all instructions and guidelines provided by the ferry staff.
Pay attention to safety briefings and announcements before and during the ferry ride.
Be mindful of your surroundings and watch your step while boarding and disembarking the ferry.
Follow any designated seating or standing areas on the ferry.
Keep personal belongings secure and be cautious of any potential hazards, especially when moving around the vessel.
In case of an emergency, listen to the crew's instructions and follow evacuation procedures.
In case of inclement weather, be prepared for potential changes or cancellations to ensure passenger safety.

Indoor and outdoor seating areas for passenger comfort.
Restrooms on board the ferry for convenience during the journey.
Snack bars or concessions offering a variety of food and beverages.
Audio guides available in Arabic, English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, & Spanish.
Accessibility features for passengers with disabilities, such as ramps or elevators.
Public address system for announcements, important information, and live commentary.
Safety equipment, including life jackets and first aid kits, readily available on the ferry.
Trash receptacles to maintain cleanliness during the ride.
Views and photo opportunities from various vantage points on the ferry.

Where Your Ferry Will Take You

New York Harbor

The ferry ride itself provides stunning panoramic views of New York Harbor. As you depart from Battery Park, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the iconic Manhattan skyline, featuring landmarks such as One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge. The harbor's bustling activity and shimmering waters create a vibrant and picturesque setting.

Statue of Liberty

The ultimate highlight of the ferry ride is, of course, the Statue of Liberty herself. As you approach Liberty Island, the majestic copper statue will come into view, standing proudly as a symbol of freedom and democracy. Take in the awe-inspiring sight of Lady Liberty, standing at 305 feet (93 meters) tall, and marvel at the craftsmanship and intricacies of this remarkable monument.

About the Statue of Liberty

Liberty Island

Upon docking at Liberty Island, you can disembark and explore the grounds surrounding the Statue of Liberty. Take a leisurely stroll around the island to appreciate the statue from different angles and enjoy the lush greenery of the park. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Statue of Liberty Museum, where you can learn about the history, construction, and symbolism of this iconic landmark.

Explore Liberty Island

Ellis Island

Many Statue of Liberty ferry rides also include a stop at Ellis Island. This historic island served as the gateway to America for millions of immigrants between 1892 and 1954. Explore the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, where you can trace the stories of those who sought a new life in America, view exhibits showcasing their experiences, and even search for your own ancestors in the American Family Immigration History Center.

Explore Ellis Island

Visitor Tips

The Statue of Liberty is a popular attraction, so we recommend booking your tickets in advance. This will help you secure your preferred date and time, and avoid long queues on the day of your visit.
Plan to arrive at the ferry departure point early in order to allow enough time for ticketing and security procedures. This will ensure a smoother boarding process and give you more time to explore the surrounding area before departure.
Choose the early morning ferry ride to be the first visitors of the day! This lets you explore the attraction at peace, without crowds.
It's a good idea to pack some essentials for your ferry ride, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Additionally, carry a water bottle to stay hydrated, as the ferry journey can take some time.
The weather can greatly impact your experience, so check the forecast beforehand. Dress appropriately for the conditions and consider bringing an extra layer or a rain jacket, as the harbor can be windy and temperatures may vary.
The Statue of Liberty ferry ride offers spectacular views of the New York City skyline and the statue itself. Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture these memorable moments and take stunning photographs.
Allocate enough time for your visit to fully explore both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Be mindful of ferry departure times and make a rough itinerary to make the most of your visit, ensuring you have ample time to experience all the attractions and exhibits.

Plan Your Visit to the Statue of Liberty

Frequently Asked Questions About the Statue of Liberty Ferry

Where does the Statue of Liberty ferry depart from?

The ferry rides to the Statue of Liberty departs from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan, New York, and Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey. Click here for directions to the Statue of Liberty.

How long is the Statue of Liberty ferry ride?

The ferry ride from Battery Park or Liberty State Park to Liberty Island usually takes around 15-20 minutes.

Can I purchase Statue of Liberty ferry tickets on the same day?

Yes, same-day tickets are usually available, but they are subject to availability. It's recommended to purchase your Statue of Liberty tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot.

Is there a fee for the Statue of Liberty ferry?

All Statue of Liberty tickets & tours include roundtrip ferry transfers.

Are reservations required for the Statue of Liberty ferry?

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, as it ensures you have a spot on the ferry and helps minimize wait times.

Can I bring food and drinks on the Statue of Liberty ferry?

Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and drinks on the ferry. However, alcohol and glass containers are prohibited.

Can I bring a stroller on the Statue of Liberty ferry?

Yes, strollers are allowed on the ferry, but they may need to be folded and stored during the ride to ensure safety and maximize space.

Can I visit the Statue of Liberty without taking the ferry?

No, the only way to access Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty is by taking a ferry.

Is the Statue of Liberty ferry accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the ferry service is accessible to individuals with disabilities. The ferries and docks are equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Can I go inside the Statue of Liberty during the ferry visit?

Yes, you can enter the Pedestal and Crown of the Statue of Liberty, but access is limited and requires a separate reservation and security screening. Tickets to the Crown must be purchased separately.

Are there guided tours available on the Statue of Liberty ferry?

Audio guides available in multiple languages on the ferry that provide narrated information about the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You can also opt for a guided tour to enjoy live commentary during the ferry ride.

Can I visit Ellis Island with the same ferry ticket?

Yes, your Statue of Liberty tickets include a stop at Ellis Island, allowing you to explore the island and the National Museum of Immigration.

Are pets allowed on the Statue of Liberty ferry?

With the exception of service animals, pets are not allowed on the Statue of Liberty ferry or the islands due to safety and hygiene reasons.

Can I take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty at night?

The Statue of Liberty ferry service typically operates during daylight hours only, with the last departure occurring before sunset. Nighttime visits are not possible.

How far in advance should I arrive for the Statue of Liberty ferry?

We recommend arriving at least 30-60 minutes prior to your scheduled departure to allow time for ticketing, security checks, and boarding.