How to get to Williamsburg (Brooklyn) by Ferry
Williamburg in Brooklyn: a must-visit destination
Taking a trip to Williamsburg (Brooklyn) by ferry is an enjoyable and scenic way to visit one of New York City’s most vibrant neighborhoods. With a bustling arts scene, trendy shops, bars, and restaurants, Williamsburg attracts tourists and locals alike. From Williamsburg, you can also visit nearby attractions such as Red Hook, Governors Island, and see the Statue of Liberty by using the NYC Ferry operated by Hornblower.
In this comprehensive guide of my NYC BLOG, we’ll delve into the different ferry options, routes, schedules, ticket prices, and more, to help you plan your visit to this exciting destination. Get ready to embark on a picturesque journey to the heart of Brooklyn!
Why Choose the Ferry to go to Williamsburg?
Comfort and Scenery
One of the primary reasons people opt for the ferry when figuring out how to get to Williamsburg (Brooklyn) is the comfort and unbeatable views it offers. Instead of being stuck in traffic or crammed into a subway car, you can enjoy a relaxing ride on the water, taking in the sights of the East River, the iconic Manhattan skyline, and the Statue of Liberty.
Avoiding Traffic
Rush hour traffic in New York City can be a nightmare. By choosing the ferry to Williamsburg, you bypass the stress and delays of crowded roads, making your journey to Brooklyn smooth and enjoyable.
Environmentally Friendly
As an added bonus, ferries are a greener mode of transportation compared to cars or buses. They emit fewer pollutants and help reduce congestion on city streets. In fact, many New Yorkers prefer to use the ferry to move between Manhattan and popular Brooklyn neighborhoods such as DUMBO, Red Hook, and Williamsburg.
Williamsburg Ferry Options
The two main ferry stops in Williamsburg are the North Williamsburg Ferry and the South Williamsburg Ferry. These stops are served by the NYC Ferry’s East River route, providing a convenient way to access the neighborhood and making it easy to get to Williamsburg from Manhattan by ferry.
North Williamsburg Ferry
Located at North 6th Street and Kent Avenue, the North Williamsburg stop is ideal for visiting popular attractions like McCarren Park, the Williamsburg waterfront, and numerous bars and restaurants.
South Williamsburg Ferry
Situated at Kent Avenue and South 8th Street, the South Williamsburg stop brings you closer to the Domino Park, Peter Luger Steak House, and the south side’s shopping and dining options.
Ferry to Williamsburg: Key Routes
DUMBO to Williamsburg by Ferry
The DUMBO to Williamsburg ferry route, which is part of the East River Ferry service, is perfect for those visiting Brooklyn Bridge Park or exploring DUMBO’s cobblestone streets. Board at the DUMBO ferry stop, and you’ll arrive in Williamsburg in just a few minutes.
If you need more info on how to get to Dumbo from Manhattan, check out my blog on this topic. On my NYC Blog, you can even discover the best restaurants in DUMBO.
Manhattan to Williamsburg by Ferry
There are several convenient ferry stops in Manhattan, including Wall Street/Pier 11 (next to South Street Seaport), East 34th Street, and Stuyvesant Cove. These locations provide direct access to both North and South Williamsburg via the East River route.
Additional Ferry Options: Red Hook, Governors Island, Staten Island and Long Island City
You can also use the NYC Ferry to visit Red Hook, Governors Island and Long Island City from Williamsburg. To plan your trip and find real-time schedules and ticket information, visit the NYC Ferry website or download their mobile app.
If you plan to visit Red Hook in Brooklyn, check out my useful article “Where is Red Hook and how to get there”
In addition to the NYC Ferry options, if you’re looking to visit Staten Island from Manhattan, you can take advantage of the free Staten Island Ferry. This reliable and frequent service departs from the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan and sails across New York Harbor, offering stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline along the way.
The Staten Island Ferry is not only an economical choice for commuters and tourists alike, but it also provides a unique perspective of the city’s most famous landmarks. To view the ferry schedule and learn more about the Staten Island Ferry, visit their official website.
If you are looking for the best viewpoints to see the Statue of Liberty (for free) check out the related article in my NYC Blog.
Navigating the Williamsburg Ferry Schedule
To find the most up-to-date ferry schedule, visit the NYC Ferry website or download their mobile app. Schedules may vary depending on the time of day and the day of the week, so be sure to check for any updates before planning your trip.
Ferry to Williamsburg: Ticket Options and Pricing
Ferry tickets are affordable and easy to purchase. A one-way adult ticket costs $2.75, while seniors, individuals with disabilities, and Medicare cardholders pay a reduced fare of $1.35. Children under 44 inches tall ride for free when accompanied by an adult.
You can purchase tickets at the ferry terminal’s ticket vending machines, through the NYC Ferry mobile app, or on the NYC Ferry website using the “Website tickets” option. Keep in mind that you cannot buy tickets onboard the ferry. Once purchased, tickets are valid for the designated route and time, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Conclusion
Taking the ferry to Williamsburg is a scenic, comfortable, and convenient way to explore this bustling Brooklyn neighborhood. With various routes, affordable ticket options, and a user-friendly schedule, you’ll find that traveling by ferry is an excellent alternative to more traditional transportation methods.