Ferry Trips From NYC: Sail To These Places This Summer

NEW YORK, NY — You know how gross the subway gets in the summer? New York City has a fleet of ferries that can get you onto the water and to summer destinations. (Keep up with other news in your area by signing up for Patch’s daily newsletters.)

Governors Island

Governors Island opened for the summer season back in May. Located in the center of New York Harbor, the 172-acre island is home to 52 historic buildings, the Governors Island National Monument and a 43-acre public park. The island provides a venue to free arts and cultural events, festivals — such as the NYC Holi Hai Festival and the Full Moon Festival — and other recreational activities.

Sandy Hook (New Jersey)

To break the usual routine of New York City’s shores, take the Seastreak from Downtown or Chelsea to Sandy Hook in New Jersey. Bring a bike to explore the Fort Hancock Historic District.

Whale-Watching at the Rockaways

With the wind in your hair, ferry route to Queens’ Rockaway Beach is now available for the price of a subway swipe. Beachgoers can soak up the sun, take a stroll along the boardwalk or explore local restaurants. While you’re there, take in the awe of whale watching, provided by American Princess Cruises’ seasonal excursions. Humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins frequent the waters just off Rockaway.

Looking for more things to do outside in NYC?

• Go for a swim at the beach or a public pool
• Try one of NYC’s outdoor bars

Hoboken Pier (New Jersey)

Hoboken offers an assortment of things to do from the Pier 13 beer garden — a popular venue for visiting patrons and locals alike — to renting kayaks and paddle boards for fun on the Hudson River. Food trucks are lined up along the pier for a quick bite between activities.

East River State Park (Smorgasburg)

If you love food, hop on NYC Ferry’s East River route to North Williamsburg and explore Smorgasburg, one of New York City’s premier summer food markets, at East River State Park at 90 Kent Ave. More than 100 vendors are at the waterfront every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. amid an open-air food extravaganza that annually attracts somewhere between 20,000 and 30,000 people. Smorgasburg is available through October. The best part? Entry is free.

Lead image: New York City Mayor's Office