When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Seastreak Ferry- East 35th Street
Why Seastreak Ferry- East 35th Street is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Seastreak Ferry at East 35th Street is a premier ferry terminal offering a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a relaxed and scenic journey across New York City waters. This terminal serves as a midpoint in Seastreak's route, providing easy access to key NYC landmarks including the United Nations, Empire State Building, and bustling shopping areas like Madison and 5th Avenues. The terminal features practical amenities such as covered waiting areas, bike racks, and handicap accessibility, making it convenient for all commuters and visitors alike. The ferry vessels themselves are designed with comfort in mind, boasting spacious airline-style seating, panoramic windows, air-conditioned cabins, and outdoor decks that offer breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Amenities onboard include satellite TV, a well-stocked bar serving beer, wine, spirits, and snacks, and accommodations for bikes and pets, making it a perfect spot for both leisure and daily commuting. The ferry rides are smooth and fast, traveling at speeds of up to 38 knots, ensuring a pleasant and efficient travel experience. Being well-connected by subway (4, 5, 6 trains) and several local bus routes further enhances the accessibility of the East 35th Street terminal, making it an excellent place to meet friends or commute while enjoying the city's scenic water routes.
Here's what people think of Seastreak Ferry- East 35th Street
As of recent, Seastreak Ferry- East 35th Street holds a 4.6-star rating based on 312 reviews.
Users widely appreciate Seastreak Ferry at East 35th Street for its comfort, efficient service, and scenic route. Many reviewers highlight the spacious and clean boats with comfortable airline-style seating, the availability of indoor air-conditioned areas, and outdoor decks perfect for enjoying views of the New York City skyline. The convenience of multiple transit options to and from the terminal, such as subway connections and local buses, also receives positive remarks, as does the friendly and professional staff on board. Positive reviews frequently mention the smooth and speedy ferry rides combined with onboard amenities like the cash bar and satellite TV, which contribute to a relaxing atmosphere. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to limited covered waiting areas at the terminal, especially during inclement weather, which can be uncomfortable. A few users also note the absence of on-site refreshments at the terminal itself, urging travelers to prepare accordingly. Despite these minor concerns, the overall consensus is that Seastreak provides a high-quality, enjoyable ferry experience with excellent value for commuters and tourists alike, combining practicality with scenic pleasure seamlessly.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Daniela Asenova
The boat to the Staten Island is free and you can see the Statue of Liberty so close.
יערה כהן
The ferry ride was enjoyable, the boat was clean, and the views were stunning. A must do experience for anyone visiting the city!
bruce levy
I recently took the ferry from Manhattan to the Highlands for the annual Clam Fest. Excellent experience in every respect. The roughly hour long ride was smooth, with comfortable seating and friendly staff. The bar was a nice surprise, with low prices for both soft drinks and alcoholic drinks.
Kalvin Thompson
Took the seastreak from Pier 11 Manhattan to Sandy Hook New Jersey and back. Round trip for $49 or something. The boat was clean and spacious, good seating options in shade with AC, part sun, or full sun on top deck. I opted for that upper deck both trips, wind in my hair enjoying the views. Seating inside the boat has ice cold AC pumping and comfortable and well spaced seats. Seating gets tighter spaced as you go towards the top. The very top has both seating and standing area. There's a bar on board where you can get alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages. There are several bathrooms. You can bring your own snacks or drinks on board. The trip was super efficient, 35 minutes each way. They provide shuttle services at the destination, which are on time and efficient. At first I thought the price tag was high for the round trip ticket, but later when I saw the boat and the process and enjoyed the experience, I realized it was completely worth the price tag. I would definitely do this trip again in a heartbeat. I would also consider doing the whale watch or other routes with this company. Overall it was more of an extremely pleasant memorable experience rather than just a commute, well worth the money.
Rosemary McC
I'd like to complain about 2 things that Seastreak should really work on... 1. If you're staying for a few days you can't park in the lot next to the terminal. But really, why make folks with bags walk a couple of blocks (10 min)? There's no drop off place for suitcases. 2. The parking lot is terrible! Almost broke a wheel trying to get my suitcase to the ferry over the stones. It was not marked where i should walk so thats another complaint. Then when I got back, I was so happy I wasn't parked in the 1st lot, it had water up to some bumpers of cars since it had just rained. And getting to that 2nd lot (overnight parking) would have required me carrying my suitcase over my head walking down the middle of the street with rain water up to my calves IF not for the nice man I asked for a ride. Some party needs to do something, either Seastreak or The Highlands Dept of whatever. It was not a pleasant experience for a first-time user of the ferry to NYC. On another note, the ferry itself was clean, the crew helpful and the schedule on time. Easy way to travel to Manhattan.
How to reach Seastreak Ferry- East 35th Street
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Why Seastreak Ferry- East 35th Street may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Seastreak Ferry - East 35th Street with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable outing calls for a destination that combines convenience, unique experiences, and access to scenic views—and Seastreak Ferry’s East 35th Street terminal in New York City fits the bill perfectly. This ferry terminal is more than just a transit point; it’s a gateway to adventure and relaxation on the water. Located on Manhattan’s East Side, the East 35th Street terminal offers easy accessibility via several subway lines (4, 5, 6 trains) and bus services, making it a convenient meeting spot for groups coming from different parts of the city. The setting by the waterfront encourages a refreshing escape from the urban environment without requiring you to travel far. Whether your group wants to enjoy the journey across the water or head towards popular destinations like Sandy Hook Beach or even Martha’s Vineyard, the ferry provides a unique shared experience that bonds friends through stunning views and time spent together. This location’s 4.6-star rating from over 300 reviewers shows consistent positive feedback, highlighting its reliability, ambiance, and accessibility as reasons why it is a great place to gather and start your group adventure. With its covered waiting areas, bike racks, and handicap accessibility, everyone in your group can enjoy comfort while waiting for departure, making Seastreak Ferry at East 35th Street a natural rallying point.
What activities can you enjoy around Seastreak Ferry - East 35th Street that make it ideal for group meetups?
Seastreak Ferry’s East 35th Street terminal offers more than just boarding for ferries; it acts as a local hub surrounded by a variety of activities perfect for groups seeking a mix of urban and waterfront enjoyment. Before or after your ferry ride, your group can explore nearby iconic spots like the Empire State Building, Madison Avenue, 5th Avenue, and the United Nations—all within walking distance. This allows for an urban sightseeing adventure intertwined with your planned ferry trip. The terminal’s location along the FDR Drive and East River also provides picturesque waterfront views, ideal for casual strolls, photo opportunities, or simply soaking up the serene atmosphere by the water. For those seeking to be more active, the bike racks at the terminal encourage cycling meetups, enabling the group to combine ferry travel with urban cycling explorations. Additionally, local delis and restaurants nearby offer convenient access to refreshments, accommodating group meals or snacks either before departure or upon return. Since the terminal itself has limited covered waiting areas but no on-site refreshments, nearby eateries become a natural extension of the meetup, allowing friends or family time to catch up in a lively neighborhood setting. This blend of urban amenities and water-based travel makes the location perfect for groups that enjoy dynamic experiences and want to make a day of it.
What ferry destinations can your group explore departing from East 35th Street?
One of the biggest draws for hosting meetups at the East 35th Street terminal is the variety of interesting ferry routes and destinations accessible from this point. Your group can embark on trips to classic beach spots like Sandy Hook Beach in New Jersey, which offers a refreshing beach experience just a short ferry ride away. The ferry operates throughout the summer season, allowing for easy weekend beach outings that combine the excitement of water travel with sun and surf. Beyond local beaches, Seastreak also provides seasonal routes to far-reaching and iconic locations such as Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts. This longer excursion, available during select times of the year, is perfect for groups looking to turn a meetup into an extended getaway with a blend of ferry cruising and island charm. The ferry service also connects to other New Jersey ports including Atlantic Highlands and Belford, expanding your group’s exploration options across state lines. These destinations are not just about the places themselves but also about the shared experience of traveling by ferry—a relaxing and social environment onboard where your group can chat, enjoy views of the New York skyline, and capture memorable moments together. Whether opting for a scenic day trip or a special vacation-style outing, the East 35th Street terminal serves as an inviting launching point for your group’s adventures.
How accessible and comfortable is the East 35th Street ferry terminal for group gatherings?
Accessibility and comfort are key when planning to meet up with a diverse group, and Seastreak’s East 35th Street ferry terminal is well-equipped to accommodate this. The terminal is handicap accessible, ensuring that members of your group with mobility challenges can navigate the space without difficulty. Covered waiting areas and benches, while somewhat limited, provide shelter and seating, making the wait for departure more comfortable, especially in mild weather. Being located just two blocks from the subway station and close to several bus lines means the terminal is a transit-friendly location, allowing easy arrivals and departures for all group members, which alleviates stress often associated with urban meetups. Although there are no refreshments available directly at the terminal, the presence of numerous nearby restaurants and delis addresses this gap, offering spaces for groups to dine before or after their ferry trip. The provision of bike racks further supports active group members, encouraging a green, healthy mode of transport. Overall, these facilities make the East 35th Street terminal a practical and welcoming place to congregate as a group before embarking on your ferry journey or exploring the surrounding area.
Why is the ferry ride itself a great activity for groups departing from East 35th Street?
The ferry ride departing from East 35th Street offers a unique group experience that combines travel and recreation. Onboard a Seastreak ferry, your group enjoys spacious seating with panoramic views of the water and the dramatic New York City skyline. This relaxing environment naturally encourages conversation and shared enjoyment, fostering group bonding in a way that static venues can’t quite replicate. The ferry also offers a sense of adventure and novelty compared to typical city outings, transforming a simple trip into a memorable event. Whether heading to nearby beaches or further afield to destinations like Martha’s Vineyard, the ferry creates pauses from the usual urban pace, giving your group time to unwind together while taking in fresh air and scenic vistas. The size and design of the boats often accommodate groups comfortably, allowing you to choose spots where you can all sit or stand together. This combination of travel comfort, social space, and stunning waterways make the ferry ride from East 35th Street an activity that itself merits hosting meetups around it.
How does Seastreak Ferry’s location at East 35th Street integrate with urban exploration and transit options?
Seastreak Ferry’s East 35th Street terminal is uniquely positioned to integrate seamless urban exploration with waterborne travel for groups. Situated on Manhattan’s east side near the FDR Drive, the terminal is directly accessible from numerous subway and bus routes, providing hassle-free travel for groups from all over the city. This accessibility encourages meetups that blend city sightseeing with ferry adventures. Groups can easily pair a ferry ride with visits to Manhattan landmarks like the Empire State Building or the United Nations, all just walking distance or a short transit ride from the terminal. This connectivity also means your meetup can be as flexible or as structured as you wish, with options to begin or end at the terminal in coordination with other group activities in NYC. The nearby MTA bus services, including the M34 Crosstown and M15 buses, add more transit choices, further simplifying group logistics. This integration of transit and scenic travel makes the East 35th Street ferry terminal an excellent hub for group outings that bridge urban life and waterfront relaxation.
What practical tips should groups keep in mind when meeting at East 35th Street terminal?
When planning a meetup at the Seastreak Ferry East 35th Street terminal, several practical considerations can help your group have the best experience possible. Given that the terminal’s covered waiting areas are limited and open to the elements in cases of wind, rain, or snow, it’s wise to check the weather and dress appropriately, especially for longer waits. Since there are no refreshments or food vendors on site, arranging to stop by nearby delis or restaurants either before heading to the terminal or after your trip can keep hunger at bay and prolong the social time together. The station’s close proximity to subway lines (4, 5, 6) and bus routes means sharing arrival plans can ease stress, ensuring everyone arrives promptly and can find the location without issue. If members of your group enjoy cycling, encourage them to bring bikes to use the facility’s bike racks and possibly explore the area on two wheels before or after your ferry ride. Lastly, consider purchasing tickets ahead of time during busy seasons, especially for popular routes like those to Sandy Hook Beach or Martha’s Vineyard, to avoid last-minute hassles and to guarantee your group’s spot on the ferry.
How does the overall atmosphere and customer feedback enhance the experience of meeting at Seastreak Ferry East 35th Street?
The positive atmosphere and consistently high customer ratings significantly contribute to why Seastreak Ferry’s East 35th Street terminal is a favored meetup spot among groups. With a stellar 4.6-star rating based on more than 300 reviews, the terminal and ferry service are appreciated for their reliability, cleanliness, and friendly staff. Reviewers often mention the scenic views of the Manhattan skyline and waterfront that elevate the ferry experience from mere transportation to a delightful outing. This welcoming environment makes it comfortable and enjoyable for groups, whether they are families, friends, or larger social gatherings. The smooth coordination of ferry schedules with mass transit options reduces logistical stress, which is especially appreciated during peak travel seasons. This reputation for friendly service and operational reliability reassures groups that their meetup will be a hassle-free and pleasant event. Knowing that both the terminal and the service meet high standards allows group organizers to focus on having fun and making memories instead of worrying about transportation challenges.
What makes Seastreak Ferry East 35th Street a unique venue for repeat group meetups?
Seastreak Ferry East 35th Street stands out as a venue because it offers a combination of accessibility, variety of destinations, and a memorable transit experience that few urban locations match. Unlike typical meetup venues, the ferry terminal transforms a gathering into a mini-adventure every time, whether your group boards for a quick beach day or a longer getaway to Martha’s Vineyard. This ability to mix travel with leisure gives groups ample reasons to return repeatedly for different outings according to the season and interests. The ease of reaching the terminal via subway and bus, along with nearby dining options, allows each meetup to feel fresh and flexible, adapting to the group’s mood and preferences. Plus, the changing water views, seasonal ferry routes, and special events hosted by Seastreak add variety that keeps each visit distinct. For groups who enjoy shared experiences and a break from conventional social venues, East 35th Street provides a unique and ever-inviting backdrop that encourages frequent and enjoyable reunions. This blend of convenience, service quality, and experience variety is what makes it a standout location for friends and families wanting to rally together.