East River Ferry Debuts With Free Fare, Eco-Friendly Ambitions

East River Ferry Service

What: Free fare on the new East River Ferry service

Where: Stops include Long Island City, Greenpoint, North Williamsburg, South Williamsburg, Atlantic Avenue, Governor’s Island, East 34th Street and Pier 11 in Manhattan.

When: June 13–24

Why: To celebrate its new ferry route connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn, Queens and Governor’s Island, NY Waterway is offering free rides on the East River Ferry for a limited time. Service will run every 20 minutes year-round during peak hours, and at least every hour the rest of the time. In an attempt to reduce harmful emissions, spokesperson Julie Halpin said the route will utilize ferries from a 33-boat fleet that runs on a diesel blend, which is more than 80 percent ultra low sulfur. By spring of next year, the fleet’s fuel will be 100 percent ultra low sulfur diesel.

Cost: Free June 13–24; normal fare will then be $4 for a one-way ticket/$12 for a day pass/$140 for a monthly pass

How to get there: Varies according to location. Visit nywaterway.com for more details.