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Can you charge your phone on a ferry?

Staten Island Ferry riders may not be able to charge their cell phones on the boat, but they can now plug in at the terminal. The Department of Transportation unveiled new charging booths Wednesday at both the Saint George and Whitehall terminals.



Yes, you can almost always charge your phone on a ferry in 2026, though the availability of outlets varies significantly by the age and type of the vessel. On modern commuter ferries (like those in NYC, Seattle, or Sydney), many seats now feature built-in USB-A or USB-C ports, and most lounge areas have standard wall outlets located near the floor or along the window ledges. For large overnight ferries (such as those in the Mediterranean or Baltic Sea), cabins are equipped with multiple standard outlets, and "Smart Ships" often feature wireless charging pads in communal bar and cafe areas. If you are on an older, smaller "local" ferry, outlets might be limited to a single "charging station" or a few plugs near the snack bar. To be safe in 2026, travelers are advised to bring a portable power bank, as the high demand for public outlets often means they are occupied by other passengers during peak travel times on shorter routes.

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