Tour Operator's Hours:First ferry from mainland – 8:30 A.M. Last ferry from mainland – 3:30 P.M. Last Ferry from Liberty Island 5:00 P.M. Last Ferry from Ellis Island 5:15 P.M.
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We recommend you arrive at least 30 minutes (1 hour during peak travel season) prior to your scheduled tour time to allow ample time to pick up your tickets and go through the security screening process (airport-style security).
The ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island depart every 15-20 minutes. The first ferry departs at 8:30 am in the high season and 9:00 am in the low season and the last ferry departs at 4:00 pm in the high season and 3:30 pm in the low season.
We recommend you arrive at least 30 minutes (1 hour during peak travel season) prior to your scheduled tour time to allow ample time to pick up your tickets and go through the security screening process (airport-style security).
These ferries leave from two locations: The Battery, at the southern tip of Manhattan in New York City, and Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey.
Sailing time to each island is approximately 15 minutes. If you remain on boat for ride only without visiting either monument, it will be one hour and fifteen minutes. If you visit both islands the time depends on the time you spend on both islands.
Take in the Sights With the Best NYC CruisesOur popular New York Harbor cruise options give you an up-close view and fantastic photo opportunities of the most talked-about attractions, including: The Statue of Liberty. The Manhattan skyline. The Brooklyn Bridge.
The Statue of Liberty is not open for nighttime visits, but the crown and pedestal are open until 6 PM during the summer season. How long does it take to climb to the crown of the Statue of Liberty? Climbing to the crown of the Statue of Liberty can take up to 45 minutes.
Taking the ferry to the Statue of Liberty is an absolute must! Not only does it offer unparalleled views and incredible experiences - it's also a great opportunity for some iconic pictures with Lady Liberty herself! Don't forget your camera – this is an experience not soon forgotten!
Visitors arrive and depart Liberty Island and Ellis Island, located in New York Harbor, via ferries operated by Statue City Cruises. These ferries leave from two locations: The Battery, at the southern tip of Manhattan in New York City, and Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey.
Stand on the port side (right side) at the back of the ferry going out to the Statue of Liberty. It will give you the best views of the city and of the statue as you approach. Book ahead of time on the Government Website, for reserved tickets and skip the security lines.
It's also worth noting that while the statue is visible from boats going in both directions, it is much closer to the route taken by ferries going to Staten Island. Riding the Staten Island Ferry is the best way to see the Statue of Liberty.
Bags & BackpacksLarge bags are not allowed on Liberty or Ellis Islands. There are no locker facilities at the New York and New Jersey embarkation points. Backpacks, strollers and large umbrellas are not permitted in the Monument.
I don't think people realize just how steep and tight the stairway up is! The statue museum is amazing and it was just surreal to see it up close! The views from the ferry are better... but it is so worth it to plan ahead and book tickets to climb to the crown at least once in your life!
Statue of Liberty and Ellis IslandYour first stop will be on Liberty Island and there you can find restrooms near the gift shop, the Statue of Liberty Museum and the Pedestal.
Even the Statue's official name represents her most important symbol Liberty Enlightening the World. The Statue's current replacement torch, added in 1986, is a copper flame covered in 24K gold. It is reflective of the sun's rays in daytime and lighted by 16 floodlights at night.
You can take an elevator to the pedestal level of the Statue, but beyond that, there are just steps. Depending on your pace, it will take about 15-20 minutes to climb to the top of the crown and back, but you might want to spend some time on the pedestal level before or after your ascent.
Visiting the pedestal is a great addition to your trip to Liberty Island. There are 215 steps or approximately 10 stories to climb to the top of the pedestal. There is an elevator for those who cannot use the stairs. Tickets to the pedestal are limited and can sell out in advance.
Those with reservations to the crown of the Statue of Liberty are ONLY PERMITTED to carry with them: Camera (camera bags not authorized) Mobile phone. Water (in a clear plastic container)
On your way to the Statute of Liberty, the best seating for viewing the Statute of Liberty and Lower Manhattan is the top floor, right side, at the rear of the ferry. Try to sit on the last bench so people are not in your camera lens. It is perfect for photos of Lower Manhattan when traveling to the Statue of Liberty.
As a tour guide, a question I hear a lot is: “Is it worth it to see Ellis Island?” For those who have no familial connection or relation to the people who passed through, its importance and influence can often be overlooked. Which is why I am here to tell you that it is absolutely, 100% worth it.