Bon voyage!
Southern Brooklynites can set sail to the distant isle of Manhattan from the Brooklyn Army Terminal today. The long-awaited ferry service kicks off with the roll out of the Rockaway route that shuttles Queens’ residents to Sunset Park, where their Brooklyn neighbors board, and then motors on to Manhattan.
Up to 150 passengers will pack on to the vessels for the scenic voyage, which will last just under an hour with the bulk of the journey being the 43-minute leg from Queens to Sunset Park. Seafarers can take advantage of wifi, munch on snacks, and even turn their commutes into a booze cruise with alcohol.
Once the boat shoves off from the terminal, Brooklynites can enjoy scenic views of the harbor for 16 minutes before docking in Manhattan.
Those who live near the remaining four Southern Brooklyn stops will have to wait until the June 1 launch to ride the blue highway from their nabe, or trek over to the terminal.
The nearest trains are the R and N line at the 59th Street stop on Fourth Avenue. Commuters can stroll three blocks down to the waterfront or hop onto the B11, which will drop travelers at the terminal’s doorstep. The B37 and B9 also have stops near the docks.
For those cruising by car, the Brooklyn Army Terminal offers free parking, according to its website. And if you bike over, you’ll need to a snag a $1 ticket for your cycle — unless it’s a suitcase-sized folding bike that can be kept with you during the journey.
Tickets will run riders $2.75 and can be purchased online, from a ticket agent, at a ticket vending machine, or with a smart phone via the NYC Ferry App. Children under four feet ride free.
If you’re the seafaring type, snag a 30-day pass for $121 or spring for a bike pass at $141. Seniors and those with disabilities can apply for a half-priced 30-day pass.
