Adventures

Windward Wanderlust – A South Brooklyn NYC Ferry Tale

It was a sunny morning in New York City when I embarked on a sightseeing journey through South Brooklyn. While most tourists opt for the usual subway experience, I was determined to take the scenic route on the NYC Ferry. The idea of gliding across the East River with a backdrop of the iconic Manhattan skyline excited me, and we were eager to explore the city’s lesser-known gems.

Quite unusual are the orange contraptions in the terminals. In spring 2018, the NYC Ferry witnessed a significant increase in annual ridership, reaching approximately 9 million passengers, double the initial projection. This unexpected growth made it clear that expanding the ferry fleet was essential. To support their dock workers and ensure efficient maintenance of the growing fleet, state-of-the-art gangways were installed at a dedicated maintenance facility. Their facilities can now handle the daily upkeep and servicing requirements for the entire NYC Ferry fleet of vessels.

NYC Ferry Tale

Dock gangways have historically been used for various purposes in maritime transportation, from simple boarding and disembarking of passengers to facilitating cargo loading and unloading. Gangways have been integral to marine operations serving multiple purposes in passenger transportation, cargo handling, military endeavors, ship maintenance, and emergency response situations. Over time, these structures have evolved in terms of design, materials, and safety features to meet the ever-changing demands of the maritime industry.

Back to our sightseeing tour, we arrived at the Wall Street/Pier 11 ferry terminal in Lower Manhattan with a coffee in hand and a sense of anticipation. The terminal was buzzing with life as New Yorkers from all walks of life mingled, waiting for their respective ferries. I boarded the South Brooklyn route and sat comfortably on the top deck to enjoy the stunning views.

As the ferry pulled away from the terminal, I marveled at the expansive skyline of Lower Manhattan, dominated by the One World Trade Center. The Statue of Liberty could be seen in the distance, standing proudly as a symbol of freedom and welcoming visitors worldwide.

Our first stop was DUMBO, a charming neighborhood nestled between the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. The cobblestone streets and old warehouses converted into trendy shops and restaurants gave the area a distinctive character. The Manhattan Bridge loomed overhead as the ferry continued south, framing the Empire State Building in the distance.

We sailed past the Brooklyn Navy Yard, a former shipbuilding site now transformed into a tech, design, and media company hub. The striking architecture of the Yard contrasted with the lush greenery of the Brooklyn Bridge Park that followed.

As the ferry made its way to Red Hook, I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful waterfront parks, repurposed industrial buildings, and the occasional local fishing off the piers. The neighborhood’s maritime past was evident in the mix of historic and modern structures.

Next up was Sunset Park, with its diverse community and bustling food scene. My fellow passengers and I disembarked to explore the colorful markets, taste the local cuisine, and experience the rich culture that makes this area unique.

The last stop on our South Brooklyn voyage was Bay Ridge, a neighborhood known for its stunning waterfront promenade and peaceful, tree-lined streets. As we approached the terminal, the view of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge was breathtaking. The enormity of the bridge was awe-inspiring, and I felt a sense of accomplishment for having explored the lesser-known side of New York City.

New York City prides itself on being a wheelchair-friendly city, committed to fostering accessibility and inclusivity for all residents and visitors, regardless of their mobility needs. The city has made significant efforts to create an accessible environment by implementing various measures, services, and improvements to its infrastructure—reliable gangways designed to assist workers will have an impact if people with disabilities have easier access to the terminals. By incorporating ramps and adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, the ferry terminals ensure that all riders have equal access to the ferry service, regardless of their physical abilities.

Overall, the ferry staff was courteous and helpful throughout the ride, ensuring everyone had a pleasant experience. As I disembarked at Bay Ridge, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to see New York City from a different perspective. The NYC Ferry gave me a unique sightseeing adventure through South Brooklyn, showcasing the city’s diverse neighborhoods and rich history. It was a day I will always remember fondly, a true testament to the magic of New York City.

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