New York City could be smooth sailing into another transit fare increase.
The price of a ride on the NYC Ferry could soon climb to $5, up from the current $4.50 fare, if a proposed package of changes gets the green light this week. The NYC Economic Development Corporation board is scheduled to vote on the changes Wednesday, meaning the new fares could take effect as soon as October 19.
The proposed changes would affect more than just the price of a single ferry ride. The cost of a 10-trip pass would also increase, while discounted fares would see a small bump. On the other hand, the ferry’s $15 unlimited two-day pass—which was introduced as a pilot last year—could become a permanent option.
So, before you budget your next scenic commute across the East River, here’s what NYC Ferry riders need to know about the proposed fare changes.
A single NYC Ferry ride could cost $5
The biggest proposed change is a 50-cent increase for a one-way ride, bringing the standard fare from $4.50 to $5. That’s about an 11% increase and would mark the ferry’s second fare hike in just over two years. The one-way fare previously increased from $4 to $4.50 in September 2024.
If approved, the new $5 fare could take effect as soon as October 19.
10-trip fares would also increase
Regular ferry riders who rely on 10-trip passes would see a smaller increase. The proposed price would rise from $29 to $30, bringing the cost to $3 per ride when all 10 trips are used. That still makes the pass cheaper per ride than paying the standard one-way fare. The discounted one-way fare would also increase slightly, from $1.45 to $1.50.
The $15 two-day pass could stick around
There is one piece of potentially good news for riders who like using the ferry for weekend adventures: the $15 unlimited two-day pass could become permanent. The pass was introduced as a pilot last year and would remain at the same $15 price under the proposal..
When could NYC Ferry fares increase?
Nothing is final just yet. The NYC Economic Development Corporation board is scheduled to vote on the proposed changes Wednesday, and the new fares would need approval before taking effect.
If approved, the changes could begin as soon as October 19.