NYC Statue of Liberty Ellis Island Visit with Ferry Ticket

If you’re considering a trip to see the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, this package from Statue of Liberty Bus might catch your eye. It promises a full-day experience with options to tailor your day, including ferry tickets, transfers from Midtown Manhattan, and even breakfast. For many first-time visitors or those looking to streamline their sightseeing, it sounds appealing — but like any tour, it’s worth diving into the details before booking.

We appreciate how this tour cuts down on the hassle — no need to navigate New York’s busy subway system, as it includes roundtrip transfers from Midtown, which is a huge plus, especially if your plan is to maximize sightseeing and minimize logistics. The scenic ferry rides also offer a chance to enjoy some of Manhattan’s skyline views, which is always a highlight when exploring this city’s waters. Plus, if you’re a history buff or just love the photo opportunities, visiting both Liberty Island and Ellis Island is pretty much essential.

That said, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The tour doesn’t include access to the pedestal or crown of the Statue of Liberty, which are often the main highlights for visitors wanting a closer look or a panoramic view from the top. Also, the ferry cruise option that doesn’t stop on Liberty Island means you’ll only see the statue from the water — which is nice but less immersive. This package is a solid choice for those after a straightforward, guided experience, especially if you prefer to avoid the public transit hassle.

If you’re a traveler who values convenience, appreciates scenic boat rides, and is happy with viewing the statue from afar, this tour might suit you well. However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth or close-up experience, you might want to explore other options. Now, let’s break down what you can expect from this experience, step by step.

Key Points

• Convenient Midtown Transfers: Avoid the subway chaos with included roundtrip bus service from Midtown Manhattan.
• Scenic Ferry Rides: Enjoy views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty from the water — a memorable way to see the city.
• No Pedestal or Crown Access: If getting close to the statue’s crown or pedestal is your goal, this package doesn’t include that.
• Flexible Options: You can choose to add breakfast or a water cruise, tailoring the experience to your preferences.
• Time Management: The entire tour lasts around 6.5 hours, giving you a full but manageable day.
• Limited Access: The ferry cruise option doesn’t stop at Liberty Island, only providing views from the water.

An Honest Take on the Tour Experience

We know how busy New York can be, so anything that simplifies a must-see is worth considering. This tour’s biggest strength is its convenience. Being picked up from Times Square and transported directly to the ferry wharfs means less time fussing with transit, which can be a real relief during a packed day of sightseeing.

The scenic ferry rides are definitely a highlight. They offer a fantastic vantage point to admire the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty from afar, and the Statue’s impressive stature against the water — perfect for photos or just enjoying the views. Many travelers, like Brandy_B, noted that their experience was smooth, especially with helpful guides. Her comment about the meeting point being initially confusing was quickly resolved, which is good to see.

However, the limitations are worth noting. The tour does not include access to the pedestal or crown, which is often why people make the trip in the first place. If you’re hoping to walk up and get a panoramic view from the monument itself, you’ll need to seek other tickets. Similarly, the ferry cruise that skips the island only offers water views of Lady Liberty, which might feel less satisfying for those wanting a close-up look or to explore Liberty Island itself.

Pricing-wise, at $59.99, this tour offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see these iconic landmarks without breaking the bank. But, keep in mind, the value depends heavily on what kind of experience you want. If you’re happy with a scenic overview and the convenience of transfers, it’s a good deal. But if you’re craving a deeper, up-close encounter, it might fall short.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Times Square — The tour begins at a designated bus departure point in the heart of Manhattan. This central location makes it easy for most travelers to access, especially those staying in Midtown. The departure time is set so you can begin your day with some energy, perhaps after a quick breakfast.

Bus Transfer to the Ferry — The bus ride from Times Square to the ferry terminal is designed to be quick and direct, avoiding the need to navigate NYC’s complex subway system. This is particularly helpful for visitors unfamiliar with public transit or those who prefer a more comfortable start to their day. The bus is included if you select that option, making it a good value.

Ferry to Liberty Island — Once at the pier, you’ll board a scenic ferry ride to Liberty Island. If you’ve chosen the ticket that includes Liberty Island and Ellis Island, you’ll get to explore the grounds, learn about the history of the Statue, and see where millions of immigrants first set foot in America. The 4-hour window on Liberty Island allows enough time to walk around, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere.

Ellis Island Visit — After Liberty Island, the tour typically takes you across to Ellis Island, a place filled with stories of hope, hardship, and new beginnings. This part offers a deeper historical context, making the visit more meaningful if you’re interested in America’s immigrant story.

Optional Add-Ons — Some packages include a 60-minute express cruise from Pier 36, which offers views of Lady Liberty from the water. However, this cruise does not stop at Liberty Island, so it’s more of a sightseeing cruise than an island visit. The breakfast option provides a pastry and coffee, a nice touch if you want to start your day with a bit of fuel.

Return Trip — After the exploration, the bus takes you back from Battery Park to Midtown, completing a full circle. The entire experience lasts roughly six and a half hours, making it manageable for most day plans.

What Travelers Can Expect on the Day

From start to finish, expect a well-organized schedule aimed at maximizing your time. The group size is capped at 55 travelers, which keeps it manageable but lively. The tours are designed to be informative, with guides available to answer questions (although some reviews mention minor hiccups with meeting points). The included tickets mean you mainly focus on the experience rather than additional purchases, but remember, the access is limited to public viewing areas.

Expect scenic views and some waiting — especially during ferry crossings and security checks. The tour’s success relies on good weather, as cloudy or rainy days can diminish the water views and overall experience. Also, since the tour doesn’t include special access, you won’t be able to go inside the Statue or up to the crown, which is often a highlight for many.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors who want a straightforward way to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island without much fuss. It’s also suitable for those who prefer organized transportation and guided commentary rather than navigating themselves. People who enjoy scenic boat rides will find the ferry portion particularly enjoyable.

However, if you’re seeking a more in-depth or close-up experience, or want to access the Statue’s interior, you might want to look for specialized tickets or alternative tours. Also, those who value historical or insider insights into Liberty Island might find this tour a bit surface-level, as it prioritizes convenience over comprehensive access.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a tidy, affordable way to tick off two major NYC landmarks — especially if you’re in a hurry or want to avoid the public transit hassle. The included transfers and scenic ferry rides are definite advantages, making it easier to enjoy the experience without stress. The fact that it’s a full-day tour means you get a good chunk of time to explore and take photos, which always makes for a satisfying visit.

On the flip side, it’s not the best choice if you’re eager to up close and personal with Lady Liberty by accessing the pedestal or crown. Also, the ferry cruise that only views the statue from the water might not satisfy those craving a more immersive experience.

If you’re okay with a scenic overview and appreciate the convenience, this tour could be a great fit. But if your dream is to go inside the monument or get a panoramic view from the top, you might want to consider other options or tickets.

FAQs

Does the tour include access to the pedestal or crown of the Statue of Liberty?
No, this tour does not include access to the pedestal or crown. You’ll only see the statue from the water and on the island’s public areas.

Can I choose a tour that includes breakfast?
Yes, a breakfast featuring a pastry and coffee is available as an add-on if you select that option.

What transportation is included?
The tour provides roundtrip bus transfers from Midtown Manhattan — specifically from Times Square — which helps save time and avoid transit stress.

Is the ferry ride scenic?
Absolutely. The ferry offers views of Manhattan’s skyline and of Lady Liberty from the water, making for some great photo opportunities.

What if I want to explore Liberty Island and Ellis Island for longer?
The standard tour includes about 4 hours on Liberty Island and time on Ellis Island, which should be sufficient for most visitors. If you want more in-depth exploration, check if other tours offer extended or private access.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect to spend approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including transfers, ferry rides, and sightseeing time.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if plans change.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically aimed at children, most travelers of all ages can participate. Keep in mind, the tour duration and walking involved may be better suited for older kids.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 211 W 43rd St in Times Square and ends back at the same meeting point after the day’s activities.

All in all, this tour strikes a balance between convenience and sightseeing — ideal for travelers seeking a hassle-free way to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with some scenic water views along the way.