Statue of Liberty Ellis Island Ferry Ticket with Upgrade Options

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and want to tick off one of its most iconic sights, a trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is almost unavoidable. The tour we’re reviewing offers a straightforward way to access these landmarks, with options to customize your experience. Whether you’re after the basic ferry ride or a more guided, educational journey, this tour aims to suit a range of preferences and budgets.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how convenient it is to pre-book your tickets, saving you from long lines at Battery Park. Plus, the variety of upgrade options—like guided tours and audio guides—means you can tailor the visit to your interests. However, it’s worth noting that access to the crown or pedestal isn’t included, and some reviews point out that the guides aren’t always as loud or informative as travelers might hope.

This tour is especially suited for those who want an organized way to see the landmarks without much fuss—perfect for first-timers, history enthusiasts, or travelers who prefer guided insights. If you’re okay with a basic ferry experience and don’t mind limited access, this could be a good fit. For more in-depth exploration, you might want to consider other options, but for a well-rounded overview, it works.

Key Points

• Pre-book your tickets to avoid long lines and secure a preferred departure time.
• Multiple options include self-guided, audioguide, and guided tours—so you can choose what best fits your style.
• Access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is included, but crown and pedestal access are not.
• Tour duration is roughly 4 to 5 hours, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed.
• Upgrade options allow for guided tours around the 9/11 Memorial and Wall Street, adding historical context.
• Weather conditions affect the experience, so dress appropriately and prepare for an outdoor adventure.

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

The tour begins at 24 State St in Battery Park, a popular and accessible location near public transportation, with nearby subway stations like South Ferry (1), White Hall Street (N,R,W), and Bowling Green (4,5). Arriving at least 15 minutes early ensures you’re ready for your departure, especially since security screenings are involved.

The ferry departs from Castle Clinton, and your tickets are collected at a designated meeting point, not at the ticket booths. This detail is crucial—many travelers assume they can just show up at the ferry, but pre-booking and proper check-in save a lot of hassle.

Price and Value

At $49.99 per person, this ticket offers a fairly comprehensive experience, including ferry rides, entry to the Statue of Liberty Museum, and Ellis Island Immigration Museum. The inclusion of multilingual audio guides in multiple languages adds value, especially for international travelers. Some reviews note that the ticket price is similar to what you’d pay if booking directly online, but the convenience and guaranteed times can make it worth it—just don’t expect access to the crown or pedestal.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll Actually Do

Stop 1: Battery Park
Your journey begins here, where some options include a brief orientation tour of Battery Park itself. It’s a good introduction, especially if you’re new to NYC or want a quick start. The tour provider offers a 30-minute orientation, which sets the stage for what’s ahead.

Stop 2: Liberty Island
Once onboard the ferry, you’ll cross the water, passing the Statue of Liberty en route. If you selected the standard or pre-ferry options, you’ll pick up a multilingual audio guide at the kiosk after disembarking—allowing you to explore at your own pace. Guided tour upgrades include a live guide giving insights, pointing out the best photo spots, and offering some free time on the island.

What travelers say:
One review says, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and helpful. We wish we had been able to have more time at the statue but it was a great experience.” This highlights that the guided options really do add depth and personal touch.

Stop 3: Statue of Liberty
Here, you’ll get up close to the statue, snap photos, and learn about its background. Keep in mind: the ticket includes access to Liberty Island itself, but not the crown or pedestal—those are separate, more expensive tickets.

Stop 4: Statue of Liberty Museum
Visit the new museum housing the original torch. For guided tours, this part is self-guided, giving you time to absorb the exhibits at your own pace. Many reviews mention enjoying the museum’s displays, especially the historical artifacts.

Stop 5: Ellis Island
A short ferry ride takes you to Ellis Island, where you can explore the grounds and visit the Wall of Heroes, potentially spotting your family’s name—if it’s on the wall. Guided tour options include a brief overview of the island’s immigrant history.

Stop 6: Ellis Island Immigration Museum
The massive Great Hall and processing area are moving and full of stories. You can use the audio guides or join a guided tour to get context on the immigrant experience. Reviewers note that while the tour guides can’t go inside, they give good directions and background.

Optional Add-ons: 9/11 Tour & Wall Street
If you choose the upgrade, you’ll also get a guided visit to the 9/11 Memorial, Ground Zero, and Wall Street. This part is more condensed but adds a crucial historic perspective to the day.

Additional Details

Most travelers find the tour duration of 4 to 5 hours perfect for seeing the main sights without feeling overwhelmed. The ferry ride itself is smooth, though it operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly. The boats have restrooms, and food options are available both on the ferry and on the islands.

The Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

What travelers love:
Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, especially those offering historical insights and making the experience fun and engaging. Several mention the stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the city skyline, which are genuinely special from Liberty Island. The convenience of pre-booking and included audio guides are also frequently appreciated.

What could be better:
Some reviews point out that the guides are not always loud enough—a common issue with guided tours. Others mention that the ticket price is comparable to buying online but without access to the crown or pedestal, which can be disappointing if that’s what you were expecting. The limited access to certain areas might be a drawback for those wanting a more in-depth experience.

Family friendliness:
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the availability of kid-friendly audio guides in multiple languages makes it manageable for families with children aged 6-10. Keep in mind the tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so dress for the weather.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This ferry ticket with upgrade options is well-suited for travelers looking for a convenient and flexible way to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island without much hassle. If you’re a first-time visitor wanting a structured visit with guided insights, this is a solid choice. The different upgrade options make it adaptable to various interests—whether you prefer audio guides, live guides, or a combined tour including the 9/11 Memorial.

However, if you’re eager to access the crown or pedestal, you’ll need to look elsewhere, as those are not included. Some reviews suggest that the value is good considering the overall experience and the ability to skip long ticket lines, but be aware that the standard ticket price is similar to other direct online options.

In the end, this tour offers a balanced mix of convenience, educational content, and scenic views. It’s an experience that will give you a meaningful overview of these iconic landmarks, especially if you choose the guided upgrade. Just keep expectations realistic about access levels and guide volume, and you’ll likely have a memorable day.

FAQ

Do I need to arrive early for the ferry?
Yes, it’s best to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time to handle security screening and check-in.

Where exactly does the tour start?
It begins at 24 State St in Battery Park, close to several subway stations like South Ferry (1) and Bowling Green (4,5).

Can I take a later ferry if I miss mine?
Your ticket is valid only for the specific time printed on it. If you miss your departure, you’ll need to contact the operator for options, though most tickets are non-refundable if less than 24 hours in advance.

Is the ferry ride wheelchair accessible?
While the tour isn’t explicitly recommended for travelers with mobility issues, bathrooms on the ferries and islands are wheelchair accessible.

Is food available on the ferry and islands?
Yes, there are snack bars on all ferries, and food options are available on Liberty and Ellis Islands. Food and beverages must be sealed for security screening.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Yes, but drinks and food must be sealed to enter screening areas. Pedestal tickets won’t permit bringing food into Liberty Island.

Does the ticket include access to the crown?
No, crown access is not included and currently unavailable due to restrictions. Pedestal tickets are also not part of this package.

What languages are audio guides available in?
They are offered in English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Russian, and Arabic. Family-friendly guides for children are also available.

Will I see the inside of the Statue or only the outside?
You will visit Liberty Island and see the outside of the Statue of Liberty. Access to the crown or pedestal requires additional tickets.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the availability of kid-friendly audio guides and the outdoor nature make it manageable for children familiar with walking and outdoor activity.

This ferry tour offers a practical, no-fuss way to get up close with some of New York’s most famous monuments. It’s best for those who prioritize convenience and guided insights over in-depth access or crown visits. If that sounds like your style, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding.