Easing traffic congestion in Red Hook, Brooklyn is the aim of a new initiative offering a free ferry shuttle to Pier 11/Wall Street in Manhattan on Sundays throughout November. This pilot program, linked to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, is designed to assess and alleviate local street congestion caused by large cruise ships.
Why is this ferry pilot program operating?
The increase in large cruise ships docking at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal has led to significant traffic backups in Red Hook. This free ferry shuttle to Pier 11 Wall Street is a direct response, acting as a pilot program to explore effective solutions. The core goal is to reduce cruise-related traffic on Red Hook streets, particularly as peak cruise season approaches again in 2025. Data collected during this November pilot will be crucial in shaping long-term strategies for managing traffic flow and minimizing the impact of cruise terminal operations on the local community. By offering an alternative transportation method, the city hopes to encourage fewer private vehicles on Red Hook roads during peak times.
Who can utilize the free ferry shuttle to Pier 11?
You do not need to be a cruise passenger to take advantage of this free service. The ferry shuttle is open to everyone. Boarding is on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning anyone present at the designated landing can board the shuttle if space is available. This inclusive approach ensures that both cruise passengers and local residents can benefit from this initiative, promoting broader community access to Manhattan via the Pier 11 Wall Street Ferry route.
Is a ticket required to board the free Pier 11 ferry shuttle?
No tickets are necessary for the pilot shuttle. This special service is completely fare-free during its operation in November. Simply arrive at the Red Hook/Atlantic Basin landing, and NYC Ferry staff will be on hand to manage boarding lines and provide guidance. They will clearly indicate when boarding for the free Pier 11 Wall Street shuttle commences. It’s important to note that ferry vessels have a limited capacity, and access to the shuttle is strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. If you intend to use the regular South Brooklyn NYC Ferry route, a standard NYC Ferry ticket, purchased separately, will be required.
Are free transfers available from the pilot ferry shuttle?
No, free transfers are not provided from this pilot shuttle service. This free ferry specifically serves as a direct route to Pier 11 Wall Street. If you wish to continue your journey on a regularly scheduled NYC Ferry route after arriving at Pier 11, you will need to purchase a separate ticket. These can be obtained via the NYC Ferry app or from ticket vending machines located at the Pier 11 landing. Plan accordingly if you intend to connect to other NYC Ferry lines beyond Pier 11 Wall Street.
Alternative Transportation Options in Red Hook
While the free ferry to Pier 11 Wall Street offers a convenient option on Sundays in November, Red Hook is also served by several other transportation methods:
- Bus: The B61 bus route operates between Van Brunt Street and King Street, providing local bus service within Red Hook and connections to surrounding neighborhoods.
- Train: Subway access is available via the F and G trains at the Smith Street and W 9th Street station, offering links to the wider NYC subway network.
- Bike: Citibike stations are conveniently located throughout Red Hook, providing a flexible and eco-friendly way to navigate the area. Bike stations can be found at:
- Commerce St between Imlay St. and Van Burn
- Between Pioneer St and Van Brunt St
- Van Brunt St & Wolcott St.
- Coffey St. and Conover St
- Richards St & Delavan St
- Coffey Park, Richard St and Pioneer St.
- Loraine St. & Dwight St.
- Columbia St. and W 9th St.
- Columbia St. and Loraine St.
- W 9th St. and Henry St.
- Henry St. and Bay St.
These diverse transportation options ensure Red Hook remains accessible, even with adjustments to ferry services and traffic management initiatives.
