5 of America’s Most Scenic Ferry Rides

Some of the most unforgettable views in the U.S. aren’t visible from highways or hiking trails — they’re seen from the deck of a ferry. Whether you’re gliding past the Statue of Liberty or cruising through remote Alaskan landscapes, these scenic rides turn getting from point A to point B into part of the adventure. Check out five of the most scenic ferry rides in America.

Staten Island Ferry – New York, New York

Skip the pricey harbor cruises and head to Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan, where the Staten Island Ferry is ready to take you on a scenic — and better yet, free — ride across New York Harbor. Running seven days a week, 365 days a year, this free commuter ferry happens to offer some of New York City’s best views, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. The ferry runs between Staten Island and Manhattan, carrying nearly 22 million passengers each year with over 100 trips daily. It’s a quick 25-minute ride each way, but more than enough time to snap some great photos.

Casco Bay Ferry Lines – Portland, Maine

There’s perhaps no better way to take in Maine’s classic coastal views than from the water — and a ferry ride past Portland’s busy harbor gives you a front-row seat. From historic lighthouses to rugged shorelines and passing lobster boats, the scenery is quintessentially New England.

Hop on one of the yellow-and-black Casco Bay Lines ferries from Commercial Street and cruise past it all while heading out to the islands just offshore. The 20-minute, $14 one-way ride to Peaks Island takes you to beaches, bike paths, restaurants, and plenty of serene coastal vibes. Other islands — such as Long Island, Little Diamond, and Chebeague — are just as easy (and affordable) to reach by ferry. 

Golden Gate Ferry – San Francisco, California

Departing from the start of Market Street along the Embarcadero, the Golden Gate Ferry offers a quick and scenic journey across San Francisco Bay to popular day-trip destinations including Sausalito, Tiburon, Angel Island, and Larkspur in Marin County. Each ride takes about 30 minutes and costs $14 to $15.50 each way for adults, with discounted options for seniors, kids, and Clipper Card transit users.

The ride treats passengers to sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the San Francisco skyline. Time it right, and you might even catch the sun setting behind the city’s iconic bridge — a spectacular way to cap any ferry ride. But many passengers turn the ferry ride into a full-day outing — you can hike or bike around Angel Island State Park, stroll Sausalito’s waterfront boardwalk, or explore Tiburon’s hidden gems and snap pictures at the panoramic lookout from the Hippie Tree.

Cape May-Lewes Ferry – New Jersey and Delaware

Traveling 17 miles across the Delaware Bay, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry runs daily between Cape May, New Jersey, and Lewes, Delaware. Keep your eyes peeled during the 85-minute ride for dolphins and whales off the bow, along with historic lighthouses and charming oceanside towns. On either end, oceanfront restaurants await with seafood dishes perfect for kicking off or wrapping up your day by the water. Adult fares are $10 each way.

Alaska Marine Highway System – Alaska

Part commuter transit, part scenic cruise, the Alaska Marine Highway System is a network of ferries that offer an exceptional way to explore the rugged beauty of Alaska’s coastline. Spanning more than 3,500 miles and connecting 32 terminals, this ferry system — also designated a Scenic National Byway — connects many rural communities while also providing easy access to glacier tourism. 

With its northernmost port in Dutch Harbor, part of the remote Aleutian Islands, the system stretches all the way south to Bellingham, Washington. (The ferry from Bellingham to Ketchikan takes a whopping 38 hours.) Some of the coastal towns along the way aren’t even accessible by road, offering a rare glimpse into off-the-grid Alaskan life. On board, expect dramatic views of glaciers, fjords, snow-capped peaks, and even the occasional active volcano. Fares vary depending on the route.