Statue of Liberty Ellis Island Ferry Ticket with Upgrade Options

Our review takes a close look at the popular Statue of Liberty Ellis Island Ferry Ticket with Upgrade Options, a package designed to offer a comprehensive experience of some of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you’re a history lover, a first-time visitor, or someone seeking a flexible sightseeing option, this tour offers a lot—though it’s not without a few caveats.

What we like most: First, the ability to pre-book your tickets online means avoiding those long lines at the ticket booths—an absolute boon in busy seasons. Second, the variety of upgrade options—from self-guided audio tours to guided visits around the memorials—lets you tailor the experience to your interests and pace.

What to consider: The tour doesn’t include access to the crown or pedestal of the Statue of Liberty—something worth knowing if you’re dreaming of the full experience. Also, it’s designed for smaller groups (max 15), which is great for intimacy but might limit the social aspect for some travelers looking for a larger tour environment.

Who’s it for? This tour suits visitors who want flexibility, good value, and a mix of guided and self-guided experiences. It’s particularly well-suited for families, history enthusiasts, and those with limited time but a desire to see the essentials.

Key Points

• Pre-booked ferry tickets save you time and hassle.
• Multiple upgrade options tailor your visit—audio guides, guided tours, or combined 9/11 memorial experiences.
• Includes access to Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island Immigration Museum, making it a well-rounded cultural day.
• Group size is limited to 15 for a more intimate experience.
• Not included: crown or pedestal access, which is common in many tours.
• Flexible departure times allow for better planning.
• Weatherproof operation, but dress accordingly.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

Start at Battery Park

Your journey begins at 24 State Street, a convenient spot near multiple subway lines, making access straightforward. The tour kicks off with a 30-minute orientation in Battery Park, which sets the scene and offers a helpful overview—especially if you’ve chosen the version with a pre-ferry audio guide. Some reviews mention that this initial briefing is appreciated, adding context before you board the boat.

Boarding the Ferry to Liberty Island

Once inside the secure area, you’ll go through TSA screening—like airport security but usually quicker. The ferry ride itself offers stunning views of Manhattan’s skyline, with plenty of photo opportunities. Expect to be on the water for approximately 15-20 minutes each way, depending on weather and ferry schedules.

Liberty Island Exploration

Upon arrival, the experience varies based on your ticket choice. For those with audio guides, you’ll pick them up at the kiosk and set off to explore Liberty Island at your own pace. If you opt for a guided tour, a live guide will show you the best photo spots, share stories about the statue’s history, and answer questions on the fly.

You’ll spend about 1.5 hours here, giving enough time to get close to the statue, take photos, and visit the Statue of Liberty Museum. The museum houses the original torch and provides context about the monument’s construction and symbolism.

One notable feature: The tour does not include access to the crown or pedestal, which is common in many packages. If you’re eager for that level of access, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Many reviews mention the disappointment of not being able to go inside the statue itself—something to keep in mind.

Ellis Island Immigrant Experience

Next, the ferry takes you to Ellis Island, where the focus shifts to the immigrant story. The Wall of Heroes and the Immigration Museum are highlights, with the opportunity to learn about the 12 million immigrants processed there. The guided options include a brief tour of the grounds and history, while self-guided visitors can explore using audio guides.

Expect around 30 minutes here—enough to walk the grounds and reflect on the stories of hope and hardship. Some travelers appreciate the chance to see the Great Hall, where so many newcomers arrived, and to scan the Wall of Heroes for their own ancestors’ names.

Optional 9/11 Memorial & Wall Street Tour

If you choose the upgrade that includes a 9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero tour, your itinerary extends to Wall Street, the Charging Bull, and the Survivor Tree at Ground Zero. This segment is about 40 minutes and provides a more recent history of New York’s resilience.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up back at Battery Park, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s sights and stories. Some reviews mention wishing they had more time at the statue, but overall, the pacing allows for a meaningful experience without rushing.

What We Love About This Tour

Flexibility and Choice: The variety of tickets—standard, audio-guided, guided, and combined with the 9/11 tour—means you can customize your day. Travelers who enjoy independent exploration will appreciate the self-guided options, while others seeking expert insights will find the guided tours more rewarding.

Inclusion of Museums: Access to the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island Immigration Museum enriches the visit. It’s not just about snapping photos; you learn about the history and symbolism behind these landmarks, adding depth to your experience.

Efficient and Convenient: Booking in advance helps beat lines, especially during peak seasons. The small group size ensures a less crowded, more personal experience, which many travelers find more comfortable.

Authentic Experience: The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning views as key highlights. Many travelers say their guides were helpful, informative, and able to bring history to life.

Points to Consider Before Booking

Access Limitations: The tour does not include access to the crown or pedestal. If those are must-see items for you, consider other options. It’s worth noting that the crown remains closed at times, which could change your expectations.

Pricing and Value: The ticket costs $49.99 per person, which provides round-trip ferry service and museum entries. While this might seem steep, the convenience of pre-booking, museum access, and optional guided tours offers good value—especially when compared to buying tickets on-site or trying to organize everything separately.

Weather and Comfort: The tour runs in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is essential. Protect yourself from the sun or cold, and wear comfortable shoes—there’s quite a bit of walking and standing involved.

Group Size and Atmosphere: The group is capped at 15, creating a more intimate experience, but it also means booking early is advisable, especially during busy times.

Authentic Insights from Traveler Reviews

Many visitors praise the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “Cesar was a great guide. He provided us with some historical information.” Others appreciate the smooth process, noting how booking was “easy” and instructions clear.

However, some mention the limitations of self-guided audio tours, like in one review: “Our guide was not very informative, we could barely hear him when he did speak.” This highlights the importance of choosing the right upgrade based on your preferences.

A recurring theme is value for money—for some, the ticket is worthwhile, especially with guided options, while others feel that simply purchasing tickets directly from the websites might be cheaper if you’re not interested in guided tours or museum visits.

The Sum Up

This ferry tour package offers an excellent way to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island without the hassle of long lines or confusing logistics. Its flexibility and inclusion of museums make it a solid choice for first-timers and history buffs eager to deepen their understanding of these symbols of freedom. The small-group format ensures a more personal touch, and the variety of upgrade options allows travelers to customize their experience.

The biggest tradeoff is what’s left out, notably the crown and pedestal access, but for most visitors, the views, museums, and stories will more than compensate. If you’re comfortable with a somewhat self-guided experience and appreciate the ability to tailor your day, this ticket is a practical, well-rounded option.

In short, it’s a good choice for those who want a hassle-free, educational adventure with the flexibility to add guided insights, especially if you’re visiting with family or in a small group. Book early, dress for the weather, and prepare to enjoy one of New York’s most iconic sights with plenty of context and comfort.

FAQ

How early should I arrive for my Statue of Liberty Ferry? It’s best to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to check in, pass through security, and get settled.

Where does the ferry depart from? The ferry departs from Castle Clinton in Battery Park. You’ll meet your guide at the address listed on your voucher to pick up your actual ferry ticket.

How do I get to the meeting point? The closest subway stations are South Ferry Station (1), White Hall Street (N, R, W), and Bowling Green (4, 5), all within easy walking distance.

Is there parking nearby? Yes, the nearest parking is around Pearl Street, but rates vary. Public transportation or rideshares may be more convenient, especially during busy times.

Can I take a later ferry if I miss mine? Your ticket is valid only for the specific time printed. If you miss it, you’ll need to contact the local operator to see if rebooking is possible.

Are infants allowed on the ferry? Yes, children 2 years and younger travel free as lap children. Just note their age when booking.

Is food available on the ferry or islands? Yes, both Liberty and Ellis Island have food services, and you can bring sealed food and drinks onboard, but not alcohol. Be mindful of security screenings and rules about beverages in certain areas.