Viator Rating : 5 (2182 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.3/10 (Solid Experience)
New York City
Liberty & Ellis Island Tour: Ferry & Expert Guide
Overview
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry is a must-do when visiting New York City. It's a chance to see a true American symbol up close. This tour gives people choices. There's a shorter, two-hour tour and a longer, four-hour tour. Choose the one that works best!
What to expect on this tour is a walk through history. The adventure starts in The Battery, a park with lots of stories. From there, see Castle Clinton, a very old building. A ferry boat will take guests across New York Bay to Liberty Island, where Lady Liberty stands tall. People can also visit Ellis Island, where many immigrants first arrived in America.
The tour includes a pre-reserved ticket to Statue of Liberty Island, so guests can see it up close (but only from the outside). The 4-hour tour also includes an official audio guide on Ellis Island and a pre-reserved ticket to the Ellis Island museum. A local guide will lead the way, sharing interesting stories. What's not included is tips for the guide, pickup or drop-off from hotels, and access to the top of the Statue of Liberty. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Logistics (6 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (5 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (7 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
See Lady Liberty Up Close: Get amazing views of the Statue of Liberty from the ferry and Liberty Island.
Expert Local Guide: Learn interesting facts and stories from a friendly New York guide.
Visit Ellis Island: Explore the historic Ellis Island, where immigrants arrived in America (4-hour tour only).
Skip the Ticket Line: Pre-reserved tickets save time so guests can see more.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers enjoyed the guide's knowledge and stories.
-
Visitors appreciated the pre-booked tickets that saved time.
-
Many found the tour well-organized and informative.
-
The ferry ride provided great views of the city and Statue of Liberty.
Some visitors felt the tour was too rushed.
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A few people wished for more time at each location.
The Journey
The Battery
Begin your exploration at The Battery, formerly Battery Park, a vibrant waterfront park steeped in history. Originally a defense point, it's now a bustling hub offering stunning views of the New York Harbor, including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Wander through its gardens, discover historical monuments, and feel the pulse of New York City's maritime past. This is the perfect starting point for your island adventure.
Castle Clinton
Step back in time at Castle Clinton, a remarkable circular sandstone fort, originally built to defend New York Harbor in the early 19th century. Now a National Monument, it serves as the departure point for ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take a moment to appreciate its architectural significance and learn about its transformation from a fort to an aquarium and even a theater. It provides essential context for the historical journey ahead.
New York Bay Ferry
Embark on a scenic ferry ride across the majestic New York Bay, offering unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the surrounding harbor. Feel the refreshing sea breeze as you capture stunning photographs and anticipate your arrival at Liberty Island. This voyage provides a unique perspective of the city and sets the stage for an unforgettable encounter with American history and culture.
Liberty Island
Discover Liberty Island, home to the iconic Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy. Explore the island's grounds, delve into the statue's fascinating history, and learn about its construction and cultural significance. Take advantage of the opportunity to enter the Statue of Liberty Museum and ascend to the pedestal or crown for breathtaking panoramic views of New York City. It is an experience that connects you to the heart of American ideals.
Ellis Island
Journey to Ellis Island, the historic gateway for millions of immigrants who arrived in America seeking a new life. Explore the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, housed in the beautifully restored main building, and trace the immigrant experience through poignant exhibits and personal stories. Reflect on the courage and resilience of those who shaped the nation, and perhaps even uncover your own family's immigration history. The audio guide enriches this profoundly moving experience.
Return Ferry to Battery Park
Conclude your unforgettable journey with a return ferry ride to Battery Park, offering a final, stunning view of the Statue of Liberty and the New York skyline. Reflect on the historical significance of the sites you've visited as you glide across the water. Capture one last glimpse of Lady Liberty, a powerful reminder of freedom and opportunity, before returning to the vibrant energy of Manhattan.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a pre-reserved ferry ticket to Liberty Island (exterior access only). The 4-hour option also includes a ticket to Ellis Island & its museum, plus an audio guide. A local, English-speaking guide will lead the walking tour. This tour does not include gratuities, hotel pick-up or drop-off, or access to the Statue of Liberty's crown and pedestal. Meet the guide at The Battery.
Hot Tip
Reviewers suggest arriving early to The Battery to allow time to pass through security. Wear comfortable shoes, as there will be a lot of walking. Bring water and snacks, especially on the longer tour option.
Review Summary
Customers finds this tour highly praised for knowledgeable guides, efficient skip-the-line ferry access, and comprehensive coverage of Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island highlights, with many appreciating the engaging history stories and photo opportunities. Some note minor drawbacks like limited time on islands for in-depth exploration and weather dependency, but overall satisfaction remains high for value and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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