Take These 5 Ferry Boats For An Unbeatable Scenic View

There’s something magical about sightseeing from the water. After all, boat-based adventures offer unique glimpses of our favorite scenic destinations, from gorgeous skylines to natural shorelines. If you’re hunting for some of the most delightful ferry rides in the United States, check out five of our absolute favorites.

Flickr/Shaun Merritt

Perhaps the most famous boat ride in the United States, the Staten Island Ferry offers an unforgettable view of the Statue of Liberty and New York City as a whole. While many commuters rely on the ferry as a means of traveling to and from work, it also draws in thousands of tourists each year. During the 5.2-mile journey between Manhattan and St. George, Staten Island, passengers will enjoy an unparalleled look at the Big Apple.

Flickr/vxlr

This short and sweet ferry ushers riders across the iconic Mississippi River. During your ride, you’ll enjoy amazing glimpses of New Orleans in all its historical glory, including the outskirts of the French Quarter. Spend time exploring Algiers Point, one of the ferry’s docking points, which offers plenty of charm by way of gorgeous architecture and quiet waterfront streets. If you’re lucky, you’ll step aboard this $2 ferry ride at sunset for a truly breathtaking view.

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If you find yourself in Seattle, the ferry to Bainbridge Island can’t be missed. During this 35-minute adventure, you’ll enjoy lovely views of the skyline and a peaceful escape from the realities of everyday life in the city. As if that weren’t enough, Bainbridge Island itself offers a vast array of fun outdoor activities, including hiking trails, beach access, and beautiful views of the Cascade Mountains.

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Facebook/Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry

Gaze out upon the brilliant Straits of Mackinac as you make your way from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island, Michigan’s beloved car-free oasis. On a summer day, there’s nothing more gorgeous than admiring the freshwater wonderland that surrounds you, staring up at the towering Mackinac Bridge, and checking out local lighthouses. By the time you approach the shores of Mackinac Island, you’ll be completely enamored with this region.

Flickr/Charles Connell

The quaint waterfront town of Sausalito is a popular destination for visitors to the Bay Area, and it’s easy to see why - after all, this community offers a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco living. During your 30-minute ride on the Golden Gate Ferry to Sausalito, which picks passengers up from The Ferry Building, you’ll certainly want to snap a few photos of the blue water, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and the general beauty of San Francisco.

Are there any other amazing ferry rides in the United States that we should be aware of? We’re always eager to hear from you, so share your suggestions with us in the comment section below!