Moving close to one of NYC’s ferry stops can be a fantastic alternative to the bus or subway, especially now in the warm summertime months – it’s convenient, scenic, and often nowhere near as crowded as the more well-known methods of commuting in the city. With both the NJ and NY ferries expanding their service to several more locations in the next few years, it might even seem like a no-brainer! But are there definitely other variables to think about. Here are our top five things to consider when giving up your wheels for a boat:

1. The Cost!

Although the living and housing costs near NYC ferry stops are definitely higher and increasing over time, they still aren’t as high as buildings close to the main subway stations yet – so it may still be worth taking the plunge. If we look at Astoria, which offers a direct ride all the way down to Pier 11 in the Financial District, proximity to the dock can be more expensive as opposed to apartments and homes further away, but of course not as expensive as living in FiDi itself. The trend continues across the boroughs, especially close to new waterfront developments like Hudson Yards or One Manhattan Square.

2. The (Actual) Commute

Living directly in front of a NYC ferry stop is a rarity for most people – Most commuters have to take walks to the stop at the very least, or settle for the subway or bus. Be sure to look up the walking distance on Google Maps to the closest ferry stop to get an insight on how long your day-to-day back and forth might end up being. Some buildings might offer shuttle service to and from the stop, so research is key.

3. Feeling Seasick?

Everybody reacts differently when it comes to movement on the water, and most of the time NYC ferries drive smoothly – but there’s still a possibility that there may be some turbulence (especially during stormy weather or while docking and undocking). If you’re super sensitive to motion the ferry may not be your best bet, but you could always try the outdoor upper deck to get some fresh air.

4. Daily Use

Weather plays a major factor in the enjoyment and ease of the ferry system. NYC ferries operate throughout all four seasons, and of course there are less people aboard when temperatures drop (which gives you even more leg room if you don’t mind the cold!). It’s also easy to daydream of a great ride during good weather days, but keep in mind many of the stops themselves aren’t covered which may not be the best experience in the rain.

5. Ferry + Subway = $$$

Unfortunately, the combination of holding a ferry and a subway pass has its price: You can’t use your MetroCard to use the ferry, and vice versa. But if you do need to use both to get around, download the NYC Ferry App, which is super easy to use and offers you a quick & spontaneous payment system whenever you’re in the mood for a trip on the water.

As in every method of commuting, there are definitely pros and cons to choosing the ferry as your main way to get around from your new home. But whichever way you’re leaning, click here or call 646.681.5272 with your questions to speak with an agent from Platinum Properties. We’re standing by to help you through every step of the real estate process, whether that’s guiding your rental search, selling or buying a home, or anything in between.