Staying Afloat: A Photoessay Of NYC's Waterways

New York City in the warmer months is a vibrant experience to say the least. With so many attractions to see, new modes of transportation become available as the weather becomes increasingly clement – they can even become attractions in and of themselves. We take a visual tour of NYC’s bodies of water.
Trains, cabs, and bikes are all popular ways to travel around New York, but the city makes fantastic use of its island status by incorporating water travel into its culture and various methods of transportation.

Passengers de-boarding a commuter ferry boat

People enjoying a day overlooking the East River

People work on raising a sail at the South Street Seaport

The most visited park in the United States, Central Park, houses one of the city’s largest reservoirs. Though it has been decommissioned since 1993, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir remains a highly popular city attraction, complete with a 90-year-old fountain near its center.

The Statue of Liberty is surrounded by water – a magnificent landmark to behold from land, but even more spectacular up close by ferry.

A small boat travels by the Statue of Liberty

The Intrepid Museum, docked on Pier 86 near Hell’s Kitchen in Midtown Manhattan, is housed within a real battleship and serves as one of New York’s most unique attractions and exhibition spaces.

If luxury is your preference, then perhaps yachting is more your scene. A terrific way to take in the New York City skyline, rent a yacht and cruise the Hudson. For those of us who prefer luxury but can’t afford it, gawk at the yachts from the Boat Basin Café.

For a little less luxury and a little more convenience, look no further than the Staten Island Ferry. Now operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the ferry takes passengers from the South Ferry terminal in Manhattan to Staten Island. Better yet, it’s free.

For a unique guided tour of New York City’s boroughs, the Water Taxi is a popular option for tourists. This alternative form of ‘taxi’ allows participants to get up close and personal with NYC attractions and see the city from a completely different perspective.

By Scott Griffin

‘Smart Scott’ Griffin is a NYC based photographer. Inspired by early 1980’s art, his style challenges individuals to always view people and life experiences from a fresh new perspective. Follow him on Instagram: @smartscott

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