Wong details discount program and fare changes
Discount participation nearly doubled to 30,000 riders; base fare rose to $5, the 10-trip pass to $30, and the discount fare to $1.50.
Affordability is central to our financial approach to the system.
Through the NYC Ferry Discount Program, we are working to ensure that all New Yorkers can access the system.
The program provides discounts off our lowest priced tickets to seniors, students, people with disabilities, and anyone eligible for the Fair Fares NYC program.
Participation has nearly doubled since 2024 to about 30,000 riders, and customers used roughly 230,000 discounted tickets last year, helping more New Yorkers ride NYC Ferry.
This year, we built on that community.
by extending discounted weekday ferry trips to middle school students.
NYC Ferry's commitment to equitable access guided the fare changes that took effect yesterday, protecting affordability for regular riders, student, and discount users, while ensuring the system can keep delivering broader public benefits with healthy finances.
Our base fare increased from $4.50 to $5, remaining well below the MTA Express fare at $7.25, and in line with a 30-minute non-electric city bike ride.
For frequent riders, the 10-trip pass increased from $29 to $30.
For discount program participants, the fare increased by just $0.05 from $1.45 to $1.50.
This approach focuses the largest increase on occasional riders and visitors who have shown that they are willing to pay more for the service, while protecting access for those who rely on it most.
It also helps ensure the public subsidy continues to support broader benefits.
Shorter travel times, less congestion, reliable access to jobs, schools, and waterfront neighborhoods.
And waterfront neighborhoods.