Free NYC Ferry Rides with Zelle

Dating in NYC can get expensive. A great date night doesn’t have to be.

This October, Zelle and NYC Ferry are teaming up to give New Yorkers free NYC Ferry rides every Thursday, making it a little easier to get out, explore a new neighborhood and discover some of the local businesses worth falling for.

On Thursday, Oct. 1, New Yorkers are invited to start date night aboard NYC Ferry. From 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on the St. George route that departs from Midtown West at 4:54 p.m., Zelle will host a one-night-only kickoff event featuring local small businesses, harbor views, treats, giveaways and beverages. Please note that onboard space is limited and passengers may need to wait for a subsequent departure if a vessel is at capacity. Grab a date, your best friend or whoever you want by your side and come aboard for:

●      Sweet treats and surprises from local NYC businesses, including Saint Street Cakes, Upper East Side Petals and Banana Pudding by Jaya (while supplies last)

●      Drinks and giveaways

●      Iconic NYC harbor and skyline views

●      A peek into your romantic future with tarot + astrology from Maraschino

●      A look at your financial compatibility with personal finance expert Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, aka The Fiscal Femme

And the best part? Every Thursday throughout October, Zelle is picking up the fare on a different NYC Ferry route:

October 1: St. George
October 8: East River
October 15: Rockaway–Soundview
October 22: South Brooklyn
October 29: Astoria

Need some inspiration for where to go next? Zelle teamed up with NYC dating expert Ellie Williams of For the Girls to create the Zelle NYC Affordable Date Night Guide, packed with budget-friendly date spots and local businesses across all five boroughs. Think of it as your guide to dating your way across NYC, one neighborhood, local spot and ferry ride at a time.

How to Ride

No RSVP. No ticket purchase. Just show up and get in line to board!

NYC Ferry vessels have limited capacity, and boarding is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Joining the line does not guarantee boarding if a vessel has reached capacity. If a ferry is full, riders may need to wait for the next available departure. Times subject to change.

📅 Starting October 1, 2026 | 5:00-9:50 PM (first of 5 through October)

📍NYC Ferry | St. George Route