NY Waterway takes over Belford ferry service with more departures and lower fares
NY Waterway is taking over the existing Belford-to-Manhattan route under a new contract, with commuters seeing more departure options and lower fares.
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The line at the Belford Ferry Terminal stretched around the building Tuesday morning, with more than 715 people using the service during the morning rush.
For regular ferry riders, the crowds are nothing new. But there is a new company running the boat.
NY Waterway has taken over the longtime commute between Belford in Middletown and Manhattan from SeaStreak.
NY Waterway previously operated the Belford service for nearly 20 years.
The ferry carries commuters to Downtown Manhattan, including Pier 11 and Brookfield Place, with connections available to Midtown and Jersey City.
For riders, one of the biggest changes is the number of departure options.
On weekdays, NY Waterway offers multiple morning departures, starting as early as 5:15 a.m. There are also several evening departures from Manhattan and Paulus Hook back to Belford.
Some commuters say the new schedule gives them more flexibility in getting to and from work.
Weekend service includes three departures from Belford each day, along with two evening departures from Manhattan back to Belford.
NY Waterway also offers free shuttle buses connecting ferry passengers with several locations around Midtown.
Some riders say they would still like to see additional late-night options.
The adult one-way fare is now $23 — less than the previous SeaStreak fare. Discounted fares are also available for frequent riders.
For commuters who rely on the Belford ferry, the route itself has not changed — but the company operating it has.
The service brings additional departure options during the week and a lower price for the ride.
