NYC Ferry's 'Rockaway Rocket' route returns through end of summer

NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) — Summer may be in full swing, but starting Saturday the NYC Ferry is making trips to Rockaway Beach in Queens even more seamless with the return of the “Rockaway Rocket” route, a dedicated seasonal beach service.

Running July 20 through the end of Labor Day weekend, the Rockaway Rocket will launch from Long Island City and Greenpoint, the first time that direct beach service is available from either location.

For $10, ferry riders can reserve seats on two morning departures toward the Rockaways and two evening return trips back.

The Rockaway Rocket joins the “Rockaway Reserve” route that was relaunched in May. On the Rockaway Reserve, riders can reserve a spot on select morning trips toward the Rockaways and afternoon trips back to Pier 11 and Brooklyn Army Terminal for $10 on weekends and holidays.

“NYC Ferry keeps New Yorkers moving, whether it’s to work, to visit our beaches, or just to go for a beautiful, eco-friendly ride,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “We’re continuing to make our ferry system more equitable, more sustainable, and more accessible through our Ferry Forward plan.”

Since the NYC Ferry Forward plan was unveiled two years ago, it has expanded the ferry discount program, decreased the per passenger subsidy over 30% and recorded record ridership, with 7.1 million riders in Fiscal Year 2024.

Later this summer, riders will be able to send a text or call an automated voice service for real-time schedule information for all ferry landings, and ferry improvements like free WiFi are already being rolled out.

“With the return of the Rockaway Rocket and other improved vessel upgrades, there is no better way to get around New York City this summer than aboard a NYC Ferry,” NYC Economic Development Corporation president and CEO Andrew Kimball said.

For more information on the Rockaway Rocket, visit the NYC Ferry website .