The NYC Ferry service is getting a boost just in time for the World Cup

NYC Ferry unveiled its 2026 summer schedule, starting this week and running through September 13, with the most ferry service in the system’s history. The expansion adds more trips, larger vessels on busy routes, and expanded beach-bound service ahead of expected record transportation demand. The schedule aligns with the 2026 FIFA World Cup and major summer events, including Sail4th 250, plus typical visitor volume. The Rockaway Rocket returns with direct beach service from Long Island City and Greenpoint from early July through Labor Day. Rockaway Reserve tickets guarantee seats on select weekend and holiday departures between Pier 11 and Rockaway. Riders can also expect more weekend departures, shorter waits, and continued support for the existing Rockaway-Soundview route. Recent ridership growth includes record East River boardings and systemwide ridership records last summer. Five newly wrapped ferries feature World Cup-inspired borough artwork.

"Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the New York City Economic Development Corporation unveiled NYC Ferry's 2026 summer schedule, which officials say will deliver the most ferry service in the system's history. The expanded service began this week and will run through September 13, adding more trips, larger boats on busy routes and expanded beach-bound service ahead of what is expected to be one of New York's busiest summers ever."

"With the 2026 FIFA World Cup coming to town, plus major events including Sail4th 250 and the city's usual summer crush of visitors, officials are expecting record demand across the transportation network. Among the biggest changes for New Yorkers is the return of the popular Rockaway Rocket and the Rockaway Reserve program."

"Beginning in early July and running through Labor Day, the Rockaway Rocket will once again offer direct service to the beach from Long Island City and Greenpoint. Meanwhile, Rockaway Reserve tickets-which guarantee a seat on select weekend and holiday departures between Pier 11 and Rockaway-go on sale May 23."

"The city says riders can also expect more weekend departures across the network, shorter waits and larger vessels operating on high-demand routes during peak travel periods. Expanded beach service will supplement the existing Rockaway-Soundview route, which was created as part of NYC Ferry's recent systemwide redesign."

Read at Time Out New York