EVGB sits just a stone’s throw from the Stuyvesant Cove stop on the New York Ferry’s Soundview route, an easy embarkation point to worlds both near and far along the East River.

Heading Northward

After brief stopovers in Midtown and Upper East Side, the ride shifts perspective when arriving at the Soundview dock. Here, the 205-acre Soundview Park unfurls along 1.5 miles of the Bronx River, where salt marshes have been nurtured back from its former life as a landfill. Migrating birds now flock to reeds lining the waters, while community members gather for barbecues, exercise classes, or to let dogs run free in dedicated areas of the park. In warmer weather, kayakers can launch directly into the river to enjoy views back towards Manhattan’s skyline.

The final stop at Throgs Neck/Ferry Point Park (just a 45-minute journey from Stuyvesant Cove at E. 20th Street) provides a peaceful perch to take in panoramic vistas encompassing the Whitestone Bridge, the Manhattan skyline down the East River, and Long Island Sound waters extending eastward. Meandering trails allow exploration through tidal wetlands and coastal grasslands. For recreation, the park plays host to a world-class golf course, one of New York’s only public cricket pitches, ball fields, and playgrounds with recently-constructed picnic pavilions.

Anchoring the landscape, Fort Schuyler (6 Pennyfield Ave) is a well-preserved 19^th-century fortification, still evoking history in its distinctive granite and pentagonal architecture. Originally built in 1833 as part of the coastline defense system, a 2,000-bed hospital, and mobilization center during the Civil War. It is considered one of the finest examples of early 19^th-century military architecture. Designated a National Historic Place, Fort Schuyler now houses the Maritime Industry Museum, exhibits on New York’s maritime history, and the State University of New York Maritime College.

Heading Southward

EVGB residents might also consider venturing to Corlears Hook in the Financial District, where they can embark on the South Brooklyn route to zigzag through Brooklyn’s diverse waterfront neighborhoods. While not the quickest jaunt, this approximately 40-minute walk through the Lower East Side’s vibrant landscape offers adventure in itself before even boarding the ferry.

The first stop across the East River is Dumbo, containing galleries like Smack Mellon (92 Plymouth St) exhibiting large-scale sculptures and multimedia installations. There’s also Klompching Gallery (89 Water St) specializing in fine art photography, and A.I.R. Gallery (155 Plymouth St), the first all-women, artist-run gallery in the country. Beyond galleries, visitors can explore Brooklyn Bridge Park (1 Water Street) stretched along the riverfront and take photos with the historic bridge as a backdrop.

Red Hook allows visitors to meander past reconstructed industrial buildings now home to art galleries like Kentler International Drawing Space (353 Van Brunt St), unique shops like crafts emporium Dry Dock (424 Van Brunt St), and creative venues like performance collective Pioneer Works (159 Pioneer St). And those looking to refuel can taste homemade pies and snacks at Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pie (185 Van Dyke St).

Further down the Brooklyn coast lies Sunset Park, which borders inviting public spaces like the lush Greenwood Cemetery (500 25th St) or the ample central greenspace with impressive Manhattan skyline views. Those eager to explore local culture can discover authentic Chinese grocery stores and eateries thriving in the neighborhood’s Chinatown, or catch Latin music at one of the neighborhood’s lively haunts. The route concludes farther south in Bay Ridge at the Shore Road Promenade, offering sweeping views of the Verrazano Bridge.

The New York Ferry system showcases the beauty and vibrancy of New York’s diverse neighborhoods with routes along the East River and Brooklyn coastline. Residents of East Village luxury rentals like EVBG can easily access these aquatic highways using the nearby Stuyvesant Cove or Corlears Hook stops. Book a tour today!