Safety & Security

The National Park Service values your safety above all. To protect you and the park, visitors and their belongings are subject to a security screening before boarding the ferry to the park. We appreciate your patience and understanding of these procedures, and the additional time that may be required.

 

PRE-BOARDING SECURITY SCREENING

The National Park Service operates two primary security screening facilities, in The Battery, New York City, and Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey. All visitors boarding any Statue City Cruises ferry to Liberty Island and/or Ellis Island must pass through airport-like screening procedures before boarding.

It is recommended that you include ample time and maintain a flexible schedule to include boarding the ferry and security screening. Wait time can be an hour or more, particularly during peak seasons, including summer, weekends, and holidays.

There are no locker storage areas at the screening facilities in either The Battery or Liberty State Park

For boarding locations, refer to our directions page.

It is recommended that you include ample time and maintain a flexible schedule. Wait times at the security security screening facilities can be an hour or more during peak seasons. Especially during summer, on weekends, and on major holidays.

There are no locker storage areas at the screening facilities in either Battery Park or Liberty State Park.


PROHIBITED ITEMS ON OUR FERRIES

Do not carry any of the items mentioned below into the security screening area. Items that are surrendered will not be returned. If you are unsure about an item, please do not bring it.

Prohibited items include:

• ALL weapons, including firearms, any dangerous items, and any "dual-use" items that could be dangerous. All of these items are strictly prohibited in the park and on the ferry system.
• Scissors, sharp instruments, and tools are also prohibited.
• LARGE packages, suitcases, carry-on luggage, and other large parcels will not be permitted on the ferry systems or at Liberty and Ellis Islands.
• Face masks and/or costumes that are designed to conceal the identity of a person are prohibited.
• All permanent and erasable markers.
• Audio amplification devices designed to amplify sound such as speaker systems, personal wireless speakers, radios, megaphones, bull horns, and other similar devices.

Please visit our Security Standards & Prohibited Items page for the full list of items that are not allowed through primary screening.

Please remember to keep bags, packages, strollers, etc. with you at all times.
Do not leave items unattended at any time.

 

HAVE A QUESTION?

If you have any questions regarding security procedures, please contact the park.

Thank you for your cooperation. Safety is everyone's responsibility.
If you SEE something, SAY something to a U.S. Park Police Officer or National Park Service Ranger.