Pete Davidson and Colin Jost’s Staten Island Ferry Hotel Plan

The Staten Island Ferry has long been more than just transportation across New York Harbor—it’s a beloved icon offering breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Now, two Saturday Night Live alumni, Pete Davidson and Colin Jost, are envisioning a radical transformation: turning decommissioned ferries into a one-of-a-kind hotel experience. This ambitious project promises to blend maritime history with contemporary hospitality, creating a floating retreat right in the heart of NYC.

The Vision Behind the Floating Hotel

Davidson and Jost, both New York natives with deep ties to the city, see the ferry as the perfect canvas for innovation. The concept involves acquiring retired vessels from the city’s fleet and retrofitting them with luxurious guest rooms, onboard dining, and event spaces. Imagine waking up to panoramic harbor vistas, steps away from the ferry’s historic decks where millions have stood over the decades.

The idea stems from the duo’s shared appreciation for underutilized landmarks. Staten Island, often overshadowed by Manhattan’s glitz, could become a hub for this nautical venture. By preserving the ferries’ authentic structure while adding modern comforts, the project aims to honor NYC’s working-class roots while appealing to luxury travelers seeking something extraordinary.

• Key Features Planned: Multi-deck accommodations with harbor-facing balconies, rooftop bars, and preserved wheelhouses turned into suites.
• Sustainability Focus: Solar panels and eco-friendly materials to minimize environmental impact.
• Accessibility: Docked near existing ferry terminals for easy public transport links.

Historical Significance of the Staten Island Ferry

Since 1905, the Staten Island Ferry has provided free service between Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan and St. George Terminal in Staten Island. Carrying over 20 million passengers annually, it’s one of the world’s busiest routes. The fleet includes vessels like the Ollis Class ferries, known for their spacious decks and stability in choppy waters.

Retired ferries often face scrapping or limited repurposing. This project revives that legacy, much like how old ships have been transformed globally—from London’s HMS Belfast museum to Amsterdam’s floating houseboats. In NYC, it could boost local tourism and preserve maritime heritage.

Celebrity Entrepreneurs Enter Hospitality

Pete Davidson, known for his tattooed persona and stand-up, hails from Staten Island, giving him personal stakes in elevating the borough. Colin Jost, the ‘Weekend Update’ anchor, brings business savvy from his producing ventures. Their partnership leverages fame for funding and buzz, similar to how celebrities like Ryan Reynolds invested in aviation with Wrexham AFC ties.

The duo has teased the project on social media and podcasts, drawing investor interest. While specifics on timelines remain fluid, preliminary designs show multi-level layouts with 100+ rooms per ferry, conference facilities, and pop-up comedy clubs nodding to their SNL roots.

Navigating Logistics and Regulations

Repurposing ferries involves complex approvals from the City of New York, U.S. Coast Guard, and NYC Economic Development Corporation. Docking rights, zoning for hospitality use, and safety retrofits are key hurdles. However, precedents exist: the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum aircraft carrier serves as a docked attraction.

Financially, costs could range from $20-50 million per vessel, offset by grants for historic preservation and tourism incentives. Revenue streams include room bookings, events, and themed cruises during peak seasons.

Economic Boost for Staten Island

Staten Island’s economy, reliant on ferries for 23 million annual commuters pre-pandemic, stands to gain immensely. The hotel could create 200+ jobs in hospitality, construction, and maintenance. Local businesses—from eateries to tour operators—would benefit from increased foot traffic at St. George Terminal.

Tourism data from NYC & Company shows harbor experiences draw 10 million visitors yearly. A ferry hotel fits perfectly, potentially rivaling boutique stays like the William Vale in Brooklyn for skyline views at competitive rates.

Design Concepts and Guest Experience

Architectural renders depict open-plan lounges with reclaimed wood from ferry interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and interactive exhibits on NYC ferry history. Guest rooms range from cozy cabins evoking crew quarters to opulent captain’s suites with private decks.

Dining options include a harbor-view brasserie serving seafood caught locally and a casual deck bar for sunset drinks. Wellness areas with saunas and yoga decks capitalize on the water’s calming effect. Events like comedy nights featuring rising stars would keep the celebrity vibe alive.

Challenges and Community Concerns

Not everyone is on board. Residents worry about gentrification pricing out locals, noise from events, and environmental effects on harbor wildlife. Proponents counter that community input will shape the project, with affordable housing tie-ins and public access days.

Tying into NYC’s Housing New York initiatives, a portion of proceeds could fund borough improvements, ensuring broad benefits.

Global Precedents for Inspiration

Worldwide, ferries have been reborn as hotels: Denmark’s Ferry Hotel in Copenhagen offers docked luxury, while Singapore’s floating resorts blend urban access with sea views. These successes validate the concept, with occupancy rates often exceeding 80%.

Future Outlook and Next Steps

As of 2026, the project advances through feasibility studies. Public consultations and pilot conversions are slated for late next year. If realized, the Staten Island Ferry Hotel could redefine urban hospitality, proving that comedy and creativity can navigate even the trickiest waters.

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