Starting this off-season, a portion of New York City’s ferry fleet will be repurposed as educational platforms under a new initiative called the “Floating Classroom.” This program will focus on marine biology, climate change, and future career opportunities in New York Harbor and is set to serve 10,000 K-12 public school students annually.
NYC Ferry Launches Educational Program for Students
On Monday, NYC Ferry, in collaboration with the Economic Development Corporation and the Billion Oyster Project, will officially announce the Floating Classroom. This initiative will offer 90-minute voyages, running twice daily, aimed at providing hands-on marine science education. Each day, the program can accommodate up to 300 students.
Ann Fraioli, the education director at the Billion Oyster Project, emphasized the importance of experiential learning, stating, “You can teach a student about oysters, marine life, or water quality in a classroom, but there’s something different about being out there and seeing it for yourself.”
The Floating Classroom will operate on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., between Labor Day and Memorial Day, coinciding with a seasonal decline in ferry ridership. The NYC Ferry, managed by Hornblower Group, typically experiences its highest ridership during the summer months of July and August.
Impact on Local Education and Community Engagement
This initiative aligns with efforts by local public schools to reduce excessive screen time following the COVID-19 pandemic. Mayor Mamdani and Chancellor Kamar Samuels have implemented a ban on solo screen time for students up to 2nd grade and have recommended limits for older grades. In response, a community movement is advocating for more outdoor learning experiences.
The announcement will take place at the DUMBO Ferry Terminal in Brooklyn Bridge Park, with the first voyage heading to Governor’s Island. There, the Billion Oyster Project collaborates with the Urban Assembly New York Harbor School, which prepares students for careers in maritime industries. Notably, over 50 graduates from this school currently work at NYC Ferry as captains and deckhands.
Background on the Billion Oyster Project and NYC Ferry
The Billion Oyster Project is dedicated to restoring oyster reefs in New York Harbor and enhancing marine education in local schools. NYC Ferry, a public transportation service, aims to connect various neighborhoods across the city while providing a sustainable commuting option. The Floating Classroom represents an innovative approach to integrate education with environmental stewardship.
