Primary 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.
Prohibited Items On The 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. DO NOT leave items unattended at any time.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to:
- 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.
- Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), drones, and other, similar remote-controlled flying devices or vehicles.
- 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.
