Ferry Rides Turn Into Science Lessons for New York Students

New York City public school students are trading desks for boat seats. Starting next fall, thousands of kids will ride NYC Ferries for science class. The trips last 90 minutes. They happen on weekdays when the harbor is less busy. This is not a regular field trip. It is a floating classroom.

On board, students break into small groups. Educators from the Billion Oyster Project lead the activities. Kids will test water quality. They will look at nautical charts. They will meet live oysters and other small sea creatures. Lessons cover ocean life, climate resilience, and the jobs that keep the harbor moving. Seeing the skyline from the water gives a fresh view of the city.

The program runs on school days from Labor Day to Memorial Day. Up to two voyages leave each day. Each boat can hold about 300 students and teachers. The idea is to use existing ferries for learning. It opens doors for young people across the city.

Several groups made this happen. The ferry service, the city economic development office, and the Hornblower Group are partners. The Billion Oyster Project has taught more than 66,000 students over the past ten years. They also work with a maritime high school on Governors Island. More than 50 graduates from that school now work as ferry captains or deckhands.

The goal is ambitious. Organizers want to reach one million students by 2030. Each year, they hope to welcome 10,000 kids onto the boats. Stefano Chiampo is an educator training to lead these trips. He believes seeing the city from a boat is a moving experience.