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New York runs on systems most of us never stop to think about — the barges hauling our trash, the tunnels moving wastewater, and the plants keeping it all flowing. With many of these sites clustered along the East River, what kinds of structures are hiding in plain sight along its banks? Step aboard NYC Ferry and get ready to explore the essential infrastructure that keeps the city clean, running, and resilient.

Join as we embark on a one-of-a-kind ferry trip along the East River to explore the vital water, waste, and transportation systems that keep New York City running.

Led by licensed guide and urban planner Rayn Riel — who brings real-world experience across sanitation, wastewater, and urban infrastructure — our unique "floating lecture" from Lower Manhattan to the Bronx and back will include:

• A look at the journey of your trash and recyclables, spotting the barges that ferry them toward landfills, incinerators, or recycling facilities
• A glimpse of some of NYC’s 14 wastewater treatment plants and the century-old sewer and utility tunnels beneath the river — some predating the subway
• A view of the Hell Gate Bridge’s three-in-one structure, explained so you’ll see what most miss
• A ride past hidden sites like North Brother Island, home to one of NYC’s deadliest maritime disasters
• A float past the Bronx River mouth, NYC’s only true freshwater river
• Unexpected sights along the way, including the evolving Fulton Fish Market and Roosevelt Island’s layered infrastructure history — including the site of its once-infamous sewage fountain
• An earpiece for each guest, to hear the guide over the sounds of the ferry

This experience is limited to nine guests to ensure an engaging experience.

for a preview of the experience 📽️

See you there!

*This ticket includes roundtrip NYC Ferry service between Wall Street / Pier 11 & Throgs Neck. Guests are welcome to also remain on NYC Ferry after the guided portion concludes at Pier 11, and continue onward to Sunset Park or Rockaway.

**Each NYC Ferry has food and snacks available for purchase, as well as a restroom.

***The ferry portion of the experience takes place inside a temperature-controlled cabin.

****This experience is independently organized and is not affiliated with NYC Ferry or NYCEDC.

Tour Schedule

*Exact ferry landing times are subject to change. to see the most updated schedule.

• (0m) Gather at Meeting Location
• (30m) Depart Pier 11 on Soundview Ferry
• (1hr 30m) Turnaround at Throgs Neck / Ferry Point Park
• (2hr - 2hr 30m) Disembark at Preferred Ferry Landing - East 34th Street, Stuyvesant Cove, or Pier 11

About Rayn Riel

Rayn is an urban planner and tour guide based in New York City. He’s worked on infrastructure projects across the five boroughs and is passionate about exploring how cities function.

Testimonials

"Learned a lot from the water ferry stops" -Conor

"Group size was a plus for hearing everything and staying together. Rayn was very knowledgeable, personable and energetic" -Jean

"Very interesting topic and knowledgable presenter who was energetic the whole tour and never stopped giving us info and was constantly pointing things out to us along the way about the city's sanitation system (and other NYC landmarks and info) He also had pictures on his Ipad which added even more to the learning. Also, very relaxing and scenic boat ride. I didn't want the tour to end! Very much enjoyed. Thanks for always adding new and interesting tours with different things around NYC." -Lorraine

"We were on the Secrets of the East River tour and absolutely LOVED it! Out guide, Rayn, could not have been more wonderful. He was knowledgeable, funny, and struck just the right notes. I would highly recommend this to anyone. Even if you think you might not be interested in the topic, you will have a good time and learn a lot!" -Joan

"Guide was terrific. Combined history with present practice. Interesting photos. A fascinating tour. Learned a lot in an entertaining way. Glad it was a small group." -Marion

"Rayn was fantastic. He was knowledgeable, witty, and made this such a fun experience. I loved acquiring new information about NYC. Fun facts!" -Guest

"This was an excellent tour. Our guide, Rains, had in‑depth knowledge of New York’s Department of Sanitation and general civic services, which enriched the experience. The use of relevant images spanning over 400 years, along with references to recognizable historical events and characters, added meaningful context. The information was further enhanced by references to Robert Caro’s The Power Broker, particularly the account of Robert Moses’s ruthless management of the ferry service that once supported the Astoria community prior to the construction of the Triborough Bridge. Although the thought of having to drag IKEA furniture on to a ferry made me feel fear. Great tour, look forward to more civic service focused tours to enhance my understanding of this great metropolis" -Jens

"[I liked] His humor and vast knowledge" -Kitty

"Uncovered aspects of NYC history and present that don't get enough attention - infrastructure is key to understanding how the city does (and doesn't) work! Rayn is fantastic! I've been on three of his tours and I appreciate his depth of knowledge and his nerdy sense of humor." -Anne

Disclaimer

Event takes place rain or shine.

By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our .

Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours