June 04, 2009

The Best Seats on the Boat

Where is the best place to sit on the ferry? It's a very important question, and the answer is based on a number of factors.

1) First and most importantly, you need to be positioned near the exit. Snagging a seat next the exit puts you in a good position to become the FPOF. Being the first person off the ferry (FPOF) is the most prestigious role you can attain as a ferry passenger. Unfortunately, because the position of FPOF of so coveted, you have to the one of the First People On the Ferry to get the best seats near the exit.

2) You want to sit facing the direction you are going. Most of the boats are so large that you don't even feel like you are moving so this positioning isn't so much for preventing queasiness. You want to make sure you are properly oriented when you look up from your book/iphone/fingernail clippers at the end of the line. Being properly oriented at docking is key for a shot at being FPOF.

3) Sit on the lowest (ground) level. These seats are most important for the trip from Staten Island to Manhattan. It saves you the hassle from braving the stairs/escalator with the crowd on the Manhattan side. It's also nice coming from Manhattan for a little peace and quiet. The value of these seats skyrocket during weekend trips. Tourists don't sit on the bottom level. Ditto for hyper kids with shrieky voices and clompy shoes.

4) Seats with an empty area next to them are also ideal. Choosing one of these seats guarantees you at least one side free of brushing up against strangers. However, make sure this seat is not next to the recycling bin. You'll be sorry when the can collectors come.

Whatever seat you chose, make sure to take in your surroundings. Enjoy it. It's free.

No comments:

Post a Comment