2026 Ferry Fares and Payment Methods
As of 2026, the adult fare for a one-way crossing on the Algiers Point ferry is $2.00. For visitors planning multiple trips, the 1-Day Jazzy Pass is a superior value at $3.00, covering unlimited rides on the ferry, streetcars, and buses. The 3-Day Jazzy Pass costs $8.00. Reduced fares of $1.00 are available for seniors (65+), Medicare recipients, and youth (5-18). Children under 5 ride for free with a fare-paying adult.
Payment is accepted via the Le Pass app or with exact cash at the terminal. The RTA recommends the app to avoid lines and the "exact change only" policy. Machines do not provide change. Download the app and purchase tickets or Jazzy Passes using a credit card. You must activate your pass within the app just before boarding. Once activated, show your screen to the RTA agent. If traveling in a group, one person can purchase multiple tickets on one device. Ensure your phone is charged, as a dead battery requires exact cash to board. Check the official RTA fare page for any mid-season adjustments.
Current Canal Street and Algiers Terminal Schedules
The ferry operates on a rhythmic schedule. The Algiers Point Terminal, at 1 Morgan Street, sees departures every 30 minutes on the hour and half-hour (:00, :30). The Canal Street Terminal, at 2 Canal Street near the Audubon Aquarium, departs every 30 minutes at :15 and :45 past the hour. Daily service begins at 6:00 AM. During the peak summer season, service typically extends until 12:15 AM. However, Sunday through Thursday service may end as early as 9:45 PM. It is critical to check the real-time status on the NORTA website before your return trip. Missing the final crossing requires a rideshare return via the Crescent City Connection bridge, which costs significantly more than the $2 ferry fare. For those looking to stay overnight, booking a historic cottage in Algiers Point offers a quiet alternative to the French Quarter hotels.
Golden Hour: Best Spots for Skyline Photography
The best photography spots are found immediately upon disembarking at Algiers Point. The Algiers Levee features a paved path that provides a clear view of the New Orleans skyline. During the "Golden Hour"—the hour just before sunset—the sun sinks behind the skyscrapers, casting a warm glow over the spires of the St. Louis Cathedral across the water. For the best composition, walk approximately 200 yards downriver from the terminal. This perspective aligns the river's curve with the historic French Quarter architecture. The levee also offers a unique vantage point for watching massive container ships navigate the river's deep crescent. Photographers should bring a wide-angle lens for the skyline and a telephoto lens to capture the details of the steamboats. This is widely considered the best free view in the city, rivaling any high-rise observation deck.
Algiers Point Walking Tour: Pubs and Levee Murals
Algiers Point is the second-oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, established in 1719. Begin a self-guided tour with the Levee Murals. These cedar-board installations along the floodwall depict neighborhood history, from shipyards to jazz heritage. Continue to the "Field Station of the Melancholy Marine Biologist," a permanent art installation by Mark Dion. This small, shack-like structure is filled with scientific tools, designed to provoke thought about the environmental future of the Mississippi River. For refreshments, visit the Old Point Bar, a legendary dive known for live music, or the Crown & Anchor English Pub, which offers a cozy atmosphere and a traditional London taxi. The architecture throughout the point features Victorian cottages with ornate "gingerbread" trim. Unlike the French Quarter, Algiers Point is primarily residential, so visitors are encouraged to be respectful of local privacy. The neighborhood's small-town feel makes it a perfect half-day trip for those who want to see a different side of New Orleans life.
Ferry Rules, Accessibility, and Return Logistics
The ferry system is fully ADA accessible, with ramps at both terminals that accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The boarding process is level, ensuring a smooth transition. Inside the cabin, there are designated areas for passengers using wheelchairs. Cyclists are welcomed aboard at no extra charge, and racks are available on the lower deck. Regarding pets, only service animals as defined by the ADA are permitted. Non-service pets are generally not allowed unless they are secured in a proper carrier. Because the ferry is a critical link for commuters, passengers are asked to keep walkways clear and follow crew instructions. During docking, the vessel may shift significantly, so it is best to remain seated until the boat is fully secured.
Planning your return trip is essential. While Algiers Point is safe, ferry frequency decreases in the late evening. The final ferry typically departs from the Algiers side at 11:45 PM or 12:00 AM on weekends, but these times can be earlier during the week. Always verify the last boat time on the Le Pass app before you settle in for a final drink. If you miss the last ferry, you will need to call a rideshare service. The vehicle must travel across the Crescent City Connection bridge, a route that takes about 15 minutes but can cost upwards of $20. To avoid this, aim to catch the ferry at least one turn before the final scheduled departure. This accounts for any unexpected service pauses or crowds that might fill the boat to capacity during special events.
Independent research for NewOrleans.blog indicates that ferry service is the most reliable way to cross the river, but visitors should always check real-time alerts for fog-related delays.
What to verify before you go
- Service Alerts: Check NORTA for planned maintenance or closures.
- App Activation: Ensure your ticket is activated only when ready to board.
- Exact Cash: Verify you have exactly $2.00 if not using the app.
- Last Ferry Time: Confirm the final departure for your travel date.
- Weather: Fog can occasionally suspend service for safety.
Sources and update notes
Factual details regarding fares and schedules were sourced from official transit authorities in 2026. Consult these primary sources for current data:
