New City, N.Y. — Rockland County’s free weekend bus service connecting residents and visitors to the Haverstraw-Ossining Ferry has resumed for the 2026 season, providing expanded access to destinations throughout Rockland County and connections to Metro-North Railroad service in Westchester County.
The Transport of Rockland (TOR) Weekend Ferry Connection began operating on Saturday, May 23, in coordination with the return of Metro-North Railroad’s seasonal Haverstraw-Ossining Weekend Ferry. County officials say the service is designed to make it easier for travelers to reach communities, parks, shopping centers and other attractions throughout Rockland County without relying on a personal vehicle.
The free shuttle operates on Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 31, matching the seasonal ferry schedule. Service includes 26 trips each day between approximately 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. In addition to meeting every scheduled ferry arrival and departure at the Haverstraw Ferry Landing, the route includes several early morning and late evening trips that provide additional transportation options after ferry service has ended for the day.
The bus route begins at the Haverstraw Ferry Landing and travels through the villages of Haverstraw and West Haverstraw before stopping at several destinations across Rockland County. Scheduled stops include Garner Arts Center, Rockland Lake State Park, downtown Nyack and the Palisades Center, where passengers can connect with additional TOR bus routes and regional transit services.
The Haverstraw-Ossining Ferry provides hourly weekend service across the Hudson River and is timed to connect with Metro-North Hudson Line trains traveling to and from New York City. Officials say the coordinated schedules allow passengers to move between Rockland and Westchester counties while providing convenient access to destinations on both sides of the river. Ferry service operates hourly between late morning and evening throughout the season.
According to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the weekend ferry program is now entering its third season after experiencing steady ridership growth during its first two years. The service was introduced to improve regional transportation options while encouraging tourism and recreation in communities along the Hudson River. During previous seasons, weekend ridership increased significantly over the course of the summer, with several weekends setting new passenger records.
County transportation officials say the free TOR connection expands access beyond the ferry terminal by allowing passengers to visit local businesses, restaurants, parks, cultural attractions and shopping destinations without the need for additional transportation. Residents can also use the route to reach the ferry for trips into Westchester County or to connect with Metro-North rail service to New York City.
For travelers returning after evening ferry service concludes, additional transportation options are available through Hudson Link bus connections between Tarrytown, Nyack and the Palisades Center. These coordinated services provide later return trips for passengers traveling between Rockland and Westchester counties.
The ferry itself is operated by NY Waterway under contract with Metro-North Railroad. Adult one-way ferry fares are $4.75, while discounted fares are available for seniors, people with disabilities and eligible children. Children age five and younger ride free. Parking is available at the Haverstraw Ferry Landing for passengers using the service.
The County of Rockland encourages riders to check current schedules before traveling, as departure times may be adjusted during the season. Route information, service alerts and trip planning resources are available through the Rockland County Department of Public Transportation and Metro-North Railroad.
Officials say the coordinated ferry and bus services are intended to improve regional mobility while supporting tourism, recreation and economic activity throughout Rockland County during the busy summer and fall travel seasons. The seasonal service will continue operating on weekends through Oct. 31, when the 2026 ferry season concludes.
