Colin Jost and Pete Davidson’s much-hyped ferry embarked on its first journey this weekend, albeit in a rather unconventional manner. Wrapped in a striking Nike advertisement, featuring an imposing swoosh and the slogan “NYC WON’T CARRY YOU. IT PUSHES YOU,” the ferry was towed around New York Harbor due to its inability to operate under its own power. The sight of the ferry on the move, albeit fleeting, brought a moment of excitement to observers.
According to recent reports, the ferry’s owners, which include the Saturday Night Live stars along with an architect and a club promoter, are facing some financial challenges. They reportedly owe $13,500 in legal fees and have spent approximately $600,000 at a Staten Island shipyard to store what some have described as a “large bathtub toy,” accumulating significant docking fees in the process. This financial strain may explain why the ferry has primarily served as a promotional platform, having been rented out previously for events ranging from a fashion show by Tommy Hilfiger to a movie titled Screamboat, which is set to have a sequel soon.
The ferry’s limited mobility has attracted the interest of local enthusiasts, including Staten Island high school teacher TJ Smolka. After noticing its recent transformation, Smolka rallied fellow ferry watchers to track its outing around the harbor. However, as the ferry returned to its dock adorned in Nike’s vibrant colors, Smolka expressed concern that it might remain stationary for a long time, diminishing hopes for future adventures.
As the ferry continues to capture the attention of locals and tourists alike, its potential as a floating venue for events and promotions remains an intriguing aspect of its future. The lively interest in the ferry suggests that while its operational challenges persist, it continues to spark conversation and enthusiasm among New Yorkers.