Staten Island Ferry Renamed for Nike Marathon Ad

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Staten Island Ferryboat, once decommissioned and referred to as the “John F. Kennedy,” has been spotted transformed as part of a Nike advertising campaign for the TCS New York City Marathon. This newly painted vessel, now dubbed “Titanic 2” by locals, features a bright red exterior and the slogan, “NYC Won’t Carry You. It Pushes You,” prominently displayed on its side.

The vessel was seen in the waters off Staten Island on Saturday morning, being towed by a tug. Staten Island resident TJ Smolka recognized the ferry and noted its new look after it was painted at Caddell Dry Dock & Repair. “It’s good to see the old girl out on the water again,” Smolka said. “I hope this boat stays around New York Harbor for a long time. Very proud of Pete and Colin for saving her and I look forward to seeing what’s next.” On the same day, the JFK returned to its berth at Caddell.

Actors Pete Davidson and Colin Jost purchased the ferry approximately four years ago for $280,000, hoping to convert it into a floating entertainment venue, complete with restaurants and bars. However, both have since acknowledged that the renovation may be more complex than initially hoped. Davidson stated that despite the challenges, they are committed to their vision, while Jost referred to the vessel as “the dumbest and least thought-through purchase I’ve ever made in my life.”

The ferry’s modifications coincide with Nike’s sponsorship of events leading up to the marathon, which starts on the Staten Island side of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge at 8 a.m. on Sunday. Nike has also been running marathon-themed advertisements at the Staten Island Ferry terminal.