The story began with a late-night text, a hazy idea, and a surprisingly affordable price tag: $280,100. That’s what comedian Colin Jost paid for the decommissioned John F. Kennedy Staten Island Ferry in 2022, a purchase that left his wife, Scarlett Johansson, utterly bewildered.
Jost, a long-time writer and performer on Saturday Night Live, wasn’t alone in this impulsive decision. He partnered with fellow SNL cast member Pete Davidson, and the deal was sealed during a particularly…relaxed state of mind. Jost later admitted the purchase occurred when both were “very stoned,” a detail that only amplified the absurdity of owning a massive ferry.
The ferry held a personal significance for Jost, a nostalgic reminder of his daily commute to school in Manhattan during his teenage years. Yet, even that sentimental connection couldn’t fully justify the purchase in his wife’s eyes. His initial text to Johansson – “Guess what? We own a ferry now” – was met with a pointed, “We?”
Johansson’s reaction wasn’t a fleeting moment of disbelief. She playfully lamented the situation on a talk show, half-jokingly suggesting a GoFundMe page to help cover the inevitable costs. It was a clear signal: this wasn’t a shared dream, but a potential financial undertaking she hadn’t signed up for.
Jost himself has been remarkably candid about the purchase, calling it “absolutely the dumbest and least thought-through” decision of his life. He even incorporated his regret into an SNL sketch, desperately pleading with a passenger to buy the ferry from him.
Despite the initial shock and self-deprecating humor, the ferry has surprisingly found its footing. It’s no longer just a rusting hulk; it’s a unique event space attracting high-profile attention. The vessel hosted Tommy Hilfiger’s latest fashion show during New York Fashion Week, transforming into a floating runway.
The ferry’s newfound purpose extends beyond fashion. It served as the primary filming location for “Screamboat,” a 2025 comedy horror film, adding a thrilling new chapter to its story. The comedians’ initial vision of an entertainment venue is slowly becoming a reality.
What began as a spontaneous, slightly reckless purchase is evolving into something unexpected. While Johansson may still be playfully exasperated, the Staten Island Ferry is proving to be more than just a “sort of crazy money pit” – it’s a surprisingly versatile and captivating destination.
