STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Colin Jost and Pete Davidson may have found a way to rid themselves of the costly Staten Island Ferry they purchased, which could involve letting it sink to create an underwater habitat for marine life, according to The City.
Chris LaPorta, who has coordinated the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s artificial reef program for 26 years, told The City that he is interested in the 2,100-ton ferry for the expanding program. New York has not yet secured a large vessel for its reef restoration efforts, unlike neighboring states that have purposely sunk retired ships.
The local comedians purchased the former John F. Kennedy Staten Island Ferry for $280,100 in 2022, planning to transform the 277-foot vessel into an event space with restaurants, bars, hotel rooms and a concert venue. The 61-year-old, non-operational ship has since sat unused at Staten Island’s Caddell Dry Dock and Repair, where the pair rents pier space.
The Saturday Night Live comedians have previously expressed regret about the purchase.
“This is why idiots should not be allowed to do things,” Jost said on Late Night with Seth Meyers less than a year after buying the ferry.
Davidson referenced the financial burden during a 2025 SNL appearance: “In case you’re wondering why I had to do a show in Saudi Arabia, we’re losing millions on this ferry.”