State Official Has A Big Idea For Colin Jost And Pete Davidson's Staten Island Ferry: Sink It

A state official has proposed turning Colin Jost and Pete Davidson’s Staten Island Ferry into an artificial reef as a solution to ongoing maintenance costs. The couple bought the retired ferry in 2022 for 280,100 dollars and have since spent roughly 1 million on legal fees and initial development, part of an estimated 34 million project. They previously named it Titanic 2 after the ill‑fated liner, with plans to convert it into a floating event space that have faced financial hurdles. New York State DEC coordinator Chris LaPorta floated sinking the vessel to create an underwater attraction that could ease cash flow. New York currently manages 16 artificial reefs, but none are as large as the Titanic 2, which was formerly the John F. Kennedy Staten Island Ferry.

Supporters argue artificial reefs can boost marine life and biodiversity while providing a durable, publicly accessible habitat. Opponents question environmental impact and whether the project would secure public or political backing. Nike wrapped the ferry for the New York City Marathon last year, illustrating the vessel’s ongoing commercial relevance. Jost and Davidson have faced ongoing expenses and legal challenges that complicate the venture. Whether sinking the Titanic 2 proceeds depends on policy decisions and environmental review, marking a bold pivot from a private venture to a public marine-use solution.