The retired Staten Island Ferry boat, the MV John F. Kennedy, co-owned by comedians Colin Jost and Pete Davidson, appears to have found a new purpose. After being available for sale, the ferry was recently seen showcasing a prominent Nike sponsorship, suggesting a shift from its previous status.
Key Takeaways
- Colin Jost and Pete Davidson's Staten Island Ferry, the MV John F. Kennedy, is no longer for sale.
- The ferry recently featured a Nike sponsorship, indicating new revenue streams.
- It has also been used for a Tommy Hilfiger fashion show and a movie production.
Ferry Spotted with Major Brand Sponsorship
During the recent New York Marathon, the MV John F. Kennedy displayed a large Nike logo. Accompanying the logo were the words, "NYC won't carry you. It pushes you." This visible branding suggests the celebrity owners are exploring commercial opportunities for the vessel.
The ferry, which Jost and Davidson purchased in 2022, had previously been on the market. This new development marks a significant change in their plans for the decommissioned boat.
Ferry Facts
- The MV John F. Kennedy was purchased for $280,100 at auction.
- It was decommissioned before its purchase by the comedic duo.
- The ferry served the Staten Island route for many years.
More Than Just a Sponsorship
The Nike campaign is not the only recent activity for the MV John F. Kennedy. The boat has been busy with other commercial ventures. It served as a unique backdrop for a Tommy Hilfiger runway show, attracting attention from the fashion world.
Additionally, the ferry was featured in a movie titled "Screamboat Willie." These various projects indicate a strategic effort to monetize the vessel and perhaps make it a notable landmark for unique events.
"If you love ferries, would you like to buy one?" Colin Jost joked during a Saturday Night Live skit, highlighting their earlier attempts to sell the boat.
The Purchase and Initial Plans
Colin Jost and Pete Davidson, along with comedy club owner Paul Italia, bought the MV John F. Kennedy at auction in 2022. The final sale price was $280,100. At the time, the trio expressed a desire to transform the ferry into an entertainment venue.
Initial ideas included converting the boat into a live comedy club or a restaurant. However, the scale of such a project proved to be substantial, leading to reports of the ferry being available for resale.
Background on the MV John F. Kennedy
The MV John F. Kennedy is a former Staten Island Ferry boat. These ferries are an iconic part of New York City's public transportation system, providing free service between Manhattan and Staten Island. Decommissioning often means these vessels are sold for scrap or repurposing.
Comedic Takes on Ferry Ownership
The challenges of owning a large, decommissioned ferry have not escaped the comedians themselves. Colin Jost famously poked fun at their situation during a May "Saturday Night Live" skit. The sketch, titled "Ferry Altercation," featured Jost, Davidson, and Paul Italia.
In the sketch, Jost approached a character played by Mikey Day, asking, "Hey! You said you love ferries? If you love ferries, would you like to buy one?" The comedic exchange underscored the difficulties of their investment, with Jost even begging, "Please buy it."
Potential for Future Ventures
The recent string of deals, including the Nike sponsorship, the Tommy Hilfiger show, and the movie appearance, suggests that Jost and Davidson are beginning to see returns on their initial investment. This multi-faceted approach to commercializing the ferry could be a blueprint for its long-term viability.
The ferry's prominent location in New York City offers a unique platform for brand activations and creative projects. Its new role as a flexible event space and advertising platform could transform it from a challenging acquisition into a successful venture.
Impact on Local Economy and Tourism
While the ferry's direct impact on Staten Island's daily transportation is gone, its repurposing as an event space could contribute to the local economy in new ways. Hosting fashion shows, movie productions, and brand campaigns brings temporary jobs and media attention to the area.
The ferry could become a unique attraction, drawing visitors interested in its history and its new, modern uses. This shift from public transport to a private commercial asset highlights the adaptive reuse possibilities for large, retired vessels.
Did You Know?
Staten Island Ferries have been operating since 1905, carrying millions of passengers each year. They are one of the last remaining vestiges of a ferry system that once served the entire New York Harbor.
The journey of the MV John F. Kennedy from a public commuter vessel to a celebrity-owned commercial platform is a testament to the creative potential found in unexpected places. What began as a somewhat whimsical purchase now appears to be evolving into a strategic business endeavor for its famous owners.
