My weekend stay on the James Franco was wonderful. Don't let the intense rules scare you away -- they really aren't that bad in reality. Check-in was a breeze with fully detailed instructions. I highly recommend sunset drinks on the top deck! As some reviews have mentioned, the downstairs bathroom does not have a door. Honestly, skip that toilet. Use the bathhouse toilets mostly, and if you have to pee overnight, use the one on the top deck. It's easier and your butt and bladder will thank you.
The bed is super comfy, and pro tip: if you use the fan, wedge folded up paper or a napkin under the front and it will level the blades out and it won't rattle. Between the fan and open windows, I never needed at AC.
You are right by JFK so you do hear the planes at night, they seem to go right over the marina around 12-1am. It's fine. Loud but not bad, but I also live near LGA so I'm used to it. It's cool to watch them take of and land during the day.
The beach is just a short, straight walk, maybe 10 mins. Enjoy!