The ferries were originally white, but were later modified to a maroon red, and then to the orange that we see today. The boats' initial white color was modified to make them easier to spot in severe fog and snow. The Staten Island Ferry is the most heavily used ferry route in the United States. It connects New York City with Staten Island. The Staten Island Ferry is an essential link in the city's transportation network. There are two main routes: one from Manhattan to Richmond Hill (the Main Line), the other from Whitehall Street in Lower Manhattan to South Beach (the Verrazano-Narrows line). The combined fleet of 62 vessels ranges in size from 150 to 456 feet long and can carry up to 2,400 passengers at a time. The average trip takes about 25 minutes. The Staten Island Ferry was first established in 1872 to provide access for residents to and from the then-newly developed island. At that time, the only way to get there was by boat or car. The service was made free of charge until 1976 when it was made cost-recovery basis. Today, it is supported by both state and federal funds as well as private contributions. In addition to being one of the largest commuter ferry services in North America, the Staten Island Ferry is also a popular tourist attraction.