Buy your tickets online otherwise you'll wait for ...

Buy your tickets online otherwise you'll wait for hours to buy one. The security check takes quite some time, the ferry is quick and provides nice views. Once you get to the island the crowds spread out so you can walk and take pictures however you like. I expected to be done with the whole thing in the morning but it's more like a whole day program especially if you take the time to listen to the audios from the audio guide and do the same in Ellis island, so plan accordingly.