Kill Van Kull, Tidal strait between Staten Island and Bayonne, United States.
Kill Van Kull is a tidal strait running between Staten Island and Bayonne, serving as the link between Newark Bay and Upper New York Bay. The waterway cuts through industrial waterfront areas where large container vessels and other cargo ships move through to reach the ports.
Dutch settlers named this waterway in the early 17th century, marking its role as a vital passage for the region. Over the centuries it became the main shipping corridor supporting the area's expanding port economy and maritime growth.
The name combines Dutch words 'kill' for channel and 'kull' for ridge, showing how Dutch settlers left their mark on New York's geography. Today the shores are defined by working ports and industrial waterfront activity that shapes how the region functions.
The strait is best viewed from bridges and public viewpoints along the shores, especially when large vessels pass through. The Bayonne Bridge offers the best vantage point to watch ship traffic and experience the industrial activity up close.
The Bayonne Bridge underwent a height raising project in 2017 to allow passage of larger modern container ships. This elevation shows how this passage continuously adapts to meet growing demands of global shipping traffic.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
