This is how many of the locals get to work downtown or the French Quarter. They live across the river and take the ferry. From there they can jump on a street car to work. There are some bars and restaurants in Algiers once you get across the river.
Don't pay for a few hours of cruising the river on the river boat Natchez. Grab a six pack of beer and ride the Canal Street - Algiers Ferry across the river for free.