What ferries serve Long Island?

The Fire Island Queen ferry is docked and ready to transport passengers between the Long Island mainland and Fire Island, one of several ferry services that provide convenient access to the island's beaches, villages, and protected natural areas. File photo: WoodysPhotos, licensed.
The Fire Island Queen ferry is docked and ready to transport passengers between the Long Island mainland and Fire Island, one of several ferry services that provide convenient access to the island’s beaches, villages, and protected natural areas. File photo: WoodysPhotos, licensed.

Several ferry services connect Long Island with neighboring states, New England, Fire Island, and nearby islands, providing convenient transportation for both residents and visitors. Whether you’re crossing the Long Island Sound, traveling to Fire Island, or heading to Connecticut or Rhode Island, Long Island’s ferry system offers scenic alternatives to driving.

In Short

Long Island is served by several passenger and vehicle ferries, including the Port Jefferson Ferry, the Cross Sound Ferry, the Fire Island ferries, and seasonal routes serving nearby islands. Some ferries carry vehicles, while others are for passengers only.

What Ferries Serve Long Island?

Long Island’s ferry network provides important transportation links across the region. The Port Jefferson Ferry connects Port Jefferson with Connecticut, while the Cross Sound Ferry operates between Orient Point and New London, Connecticut. Both routes carry passengers and vehicles, making them popular alternatives to driving through New York City.

Passenger ferries also provide transportation to Fire Island, departing from several South Shore communities including Bay Shore, Sayville, and Patchogue. These ferries serve numerous Fire Island communities where automobiles are generally not permitted.

Seasonal ferry routes also connect eastern Long Island with destinations including Block Island and other nearby coastal communities. Before traveling, it’s a good idea to check schedules, seasonal availability, reservation requirements, and weather conditions.

Whether you’re planning a day trip, avoiding highway traffic, or exploring one of Long Island’s island destinations, ferry travel offers a relaxing and scenic way to experience the region.

Quick Facts

Ferry ServiceRoute
Port Jefferson FerryPort Jefferson to Bridgeport, Connecticut (passengers and vehicles).
Cross Sound FerryOrient Point to New London, Connecticut (passengers and vehicles).
Fire Island FerriesPassenger service from Bay Shore, Sayville, and Patchogue to Fire Island communities.
Seasonal ServiceLimited seasonal ferries to destinations including Block Island and other regional ports.

Whether you’re crossing the Long Island Sound, visiting Fire Island, or exploring destinations beyond Long Island, the region’s ferry services offer convenient transportation and spectacular waterfront views. Many routes operate year-round, while others are seasonal, making ferries an important part of Long Island’s transportation network.

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