Shelter Island Ferries (North and South)
Shelter Island, located between the North Fork and South Fork of Long Island, is accessible only by water. Two ferry services – the North Ferry from Greenport and the South Ferry from North Haven (near Sag Harbor) – provide year-round, vehicle-carrying service to and from the island. These ferries are not just transportation links; they are part of the island’s charm, offering scenic short rides across the waters of Shelter Island Sound and Peconic Bay.
History
- North Ferry: Operating since the mid-19th century, the North Ferry Company was formally established in 1883 to link Greenport with Shelter Island Heights.
- South Ferry: Even older, the South Ferry Company traces its history back to 1830, making it one of the oldest continuously operating ferry services in the United States.
- Continuity: Both ferries have remained family-run operations for generations, serving as lifelines for residents and visitors.
Route and Significance
North Ferry
- Route: Connects Greenport (North Fork) with Shelter Island Heights.
- Duration: ~8 minutes.
- Connections: Links directly to the Long Island Rail Road (Greenport Station) and wineries, restaurants, and attractions along the North Fork.
South Ferry
- Route: Connects North Haven (South Fork) near Sag Harbor with Shelter Island.
- Duration: ~8 minutes.
- Connections: Provides access to Sag Harbor, East Hampton, Southampton, and the Hamptons area.
Operations
- Year-Round Service: Both ferries operate daily, including holidays.
- Vehicles & Passengers: Open to cars, trucks, bicycles, and walk-on passengers.
- Schedules: Departures typically run every 10–20 minutes, with increased frequency during summer and weekends.
- Payment: Tickets purchased onboard (cash, credit/debit accepted). Round-trip tickets are not required; each crossing is one-way fare.
Importance for Long Island Travelers
- Tourism: Shelter Island is a beloved summer destination known for its beaches, preserves, and small-town charm.
- Local Economy: The ferries support commerce, restaurants, and resorts by providing reliable access for visitors and residents.
- Connectivity: The ferries serve as the only road links between the North Fork, Shelter Island, and the Hamptons.
Nearby Landmarks & Attractions
- On Shelter Island: Mashomack Preserve, Crescent Beach, Shelter Island Historical Society.
- From North Ferry: Greenport Village, North Fork Wine Trail, East End Seaport Museum.
- From South Ferry: Sag Harbor Village, Long Wharf, Hamptons beaches and shops.
Q&A – Shelter Island Ferries
Q: Can you drive onto the Shelter Island ferries?
A: Yes, both the North Ferry and South Ferry carry cars, trucks, motorcycles, and bicycles.
Q: How long is the ferry ride?
A: About 8 minutes each way.
Q: Do the ferries run year-round?
A: Yes, they operate in all seasons, though schedules may vary slightly in winter.
Q: Do I need reservations?
A: No reservations are needed; both ferries operate on a first-come, first-served basis with frequent departures.
Area Snapshot
| Feature | North Ferry | South Ferry |
|---|---|---|
| Route | Greenport ↔ Shelter Island Heights | North Haven (Sag Harbor) ↔ Shelter Island |
| Founded | 1883 | 1830 |
| Travel Time | ~8 minutes | ~8 minutes |
| Vehicles Allowed | Yes | Yes |
| Frequency | Every 10–20 minutes | Every 10–20 minutes |
| Season | Year-round | Year-round |
The Shelter Island Ferries are more than just a means of transportation – they are part of the Long Island experience. Linking the North Fork and South Fork through the quiet beauty of Shelter Island, the North Ferry and South Ferry continue to serve residents and visitors with reliable, year-round crossings. Whether you’re heading to the Hamptons, exploring North Fork vineyards, or enjoying Shelter Island’s natural beauty, these ferries remain essential gateways across Long Island’s East End.
