Shelter Island Ferries (North Ferry and South Ferry)

Cars and passengers waiting to board the South Ferry in North Haven for the crossing to Shelter Island — Cars and passengers wait to board the South Ferry at North Haven, New York, for the short trip across to Shelter Island. The ferry vessel and terminal signage are visible, highlighting the service’s role as a vital year-round connection to the island. File photo: Jaclyn Vernace, licensed.

Shelter Island, located between the North Fork and South Fork of Long Island, is reached by two short, year-round public ferries. The North Ferry runs from Greenport, while the South Ferry runs from North Haven near Sag Harbor. Both carry vehicles, bicycles, and walk-on passengers, and both are an essential part of the East End travel experience. For current schedules, fares, and service notices, check the official North Ferry and South Ferry websites before traveling.

History

North Ferry: The North Ferry route has served the area since the 19th century, and the North Ferry Company was incorporated in 1883 to connect Greenport with Shelter Island Heights.
South Ferry: The South Ferry traces its history to 1830, making it one of the oldest continuously operating ferry services in the United States.
Continuity: Together, these ferries have long served as daily lifelines for residents, workers, and visitors traveling between Shelter Island and the two forks of eastern Long Island.

Route and Significance

North Ferry

Route: Connects Greenport on the North Fork with Shelter Island Heights.
Duration: About 8 minutes.
Connections: Convenient for the Long Island Rail Road at Greenport, as well as North Fork restaurants, wineries, shops, and waterfront attractions.

South Ferry

Route: Connects North Haven, just west of Sag Harbor, with the south side of Shelter Island.
Duration: About 5 minutes.
Connections: Provides an easy link to Sag Harbor, East Hampton, Southampton, and the wider Hamptons area.

Operations

Year-Round Service: Both ferries operate daily throughout the year, including weekends and holidays, though service details can change due to weather, traffic, and operating conditions.
Vehicles & Passengers: Standard passenger vehicles, bicycles, motorcycles, and walk-on passengers are accommodated. If you are traveling with an oversized, commercial, or specialty vehicle, check ahead with the operator.
Schedules: Departures are generally frequent throughout the day, with busier lines and longer waits common in summer and on holiday weekends.
Fares & Payment: Fares are typically charged by crossing, and payment options or policies may change. Confirm current fare and payment information with the ferry company before your trip.

Importance for Long Island Travelers

Tourism: Shelter Island is a favorite East End getaway known for beaches, nature preserves, marinas, and a quieter pace than many nearby resort areas.
Local Economy: The ferries support restaurants, inns, shops, and everyday commerce by keeping Shelter Island connected to neighboring communities.
Connectivity: For drivers and cyclists, these ferries provide the only public vehicle links between the North Fork, Shelter Island, and the Hamptons.

Nearby Landmarks & Attractions

On Shelter Island: Mashomack Preserve, Crescent Beach, Shelter Island History Museum, and the village areas of Shelter Island Heights.
From North Ferry: Greenport Village, North Fork Wine Country, and the East End Seaport Museum area.
From South Ferry: Sag Harbor Village, Long Wharf, and South Fork beaches, shops, and dining destinations.

Q&A – Shelter Island Ferries

Q: Can you drive onto the Shelter Island ferries?
A: Yes. Both the North Ferry and South Ferry carry passenger vehicles, and both also accommodate bicycles and walk-on travelers.

Q: How long is the ferry ride?
A: The North Ferry ride is about 8 minutes, while the South Ferry crossing is about 5 minutes.

Q: Do the ferries run year-round?
A: Yes. Both operate throughout the year, although schedules and service frequency may vary by season or weather conditions.

Q: Do I need reservations?
A: Standard passenger traffic is generally handled on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are traveling during peak summer periods or bringing an oversized vehicle, check current policies directly with the operator.

Vicinity of Both Ferries

Area Snapshot

Feature	North Ferry	South Ferry
Route	Greenport ↔ Shelter Island Heights	North Haven ↔ Shelter Island
Founded	1883	1830
Travel Time	About 8 minutes	About 5 minutes
Vehicles Allowed	Yes	Yes
Frequency	Frequent daily departures	Frequent daily departures
Season	Year-round	Year-round

The Shelter Island ferries are more than a practical way to cross the water. They are part of the character of Long Island’s East End, linking the North Fork, Shelter Island, and South Fork with short, scenic trips that remain essential for daily life and visitor travel alike. Whether you are heading for a beach day, a village stroll, a winery outing, or a Hamptons drive, the North Ferry and South Ferry remain key gateways across the East End.