Shelter Island Ferries (North and South Ferry)

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

History

• North Ferry: The North Ferry Company was incorporated in 1883, providing a long-running link between Greenport and Shelter Island Heights.
• South Ferry: South Ferry service dates to 1830 and is widely regarded as one of the oldest continuously operating ferry routes in the United States.
• Continuity: Together, these ferries have long served as daily lifelines for residents, workers, deliveries, 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, with crossing times subject to normal operating conditions.
• 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, depending on conditions.
• 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, marine conditions, traffic, and operational needs.
• Vehicles & Passengers: Standard passenger vehicles, bicycles, motorcycles, and walk-on passengers are typically accommodated. If you are traveling with an oversized, commercial, trailer-towing, or specialty vehicle, check ahead with the operator.
• Schedules: Departures are generally frequent throughout the day, with heavier lines and longer waits common in summer and on holiday weekends. Arriving early is wise during peak travel periods.
• Fares & Payment: Fares are typically charged by crossing, and payment methods or ticketing policies may change. Confirm current fare and payment information directly with the ferry company before your trip.
• At the Terminals: Space can be limited near the docks, especially in busy weather and peak season. Follow posted instructions, crew directions, and local parking rules at each landing.

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 hamlet and waterfront area 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.

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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. Exact crossing times can vary slightly with conditions.

Q: Do the ferries run year-round?
A: Yes. Both operate throughout the year, although schedules and service frequency may vary by season, weather, or operational 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 or specialty vehicle, check current policies directly with the operator.

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Vicinity of Both Ferries

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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. As with any ferry trip, it is smart to check ahead before visiting.