Cross Sound Ferry
The Cross Sound Ferry provides one of the most important transportation links between Long Island and New England, connecting the North Fork community of Orient Point with New London, Connecticut across the waters of Long Island Sound.
Used by tourists, commuters, truck drivers, vacationers, and residents alike, the ferry offers travelers a scenic alternative to driving through New York City traffic while creating a direct route between eastern Long Island and coastal Connecticut. The service has become an important part of regional travel for those heading between Long Island, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, and other parts of New England.
About the Cross Sound Ferry
The Cross Sound Ferry operates passenger and vehicle ferry service between eastern Long Island and southeastern Connecticut. The primary route departs from the Orient Point Ferry Terminal at the eastern tip of the North Fork and arrives at the New London Ferry Terminal in the historic coastal city of New London, Connecticut.
The crossing spans Long Island Sound and typically takes approximately 80 minutes depending on weather and marine traffic conditions. Travelers can bring automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, bicycles, RVs, and commercial vehicles aboard many scheduled departures, while walk-on passengers can also use the service without a vehicle.
For many travelers, the ferry provides a practical alternative to the long drive through New York City bridges and highways. It is especially popular during the summer tourism season when traffic congestion around the metropolitan area can become severe.
A Major Transportation Link for Long Island
The ferry plays an important role in Long Island’s transportation network by connecting the East End directly to New England. Travelers heading toward destinations such as Rhode Island, Cape Cod, Boston, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine often use the ferry to shorten travel times and reduce highway congestion.
Because the route connects directly to Interstate 95 in Connecticut, it also serves commercial transportation traffic, delivery vehicles, and regional logistics operations. In addition to tourism, the ferry contributes to the economic connection between Long Island and the northeastern United States.
The Orient Point Ferry Terminal
The Long Island terminal is located in the small waterfront hamlet of Orient Point near the easternmost end of the North Fork. The area is known for its coastal scenery, fishing activity, marinas, and nearby nature preserves.
The terminal area includes vehicle staging lanes, passenger facilities, parking areas, and nearby access to local businesses and attractions. Travelers using the ferry often combine the trip with visits to nearby destinations including:
Travel Experience Across Long Island Sound
Many travelers view the ferry crossing itself as part of the vacation experience. During the trip, passengers can enjoy open-water views of Long Island Sound, passing boats, coastal shorelines, and seasonal wildlife. Outdoor observation decks are especially popular during warmer months.
The ferries typically include indoor passenger seating areas, snack bars or food service areas, restrooms, and viewing spaces. During busy travel weekends, especially in summer, reservations are strongly recommended for vehicles.
The crossing is frequently used by motorcycle riders and road-trip travelers looking for a more scenic and relaxing route into New England. RV travelers and tourists exploring both Long Island and Connecticut coastal destinations also commonly use the service.
Vicinity of the Ferry
Key Facts and Details
| Name | Cross Sound Ferry |
| Route | Orient Point, NY to New London, CT |
| Waterway | Long Island Sound |
| Service Type | Passenger and vehicle ferry service |
| Approximate Crossing Time | About 80 minutes |
| Vehicle Transport | Yes |
| Walk-On Passengers | Yes |
| Popular Travel Use | Travel between Long Island and New England |
| Region Served | North Fork of Long Island and southeastern Connecticut |
| Website | https://www.longislandferry.com |
Tips for Travelers
- Vehicle reservations are recommended during weekends and summer travel periods.
- Arriving early is important, especially for larger vehicles and trailers.
- Weather conditions on Long Island Sound can occasionally affect schedules.
- Passengers should verify departure times before travel during holiday periods.
- Walk-on passengers often experience faster boarding procedures.
An Important Part of East End Travel
The Cross Sound Ferry remains one of the most recognizable transportation services connected to Long Island’s East End. Beyond its role as a practical transportation route, the ferry has become part of the North Fork travel experience itself, offering visitors a scenic gateway between Long Island and New England while helping connect coastal communities across Long Island Sound.
