Does Block Island ferry run in winter?

Block Island Ferry: provides year-round service from Point Judith, RI. This is the only Ferry that can take vehicles to the island and reservations for vehicles are required.



Yes, Block Island ferries do run in winter, but with a significantly reduced schedule compared to the peak summer season.

The key points to know about winter ferry service are:

1. Primary Operator: The Block Island Ferry (Interstate Navigation)

  • Year-Round Route: The traditional car ferry from Point Judith, RI (Galilee) to Block Island runs all year. This is your most reliable option in winter.
  • Winter Schedule: It typically runs one to three round-trips per day from January through March. Schedules are weather-dependent and can be canceled for severe conditions.
  • Vehicle Transport: This is the only ferry that transports cars and trucks in the winter. Reservations for vehicles are essential.
  • High-Speed Ferry: The high-speed passenger ferry from Point Judith does not operate in the winter.

2. Secondary Route: From Newport, RI

  • Seasonal Suspension: The seasonal passenger ferry from Newport to Block Island usually stops running after the fall (often around late October/November) and resumes in the spring.

3. Important Winter Considerations:

  • Weather is King: Winter weather on the Atlantic can be rough. Always check the schedule and sailing status on the day of travel, as trips are frequently canceled or delayed due to high winds, freezing spray, or sea conditions.
  • Reduced Amenities: On the island, many hotels, restaurants, and shops are closed for the season. Be sure to confirm accommodations and services are open before you go.
  • Reservations: For the car ferry, reservations are mandatory for vehicles and

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Block Island to Yourself The wind is strong during the winter but there will be days when it is warm enough (with average temperatures ranging from 27-45°F) to walk on the empty beach. Plus the winter sky on the island produces some of the most amazing sunsets, which you can see all by yourself or with a loved one.

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If you are running late and are likely to miss your ferry, we suggest proceeding to the port to see if the ferry company will allow you to change the ticket to a different day or departure time. Keep in mind that if you do miss your ferry, the tickets are non-refundable.

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Block Island is a summer destination. The peak season runs from Mid-June to Labor Day, but it would also be nice to visit either end of the season – in May or September.

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The Sullivan House is a much-admired architectural gem. It was built in 1904 for Col. LU Maltby, the owner of the Continental Hotel in Philadelphia. During WWI, a naval base was established on Block Island to hunt German U-boats and protect the coast.

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Unfortunately Block Island real estate is exremely high. Even with the market so low, you still have to pay steep prices for anything on the Block. This is true for most islands simply because there is just so much land.

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The island is coterminous with the town of New Shoreham and is part of Rhode Island's Washington County. It is named after Dutch explorer Adriaen Block. Pop. Block Island is a popular summer tourist destination known for its bicycling, hiking, sailing, fishing, and beaches.

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Sitting just 9 miles from mainland Rhode Island, Block Island is a gorgeous place to visit for a day trip that has amazing beaches, nature trails, a charming downtown, lighthouses, awesome food and a very relaxing atmosphere.

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Ferry schedules and tickets usually become available 3-6 months before the departure date.

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Accommodations on board for overnight trips When traveling by sea during the night hours it is possible to sleep with an assigned seat, in an armchair or in a berth, or perhaps in an exclusive cabin depending on the type of accommodation on board selected during the booking phase.

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