Has a Fire Island ferry ever sunk?


Has a Fire Island ferry ever sunk? Did any of the ferries sink? Fire Island Ferries is proud of its record of never having to abandon ship, but it came close in 1976, when the Fire Island Queen got stuck on a sandbar in the Captree channel, according to Edwin Mooney Jr.'s book, “Ferries to Fire Island: 1856-2003.” Rachelle Blidner explains.


Are there snakes on Fire Island?

Squirrels were not seen on the island at all 50 years ago, but along with five species of bats they are now common. We also have snakes, turtles, and short-tailed shrew (Blarina brevicauda). Weasels and mink were here but have not been seen in recent years.


How many people live on Fire Island year round?

Fire Island facts Population: 293 year-round, according to 2019 Census for Fire Island CDP, and about 14,840 at the peak season, about 60 times the year-round population, according to the Suffolk County Division of Planning and Environment.


Is Fire Island worth it?

The island is famous for its peaceful, pristine beaches, centuries-old forests, laid-back beach vibe in the daytime, and extremely popular night scene. There is an abundance of rental options on Fire Island, and it's the perfect place for a relaxing vacation without having to go too far away from home.


Who owns Fire Island?

Cook Inlet Region Inc., which owns most of Fire Island and is owned by Alaska Native shareholders from much of Southcentral Alaska, built the $65 million project a decade ago.


Are there a lot of gays on Fire Island?

Fire Island Pines' gay scene is about 90% gay professionals. Many have timeshares during the summer and a few select own beautiful homes that dot the coastline. The Pines draws the Chelsea crowd. The other is Cherry Grove, whose gay scene is extremely popular with the girls as well as more bohemian gay men.


Does anyone live on Fire Island?

Yes. While the vast majority of homeowners are summer residents only, there is a growing year round community on Fire Island.


Is Fire Island cash only?

There are ATMs on the island, and all of the venues usually accept credit cards, though on occasion (like the 4th of July, for example) the bars go to cash only.


Can you buy a house on Fire Island?

Yes. Mortgage financing is readily available on Fire Island. Not all banks will lend on the island but most will.


Can you stay overnight on Fire Island?

Reservations and a fee are required. Visit www.recreation.gov for more information. There are also opportunities for overnight stays at Smith Point County Park, several bay side marinas, and numerous summer rentals and small hotels within some of the seventeen communities on Fire Island.


Can you live full time on Fire Island?

Yes. While the vast majority of homeowners are summer residents only, there is a growing year round community on Fire Island.