Providence To Newport Ferry Service Returns June 26

NEWPORT, RI —The popular seasonal fast ferry service from Providence to Newport returns next week. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, strict capacity limits will be enforced.

Service will resume June 26. The Rhode Island Department of Transportation is encouraging passengers to make reservations in advance. On nice weather days when outdoor seating can be used, up to 90 people will be allowed on the ferry. The capacity limit will be lowered to 60 people in the case of inclement weather.

To help keep passengers and staff safe, high-touch surfaces will be sanitized frequently, and passengers will be asked to follow social distancing guidelines and wear a fabric face covering. Anyone feeling at all ill is asked not to ride the ferry.

"Summer is a special time in Rhode Island," said RIDOT Director Peter Alviti. "We are glad that we were able to work with our ferry operator to bring back this popular service that gives all Rhode Islanders an equal chance to enjoy the beauty of the bay and experience Newport, Bristol and Providence car-free."

As was the case last year, the ferry will make stops in Bristol on weekends through Labor Day weekend.

"As a port of call, Bristol is ready to welcome the Seastreak Ferry service back again this year," Steven Contente, Bristol's town administrator, said. "Bristol is a great place to spend the day walking along the water and enjoying nearby restaurants."

The ferry will run seven days per week through Columbus Day weekend, offering four round trips per day in peak season and on weekends, and three round trips in the fall shoulder season. Free parking is available at the ferry terminal in Providence.

"We are excited to see the Providence-Newport ferry service safely resume this month for residents and visitors alike," Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza said. "I invite our neighbors from throughout Rhode Island to support Providence’s incredible local businesses and restaurants while we continue to observe social distance guidelines, so we can all enjoy a healthy and vibrant summer season."

Tickets cost $11 for adults and $5.50 for children, seniors and people with disabilities. Bikes and pets are allowed onboard at no additional cost. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 1-800-BOATRIDE. E-tickets are encouraged to reduce contact. In-person tickets are available at the ferry terminal at 25 India St. in Providence, and on weekends at the Bristol Maritime Center, 127 Thames St. Newport's ticket office is closed until further notice.

"Newport is happy to have a convenient, car-free way for visitors to come enjoy our City," said Newport Mayor Jamie Bova.

RIDOT is once again offering a joint ticket with Amtrak that includes a ferry ticket. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority will again offer a free shuttle bus to the terminal from several areas in downtown Providence, including the train station, Kennedy Plaza and the Rhode Island Convention Center.