Embark on a seamless journey from Connecticut to the vibrant shores of Long Island with our comprehensive guide to ferry services.
Ferry Routes and Terminals
New London to Orient Point
- Operated by The Cross Sound Ferry
- Travel time: Approximately 75 minutes
- Terminal locations:
- New London: Union Station, 104 Howard Street
- Orient Point: North Ferry Terminal, 51900 Main Road
Bridgeport to Port Jefferson
- Operated by Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Ferry
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour
- Terminal locations:
- Bridgeport: Bridgeport Harbor Marina, 1 Marina Plaza
- Port Jefferson: Port Jefferson Ferry Terminal, 101 East Broadway
Ferry Schedules and Fares
Schedules and fares vary depending on the ferry operator and time of year. It’s recommended to check the official websites of the ferry companies for up-to-date information:
Making Reservations
Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (summer weekends). You can make reservations online or by phone:
- The Cross Sound Ferry: (860) 443-5281
- Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Ferry: (203) 367-1255
Services and Amenities
Most ferries offer a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and convenient journey, including:
- Reserved seating
- Snack bar and restaurant
- Wi-Fi
- Power outlets for charging devices
Insider Tips
- Arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure to allow for check-in and boarding.
- Consider purchasing a round-trip ticket to save money.
- Check the weather forecast before you travel, as ferry schedules may be affected by inclement weather.
- Pack light, as there is limited luggage space on some ferries.
- Enjoy the scenic views of the coastline and Long Island Sound during your journey.
Benefits of Taking the Ferry
- Convenience: Ferries provide a direct and convenient way to travel between Connecticut and Long Island, avoiding traffic congestion on the roads.
- Time-saving: The journey by ferry is typically faster than driving, especially during peak travel times.
- Cost-effective: Ferry fares are comparable to the cost of gasoline, parking, and tolls associated with driving.
- Environmental friendliness: Ferries contribute to reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the number of vehicles on the roads.
Innovative Ideas to Enhance the Conn Ferry Experience
- Park and Ride: Create designated park and ride locations near ferry terminals for commuters who prefer to drive to the terminal and park their cars.
- Ferry Express: Introduce high-speed ferry services to reduce travel time and increase capacity.
- Mobile App Integration: Develop a mobile app that allows passengers to book tickets, track ferry schedules, and receive real-time updates.
- Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses to offer discounts and promotions for ferry passengers.
Tables
Table 1: Ferry Route and Terminal Information
| Route | Operator | Travel Time | Terminals |
|---|---|---|---|
| New London to Orient Point | The Cross Sound Ferry | 75 minutes | New London Union Station, Orient Point North Ferry Terminal |
| Bridgeport to Port Jefferson | Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Ferry | 60 minutes | Bridgeport Harbor Marina, Port Jefferson Ferry Terminal |
Table 2: Ferry Schedules and Fares
| Ferry Route | Peak Season Fares | Off-Season Fares |
|---|---|---|
| New London to Orient Point | $48 (round-trip) | $29 (round-trip) |
| Bridgeport to Port Jefferson | $36 (round-trip) | $22 (round-trip) |
Table 3: Ferry Services and Amenities
| Service/Amenity | Availability |
|---|---|
| Reserved seating | Most ferries |
| Snack bar/restaurant | Most ferries |
| Wi-Fi | Most ferries |
| Power outlets | Most ferries |
Table 4: Benefits of Taking the Ferry
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Direct and convenient travel between Connecticut and Long Island |
| Time-saving | Faster than driving, especially during peak travel times |
| Cost-effective | Comparable to the cost of driving |
| Environmental friendliness | Reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions |
