Block Island Ferry COVID-19 Information

COVID-19 UPDATE, AS OF JUNE 11TH 2021: THE U.S. COAST GUARD STILL REQUIRES ALL PASSENGERS TO WEAR MASKS  inside the passenger cabins & bathrooms. The Federal CDC has made it optional for passengers and crew to remove their masks while riding on the outside decks of the ferry. 

To our valued customers of The Block Island Ferry: As we approach the busy summer season, please remember that masks or face coverings are still required on board all Block Island Ferry vessels. This Federal requirement applies to ALL passengers and crew,  INSIDE THE PASSENGER CABINS & bathrooms on board the ferry. Mask wearing is now optional for passengers and crew on open air outside decks. 

Ferry passengers with vehicles: for those who remain inside their vehicles for the duration of their trip, they do not need to wear a mask, but need to do so if they exit their vehicle for any reason.

There are certain exceptions to this U.S. Coast Guard requirement, such as passengers who are eating, drinking, or taking medication for brief periods. All the exceptions and further details are found in USCG Marine Safety Information Bulletin Number 02-21 CH-2 (MSIB 02-21 CH-2).

 

 

 

 

As of feb. 1, 2021, The u.s. coast guard now requires that all passengers on u.s. flagged ferry vessels must wear a mask or face covering at all times (inside & outside). 

 

in partnership with the town of new shoreham and the rhode island department of health we ask that if you are traveling from out of state that you review the department of health guidelines for travel. for the most up to date DOH guidlines click here: https://health.ri.gov/covid/travel/

We will continue to operate our ferry on our published schedule at this time. It is important to note that misinformation is often distributed through social media and third-party platforms. For that reason, we ask our customers and the traveling public to refer to our official Block Island Ferry website; www.blockislandferry.com for accurate and up to date information. In addition, if circumstances change, we will also provide ferry service updates, through our social media platforms (Facebook &Twitter), which will in turn refer customers to our website: www.blockislandferry.com that information will also be shared with the local media and other news outlets. 

As we continue in the off-season, we want to remind our passengers that we remain vigilant in our COVID-19 efforts.

What are we doing?

Our top priority is the safety of our passengers and our staff. Our vessel and landside employees are continuing to work diligently to clean and sanitize our vessels and facilities. We are fortunate to have a dedicated staff & crew that allow us to maintain high standards. 

We continue to maintain an adequate supply of cleaning materials and have hand sanitizers available our customers while traveling with us.

Our employees have been advised of the health guidelines put out by RI Department of Health and CDC and understand the importance of hand washing and wearing face coverings.  Employees that are not feeling well are instructed to remain home.

As a beneficial measure, we have continued to work closely with the Block Island Medical Center, Town of New Shoreham, RI Governor’s Office, and RI DOH to coordinate our combined efforts and staying informed on the most current information and advisories.  

What can you do?

Be mindful of social distancing when purchasing tickets and while traveling on the ferry.

Wear a face covering at all times.  

If you are traveling with a vehicle you may remain in your vehicle for the duration of the trip (vehicle engine must be shut off).

When weather permitting, utilize outdoor seating.

Temperatures inside the cabin will be affected by the introduction of fresh air flow, open windows and doors. Passengers should dress accordingly for their comfort.

If you are traveling from out-of-state, please click here for the most up to date RI DOH guidelines: https://health.ri.gov/covid/travel/

 

 

If special transportation needs are required on board the ferry to and from Block Island, please contact William McCombe, our Director of Security and Block Island’s EMA director at (401) 675-1234.

Thank you for your help in this matter.