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MAY 16TH: FUEL SURCHARGE
EFFECTIVE APRIL 19, 2022 PASSENGERS AND CREW ARE NO LONGER REQUIRED TO WEAR A FACE MASK INSIDE OR OUTSIDE ON ThE BLOCK ISLAND FERRY.
THE U.S. COAST GUARD HAS SUSPENDED THE FEDERAL MASK MANDATE FOR ALL U.S. PASSENGER VESSELS (Per USCG MSIB 02-21, Change 5). On April 18, 2022, the US District Court, Middle District of Florida, vacated the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mandate for mask wear in airports, train stations, and other transportation hubs as well as on airplanes, buses, trains, and most other public conveyances in the United States, including vessels. Per this ruling, the CDC has declared that the mandate is no longer in effect. Federal agencies are reviewing the court’s decision. In the interim the Coast Guard will not enforce the directives requiring mask use on public transportation and in transportation hubs. CDC continues to recommend that people wear masks in indoor public transportation settings.
APRIL 19TH: FUEL SURCHARGE
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.
ServiceTo 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 inside cabins. 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).