Providence to Newport Ferry Is Back for the Summer of 2020
Saturday, June 20, 2020
{image)_1}The Providence to Newport Ferry, including weekend service to Bristol, is returning starting on Friday, June 26.
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) advises riders to plan ahead and make reservations, as capacity will be limited in accordance with COVID-19 public health protocols.
In its first year, the ferry carried over 33,000 passengers.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTThis year between a later starting date and social distancing restrictions the ferry will realize a fraction of that passenger count.
To keep everyone safe, the number of riders on the 149-passenger ferry will be reduced based on Rhode Island’s Phase II reopening guidelines.
During good weather when outdoor seating is available, 90 passengers will be allowed aboard. During inclement weather conditions when outdoor seating is a challenge, 60 passengers will be allowed to board. RIDOT and Seastreak will announce any changes to service or capacity limits as necessary, based on the weather and on guidance from the Rhode Island Department of Health.
Seastreak again will be the operator this year utilizing the ferry Ocean State, and will sanitize all high touch areas between and during runs and will thoroughly clean and sanitize the vessel at the end of each day. Passengers will be asked to follow social distancing practices both on the ship and on the docks and ticketing areas and face coverings are required. Anyone feeling ill should not ride the ferry.
“Summer is a special time in Rhode Island. 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,” RIDOT Director Peter Alviti, Jr. said.
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