Ferry logistics

Which Block Island Ferry: Point Judith or Newport?

Default to Point Judith: more sailings, the year-round Traditional boat, and the only option that carries vehicles. The published 2026 Newport high-speed season ran June 19–September 7 and has ended; check Point Judith service for autumn travel. In a future Newport operating season, use it only when the published departures fit your day.

Plan the next step
By Rhode Island Guide Editorial DeskReviewed against primary and official sourcesHow we review
3 reviewed places3 sourcesChecked September 12, 2026
Aerial view of boats and shoreline around Block Island harbor
Aerial view of boats and shoreline around Block Island harbor
Quick answer

The short answer

Tradeoffs
  • Point Judith requires a mainland connection and, if driving, parking. It has year-round traditional service, but weather and availability can still disrupt plans.
  • The Newport boat starts at the harbor you may already be standing in, but it is passenger-only, seasonal, and thin on departures.
  • All ferry plans depend on weather and the operator’s current notices. Do not assume another sailing has space if yours is canceled.
Plan in order

Build the trip in this order

  1. 01

    Decide the vehicle question first: a car on the island means Point Judith Traditional, full stop.

  2. 02

    Check the day's actual departures for both ports — the official site lists them side by side.

  3. 03

    Book the return leg you truly need, then build the island day backwards from it.

Common trip shapes

Which plan fits your trip?

During the published Newport operating season, a passenger sailing from Perrotti Park can suit a light trip when both outward and return times fit.

Family with beach gear, or any plan that needs wheels on the island: Point Judith Traditional.

Windy forecast: check operator notices before leaving your base and keep the island plan flexible; an alternative sailing is not guaranteed.

Places in this guide