Couple stranded on Block Island after ferries cancel services over ocean conditions

NEW SHOREHAM, R.I. (WLNE) — It’s day three and counting for residents on Block Island as ferry services came to a halt following wind, rain, and waves.

Matthew Dahl had never been to Block Island before, but for their third wedding anniversary, him and his wife, Samantha, wanted to make the trip up from New York.

“We arrived on Friday. The original plan was Friday until [Monday]. Our anniversary was [Sunday], so we were just coming out to spend the weekend and a little extra on Block Island,” Dahl told ABC 6 News.

Warnings started coming in Friday evening about forecasts from the National Weather Service Marine Reports. Ferry rides were canceled shortly after on Saturday, and haven’t started back up.

“Then Saturday night into Sunday morning, we started reading some more of the weather reports and it’s getting a little bit worse and a little bit worse, up until Sunday night when they canceled the ferries for today,” Dahl continued.

“And we called the planes, and they’re not even running until Friday too,” said Samantha Dahl added.

The Dahls said it’s not the worst place to be stuck, however.

Matt said he’s able to work somewhat remotely, and Samantha’s work has been understanding. They’ve also been able to extend their stays as the wait continues.

“I guess it’s the one good thing about the ferries not running, there’s no one to come in so we were able to actually extend the stay for a day or two,” the Dahls explained.

“It’s honestly not too bad, it’s just a struggle of figuring out when to get home and all the different options,” Matthew said.

As of Monday evening, the Block Island Ferry is expected to function as normal, with the ferry company announcing an increase in service to make up for lost rides.

The Dahls are hoping they can catch a ferry early Tuesday morning.