Providence-Newport ferry continues to be a big hit

By: News Staff

news@abc6.com

The Providence to Newport ferry continues to be a big hit!

Since debuting on the Fourth of July, more than one-thousand people have opted to leave their keys at home.  

The service has sold more than 5,000 tickets, providing passengers with unique and convenient transportation options.

Due to its popularity, the service is making it easier for Rhode Islanders and tourists to plan trips to Newport or Providence.

RIDOT announced Thursday morning that it is now offering online tickets and reservation services.

The seasonal ferry service runs seven days a week through September 5th, with three round-trip excursions weekdays (Monday to Thursday), and four scheduled trips each Friday through Sunday. The trip time is one hour.

The vessel, named the Ocean State, holds a maximum of 149 passengers. Pets are welcome, and passengers can take their bikes on the ferry for free, but space is limited.

The new service is a pilot program, which will run through Labor Day.

RIDOT will evaluate the ridership at the end of the season to determine the future expansion of the ferry service.

Anyone interested in taking the ferry can visit www.dot.ri.gov/ferry to purchase tickets for round trip or one-way tickets.

Tickets can also be bought by calling 1-800-BOAT-RIDE.

©WLNE-TV / ABC6 2016