Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation?
No. Ferry boats travel between Shelter Island and North Haven constantly. It's first come, first served. Wait in line in the designated ferry lane for the next available vessel and follow crew directions. Be sure not to wait in the left lane, which is for non-ferry traffic.
Does my South Ferry ticket work on the North Ferry?
No. The South Ferry and the North Ferry are two separate companies, each with their own separate tickets.
When and how do I pay for my ticket?
You can pay for your ticket onboard the ferry with cash. See the Payment section below for more details.
Are fares the same year round?
Yes. We do not have seasonal rates.
Are there any discounts available?
Yes. Discounts are available for residents or commuters. We also sell prepaid tickets in books of 10. Please see the passes page for details.
How do I get to the Orient Point/Cross Sound Ferry?
From the South Ferry travel north through Shelter Island to the North Ferry and cross over to Greenport, then drive to Orient Point. View directions here. We suggest allowing 90 minutes travel time from North Haven to Orient Point.
Did the rates change recently?
Yes. While South Ferry aims to keep fares as low as possible, inflation and rising costs mean we must raise our rates periodically to stay viable. The Suffolk County legislature approved the last increase on May 6, 2025. Download the updated rate sheet here.
How To Ride the Ferry
Boarding
If you're driving a car or truck, wait in the designated right-hand ferry lane until the ferry arrives. Do not wait in the left lane or go in front of other cars or you may be sent to the back of the line. Turn off your headlights. Pay attention and put away your cell phone. Wait until the gate opens and a crew member invites you aboard. Drive on slowly and follow their parking directions. Engage your parking brake, put your vehicle in park, and turn off your engine. Stay in your vehicle until a crew member accepts your payment.
If you are riding a bicycle or on foot, wait by the side of the gate out of the way of traffic until a crew member invites you to come aboard. Follow the crew's directions on where to park your bicycle or stand.
Payment
You may use cash or a check to pay your fare onboard. Credit cards are not accepted, but there is an ATM near each dock. Try to have your money, commuter pass, or return ticket ready before a crew member approaches you. Tell them if you want to purchase a one-way ticket or a round-trip ticket, how many adult passengers (not including the driver) there are, and how you intend to pay. The crew member will take your payment and give you a return ticket or receipt. If you are returning for the second half of your round-trip, give them your ticket for validation.
Departure
When the ferry arrives at the destination, wait for the crew to direct you how and when to depart; it may be different from how you boarded. If driving, start your engine and remove your parking brake. If on foot or bicycle, wait until all vehicles have left before disembarking. Carefully exit the ferry and be mindful of pedestrians, oncoming traffic, and your headlights as you drive away.