Shelter Island North Ferry - Image 1
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Shelter Island North Ferry

4.5
·692 reviews·Shelter Island Heights, United States

A quick, scenic ferry ride connecting Greenport to Shelter Island, perfect for car travel and East Coast adventures.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mid-day

Fewer crowds, smoother boarding

CrowdLow
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Shelter Island North Ferry - Image 1

Shelter Island North Ferry

Best Time

Weekdays, mid-day

Fewer crowds, smoother boarding

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A quick, scenic ferry ride connecting Greenport to Shelter Island, perfect for car travel and East Coast adventures.

4.5
(692 reviews)

"Very efficient ferry service to and from Shelter Island. Cash only there is a ATM there."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Cash for Cars

Vehicles pay onboard with cash only. Have about $14 ready per car. Humans pay with tokens.

⏱️ Check for Delays

Construction can cause delays. Factor in extra time for your trip.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Car Ride

Scenic Car Ride

North Ferry Route

Enjoy a quick, scenic ferry ride that allows you to stay in your car. It's a warm and easy way to travel between the North Fork and Shelter Island.

The Salacia Vessel

The Salacia Vessel

North Ferry

Admire the 'Salacia,' a beautiful vessel that makes the journey across the water a pleasant experience.

Greenport Charm

Greenport Charm

Greenport, North Fork

Explore the charming village of Greenport before or after your ferry trip, known for its wineries and local atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Cash is King on the North Ferry

The Shelter Island North Ferry operates on a cash-only basis for vehicles, so be sure to have enough on hand before boarding. There is an ATM available, but it's best to come prepared to avoid delays. Human passengers pay with tokens purchased from a machine.

Plan for Potential Delays

While generally efficient, construction on both ends of the ferry route can sometimes lead to longer waiting times. Check local updates if possible, and factor in a little extra time for your journey, especially during peak seasons.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mid-day
Why
Fewer crowds, smoother boarding
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Romantic ambiance, post-dinner travel
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We hopped on the North Ferry from the North Fork to Shelter Island and didn’t even have to get out of the car. Easiest (and warmest) ferry ride ever. Loving these little East Coast adventures. #shelterisland #northfork #northferry #longislandlife #eastcoastadventures
@p.and.c.adventure
6 likes • 219 views

🚗 Cash for Cars

Vehicles pay onboard with cash only. Have about $14 ready per car. Humans pay with tokens. Reddit

⏱️ Check for Delays

Construction can cause delays. Factor in extra time for your trip. Reddit

shelter island ferry is back in action #shelterisland #greenport #newyork #longisland #ferry #boating #boat
@boatingnewyork
12 likes • 1.4K views
#spazieren #shelterislandheights
@tzonzle
9 likes • 426 views

🚢 Stay in Your Car

You don't need to get out of your car during the ride! Easy and convenient. TikTok

✨ Enjoy the Views

The ferry offers lovely views, making it a pleasant part of your journey. TikTok

Looking for a romantic, wood-fired dinner spot that feels like a secret? Léon on Shelter Island delivers one of the most unforgettable meals we’ve had this summer—front row to their open hearth, perfectly cooked steak, and the best martini we’ve had all season (don’t skip the blistered olives stuffed with blue cheese). We ordered the Blistered & Blue martini, Fluke Crudo, Buttered Lobster, House-B...
@eastendmermaid
175 likes • 7.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Cash for Cars

Vehicles pay onboard with cash only. Have about $14 ready per car. Humans pay with tokens. Reddit

⏱️ Check for Delays

Construction can cause delays. Factor in extra time for your trip. Reddit

🚢 Stay in Your Car

You don't need to get out of your car during the ride! Easy and convenient. TikTok

✨ Enjoy the Views

The ferry offers lovely views, making it a pleasant part of your journey. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(692 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Shelter Island North Ferry to be an efficient and convenient way to travel between Greenport and Shelter Island, especially appreciating the ability to stay in their cars. While generally praised for its service, some note that construction can cause delays, and the cash-only policy for vehicles requires preparation. The 'Salacia' vessel is also a point of positive mention.

"Very efficient ferry service to and from shelter island. Cash only there is a ATM there. Boats are there every 12-20 and is about 28$ for a two wat"

Andy

"To and From Shelter Island was efficient. We pulled right on the ferry when leaving Greenport. We waited 5 Minutes maybe on the way home to get on the ferry going back to Greenport. It was easy and not that expensive for a round trip, day trip. I think it came to $33 for the car and two people. Definitely worth it."

Mr. Kyle Carroll

"They are doing construction on both ends of the Green Port and Shelter Island. Longer waiting time and very slow moving ferry adds to a bit of aggravation."

joseph Bajada

What People Like

Efficient and convenient
Stay in your car
Scenic short ride

What People Dislike

Cash only for vehicles
Occasional construction delays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient way is to take the Shelter Island North Ferry from Greenport. It's a short, scenic ride that allows you to stay in your vehicle. TikTok+1

The North Ferry connects Greenport on the North Fork of Long Island to Shelter Island. TikTok

The ferry is generally accessible, allowing you to drive your car directly onto the vessel. TikTok

The ferry ride is quite short, typically just a few minutes, making it a quick transit. TikTok

Yes, the North Ferry is designed to transport vehicles, making it ideal for day trips or exploring both sides of the island. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Vehicles pay onboard with cash only, around $14. Human passengers purchase tokens from a machine for a few dollars. Reddit

No, the North Ferry is cash only for vehicles. There is an ATM available, but it's best to have cash ready. Reddit

The ferry runs frequently, typically every 12-20 minutes, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check for the most current schedule. Reddit

Tickets for vehicles are purchased onboard with cash. Passengers buy tokens from a machine before boarding. Reddit

While not explicitly stated as a discount, the cost for a round trip for a car and two people was around $33, making it a reasonable day trip option. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Shelter Island offers opportunities for leisurely strolls, like in Shelter Island Heights,TikTok and is a great destination for a day trip from the North Fork. Reddit

Yes, Shelter Island has some notable dining spots. For a romantic, wood-fired dinner, Lèon is highly recommended for its steak and martinis. TikTok

Many visitors use the ferry for a day trip, exploring the island's charm. Having a car is convenient for getting around after the ferry ride. TikTok

While the ferry is car-friendly, areas like Shelter Island Heights are pleasant for walking and exploring. TikTok

Shelter Island offers a more relaxed and charming atmosphere, often described as a hidden gem for East Coast adventures. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Shelter Island North Ferry is a fantastic option for families looking for an easy and enjoyable transit. The ability to stay in the car makes it stress-free for parents, and kids often enjoy the novelty of a short boat ride. TikTok Pack some snacks and drinks, as the ride is quick, and consider exploring the charming village of Greenport before or after your ferry trip for more family-friendly activities. Reddit

Once on Shelter Island, areas like Shelter Island Heights offer pleasant, walkable spaces for children to explore. While specific kid-focused attractions might be limited, the relaxed pace of the island is conducive to family enjoyment. Dining at places like Lèon might be more suited for older children or those who appreciate a quieter meal, but there are other casual options available. TikTok

🚗 Day-Trippers

The North Ferry is practically tailor-made for day-trippers looking to explore both the North Fork and Shelter Island. The efficient car ferry allows you to seamlessly transition between the two areas, maximizing your time. TikTok+1 Plan to spend time in Greenport, perhaps visiting a winery, before hopping on the ferry. Reddit

On Shelter Island, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, explore local shops, or have a delightful meal. The short ferry ride means you can easily return to the mainland without feeling rushed. Remember to bring cash for the ferry fare to ensure a smooth departure and return. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the North Ferry

The Shelter Island North Ferry provides a crucial link between Greenport on the North Fork and Shelter Island. It's a popular choice for its convenience, allowing passengers to remain in their vehicles for the short journey. This makes it an ideal option for those looking to explore Shelter Island without the hassle of disembarking and re-embarking. The ferry operates frequently, aiming to minimize wait times, though occasional construction can impact schedules. TikTok+1

When it comes to payment, be prepared for a cash-only policy for vehicles. The approximate cost is $14 per car, with an ATM available on-site for convenience. Passengers, on the other hand, pay with tokens purchased from a machine. This system, while straightforward, means having cash readily accessible is key to a smooth boarding process. Reddit

The ferry itself, particularly the vessel named 'Salacia,' is noted for its pleasant aesthetics, contributing to a positive travel experience. While the ride is brief, the scenic views offer a nice prelude to exploring either Greenport or Shelter Island. Reddit

Dining Delights on Shelter Island

For those seeking a memorable culinary experience on Shelter Island, Lèon stands out as a top recommendation. This restaurant is celebrated for its romantic ambiance and its focus on wood-fired cooking. Diners can enjoy a front-row seat to the open hearth, watching their meals prepared with care. TikTok

The menu at Lèon features expertly cooked steaks and a highly praised martini. A particular highlight mentioned by visitors are the blistered olives stuffed with blue cheese, adding a unique touch to the dining experience. It's the kind of spot that makes a visit feel special, offering an unforgettable meal. TikTok

Beyond Lèon, Shelter Island offers various dining options that cater to different tastes, contributing to its appeal as a destination for a relaxed getaway. Exploring these local eateries can be a significant part of the island's charm. Reddit

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