High-speed ferry service from Providence to Newport returns this Friday. The ferry launched last July and proved popular, making more than 33,000 trips between the Providence waterfront, and downtown Newport. The service was introduced as a way of encouraging tourists to explore both cities, and help reduce heavy traffic congestion in Newport.
This year the ferry is scheduled to run until October 1 — six weeks longer than last year. Four trips will be made available Sunday through Thursday, five trips will be available Fridays and Saturdays.
“Tourists can again enjoy traveling between Providence and Newport without worrying about a car, and experience two very different cities both renowned for their hospitality, all while enjoying a scenic ferry ride,” said Lara Salamano, spokeswoman for the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation.
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation, which manages the ferry service, is also launching a joint ticket with Amtrak for both train and ferry. Officials hope the partnership will bring in more out-of-state-tourists into Rhode Island.
