Dreaming of a peaceful coastal getaway with beaches, lighthouses, and charming New England vibes? Block Island, located off the southern coast of Rhode Island, is one of the best-kept secrets in the Northeast. If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to get to Block Island from New York City, this full travel guide covers every route — including ferry services, train, car, bus, and even flights — so you can choose the perfect option based on your schedule and budget.
🚢 How to Get to Block Island from NYC by Ferry
Since Block Island is only accessible by ferry or plane, most travelers from NYC take a combination of train or bus + ferry. There are several ferry ports that connect to Block Island, the most popular being in Point Judith, New London, and Montauk.
1. Ferry from Point Judith, Rhode Island (Most Reliable Option)
This is the most frequent and year-round ferry to Block Island.
- Ferry Service: Block Island Ferry
- Location: Port of Galilee (Point Judith, RI)
- Types: Traditional ferry (55 mins) or High-Speed (30 mins)
- Parking: Available at the ferry terminal
- Reservations: Strongly recommended in peak season
- Website: blockislandferry.com
Best route if you’re driving from NYC to Block Island or arriving via Amtrak or bus in Rhode Island.
2. Ferry from New London, Connecticut (Seasonal)
- Ferry Service: Block Island Express
- Location: New London, CT
- Duration: High-speed ferry takes about 1 hour 15 minutes
- Season: Late May through early October
- Convenience: Great for travelers coming via Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor line
For visitors asking how to take the train from NYC to Block Island, this route via New London is among the smoothest combinations.
3. Ferry from Montauk, New York (Ideal for Hamptons travelers)
- Ferry Operator: Viking Fleet
- Season: Mid-June to early September
- Duration: ~1 hour
- Departure Location: Montauk Harbor, Long Island
- Access: Reach Montauk via LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) or car
This is a great day trip to Block Island from NYC if you’re already vacationing in the Hamptons or Montauk.
🚆 How to Get to Block Island from New York City by Train + Ferry
Many travelers opt for a train-to-ferry combo from NYC to Block Island, especially those without a car.
Option 1: NYC to Point Judith via Train
- Take Amtrak from Penn Station to Kingston, RI
- Take a cab or Uber (25-minute ride) to Point Judith ferry terminal
- Board the ferry to Block Island
- Train Duration: ~3 hours
- Ferry Duration: 30 to 55 minutes
- Total Time: ~4 to 5 hours
Option 2: NYC to New London via Train
- Amtrak to New London Station
- Walk across the street to the Block Island Express terminal
- Take high-speed ferry to Block Island
- Train Time: ~2.5 to 3 hours
- Ferry Time: ~1.25 hours
- Total Travel Time: ~4 to 4.5 hours
Taking Amtrak from New York City to Block Island (via ferry) is one of the most scenic and relaxing ways to reach the island.
🚗 Driving from New York City to Block Island
If you’re planning to drive from NYC to Block Island, your destination is one of the ferry ports.
Driving Routes:
- NYC to Point Judith, RI: ~3.5 to 4 hours
- NYC to New London, CT: ~2.5 to 3 hours
- NYC to Montauk, NY: ~3 hours
You’ll need to park your car at the ferry terminal, or make a reservation for a car ferry (limited capacity and must be booked well in advance).
Driving to the ferry and taking a car-free day trip to Block Island is highly recommended — the island is walkable and bike-friendly.
🛫 Can You Fly to Block Island from NYC?
Yes — for the fastest trip, you can fly to Block Island from NYC via connecting regional flights.
Air Travel Route:
- Fly from NYC (LGA or JFK) to Westerly State Airport (WST)
- Take New England Airlines for a 12-minute flight to Block Island
- Alternatively, charter flights are available from Farmingdale (Long Island) or Teterboro
- Flight Duration: ~1 hour to WST + 12-minute hop to Block Island
- Airlines: Cape Air, New England Airlines
- Ideal For: Quick weekend getaways, luxury travel, or peak summer season
Flying is the best choice for those asking, “What’s the fastest way to get to Block Island from NYC?”
🧭 What’s the Best Way to Get to Block Island from New York?
- Most Reliable Year-Round Option: Drive or train to Point Judith, then ferry
- Most Scenic Route: Amtrak to New London + high-speed ferry
- Fastest Option: Fly to Westerly + shuttle flight
- Best for Summer Travel: Ferry from Montauk for Hamptons visitors
- Budget Option: Bus or train to Rhode Island, then traditional ferry
Your ideal route depends on whether you prefer speed, budget, or a scenic coastal journey.
📌 FAQs
How do I get to Block Island from New York City?
To get to Block Island from NYC, take a train or drive to ferry terminals in Point Judith (RI), New London (CT), or Montauk (NY), then board a ferry to the island. You can also fly to Block Island via a connecting flight from Westerly, RI.
What’s the easiest way to get to Block Island from NYC without a car?
The easiest car-free option is taking Amtrak to New London, then boarding the Block Island Express high-speed ferry to the island.
How long does it take to get from NYC to Block Island?
Travel time from NYC to Block Island ranges from 4 to 6 hours, depending on your chosen route and connections.
Can I take a ferry from New York City directly to Block Island?
No, there is no direct ferry from NYC to Block Island. You must travel to a nearby port like Point Judith, New London, or Montauk first.
Is there a flight from NYC to Block Island?
Yes, you can fly from NYC to Block Island by connecting through Westerly, Rhode Island, or booking a private charter.
🧳 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a summer escape or a quiet weekend retreat, getting to Block Island from New York City is a unique adventure that blends train rides, coastal drives, and ferry crossings. With a little planning, your journey to this stunning island paradise can be just as enjoyable as your stay. Choose the route that suits your pace — and don’t forget to pack your beachwear and walking shoes!