2025-08-13T17:49:46Z
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- I took a round-trip ferry ride between Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Port Jefferson, New York.
- The boat had plenty of seating, a small café stocked with treats, and a comfy lounge area.
- I enjoyed spending the day in Port Jefferson and thought it was the perfect day-trip destination.
I grew up in Connecticut and fondly remember taking a ferry from Bridgeport to visit a friend in Port Jefferson, New York, about 20 years ago.
We walked around the charming village, browsed the cute shops, and marveled at the historic homes. Although I had a great time that day, I hadn’t been to Port Jefferson — or on the ship — since.
So, I decided to spend a recent sunny-weathered Sunday riding the Bridgeport and Port Jefferson ferry. The ride, which was an hour and 15 minutes each way, was definitely worth the $39 round-trip ticket price.
Here’s what my experience was like.
I waited inside the ferry terminal before boarding the ship.
I bought my ticket in advance.
Michele Herrmann
Although tickets are available for purchase at the terminal, I bought my round-trip ticket online ahead of time.
On the day of my departure, I arrived at the Bridgeport ferry terminal early and killed some time in the indoor office. Once it was time to line up outside, I heard an announcement over the loudspeaker.
The boarding process was quick and easy.
There was plenty of seating on the boat.
Michele Herrmann
When I headed out to board the ship, I was excited to find that I would be riding the Long Island, which is the newest addition to the Bridgeport and Port Jefferson Steamboat Company fleet.
I was impressed by the amount of seating options available both inside the ferry and out on the deck.
I grabbed a snack at the café.
I purchased French toast sticks from the café.
Michele Herrmann
The boat had a small café that sold things like candy bars, drinks, snacks, bagged pastries, and hot food items.
Although I brought my water bottle and a snack with me, I treated myself to $6 French toast sticks, which were warm and tasty.
The outdoor area was beautiful, but the wind made it difficult to enjoy.
Unfortunately, it was too windy to enjoy the outdoor area.
Michele Herrmann
I ventured onto the top deck to explore the outdoor seating area, but unfortunately, the wind was too strong during my trip to really enjoy this part of the boat. So, I spent most of my time inside.
The water also got choppy at times, so I remained in my seat and enjoyed the views of the water out my window.
I enjoyed looking out the windows of the lounge.
The ferry had a lounge with comfortable seats.
Michele Herrmann
The ship also had a lounge with a bar, TVs, and front-of-ship windows. It wasn’t crowded at all when I was on board, so I decided to watch our arrival into Port Jefferson from the large windows.
I spent a few hours walking around Port Jefferson.
I enjoyed walking around the charming village.
Michele Herrmann
When I got off the boat, I explored the streets of Port Jefferson. I noticed cute little shops, small parks, and restaurants serving everything from casual bites to fancy surf-and-turf meals.
I also wandered through a farmers market in Harborfront Park and took photos along the water. As I walked, I gazed at docked sailboats, a large statue, and an oversize Adirondack chair.
After picking up a chai tea from Local’s Cafe, I browsed the small businesses selling everything from house plants to gourmet foods.
I stopped for lunch and some treats before getting back on the boat.
I purchased cookies from Dortoni Bakery.
Michele Herrmann
I stopped at Dortoni Bakery, a local favorite that sells Italian pastries, breads, cakes, and cookies, before deciding on the latter.
I also grabbed lunch at Slurp Ramen before walking off my delicious meal and doing some more window shopping around town.
By mid-afternoon, my feet and wallet felt done for the day, so I walked back to the marina for my return ferry.
Overall, taking the ferry was the perfect day trip.
I’d definitely take the Bridgeport and Port Jefferson ferry again.
Michele Herrmann
I really enjoyed my ferry trip to Port Jefferson, and I would definitely consider taking the ride again with a friend. Still, in my opinion, it’s the perfect summer day trip, whether you go alone or with others.
The ride was comfortable and quiet, and I loved strolling around the beautiful village.