Long Island Ferries vs. Bridges: Which is the Preferred Transportation Method?

Let's be realistic: escaping Long Island is a matter of choosing between a rock and a hard place. Do you drive over the traffic-congested bridges with increasing tolls, or do you take the scenic ferries with their own set of quirks? Let's take a closer look, shall we?

Bridges—The Arteries of Aggravation

Oh, the bridges: Verrazzano-Narrows, Throgs Neck, Whitestone, and the ever-popular George Washington. Paying to cross the George Washington Bridge in January 2025 will set you back $18.31 in cash or $16.06 with E-ZPass. And that's just the cash expense. Toss in the soul-suck traffic, especially rush hour, and you've got a patience test rivaling DMV lines.

In 2024, traffic on both bridges set record daily counts, with more than 200,000 vehicles per day crossing the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. And let's not forget the impact on the environment: extra emissions produced by idling traffic contribute to our worsening air.

But then again, you do get to leave whenever you'd like, right? Just be prepared to maybe be spending your "freedom" on the bridge, questioning your life choices.

Ferries--The Scenic (and Occasionally Expensive

If the thought of bridge traffic induces hives, ferries come to the rescue. Alternatives like the **Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Ferry** and the **Cross Sound Ferry** connect Long Island to Connecticut, not just carrying you, but providing you with a mini-getaway on the water.

It is not inexpensive, however. One-way car and driver fare is more than $75, depending on the boat and time of day. And then there is the schedule: miss your departure time, and you wait until the next boat, which could be several hours later.

On the plus side, ferries have been stepping up. The Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Steamboat Company recently added a new boat to its fleet, increasing capacity and reducing wait times at peak hours. And you don't have to ride out the white-knuckle drive through New York traffic.

The Environmental Perspective

It's worth noting that ferries have a smaller per capita carbon footprint than idling vehicles on congested bridges. So, being eco-friendly, ferries might be the better option.

The Verdict

If you're an easy-going person who's not opposed to a "game" of "Frogger" in the actual world with traffic, bridges are your preference. If you'd rather enjoy a leisurely journey and aren't too fussed about sticking to a timetable (and willing to shell out a bit of extra cash), ferries make a pleasant alternative.

Want to alleviate your commuting struggles?** Dean Miller is here to assist you in finding a home on Long Island that suits your lifestyle, whether you're a bridge warrior or ferry enthusiast. **Get in contact with me today to explore your options!**