Bay ice halts Fire Island ferries; winter schedules, fares and tips

Fire Island Ferries has posted a prominent suspension of service, announcing "Service Cancelled Until Further Notice Due To Bay Ice Conditions" and stating directly that "Ferry service is cancelled until further notice due to bay icing conditions. Check our website for updates." The stoppage affects ferries serving Fire Island and several barrier islands off Suffolk County and immediately alters winter travel plans for residents, seasonal workers, and visitors.

The operator also maintains a published Ocean Bay Park winter timetable, labeled "Ocean Bay Park Winter Schedule 2026" and dated "January 2 thru March 8," but warns customers that schedules are provisional. The site instructs riders to "Use Main Terminal for All Trips" and cautions that "Schedule Subject to Change Without Notice" because "Service May Be Disrupted Due To Storms, Ice, And Tide Conditions." It adds that "Any service updates or disruptions will be posted on our website as soon as those determinations are made."

On paper, the Ocean Bay Park winter times list weekday departures from Bay Shore to Ocean Bay Park at 7:00am, 10:10am, 12:30pm and 3:30pm, with returns from Ocean Bay Park to Bay Shore at 7:30am, 10:40am, 1:30pm and 4:20pm. Saturday sailings are shown from Bay Shore at 10:10am and 3:30pm with returns at 11:50am and 4:25pm. Sunday service is listed from Bay Shore at 10:10am, 12:30pm and 3:30pm with returns from Ocean Bay Park at 10:40am, 1:30pm and 4:30pm. Because the cancellation notice supersedes planned timetables, travelers should not rely on these times until the operator confirms service restoration.

Passengers should note the operator’s freight and baggage rules. "Each passenger will be limited to One Trip Through The Gate with two bags (25lbs max) which must fit under your seat. Free of charge." The policy continues: "All other essential items, when accepted, must be carried in the freight area on the ferry, and will be charged for accordingly. $2 minimum per item." The site also states "No Large Coolers (50lbs Max)" and that "Coolers 48qt. and smaller will be permitted. $4 minimum per item." Travelers are advised to "Please plan accordingly."

The operator highlights local connections and attractions, noting that "Beach to beach just minutes away. Expand your Fire Island adventure and enjoy dinner in Ocean Beach or a walking tour of the Sunken Forest. The fastest way to travel between communities." Local businesses that depend on ferry traffic for customers and supplies are likely to feel immediate effects while the suspension remains in place.

For updates and confirmations, Fire Island Ferries invites riders to "Be in the know! Join our mailing list and stay up to date on service disruptions, schedules, and more." The company can be reached at 99 Maple Ave. Bay Shore, NY 11706 or by phone at 631.665.3600. Until the operator posts a change, the cancellation stands; residents and visitors should monitor operator communications and defer nonessential trips to the island until services resume.