I took a $39 round-trip ferry from Connecticut to New York. It was the perfect way to spend a summer day.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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 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.

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