The Martha’s Vineyard Fast Ferry from Rhode Island has canceled service through the holiday weekend due to upcoming inclement weather, ferry owner Charlie Donadio confirmed Friday.
All boats scheduled to run Thursday through Monday were canceled on Wednesday, Mr. Donadio said. Passengers who booked in advance have been refunded their money.
The fast ferry had planned to begin its summer service from Quonset, R.I., this holiday weekend, after over a year off the water due to the pandemic. The ferry line planned to reopen just for the weekend, with plans to resume full service on June 17.
An upcoming storm system expected to pass through the Vineyard this weekend pushed, combined with lingering Covid-related logistical complications prompted Mr. Donadio to delay the ferry opening until June.
The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for Dukes and Nantucket counties from Friday until Saturday at 2 p.m., with northeast winds up to 35 miles per hour expected. Rain and wind are expected all weekend.
“We decided to cancel very early and give all of our passengers as much advance notice as possible to make alternate arrangements,” Mr. Donadio said. “The sea conditions and the tides are all going to be blowing everything right into Oak Bluffs harbor. It’s going to be pretty hazardous.”
He said the ferry line will begin its full summer service seven days a week beginning on June 17.
The Steamship Authority has issued a weather advisory and the Island Queen ferry has canceled all trips for Saturday.
— Maia Coleman
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