MV Block Island

The passenger/vehicle ferry BLOCK ISLAND was built in 1997 by Eastern Shipbuilding Group in Panama City, Florida exclusively for Interstate Navigation Company. The vessel was designed by John W. Gilbert Associates, Inc., and is USCG, Subchapter “K” certified for 1000 passengers. The vessel was designed for year-round operation on the Point Judith to Block Island route, with particular attention paid to winter operations. The vessel features (2) EMD diesel propulsion engines for a total of 4000 HP. In 2009, the vessel’s electrical generators were renewed with new John Deere marine diesel engines. The vessel is 208 feet in length, 98 gross tons and features a service speed of 16.5 knots. The vessel, which features excellent sea keeping capabilities and offers the passengers a comfortable ride, may carry 38 automobiles, and utilizes a three-lane configuration for the carriage of commercial trucks and vehicles. At the time of original construction, the vessel was fitted with a wheelchair power stair lift for passengers with a disability or needing assistance. The passenger lounge on the vessel features a food and beverage concession, four satellite flat screen televisions, and comfortable table and bench seating for 300 passengers.