Coastal Princess (via CruiseRI)

The Jamestown Newport Ferry is expanding its operations with the addition of a new vessel to its fleet, the Coastal Princess.

This custom-built 83-passenger ferry, crafted by H&H Marine in Steuben, Maine, will serve on the popular Hop-On Hop-Off route and be available for private charters.

CruiseRI, which runs Conanicut Marine Services, Inc., announced the Coastal Princess’s arrival on Monday (June 16). The new vessel boasts a climate-controlled cabin, an onboard bar, and a restroom for passenger comfort.

“The new ferry boasts advanced technology to ensure a smooth and efficient ride. It is equipped with a climate-controlled cabin for comfort in the shoulder seasons. Other amenities include an onboard bar and restroom,” the company says.

The ferry’s construction began in 2023, and it’s set to increase capacity during busy periods on the well-traveled Hop-On Hop-Off route between Jamestown and Newport.

CruiseRI also plans to use the Coastal Princess for various other programs throughout the summer.

For more information about the Coastal Princess and its services, visit the company’s website at CruiseRI.com.

Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020). He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide. Ryan...