Montauk Calling! How to Get There From New London (Without Getting Shipwrecked)
So, you've decided to ditch the crowds of Mystic Seaport for the chill vibes of Montauk. Wise choice, my friend. But before you channel your inner Jack Sparrow and set sail on a pool inflatable, let's talk about some practical ways to get from New London to Montauk.
Ferry Fast Track: The Scenic Route (with Snacks!)
Think "ocean breeze in your hair" and "sea creatures frolicking alongside the boat" (dolphins are more likely than a kraken, but hey, you never know). The ferry is the quickest option, clocking in at around 1.5 hours. The Viking Fleet's ferry, the aptly named "Viking Superstar," takes you directly to Montauk. Plus, there's food and drinks on board, so you can bribe the seagulls with fries while you enjoy the view. This is a great option if you're feeling fancy or want to avoid potential car trouble. Bonus: No need to worry about rush hour traffic!
Word to the wise: Ferries can get booked up, especially on weekends. Be sure to snag your tickets in advance!
Car-tastrophe or Coastal Cruise? You Decide!
If you're bringing your whole beach squad or have a serious case of wanderlust, then hitting the road might be your jam. The drive itself is pretty easy, taking around 4 hours. But here's the thing: you'll need to take the ferry from New London to Orient Point first (cars are not allowed on the passenger ferry to Montauk). From there, it's a scenic cruise along the Long Island coast.
Oceanic Odyssey or Asphalt Adventure?
- Car: More flexible for exploring Montauk and the surrounding areas. Plus, you can pack all the beach gear your heart desires (surfboards welcome!).
- Ferry: Relaxing and scenic. Avoids the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads.
Remember: Factor in ferry wait times and potential delays when calculating your travel time by car.
Don't Be a Landlocked Lubber! FAQ
Okay, so you've got a general idea of how to get to Montauk. But what about the nitty-gritty details? Fear not, intrepid traveler, for I have compiled a list of Montauk travel FAQs to set you on your way:
How to score a sweet deal on the ferry? Check the Viking Fleet website for weekday discounts and any seasonal specials they might have going on.
How to avoid seasickness on the ferry? Ginger chews are your friend! If you're prone to motion sickness, it wouldn't hurt to pack some over-the-counter meds just in case.
How to find parking in Montauk? Street parking can be tricky, especially during peak season. Consider downloading a parking app or looking into public parking lots.
How to get around Montauk without a car? There are jitney buses (shared taxis) that run between Montauk and other East Hampton towns. You can also rent bikes to explore the area at your own pace.
How to avoid looking like a tourist in Montauk? Relax, ditch the fanny pack, and embrace the laid-back Montauk vibe. Beachy chic is the way to go!
So there you have it, folks! With a little planning and this handy guide, you'll be chilling on the beaches of Montauk in no time. Now get out there and soak up some sun (and maybe see if there are any pirates hanging around)!
