LYNN — Seafaring commuters are getting a few more weeks on the water.
The MBTA’s ferry service on the Ava Pearl from Blossom Street Pier in Lynn to Long Warf in Boston will now run until Oct. 31.
“We are thrilled that the ferry service has been extended given its popularity with our community,” Mayor Jared Nicholson said. “The demand for this service underscores how reliable and accessible transportation has positively impacted commuting for our residents and we are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll administration and our state delegation for their recognition and support.”
According to a press release from the Lynn legislative delegation, the delegation had requested that the Massachusetts Department of Transportation extend the service, which had ridership levels of more than 9,000 people per month in July and August.
“The Ava Pearl is now a North Shore fixture. I’m grateful to have her afloat for another month,” state Rep. Jenny Armini, whose district includes parts of Lynn, said. “Thank you to MBTA (General Manager and CEO Phillip) Eng and to his team for responding so positively to our enthusiasm for the ferry.”
Service from Lynn began in late June, and the Ava Pearl was previously scheduled to have its final voyage of the year on Oct. 6.
“This summer we were able to expand our water-transportation network and the public response has been so positive that we have decided to now extend these ferry services,” Eng said. “I’m proud that the MBTA team can continue to offer this to the public.”
Fares were reduced during the shutdown of the Sumner Tunnel earlier this year and are currently priced at $7 for a one-way ticket.
Weekday service includes three trips from Blossom Street Pier to Long Warf on weekday mornings and two trips leaving Blossom Street Pier during late afternoons.
Ferries from Long Warf to Blossom Street Pier depart twice on weekday mornings and three times in the afternoon.
According to the release, after the Lynn ferry service closes for the year, it will begin again at some point in 2024, although no timeline has been announced yet.
“This decision is a huge win for the city,” state Rep. Dan Cahill, whose district includes parts of Lynn, said. “We are one step closer to the Lynn ferry becoming an integral and permanent part of our transportation landscape.”
