Fare for Block Island Ferry may go up

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Taking some ferries to Block Island next year could be more expensive.

The company that operates the Block Island Ferry has asked Rhode Island regulators to raise passenger ticket prices by about 8 percent on traditional, non-high-speed ferries. It cites rising fuel costs and upgrades to its fleet.

The Providence Journal reports that Interstate Navigation also would eliminate a same-day travel discount and a discount for Block Island residents. However, it plans to offer lower rates to transport vehicles.

The New London, Conn.-based company operates traditional and fast ferries to Point Judith in Narragansett and Newport. It faces riding competition from ferries from New London and Long Island.

Interstate Navigation says its newer fast-ferry service has subsidized losses in its traditional, slower service amounting to $500,000 annually in the last four years.