Charlotte-Essex Ferry Service Ceases as Chimney Point Service Begins
Updated February 2, 2010

Ferry service between Chimney Point, Vermont, and Crown Point, New York, began at 5 a.m. Monday, February 1, 2010. The ferry is expected to operate until the demolished Lake Champlain Bridge is replaced.

The states of New York and Vermont have contracted with the Lake Champlain Transportation Co. (LCT) to provide the 24-hour per day, seven days a week service at no charge.

On the same day, the 24-hour free service between Charlotte, Vermont, and Essex, New York, ceased. And as of Wednesday, February 3, LCT is shutting down all ferry service between Charlotte and Essex until spring.

Quoting from the LCT press release today, "With the combined effect of increased ice formation between the Grand Isle, VT-Crown Point, NY ferry crossings, as well as increased traffic at both the Northern and Southern crossings, we will be closing the Charlotte, VT to Essex, NY ferry crossing, until ice conditions permit in the spring.

"Relocating the vessels at this time allows us to restore the Grand Isle crossing back to its normal operating schedule, and ensures that there is duplication of service at Crown Point during heavy ice conditions.

"The last day of service at the Charlotte, VT–Essex, NY crossing is Wednesday evening, with the last departure from Vermont at 5:00pm and from Essex, NY at 5:30pm."

Check the LCT website www.ferries.com for Chimney Point (Addison) and Grand Isle schedules, and for future updates on Charlotte-Essex service.