There is no more pleasant way to travel, whether for business or pleasure, than by boat. You can ride a ferry to reach a destination, of course, but you can also simply take a round trip for a pleasant outing. You need not do as the poet Edna St. Vincent Millay did:

The venerable Cross Sound Ferry sends its boats to Orient Point, NY, year round (from 7a to approximately 9p) with the number of sailings increasing during the busy spring, summer, and fall. This is a pleasant hour-and-20 minute trip great for commuting or just for a relaxing round-trip cruise. The MV John H and Cape Henelopen are the largest of the Cross Sound fleet with spacious cabins, lounges, and sundecks, but all are comfortable. There is also a passenger-only high speed ferry that scoots across in about forty-five minutes. Lighthouse buffs are able to see at least six lighthouses during the crossing . The ferries sail frequently but if you plan on taking a vehicle, make a reservation early. Walk-ons do not need reservations. Take a bike (except not on the high speed ferry). There is good biking at Orient Point.

The Fishers Island Ferry runs year-round to Fishers Island, NY, from its slip behind Union Railroad Station. It provides a pleasant, 45-minute trip. The island and its beaches are 80% private, but there is some biking room and there are a few shops and a place to eat.

The high-speed Block Island Ferry operates May to October, making up to five round-trips daily. The trip takes one hour each way. Bikes yes, cars no. The island is extremely popular, but still with an unspoiled aura. Great biking, plenty of restaurants, and wonderful beaches.