Want to escape to another world for a few hours?

Take the Newport Ferry from Providence for a comfortable, smooth cruise to downtown Newport.

I left the Providence dock at 9:30 a.m., arriving in Newport at 10:10 a.m.

I leisurely strolled the shops along Thames Street, taking the alleys down to see the pleasure crafts docked along the piers (Why aren’t they out sailing?), stopping at the Newport Lobster Shack for their twin lobster special.

While I chose to visit for only a brief time, there are two later ferries, which give you time to take a tour, walk Cliff Walk, see a mansion, or visit the aquarium.

The ferry ride takes you past the Port of Providence, with its wind turbines, cranes, oil tanks, and piles of scrap metal, along the Cranston and Warwick coastlines on the right and east Bay coastline on the left.

You will see lots of activity on the water, including lobster and fishing boats, sailboats and other pleasure craft, lighthouses, and seagulls before going under the Newport Bridge, passing Fort Adams, and maneuvering past the hundreds of boats in Newport Harbor.

I sat on the open-air upper deck, with the wind keeping me cool on this 90-degree day. Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat that can be tied down. A bottle of water is important.

Having had more sun than I had been exposed to all summer, I sat in the enclosed section of the ferry, with its wide windows, comfortable seats and tables and air conditioning, for the trip home.

The round-trip fare is $24, $12 for children and seniors, which is a bargain. And there is free parking.

When you see the traffic and parking costs (if you can find a spot), you’ll be glad you took the ferry.

Go to www.seastreak.com for more information and to make your reservation. It is wise to do it online to ensure a seat.

The boat is wheelchair and handicapped accessible.