Ferry rides to Coronado Naval station end Friday

Friday will be the last day civilians and sailors can catch direct ferry rides from San Diego to North Island Naval Air Station in Coronado.

The Navy said it decided to end the service starting Saturday due to security concerns and funding constraints.

Nearly 200 civilians and sailors assigned to North Island use the pier daily when the base’s aircraft carriers are home. When the carriers are out to sea, about 40 to 50 fewer riders use the ferry.

The North Island ferry pier has been in operation for the past decade.

Once the pier closes on base, civilians and sailors assigned to North Island can ride the ferry to the Coronado Ferry Landing but that will drop them about a mile from the base’s main gate.

Ferry commuters can find alternative means of transportation to the base by calling (619) 545-8132, or at www.icommutesd.com, according to the Navy.