SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO — Puerto Rico's government canceled ferry rides between the U.S. territory and the island of Vieques on Wednesday after protesters blocked the terminal over a recent fare increase. Police said in a statement that about 12 trucks were blocking the boat terminal in Vieques.
Officials recently increased the one-way ferry fare to Vieques to $11.25 for anyone who does not live on the island. For decades, the one-way fare had been $2. The government also increased ferry fares to the neighboring island of Culebra from $2.25 to $11.25.
The scheduled implementation of the rate increases was delayed until May.
The island of Vieques is popular with tourists. Many locals and tourists traditionally visit surrounding islands during Holy Week. Puerto Rico reported an increase in visitors this month.