Ferry On: Locations You Can Reach by Ferry

When dreaming up your next vacation destination, why not consider a location you can reach by ferry? While planes, trains and automobiles may seem like the most common modes of transportation, a ferry starts your trip on the open water with the wind in your hair.

Check out our list of U.S. ferry locations and catch a ride to your next getaway.

Ocracoke Island, North Carolina

Located off the coast of North Carolina in the Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island is at the top of our list of unique locations reachable by ferry. A state-run ferry is the only way to get to this tiny island of less than 1,000 inhabitants.

When visiting, prepare for things to move a bit slower. There’s an island-wide speed limit of 25 mph, so most travelers get around on foot, bikes or even golf carts. Check out the island village for adorable local restaurants and shops, and then visit the beaches for beautiful, unspoiled nature. You can find Ocracoke Island’s most updated ferry schedule, terminal locations and ticket information here.

New York City, New York

Explore the city that never sleeps by water to see it in a new way. Eight ferry routes will take you around the city, leaving from Manhattan and arriving in The Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. You can find New York City’s most updated ferry schedules, terminal locations and ticket information here.

Tangier Island, Virginia

Tangier Island is in the Chesapeake Bay, just 12 miles off the coast of Virginia and only accessible by air or sea. Travelers visit this tiny island, known as the soft-shell capital of the U.S., to enjoy some of the best seafood in the state and experience a unique culture.

A small 25-person ferry boat operates from May to October to accommodate the summer tourist season. Private charters can be booked year-round.

Here, you can find Tangier Island’s most updated ferry schedules, terminal locations and ticket information.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

If you’re traveling to Martha’s Vineyard from the East Coast, avoid the cape traffic and reach the island by ferry service. Ferries depart from six Massachusetts terminals and one terminal in Quonset Point, Rhode Island.

Ferry travel times vary from 35 minutes to an hour and 45 minutes, depending on your route. Here, you can find Martha’s Vineyard’s most updated ferry schedules, terminal locations and ticket information.

San Francisco,  California

Why not experience the City by the Bay from the bay? The San Francisco Bay Ferry is the perfect way to navigate this bustling area without dealing with the gridlock traffic of San Francisco.

The ferry is operated by San Francisco’s Water Emergency Transportation Authority and takes you to several popular spots in the Bay Area, including Oracle Park, Oakland and Vallejo. Here, you can find San Francisco’s most updated ferry schedules, terminal locations and ticket information.

Fort Myers to Key West, Florida

The ferry route from Fort Myers to Key West will usually bring you to your island destination 90 minutes faster than driving will. In addition, the Key West Express ferries look more like yachts than like traditional ferry ships. It’ll take three hours and 30 minutes to reach Key West via ferry, but you can relax, grab a snack and watch the ocean go by.  Here, you can find the most updated schedule and ticket information.  

Mackinac Island, Michigan

 A trip to Mackinac Island, referred to as Michigan’s Crown Jewel, is like stepping back in time. This charming Michigan Island doesn’t allow cars, so the ferry is the last motorized vehicle you will see during your visit.

Catch the ferry on the Upper Peninsula at St. Ignace or on the Lower Peninsula at Mackinaw City. You can find Mackinac Island’s most updated ferry schedules, terminal locations and ticket information here.

Jamestown-Scotland Ferry, Virginia

Are you looking for a ferry ride that comes with a history lesson? Look no further than the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry in Virginia.

The Virginia Department of Transportation operates this 20-minute ferry ride that takes you from Jamestown to Scotland Wharf along the James River. Enjoy learning about the English pep who first settled in America with a visit to Historic Jamestowne.

Here, you can find the most updated ferry schedule and ticket information.

Cumberland Island Ferry, Georgia

Cumberland Island is a barrier island off Georgia’s southeastern coast that is only reachable by boat. This stunningly beautiful island is part of the Cumberland Island National Seashore, with roughly 17 miles of pristine shoreline. You can find Cumberland Island’s most updated ferry schedules, terminal locations and information ticket here.

Frequently asked questions about ferries

Are all ferries accessible to those with physical disabilities?

All ferries are required to be ADA accessible, so most ferries have either lifts from the car decks or passenger ramps that are suitable for wheelchair use. We recommend calling each ferry company to confirm accessibility before you travel.

How much do ferry tickets cost?

The price of ferry tickets vary greatly depending on time, location and season. Check with each ferry company to confirm the cost of your route.

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