• Harwich Ferry
  • Child of Harwich Ferry
  • Cyclists on Harwich Ferry
  • Harwich Ferry with big ships at Felixstowe

Harbour Ferry Boat Rides

The Harbour Harwich Ferry is a historic foot and bicycle ferry service that has been linking Harwich in Essex, with Shotley and Felixstowe in Suffolk since 1912. It's not just a practical way to travel, but also a delightful experience for all ages. Here are some highlights of the ferry service and trips on offer:

Key features:

  • Spectacular Views: See huge container ships, beautiful sailing boats, cruise liners, and even porpoises gliding through the harbour. 
  • Scenic and Fun Destinations: With activities and attractions on both sides of the crossing, you can make a day of it. Visit towns and beaches, explore local sites, or enjoy a leisurely walk or cycle ride.
  • Historical Experience: The ferry originally served as a lifeboat on the SS Canberra luxury cruise liner!
  • Seasonal Operation: The ferry runs from April to October, offering frequent services for tourists.
  • Cycling and Walking: The ferry is part of Route 51 for cyclists and offers access to footpaths and cycle tracks along the Rivers Stour and Orwell.
  • Wildlife and Nature: Birdwatchers can enjoy observing waders on mudflats and visiting nearby reserves. Keep an eye out for porpoises in the harbour.

Activities and attractions:

Round Trip: Enjoy a one-hour round trip for a full view of the harbour, River mouths and lots more.

Harwich: Take a 2-hour seal watching trip with sealwatching.co.uk, visit the sandy Dovercourt beach, and grab a pizza at Milsoms Harwich Pier Italian.

Felixstowe: Visit the new Ferris wheel and seafront attractions, walk or cycle to Felixstowe pier, and enjoy the views of massive container ships and yachts.

Shotley: Shotley Marina is located at Shotley Gate where the Stour and Orwell estuaries meet, and overlooks the port of Felixstowe on the one side and Harwich on the other. The Shotley Peninsula is a haven for wildlife, walks, cycling and relaxing.

Booking and tickets:

Website: Tickets can be purchased online at harwichharbourferry.com

Departure points:

Felixstowe Landguard Beach: Only 5 minutes from Felixstowe town. Address: IP11 3TW

Shotley: Just a 15-minute drive from Ipswich. Address: IP9 1QJ

Historic Harwich Harbour: A 30-minute drive from Colchester. Address: CO12 3HH

This ferry service is an excellent way to experience the scenic beauty of East Anglia, providing both a convenient travel option and a memorable maritime adventure.

Dog friendly Cycle friendly
Attraction name:
Harbour Ferry Boat Rides
Price:
See website for details
Opening Hours:
See website for operating information