Car ferries carry vehicles and passengers through waterways. Some ferry trips last only a few minutes because it travels through a small body of water. Others are longer, eight to 14 hours or more, because the ferry transports you from one land mass to another. If you are visiting the Washington State Islands, the Greek Islands, the Toronto Islands, or the islands and beaches near New York City, a ferry trip could be in your future.
Getting ready for your trip
Almost all ferry lines accept passengers traveling by car and without a driver, but if you plan to travel during a busy period, you should consider reserving your space on the ferry. You can usually do this over the phone or online. Some ferry lines add fuel surcharges to your reservation; ask about this to find out exactly what you are paying for. Many ferry lines charge extra for RVs. If you book online, please print a copy of your payment receipt and bring it with you to the ferry terminal. Please ask for a confirmation number if you book by phone.
Accessibility can be a problem on some boats. Call ahead to make sure you can get from the vehicle deck to the passenger deck by elevator. Ask about accessible seating and, if necessary, cabins.
Some ferry lines require pets to remain in vehicles during the journey, while others allow pets on outside decks. If you bring a pet, plan ahead for feeding, exercise, and other pet needs.
If you are taking an overnight ferry, consider reserving a cabin for two or four people. You will get more sleep and you can shower or wash before the ferry docks. Other sleeping alternatives include general seats (similar to airplane seats) or dormitory-style bunks. While these options are less expensive, they can also be noisier, especially during busy travel seasons.
You will enjoy your ferry experience more if you dress appropriately. Wear comfortable shoes with closed toes to be able to go up and down stairs (stairs) easily, even if the steps are wet. Skirts, particularly short skirts, can blow into the deck. Long pants or capris are a better option if you plan to watch the waves or take photos. Bring a light jacket to wear outside. If you have long hair and you plan to go out on deck, wear a ponytail elastic or clip so your hair doesn’t get tangled.
If you think you may get dizzy, take preventive measures. Bring over-the-counter sickness pills. Motion sickness pills generally take more than an hour to work, so you’ll need to take them while you wait to board.
Most of the water on board is not safe to drink. Bring a bottle of water so you can take medicine, brush your teeth, and stay hydrated.
Pack some food or plan to buy snacks on board. Some night ferries don’t open their bars until breakfast time.
What to expect at the terminal
When you arrive at the ferry terminal, you will need to pay for your trip or show a receipt for a prepaid reservation. The ferry line staff will direct you to a numbered lane, where you will park your vehicle until boarding. Ask about boarding times to find out when you will have to drive your car on the ferry. In most terminals, you can leave your car until just before your boarding time and wait inside the terminal building, which will likely have an information desk, restrooms, and a cafeteria.
When it’s time to board, get in your vehicle. The ferry terminal staff will direct you to the appropriate deck and lane on the ship. They will ask you to park as close to the car in front of you as possible. If you are riding a motorcycle or operating an oversized vehicle, ferry line employees may tie you up, particularly at long-distance crossings.
When you get out of your vehicle, think carefully about what you want to bring to the passenger decks. Once the boat starts up, you will not be allowed to climb onto the parking platform. You may want to bring the following items with you:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Tablets for motion sickness
- Water
- Books, cards and other activities.
- Alarm clock, if traveling at night
- Camera
- Money for snacks, or your own food.
- Nightwear, change of clothes and personal items (for night crossings)
Tips for spending the night
- Don’t fall asleep until you’ve seen the safety demo or video.
- Onboard announcements can be difficult to hear in private cabins. Pay close attention to bells, bells, or other signals, and bring your own travel alarm clock.
- Allow plenty of time in the morning to wash, pack, and get to the deck of the vehicle.
- Once on the vehicle deck, wait to start your car until it is time to move forward and exit the ship.
