Cumberland Island Ferry
Journey to Cumberland Island via a scenic ferry ride, explore wild horses, historic ruins, and pristine beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Maximize island exploration time
Cumberland Island Ferry
Best Time
Maximize island exploration time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Journey to Cumberland Island via a scenic ferry ride, explore wild horses, historic ruins, and pristine beaches.
"Worth it to go to a private secluded island with friendly crew and affordable onboard snacks."
🎟️ Book Ferry Tickets Early
Cumberland Island ferry tickets sell out fast! Reserve yours online in advance to guarantee your spot.
💰 Affordable Onboard Snacks
While the ferry ride is pricey, snacks and drinks onboard are surprisingly affordable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cumberland Queen Ferry
St. Marys, Georgia
Enjoy a scenic boat ride to a secluded island paradise with friendly and helpful crew.
Island Ruins
Cumberland Island
Explore magical ruins, especially enchanting at sunset, offering a glimpse into the island's past.
Wild Horses
Cumberland Island
Encounter the island's famous wild horses roaming freely, a truly unforgettable sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Cumberland Island
Service Animal Policies & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ferry Tickets Early
Cumberland Island ferry tickets sell out fast! Reserve yours online in advance to guarantee your spot.
💰 Affordable Onboard Snacks
While the ferry ride is pricey, snacks and drinks onboard are surprisingly affordable.
⏰ Be Punctual for Departures
Ferry boats depart strictly on schedule. Arrive at the docks on time to avoid missing your ride.
🐕 Confirm Service Animal Policy
Policies can be confusing. Verify service animal requirements with the ferry company beforehand.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ferry Tickets Early
Cumberland Island ferry tickets sell out fast! Reserve yours online in advance to guarantee your spot.
💰 Affordable Onboard Snacks
While the ferry ride is pricey, snacks and drinks onboard are surprisingly affordable.
⏰ Be Punctual for Departures
Ferry boats depart strictly on schedule. Arrive at the docks on time to avoid missing your ride.
🐕 Confirm Service Animal Policy
Policies can be confusing. Verify service animal requirements with the ferry company beforehand.
🚶♀️ Island is Walkable
Cumberland Island is very walkable, perfect for exploring its natural beauty and historical sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the scenic ferry ride and the unique experience of visiting Cumberland Island, particularly the chance to see wild horses and explore historic ruins. The crew is often described as friendly and helpful. However, some find the ferry price to be high, and there have been reports of confusion regarding service animal policies.
"Me met some pirates on our way to the island 😉 how fun. Great captain. Talkative and nice ticket folks. Good places to sit and wait for the ferry ⛴️ guide was informative."
Aimee Tariq
"A lot of fun, kinda pricey per person ($40), but the snacks and drinks are extremely affordable on board. Worth it to go to a private secluded island."
James Newton
"Long post
I have been waiting as long as I can remember to see Cumberland Island!!
Unfortunately, I’ve gone through a plethora of medical issues and have a life limiting disability. I have a 7lb service dog that I’m very dependent on for my disabilities. I was overjoyed when an amazing, supportive friend offered to drive me to St. Mary’s to visit Cumberland Island. Our Land and Legacy tour and ferry tickets were purchased online by her family and we were off …so we thought!
This is where things go nuts!!!!
We checked in at the ferry ticket counter and went downstairs to start our journey to Cumberland Island. All was well as we met our Land and Legacy tour guide “Toby”. During Toby’s briefing of our tour I was asked by an employee of the ferry to go upstairs to the ticket office. This lady told me that my service dog could not board the ferry without a ticket 🫤I left the group to go see what was going on upstairs and asked the young lady at ticket counter #1 for a ticket. I gave her my name as a paid ticket holder and showed her my ticket She looked at me oddly and refused to offer the so called “mandatory” ticket. My service dog wears a tag which I showed her and even offered my paperwork from my physician although this is completely unacceptable. Afraid of being left by the boat and away from my friends I panicked … (part of my unfortunate side effects). Another lady hesitated but handed me a ticket for my service dog. Finally on the boat, I was then called out in front of the fully booked and full ferry of people. Once again, I was asked to exit the boat. They sent me to an administrative office down a block for what? They couldn’t say. I arrived and was told by an employee that I needed to show her my dog leash. Since I hold my service dog…I had left it in my bag on the boat. She hesitated but followed me to the boat landing. I had to shout (totally embarrassing for me) to my friend to hold up the leash… all we’re watching as I ran down the platform the boat was already 10 ft from the dock … after a lot of confusion with the ferry employees pulling the boat back in and having to put the plank back down so I could board … we were so very blessed with a beautiful day and wonderful memories were made.❤️
TOBY THE LAND AND LEGACY tour guide-
THANK YOU Sir, You have made a positive impact for people with life altering disabilities and I thank you!!! I am confident that a new entry/orientation for all employees of The Cumberland Island Ferry be made aware and properly educated of the American Disability Act (ADA) moving forward…. I am not angry. I feel that this was simply an amazing opportunity to provide knowledge to those that were involved…
This is a federal law for people with disabilities with service dogs."
Debra Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Cumberland Island is by taking the Cumberland Island Ferry from St. Marys, Georgia. The ferry ride offers scenic views and is an integral part of the island experience.
The main ferry service to Cumberland Island departs from St. Marys, Georgia. Some sources mention ferries from Amelia Island or Jekyll Island, but St. Marys is the most common and direct route.
While some search terms mention a Fernandina ferry, the most established and frequently used service is from St. Marys, Georgia. It's best to confirm current schedules and departure points directly with the ferry operator.
While private boat charters might be an option, the official Cumberland Island Ferry is the most common and recommended mode of transport for day trips and overnight stays.
The Cumberland Island Ferry operates on a schedule, and it's crucial to check the latest times before your visit. Departures are typically in the morning, with return trips in the afternoon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Cumberland Island ferry tickets are around $40 per person. While this might seem pricey, many find the experience and onboard amenities to be worth the cost.
Yes, it is highly recommended to make reservations for the Cumberland Island ferry in advance, as tickets can sell out, especially during busy periods.
The standard ferry ticket price is around $40 per person. It's advisable to check the official website for any potential variations or package deals, such as those including tours.
The 'Land and Legacy' tour is an option that often includes your ferry ticket and a guided exploration of Cumberland Island, providing historical context and insights.
Expect to pay around $40 per person for the ferry ticket. This price generally covers the round trip to the island.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Cumberland Island offers a variety of activities, including exploring historic ruins, spotting wild horses, hiking trails, and enjoying the pristine beaches. The island is very walkable.
Yes, overnight stays are possible on Cumberland Island, with options for camping and lodging. The ruins are particularly magical at sunset for overnight visitors.
While there are no extensive dining facilities on the island itself, the ferry offers affordable snacks and drinks onboard for your journey.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal snacks or meals you might want. A camera is essential for capturing the island's beauty.
Accessibility can be a concern, particularly regarding service animal policies. It's crucial to confirm specific accessibility arrangements and policies with the ferry service in advance.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning photos of the island's wild horses, the historic ruins (especially at sunset), the scenic ferry ride, and the beautiful beaches.
The ruins are particularly magical at sunset, offering dramatic lighting and a unique atmosphere for photography.
Absolutely! The wild horses are a major draw, and you'll have ample opportunities to photograph them roaming freely across the island.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing wildlife and distant landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the ruins and beaches.
The 'Land and Legacy' tour often includes historical insights that can enhance your photographic experience by providing context to the sites you're capturing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking the 'Land and Legacy' tour if your children enjoy learning about history and nature. It provides a structured way to experience the island's highlights. Be prepared for a full day of exploration, and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for walking. The pristine beaches also offer a great spot for kids to play and explore.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on the free activities the island offers: hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing. The chance to see wild horses and explore the historic ruins are experiences that don't require additional spending. If you're camping overnight, this can also be a more budget-friendly option compared to mainland accommodations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Cumberland Island Ferry Experience
While the ferry ticket price is noted as being around $40 per person, many visitors feel it's a worthwhile investment for the experience of reaching a private, secluded island. The ferry also offers affordable snacks and drinks onboard, making the journey more comfortable. For those seeking a more in-depth understanding of the island's history and ecology, consider booking the 'Land and Legacy' tour, which often includes ferry passage and guided exploration.
It's important to be aware of potential challenges, particularly concerning service animal policies. One detailed account highlights significant confusion and distress experienced by a traveler with a service dog regarding ticket requirements, despite ADA protections. It is strongly advised to confirm all policies and procedures directly with the ferry service in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Exploring Cumberland Island's Natural and Historical Wonders
Beyond the wildlife, the island boasts historic ruins that evoke a sense of past grandeur. These structures, particularly the remnants of the Dungeness mansion, are described as magical at sunset, providing a unique and atmospheric experience for visitors. The island itself is very walkable, allowing for extensive exploration of its diverse ecosystems, from maritime forests to pristine beaches.
For those who wish to immerse themselves further, overnight stays are possible, offering a chance to experience the island's tranquility and beauty without the constraints of a day trip. Whether you're hiking through the trails, picnicking on the beach, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Cumberland Island promises a memorable escape into nature and history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit