Jamestown Scotland Ferry
A free, 24/7 ferry crossing the James River, offering scenic views and a unique travel experience between Jamestown and Surry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Golden hour views
Jamestown Scotland Ferry
Best Time
Golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, 24/7 ferry crossing the James River, offering scenic views and a unique travel experience between Jamestown and Surry.
"It's always a fun ride on the ferry."
🚗 Drive-On Convenience
Simply drive your car onto the ferry! It's efficient and a unique experience. Holds 50-70 vehicles.
🌅 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views from the ferry are incredible. Perfect for photos and a romantic outing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic River Crossing
James River
Enjoy a relaxing 15-30 minute journey across the James River with scenic views and potential wildlife sightings.
Sunrise/Sunset Views
Onboard the ferry
Catch stunning sunrises or sunsets over the water, offering a romantic and picturesque experience.
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Wildlife Spotting
James River
Keep an eye out for various bird species and other wildlife that frequent the riverbanks during your crossing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Ride
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive-On Convenience
Simply drive your car onto the ferry! It's efficient and a unique experience. Holds 50-70 vehicles.
🌅 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views from the ferry are incredible. Perfect for photos and a romantic outing. 
🐦 Birdwatching Opportunities
You might spot various birds, including seagulls, during your ride. Bring binoculars!
🚽 Onboard Restrooms
Some ferries have restrooms available upstairs, which are usually kept clean.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive-On Convenience
Simply drive your car onto the ferry! It's efficient and a unique experience. Holds 50-70 vehicles.
🌅 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views from the ferry are incredible. Perfect for photos and a romantic outing.
🐦 Birdwatching Opportunities
You might spot various birds, including seagulls, during your ride. Bring binoculars!
🚽 Onboard Restrooms
Some ferries have restrooms available upstairs, which are usually kept clean.
🕰️ 24/7 Operation
The ferry runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on holidays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry for its free access, scenic beauty, and operational efficiency. Many highlight the relaxing nature of the ride and the opportunity to spot wildlife. While some note occasional wait times, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
"Both were great rides. First trip on the ferry riding over to Pipsico for a weekend camping. Security and loading crew were very courteous and helpful with clear directions on where to park the bike. I got lucky on the trip over the last one on and off we went. Had to wait about 10 minutes on the return trip but nothing to bad. It's always a fun ride on the ferry."
John Williams
"I have been on people ferrys plenty of times but never an auto carrying ferry. I was visiting the area from Colorado and saw the signs. I expected it to cost money. Since I'm not from the area I didn't know it was public transportation. I had no reason to cross over to Scotland other than is seemed a good touristy thing to do. It was a strange feeling to be sitting still in my truck while moving forward and turning. Scotland was beautiful and so was the rest of the drive to Richmond all of which I would have missed had I not taken the ferry."
Rated Jaded
"Love coming here any time of the year. The ferry is free on both sides. The boats are very upkept and clean. On the 3 boats that have bathrooms upstairs and they are usually very clean. You can bird watch on the boat where you get loaded and some land on the front and back of the boats while moving too.
Very nice ferry ride take about 30mins to get to the other side."
Robbie Clay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The ferry connects Jamestown in James City County with Scotland Wharf in Surry County, Virginia. You can access it via Rolfe Highway in Jamestown or SR 614 in Surry. It's a key part of State Route 31.
Yes, the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry is completely free for all passengers and vehicles.
The ferry operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. During peak times, it runs every 30 minutes, and during off-peak times, it runs every hour.
The ferry ride across the James River typically takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the specific boat and conditions.
Absolutely! The ferry is an automobile and bus ferry service, designed to transport vehicles. It can hold between 50-70 cars.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required. The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry is a free public transportation service operated by the Virginia Department of Transportation.
The ferry runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including holidays.
There is no fee to ride the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry. It's a complimentary service for all passengers and vehicles.
Ferries depart approximately every 30 minutes during peak times and every hour during off-peak times.
Yes, you can walk on the ferry if you don't have a vehicle. It's a great way to enjoy the views without driving.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy views of the James River, surrounding landscapes, potential wildlife, and the historic Jamestown settlement from a distance.
Yes, some of the ferry boats are equipped with restrooms, often located on the upper decks.
Yes, children often enjoy the ferry ride, watching the water, seagulls, and the experience of being on a large boat.
The crossing typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes.
Absolutely! The ferry offers great vantage points for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food concessions on the ferry itself. It's recommended to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your ride.
You can find dining options in Jamestown and Surry. Some visitors have mentioned Mexican restaurants near the Jamestown access point.
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during the ride.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Weekday mornings can also provide clearer shots with fewer people. +2
You can capture wide river vistas, boat details, wildlife, and the changing light on the water. Drone shots are also popular if you have the equipment.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits.
Seagulls, the ferry boats themselves, the river's expanse, and the shoreline are popular subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider timing your ride for sunrise or sunset for extra visual appeal. Some ferries have upper decks where kids can get a better view of the river. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as there are no concessions on board. It's a great way to add a unique, memorable experience to your Williamsburg area visit without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the river vistas and a telephoto lens for any wildlife you might spot. Drone photography is also popular, offering a bird's-eye view of the ferry and its surroundings, though be sure to check local regulations. The ferry's constant operation means you can plan your shoot around the best light conditions.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry Experience
+1Each crossing offers a unique perspective of the river. The boats are substantial, capable of carrying between 50 to 70 vehicles, and the journey typically lasts about 15 to 30 minutes. Passengers can choose to stay in their vehicles or disembark to walk around the deck, often finding upper decks with observation areas and restrooms. This allows for unobstructed views of the water, the surrounding natural beauty, and the chance to spot local wildlife, particularly various species of birds.
+1Many visitors highlight the ferry as a surprisingly enjoyable and relaxing part of their trip. It's frequently recommended for its scenic beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, which provide stunning photographic opportunities. The fact that it's free adds to its appeal, making it an accessible activity for everyone. Whether you're a local commuting or a tourist seeking a unique experience, the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry offers a memorable journey across the historic James River.
Planning Your Ferry Visit
+1The ferry is a popular spot for birdwatching, so if you're an enthusiast, bring your binoculars. You might see seagulls, herons, and other waterfowl. The journey itself is a highlight, with many travelers enjoying the simple pleasure of being on the water and observing the river's flow. Some of the larger ferry boats offer restrooms on their upper decks, which can be convenient for longer waits or the crossing itself.
Since there are no food services on board, it's a good idea to pack snacks and drinks for your trip. You can enjoy them while taking in the views. The ferry provides a unique connection between the historic sites of Jamestown and the rural charm of Surry County, making it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary in the region.
Social
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