Englishtown Ferry
A free, time-saving ferry crossing on Cape Breton's Cabot Trail, offering scenic views of St. Ann's Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Enjoy scenic views
Englishtown Ferry
Best Time
Enjoy scenic views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, time-saving ferry crossing on Cape Breton's Cabot Trail, offering scenic views of St. Ann's Bay.
"This free ferry ride is a great service, saving quite a bit of time on trips to locations on the trail!"
Free Ferry Ride!
Enjoy this complimentary ferry service that significantly cuts down travel time on the Cabot Trail. :moneywithwings:
Watch Your Clearance
Steep ramps mean low-clearance cars might scrape. A 4x4 or SUV is recommended. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ferry Crossing
Across St. Ann's Bay
A quick, scenic, and free ferry ride that saves significant driving time on the Cabot Trail.
Cabot Trail Views
Approaching the ferry
Enjoy stunning coastal vistas and the rugged beauty of Cape Breton Island.
St. Ann's Bay Scenery
Ferry terminal
A picturesque spot offering moments of peace and beautiful natural surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash for the Ferry
Vehicle Clearance Alert
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Ferry Ride!
Enjoy this complimentary ferry service that significantly cuts down travel time on the Cabot Trail. :moneywithwings:
Watch Your Clearance
Steep ramps mean low-clearance cars might scrape. A 4x4 or SUV is recommended. :car:
Quick Crossing
The ferry ride itself is very short, usually around 3 minutes. :stopwatch:
Scenic Route Option
A great way to experience another part of the Cabot Trail. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Ferry Ride!
Enjoy this complimentary ferry service that significantly cuts down travel time on the Cabot Trail. :moneywithwings:
Watch Your Clearance
Steep ramps mean low-clearance cars might scrape. A 4x4 or SUV is recommended. :car:
Quick Crossing
The ferry ride itself is very short, usually around 3 minutes. :stopwatch:
Scenic Route Option
A great way to experience another part of the Cabot Trail. :camerawithflash:
Washrooms Available
Convenient washrooms are located on the Englishtown side. :toilet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers rave about the Englishtown Ferry for its incredible time-saving convenience and the fact that it's completely free. The short, scenic crossing is a delightful experience, though some caution is advised for low-clearance vehicles due to steep ramps. It's a highly recommended stop for anyone exploring the Cabot Trail.
"Nice little ferry ride, around 3 minutes. Very quick waiting time. Easy in and out. Loved the experience. I find that the ramp is so steep, I cannot imagine bringing my sports car here. We brought a 4x4 for the trip so that’s fine for us but definitely do not bring your low clearance cars! The angle is too steep to enter and exit the ferry you’ll scrape or damage your bumper for sure."
Kai Elwood
"Great little ferry. Takes only 10 mins or so to cross and is free of charge. Waited in line for only 15 minutes."
Andy Smith
"Took this free trip across the water to experience another section of the Cabot Trail. We arrived just in time to be the last car on but if we had missed it, we wouldn’t have had to wait very long. It’s a really short ride and they load and unload the boat quickly. Cool to see the ferry just pulls itself back and forth across the channel - there’s a rope attached to either shore that the ferry uses to keep it on the same path every time. The drive is also amazing so check it out."
Karl Peterman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Englishtown Ferry is a key part of the Cabot Trail route in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. It connects the north and south sides of St. Ann's Bay, saving travelers a significant detour around the bay. Many visitors encounter it while driving the scenic Cabot Trail.
Yes, the Englishtown Ferry is a vital component for those traversing the Cabot Trail, offering a shortcut across St. Ann's Bay and enhancing the overall driving experience.
Absolutely! The ferry is designed to carry vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and trucks. However, be mindful of the ramp's steepness if you have a low-clearance vehicle.
The actual ferry crossing is very brief, typically taking only about 3 minutes to traverse St. Ann's Bay.
Wait times can vary, but many visitors report short waits, often around 10-15 minutes, especially during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Englishtown Ferry is completely free to use! This makes it a fantastic way to save time and money while exploring the Cabot Trail.
There's no need to book tickets as the ferry is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Simply drive up and wait for your turn.
The ferry typically operates seasonally, usually from late spring through fall. It's best to check local schedules or inquire locally for exact operating dates and times, as they can vary.
The Englishtown Ferry is a free service provided to travelers, so there is no admission fee.
Since the ferry is free, no payment is required. However, it's always a good idea to have some cash for any small shops or services nearby.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The experience is a quick, scenic journey across St. Ann's Bay. You'll enjoy coastal views and the unique sensation of being transported by a rope-guided ferry. It's a peaceful moment amidst the adventure of the Cabot Trail.
Yes, convenient washrooms are available on the Englishtown side of the ferry terminal, which is a handy amenity for travelers.
The immediate area around the ferry terminal is generally accessible for walking, offering scenic views of the bay. However, be aware of the steepness of the ferry ramps.
Many travelers bring their pets, especially dogs, on the ferry. It's a great opportunity for them to enjoy the fresh air and scenery alongside you.
Capture the ferry in action as it crosses St. Ann's Bay, or frame it against the beautiful Cape Breton landscape. Early morning or late afternoon light can offer stunning photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Cyclists
+1📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Englishtown Ferry: A Time-Saving Marvel
Many visitors express surprise and delight at the ferry being completely free of charge, a welcome bonus for budget-conscious travelers. The crossing itself is a brief but scenic experience, offering lovely views of the bay and the surrounding coastal landscape. It's a moment of calm and a unique part of the Cape Breton adventure.
+1While the ferry is a fantastic time-saver, it's important to be aware of the ramp's steep incline. Travelers with low-clearance vehicles should exercise caution to avoid scraping their bumpers. Opting for an SUV or 4x4 can ensure a smoother transition onto and off the ferry.
Navigating the Cabot Trail with the Ferry
+1Many visitors choose to drive the Cabot Trail in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. The Englishtown Ferry is particularly beneficial for those heading north from areas like Baddeck, offering a direct route towards the northern reaches of the trail. Conversely, it serves as an efficient way to return south without re-tracing steps. The ferry's operation is a testament to practical, community-focused infrastructure that enhances the tourist experience.
+1Beyond the time-saving aspect, the ferry provides a unique perspective of the coastline. The short journey allows for a moment to appreciate the rugged beauty of St. Ann's Bay and the maritime atmosphere of Cape Breton. It's a small but memorable part of the larger Cabot Trail adventure, often highlighted by travelers for its convenience and scenic charm.
+1
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