St Mawes Ferry
A scenic 20-minute ferry ride connecting Falmouth to the charming village of St Mawes, offering stunning coastal views and wildlife spotting opportuni...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More frequent boats & good weather
St Mawes Ferry
Best Time
More frequent boats & good weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 20-minute ferry ride connecting Falmouth to the charming village of St Mawes, offering stunning coastal views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
"Watching the world go by on the water on a sunny day is just perfect."
🚢 Check Timetable Beforehand
Schedules vary by season. Always check the latest timetable online or via their app to avoid disappointment.
💰 Return Trip Value
A return ticket is often more economical than two single journeys. Consider it for a round trip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Crossing to St Mawes
Falmouth to St Mawes
Enjoy a picturesque 20-minute boat ride offering stunning views of the Cornish coast and grand houses.
Charming St Mawes Village
St Mawes
Explore this beautiful Cornish village, perfect for a coffee, cake, and a wander along the beach.
Dolphin Spotting
Fal River
Keep an eye out for playful dolphins during your ferry journey, especially on early morning trips.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ferry Adventure
Cycling with Luggage
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Check Timetable Beforehand
Schedules vary by season. Always check the latest timetable online or via their app to avoid disappointment.
💰 Return Trip Value
A return ticket is often more economical than two single journeys. Consider it for a round trip.
🚴♀️ Cycling Luggage Prep
If cycling, be ready to remove panniers. Staff are usually helpful, but it's good to be prepared.
☀️ Sunny Day Essential
A sunny day makes the ferry trip truly magical. Pack accordingly for a perfect coastal experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Check Timetable Beforehand
Schedules vary by season. Always check the latest timetable online or via their app to avoid disappointment.
💰 Return Trip Value
A return ticket is often more economical than two single journeys. Consider it for a round trip.
🚴♀️ Cycling Luggage Prep
If cycling, be ready to remove panniers. Staff are usually helpful, but it's good to be prepared.
☀️ Sunny Day Essential
A sunny day makes the ferry trip truly magical. Pack accordingly for a perfect coastal experience.
☕ Coffee & Cake Stop
St Mawes is ideal for a morning coffee and cake break before exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the St Mawes Ferry for its beautiful scenery, friendly staff, and regular service, making it a peaceful and enjoyable way to travel. The 20-minute journey offers lovely views of the Cornish coast and its grand houses, with many appreciating the value of a return ticket over driving. While the ferry is generally reliable, occasional cancellations due to rough seas are noted.
"Had a great 2 hour cruise on the ferry. It was absolutely beautiful, lots of things to see and learn about the local houses or should I say mansions dotted around the lake. Watching the world go by on the water on a sunny day is just perfect."
Sheryl Daniels
"About 20 minutes ferry ride from St Mawes to Falmouth. Lovely trip to see the views. Nice staff and on schedule."
Food Critique
"Very friendly staff, smooth journey from St Mawes to Falmouth and return.
Regular service, you never have long to wait for the next one.
£30 for two return trip. Definitely better than a long drive!
And much more peaceful."
David Snazell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The St Mawes Ferry departs from the Prince of Wales Pier in Falmouth. It's a short, scenic 20-minute journey across the Fal River to St Mawes.
Yes, you can take your bicycle, but panniers must be removed. Staff are generally helpful with this process.
While specific accessibility details can vary, ferries generally aim to accommodate passengers. It's best to contact the ferry operator directly for the most up-to-date information on wheelchair access.
There are several car parks available in Falmouth near the Prince of Wales Pier. Consider the Falmouth town centre car parks for convenient access.
Frequency varies by season. In summer, it runs approximately three times per hour, and in winter, once per hour. Always check the official timetable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A one-way trip is around £6.30, and a return trip is approximately £8.60 per person. Prices can vary, so check their official website for current fares.
Tickets can be purchased directly at the ferry terminal on the Prince of Wales Pier in Falmouth. You can also find information and potentially book online via the link in their bio.
The ferry operates 364 days a year, typically excluding Christmas Day. However, it may be cancelled during very rough seas.
Information on specific group or family discounts isn't widely published, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket office for potential deals.
Tickets are generally valid for the specified journey, but it's advisable to check the terms and conditions of your ticket, especially if purchasing in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
St Mawes is a charming village perfect for a leisurely stroll, enjoying coffee and cake, or exploring the local shops and coastline. 
The ferry journey typically takes about 20 minutes from Falmouth to St Mawes, offering lovely views along the way.
Yes, there are reports of passengers spotting dolphins during the ferry crossing, particularly on early morning trips.
The views are beautiful, showcasing the Cornish coastline, the Fal River, and impressive local houses and mansions.
Generally, the journey is described as smooth, with friendly staff and regular service ensuring a pleasant experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scenic coastline, the charming villages of Falmouth and St Mawes, and the unique boats on the river. Early morning light can be particularly stunning.
Yes, you can take photos from most areas of the ferry. Be mindful of other passengers and ensure you have a stable grip on your camera or phone, especially if the water is choppy.
Look out for the picturesque harbour views, the grand houses along the riverbanks, and the distinctive architecture of both Falmouth and St Mawes.
Early mornings often offer softer light and a chance to see wildlife like dolphins. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
Absolutely! As you approach St Mawes, you'll get fantastic panoramic views of the village nestled by the water, perfect for capturing its charm.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The short journey time is perfect for younger attention spans, and arriving in St Mawes provides a safe and charming environment for children to explore. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as while there are places to buy them in St Mawes, having them on hand is always convenient for families. Once in St Mawes, there are plenty of opportunities for simple pleasures like paddling at the beach or enjoying an ice cream. The village is relatively compact, making it easy to navigate with children. The ferry staff are generally friendly and can assist with boarding, making the overall experience smooth and enjoyable for everyone.
🚴 Cyclists and Hikers
Important note for cyclists: Be prepared to remove panniers before boarding, as per ferry regulations. While staff are usually accommodating, having a system for managing your luggage will make the process smoother.
💰 Budget Travelers
Once in St Mawes, you can enjoy a budget-friendly day by packing your own picnic to enjoy by the water, exploring the village on foot, and taking advantage of the free coastal paths for walking. This approach allows you to soak in the atmosphere and scenery without significant expense.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the St Mawes Ferry Service
Key operational details include varying frequencies based on the season: summer months see more frequent departures (up to three times per hour), while winter schedules are reduced to once per hour. It's crucial to check the latest timetable before your trip, as cancellations can occur due to adverse weather conditions. For cyclists, a specific rule requires the removal of panniers, a detail that travelers with significant luggage should be prepared for.
Beyond the practicalities, the ferry experience is often enhanced by the possibility of spotting local wildlife, with dolphins frequently seen in the waters. The friendly crew and regular service contribute to a positive passenger experience, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists looking for a peaceful and visually rewarding way to travel between these two Cornish gems.
Making the Most of Your St Mawes Visit
+1Many visitors use the ferry as a gateway to explore the Roseland Peninsula, of which St Mawes is a key part. The South West Coast Path is easily accessible from here, offering breathtaking walks with stunning sea views. For those interested in history, St Mawes Castle, a 16th-century artillery fort, is a must-visit, providing panoramic views of the estuary.
Community insights highlight the simple pleasures of a day trip. Early morning ferries are particularly recommended for a peaceful start, offering a chance to enjoy the village before it gets too busy and potentially spot dolphins. The ferry also provides a fantastic vantage point for photographing the village and its surroundings, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.
+1
Social
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