Ferries

Ferries are special boats that carry people, cars, and trucks across water. They travel back and forth on the same route all day long. Many cities with rivers or harbors depend on ferries. Some ferries even carry trains across the water!

Types of Ferries

There are many types of ferries. Small ferries carry just a few cars across a river. Large ferries can carry hundreds of vehicles and thousands of people. High-speed ferries called hydrofoils rise up on fins and skim across the water. Some ferries are so big they have restaurants and shops.

Famous Ferries

The Staten Island Ferry in New York City is free and carries millions of riders every year. In Hong Kong, the Star Ferry has been crossing the harbor since 1888. In Washington State, the ferry system is one of the largest in the world. Ferries are an important part of life in many coastal areas.

Fun Facts

• The Staten Island Ferry carries about 70,000 passengers every day for free.
• Some ferries in Scandinavia are so big they are like small cruise ships.
• The world's shortest ferry ride is in Sweden and takes less than two minutes.

Did You Know?

Before bridges were common, ferries were the main way to cross rivers. Some ferries have been running on the same route for hundreds of years!