The Alde & Ore Association
Taking care of the
Alde & Ore Estuary
Butley Ferry
One of the oldest and smallest ferries in the UK, Butley Ferry is rowed by volunteers across Butley Creek between Orford and Butley. The ferry is sponsored by the Alde & Ore Association.
Operating Hours
The ferry runs on Saturdays, Sunday and Bank Holidays only, between 11.00am and 4.00pm.
There is no booking system during normal operating times. Just turn up and we take you across.
On the rare occasions when the ferry is unable to operate due to strong winds (the only reason we have had to close in the last ten years) we will only have made that decision on the day when the duty ferryman has assessed the conditions.
Please do not call us during the week to ask if the ferry will be operating at the weekend – the answer will always be ‘yes’, as we cannot assess the weather conditons in advance.
Therefore, if the weather forecast for Orford or Boyton shows strong winds (20mph and above) phone us on 07913 672499 after 10.45 on the day of travel to check that we are able to operate.
Please do not call us during the week to ask if the ferry will be operating at the weekend – the answer will always be ‘yes’, as we cannot assess the weather conditons in advance.
Single fares
Booking crossings outside normal operating hours
Mid-week crossings are only available to pre-booked groups. A minimum of one week’s notice is required and it relies on a volunteer being available.
This cannot be guaranteed. A minimum charge of £30.00 is made for this service. Please telephone 07913 672499.
Read the history of the ferry
View the ferry leaflet and map
Private ferrymen’s area
Walks and cycle routes
There are a number of circular walks and cycle routes which include the ferry and allow you to experience to the full the unique landscape of the Alde and Ore Estuary. A free leaflet with a map can be downloaded here. It is also available at the ferry.
Contact 07913 672499
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