Take a scenic ferry ride from Bear Island East Dock to Stony Creek in Branford, Connecticut, and enjoy breathtaking coastal views and peaceful water travel. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
15–20 minutes
Fitness Level
This activity requires minimal physical effort and is suitable for all fitness levels, including families with children and seniors.
Wildlife
History
The Thimble Islands have a rich maritime history tied to fishing and granite quarrying dating back to the 19th century.
Conservation
Efforts in this area focus on protecting coastal habitats and maintaining water quality to preserve the local ecosystem for wildlife and visitors.
Thimble Islands Ferry Service
Take a scenic ferry ride from Bear Island East Dock to Stony Creek in Branford, Connecticut, and enjoy breathtaking coastal views and peaceful water travel. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Thimble Islands Ferry Service is a ferry operator based in Branford, Connecticut, providing regular short crossings between Stony Creek and multiple Thimble Islands destinations. The service runs scheduled trips that connect Stony Creek with islands and docks including Cut-in-Two West, Pot Island Community Dock, Greyrock, East Crib, Pot Island Carter's Point, Little Pumpkin, Pot Island Pfeiffer Dock, Money Island, Davis Island, and Mother-in-Law Island.
Typical crossings between Stony Creek and each island last approximately 15–20 minutes, offering passengers opportunities to enjoy coastal views and short island visits. Tickets for all trips are issued electronically and are sent to passengers via email as part of the booking confirmation.
The ferry service focuses on point-to-point transport around the Thimble Islands archipelago and supports island access for residents and visitors traveling to community docks and private landings. Routes operate from Stony Creek, a neighborhood in Branford, Connecticut, that serves as the primary mainland departure point.
Schedules, availability, and specific departure docks may vary; passengers should consult current timetables when planning travel. Safety procedures, boarding instructions, and luggage or pet policies are provided at the time of booking or by contacting the operator directly. The operator lists each trip with its departure and arrival points, enabling clear selection at booking.
Thimble Islands Ferry Service provides straightforward island ferry connections, concise crossing durations, and emailed ticket delivery for travelers exploring the Thimble Islands from Branford. Booking details, departure times, specific docking instructions, and ticket notifications are provided during booking and on official schedules online directly.
Routes Offered
10 routes
Multiple island connections from Stony Creek
Trip Duration
15–20 min
Short island crossings
Emailed Tickets
Email delivery
Tickets sent to confirmation email
Departure Point
Stony Creek
Branford, Connecticut mainland
Select a Stony Creek route, confirm tickets by email, and plan a 15–20 minute crossing to the Thimble Islands.
Arrive Early to Secure Seating
Ferries can fill up quickly during peak times, so arriving at least 15 minutes early ensures you get a good spot with optimal views.
Dress in Layers
Coastal weather can be variable; layers help you stay comfortable whether it’s sunny, windy, or cool on the water.
Bring Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing
Binoculars enhance your ability to spot birds and marine life, enriching the scenic experience.
Keep Your Camera Ready
The ferry route includes beautiful island landscapes and water views — perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Protects against cool breezes coming off the water during spring ferry rides.
spring
Sunscreen
Shields your skin from strong sun exposure on open water during summer outings.
summer
Binoculars
Enhances your ability to observe and enjoy distant wildlife and island details.
Camera or Smartphone
Captures scenic views and memorable moments throughout the ferry journey.