Easy Ferry Access to Cumberland Island — Scenic Rides & Guided Tours

Cumberland Island Ferry — Ferry Service and Guided Tours from St. Marys, Georgia

Quick overview

Cumberland Island Ferry provides scheduled ferry transportation and curated tours between St. Marys, Georgia, and Cumberland Island National Seashore. The operation connects visitors to the island’s top landmarks, including the Museum and Visitor Center, Plum Orchard Mansion, and the First African Baptist Church. Key offerings include a scenic 45-minute ferry ride, the 5.5-hour Lands and Legacies Tour, the seasonal Plum Orchard Christmas Tour, and the Cumberland Island Managed Hunt Ferry.

Why visitors choose Cumberland Island Ferry

• Direct access from St. Marys, Georgia to Cumberland Island National Seashore.
• Multiple trip options: departure crossings, guided motorized tours, seasonal programs, and managed hunts.
• Online reservations for ferry seats, tours, and hunt registrations.

Featured trips and descriptions

Departure to Cumberland Island

• Scenic 45-minute ferry ride from St. Marys, Georgia.
• Direct access to the Museum and Visitor Center and island trails.

Lands and Legacies Tour

• A motorized, approximately 5.5-hour guided exploration of the island’s cultural and natural sites.
• Stops highlight Plum Orchard Mansion, historic plantation remnants, and the First African Baptist Church.

Plum Orchard Christmas Tour

• Seasonal tour showcasing early 1900s holiday decor and interpretation.
• Costumed guides, classic lawn games, seasonal treats, and a keepsake experience.

Cumberland Island Managed Hunt Ferry

• Transport for registered hunts on Cumberland Island National Seashore.
• Includes adult/child pair registration options and access to Plum Orchard Hunt Camp amenities.

Return to St. Mary’s

• A swift ferry crossing back to St. Marys with access to the National Historic District and local dining after island visits.

Practical information for planning

Timing and logistics

• The standard ferry crossing lasts about 45 minutes between St. Marys and Cumberland Island.
• The Lands and Legacies Tour runs about 5.5 hours, making it suitable for visitors seeking an in-depth island overview.

Booking and reservations

• Tickets and tour reservations, including managed hunt registration, are available online.
• Managed hunts include specific registration options such as adult/child pairings and use of Plum Orchard Hunt Camp facilities.

What to expect on the island

Visitors arriving via Cumberland Island Ferry can expect a mix of natural coastline, maritime forests, historic structures, and interpretive programming. Guided tours focus on both cultural heritage and natural history, offering stops at landmark locations and opportunities to learn from costumed interpreters during seasonal events.

Search terms and SEO targets

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Final notes

For visitors planning a trip to Cumberland Island, the ferry service from St. Marys offers straightforward access and a range of curated experiences. Whether booking a scenic departure, a full-day guided tour, a seasonal Christmas program, or registering for a managed hunt, passengers can secure reservations and prepare itineraries that match their interests and timing.