What time does the ferry depart, and how long is the trip?

The ferry departs promptly at 8am, with the round trip taking about 1.5 hours including time spent in Tea Gardens.

Is the complimentary hot beverage available for all dietary preferences?

Yes, partner cafés like BoatShed and Memas offer various options including tea, coffee, and non-dairy alternatives.

Can I bring pets on the ferry?

Pets are not permitted on this ferry service to ensure passenger safety and comfort.

Are there restroom facilities on board or at the ferry terminals?

Restrooms are available at both Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens terminals, though the ferry itself does not have onboard facilities.

What if the weather is poor on the day of my ride?

TG Ferry Service follows strict safety protocols and may cancel or reschedule trips due to adverse weather conditions.

Can I book this ferry ride one way or do I have to return?

The ticket includes a return trip; however, booking separate one-way transfers can be discussed directly with TG Ferry Service.

Morning Ferry Ride & Coffee with TG Ferry Service

Adventure Brief

Start your day with an 8am ferry ride from Nelson Bay to Tea Gardens, soaking in the calm morning waters before enjoying a hot coffee on us. Discover why TG Ferry Service’s morning trip is a serene way to connect with New South Wales' coastal charm.

approximately 1.5 hours round trip

easy

From A$40.07

Situated along the picturesque coast of New South Wales, the tranquil town of Tea Gardens offers a unique gateway for visitors seeking a calm start to their day. TG Ferry Service provides a distinct experience with its "First Light & Flat White" morning ferry ride departing from Nelson Bay at 8am. This journey invites travelers to step away from the rush, settle into the gentle rhythm of the water, and absorb the quiet stillness of the early morning as the ferry glides across the Hawkesbury River estuary.

The ferry departs from Nelson Bay—a charming seaside town known for its stunning bay views and proximity to Port Stephens—and delivers passengers to Tea Gardens, a town rich in natural beauty and local culture. This calm waterway is dotted with seagrass beds and saltmarshes that support a diverse bird population, including oyster catchers and sea eagles, making the crossing not just a ride but a chance to witness thriving marine ecosystems from a unique vantage point.

On arrival, passengers enjoy a complimentary hot beverage courtesy of partner cafés like BoatShed and Memas, offering a warm invitation to unwind and take in the quaint streets or waterfront paths of Tea Gardens. The ferry ride combined with the coffee stop encourages visitors to savor a moment away from busy city life, aligning perfectly with the rhythm of regional outdoor lifestyle.

TG Ferry Service stands out in the New South Wales outdoor travel scene by combining a simple yet immersive travel experience with local hospitality. It appeals to travelers who value slow mornings and meaningful connections with place. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful morning ritual or a visitor seeking an easy introduction to the region’s coastal charm, this ferry ride offers a refreshing and accessible way to begin the day in one of Australia’s understated coastal gems.

About TG Ferry Service

TG Ferry Service operates scenic ferry cruises and private charters across the Myall River, Port Stephens and surrounding waterways. Based on scheduled departures from Tea Gardens and Nelson Bay, the company runs a range of experiences including afternoon Arvos cruises, sunrise First Light & Flat White runs, sunset cruises, a two-hour History Cruise guided by local legend John “Stinker” Clarke, High Tea on the Myall River, and special event sailings such as New Year’s Eve.
The fleet includes the MV Wallamba, available for private charter for groups up to 25 guests; charters can be self-catered or arranged with catering options. Dinner cruises link ferry transfers with riverside dining — for example, cruise-and-dine trips to Mumms on the Myall and Restaurant 2317 feature docked meals paired to sunset ferry travel.
TG Ferry Service emphasizes local storytelling and wildlife viewing, with crew-led commentary on marine life, the lobster industry, Worimi cultural connections and coastal suburbs. Passengers can expect opportunities to see dolphins, seabirds and coastal scenery while onboard.
Cruises accommodate casual passengers bringing their own food and drinks on select sailings, while curated experiences provide complimentary beverages or grazing boards as indicated. The operator serves leisure visitors, private groups and visitors seeking guided history or dining-focused outings.
Safety and clear onboarding are provided through standard passenger procedures and crew guidance. TG Ferry Service combines regional knowledge, a varied schedule of 11 experiences, and private charter capacity to deliver accessible, scenic ferry travel and event-focused river cruises. Bookings and details are available online.