Discover Cumberland Island like never before on a 5.5-hour tour exploring historic plantations, natural beauty, and unique landmarks. Perfect for history and nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition to remain comfortable during prolonged sitting and occasional walking on uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
Cumberland Island once housed wealthy plantation owners and is home to historic churches and mansions reflecting its complex past.
Conservation
Strict protections ensure Cumberland Island remains a preserved National Seashore, with efforts focused on habitat protection and limiting visitor impact.
Cumberland Island Ferry
Discover Cumberland Island like never before on a 5.5-hour tour exploring historic plantations, natural beauty, and unique landmarks. Perfect for history and nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.
Cumberland Island Ferry operates scheduled ferry service from St. Marys, Georgia, to Cumberland Island National Seashore, providing transport for visitors, tours, and managed hunts.
The company facilitates departures to the island, returns to St. Mary’s, and specialized excursions such as the Lands and Legacies Tour, Plum Orchard Christmas Tour, and Cumberland Island Managed Hunt Ferry. The ferry ride typically takes about 45 minutes and connects travelers with the Museum and Visitor Center and the island’s historic and natural sites.
Tickets and reservations for tours and hunts are available online, with managed hunt registration that includes adult/child pair options and access to amenities at Plum Orchard Hunt Camp. The Lands and Legacies Tour is a motorized, roughly 5.5-hour guided exploration of the island’s cultural and natural landmarks, including Plum Orchard Mansion and the First African Baptist Church. Seasonal offerings such as the Plum Orchard Christmas Tour feature costumed guides, historical interpretation, and family-friendly activities.
The ferry service emphasizes safe and reliable transport across the Georgia coast and supports day visitors and tour groups traveling to Cumberland Island National Seashore. Visitors disembarking at St. Marys can explore the city’s National Historic District, local dining, and attractions after returning on scheduled ferry runs. As a local operator based in St. Marys, Cumberland Island Ferry provides destination-focused itineraries and direct access to one of Georgia’s most scenic national seashores.
Return trips to St. Marys provide a swift crossing back to the city’s historic waterfront and convenient access to dining, shops, and nearby transportation connections.
Location
St. Marys, GA
Departure point for all ferry services
Tours Offered
5
Range of departures and guided experiences
Ferry Ride
45 minutes
Typical crossing time to Cumberland Island
Signature Tour
5.5 hours
Length of the Lands and Legacies Tour
Reserve ferry seats and tour spots from St. Marys, Georgia — secure online booking for departures, tours, and managed hunts.
Bring insect repellent
Mosquitoes and bugs can be common during warmer months, so insect repellent is essential for comfort.
Wear sturdy footwear
The terrain can be uneven and sandy, so comfortable, durable shoes help you navigate easily.
Carry water
Staying hydrated is important during the 5.5-hour tour, especially in summer months.
Respect wildlife
Observe wild horses and other animals from a distance to avoid disturbing them.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports walking on sandy and uneven surfaces.
Lightweight rain jacket
Useful during sudden rain showers common in spring.
spring
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and biting insects.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the tour.