How long is the ferry ride from Cumberland Island to St. Mary’s?

The ferry crossing takes approximately 45 minutes.

Do I need to buy a round-trip ticket or can I purchase one-way?

Passengers must purchase both departure and return trips; one-way tickets are subject to cancellation.

Are there any dining options once I arrive in St. Mary’s?

Yes, St. Mary’s offers numerous local restaurants featuring fresh seafood and southern cuisine.

Can I bring bicycles or large bags on the ferry?

For specific policies on bikes and large items, please contact Cumberland Island Ferry directly.

What should I do if my ferry is cancelled due to weather?

Cancellations are rare and typically due to severe weather or mechanical issues; full refunds are issued by the operator.

Is there public transportation from the ferry terminal in St. Mary’s?

St. Mary’s is a walkable town with limited public transit; taxis and rideshares may be available locally.

Return to St. Mary’s Ferry Ride | Cumberland Island Ferry | Sightseeing Tour | History Tour

For those departing Cumberland Island, the Return to St. Mary’s ferry offers a crisp, invigorating connection between rugged coastal wilderness and a town steeped in history. This 45-minute ferry ride skims across the waters of the Georgia Coast, delivering passengers swiftly to St. Mary’s, Georgia’s charming gateway to both past and present adventure. St. Mary’s is anchored by its National Historic District, where brick-lined streets reveal layers of colonial and maritime heritage alongside lively local culture.

Boarding the ferry means stepping into a rhythm where nature and civilization meet. Passengers catch glimpses of salt marshes and coastal birdlife as the boat slices through tides shaped by centuries. Upon arrival, visitors find a small town with big appeal — inviting eateries showcasing fresh seafood, boutique shops, and museums that tell tales of naval history and native heritage.

Unique to this area is the seamless transition from wilderness on Cumberland Island—home to wild horses, maritime forests, and untouched beaches—to the human story preserved in St. Mary’s architecture and museums. The ferry is more than transport; it’s a thread binding outdoor exploration with cultural immersion.

Operated by Cumberland Island Ferry, this service anchors the visitor experience in the region, supporting sustainable tourism that respects both the fragile coastal ecosystems and the rich historical landscape. The schedule offers multiple departures daily, encouraging day trips or longer visits that integrate the natural and historical facets of the Georgia Coast.

Whether wrapping up your trek on Cumberland Island or just arriving to soak up coastal town life, the Return to St. Mary’s ferry delivers a swift, scenic, and essential connection to the experiences that make this region memorable.

About Cumberland Island Ferry

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.