The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry is a fun, free way to get from Jamestown, VA to Surry, VA.
On the Jamestown side, there are lots of fun adventures to be had. There is the Jamestown Settlement, Historic Jamestowne, the Billsburg Brewery, the Glasshouse, and Jamestown Beach. Go a little further north and you find Williamsburg, and all that it has to offer.
On the Surry side, there is a Smith’s Fort, the Chippoke State Park, Bacon’s Castle, and a restaurant called The Surry Seafood Co. that I hear is amazing.
If you’re interested in finding out more details about the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry, keep reading for everything you need to know.
A Jamestown-Scotland Ferry Day Trip
Recently, my family decided to take the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry from Jamestown to Surry to check it out.
The wait for the ferry was only a few minutes, since the ferry runs every 30 minutes.
While waiting, we saw a bald eagle swoop down and scoop a fish out of the James River.
After driving onto the ferry, we were able to get out of the car and walk around. The kids thought this was amazing.
The ferry wasn’t full, and seemed to be an enjoyable experience for everyone on board.
While some folks remained in their cars, others stole a few romantic moments to gaze at the water together, children ran around a bit, and a few dogs even got a little walk (on leash, of course).
The ride was quick, lasting about 15 minutes. But, it was enough time for everyone to get out of the car and explore the ferry.
The ferry has an indoor compartment lined with windows where you can watch the water, and placards detailing historical information about the Ferry. It also has a tiny bathroom, just in case it is needed.
Outside, the decks are wide and there is plenty of room to walk around the cars.
The water is beautiful. It is calm and expansive, and feels a bit like you’re on the ocean.
It’s great for birdwatching, and once in a while, you can see sea life too. In fact, a friend of mine recently rode the Ferry and they had dolphins jumping in the wake of the Ferry.
We didn’t see dolphins on our trip, but I hear that that they do visit the James River occasionally, so keep your eyes out if you do go for a ride!
As the Ferry got to the other side, we loaded back into the car and were seamlessly directed off the Ferry.
Once on the Surry side, we took a short drive to the College Run Farm. The farm opens up in the fall for pumpkin picking, a corn maze, and ice cream.
We also drove by a few other sites to check out in the future, including the Surry Seafood Co. restaurant, Bacon’s Castle, and Smith’s Fort.
This was our experience on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry, but you may still have more questions.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry
How much does the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry cost?
The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry is free! It doesn’t cost anything to ride the ferry in the Williamsburg/Jamestown area, which makes it a great, inexpensive activity.
How long is the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry ride?
The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry takes around 15-20 minutes to get from one side of the river to the other. The ride feels just long enough to get out, watch the water, and explore the ferry, but not so long that you get bored.
How often does the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry run?
The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry typically runs every half hour, on the half hour and hour. But, during rush hour times (early morning and late afternoon), the ferry goes every 20 minutes.
This means that you typically aren’t waiting very long for the next ferry to come.
If you are looking for specific ferry times, check out the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry schedule here.
How many cars does the Jamestown Ferry hold?
The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry holds 70 cars.
We didn’t have to wait to get on when we arrived, but I’ve heard of others having to wait, so there are definitely some times that are busier than others.
Is there a bathroom on the Jamestown Ferry?
There is a man and a women’s restroom on the Jamestown Ferry. But, be warned, they’re very tiny.
They’ll do the trick in a pinch, but you may decide that you would just prefer to wait.
Is the Jamestown ferry running?
The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry is running! It runs on a consistent schedule, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Final Thoughts on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry
The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry should definitely be on your list of things to do if you have a few days in the Historic Triangle of Virginia.
This free ride across the James River is fun for children and adults.
It adds a little something extra to a day of site-seeing, and can be used as a quicker alternative to get from Surry to Jamestown (or vice versa).
If you’re looking for things to do on the Jamestown side, check out this article about Historic Things to Do in Jamestown.
