Connecting Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck to Poole and Bournemouth, the Sandbanks Ferry cuts out a 25-mile return journey between Swanage and Poole.
The chain ferry crossing between Sandbanks and Studland takes just four-minutes.
The No. 50 bus also crosses via the ferry, connecting Swanage to Poole and Bournemouth for high-street shopping and entertainment options.
For the latest departure timings and ticket prices and to pay for your crossing, download the Sandbanks Ferry app or head online: www.sandbanksferry.co.uk
The chain ferry normally runs every day of the year, however adverse weather may affect crossing times or normal operation. Check ahead of travelling on the Sandbanks Ferry website.
Note that there may be other times when the ferry is non-operational, such as its refit every two years.
Directions to the Sandbanks Ferry
SatNav for Studland/Swanage side: BH19 3BA
SatNav for Sandbanks/Bournemouth side: BH13 7QN
There are car parks at both Studland (Shell Bay) and Sandbanks (Ferry Way).
Peak season advice
The ferry is an extremely popular way for people to visit Purbeck, especially in the summer months, so be prepared for a slight wait to board at busy periods, or plan ahead to beat the crowds
History
The chain ferry (also known as a ‘floating bridge’) has been in operation since 1926 after an Act of Parliament was passed in 1923, leading to the formation of the Bournemouth-Swanage Motor Road & Ferry Company, which is still in operation today.
The current vessel – the Bramble Bush Bay – is named after the stretch of quiet sand that runs adjacent to Shell Bay on the Studland side.
She has been carrying people to and from the Isle of Purbeck since 1994.
The fourth ferry to cross from Bournemouth to Swanage, the Bramble Bush Bay is the first vessel to have been named.
She is a diesel-hydraulic vessel, and able to carry 48 cars, whereas the first ferry back in 1926 was coal-fired and propelled by steam power and could carry just 12 vehicles.
Things haven’t always been plain-sailing for the Bramble Bush Bay, however. In 2019 she was taken out of service due to a fractured drive shaft, and in April 2020 she received damage to her hull, requiring repair. She was also taken out of action during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic. Prior to that the ferry suffered from mechanical problems over the winter of 2018-2019.
Currently fully operational, the Sandbanks Ferry continues to be a lifeline for residents and a safe, convenient and fun way for visitors to get to the Isle of Purbeck.
Nearby attractions
- Brownsea Island – Catch a separate Brownsea Island Ferry as a foot passenger from either the Poole side or twice a day from the Sandbanks side on a jetty boat to explore the walks and wildlife of Brownsea Island – home to the red squirrel
- South West Coast Path – South Haven Point on the Studland peninsula marks the beginning of the South West Coast Path – the longest national trail in Britain, at 630 miles. The path culminates in Somerset.
- Old Harry Rocks – Walk the South West Coast Path from the ferry, or take a short drive to South Beach car park for a more leisurely stroll up to the stunning Old Harry Rocks
- Bramble Bush Bay – A more secluded beach just a short walk from Ferry Road, home to photo-worthy houseboats and with views across to Brownsea Island
- Shell Bay Restaurant & Bistro – Specialising in seafood, Shell Bay is uniquely situated, overlooking Poole Harbour across to Brownsea Island
- The Pig on the Beach – Overlooking Studland Bay toward Old Harry Rocks, The Pig on the Beach is a special place to stay or to dine, with its seasonal menu sourced largely from its own kitchen garden
- Shell Bay Marine and Sailing School – A family-run boat yard and sailing school in Studland offering mooring, boat hire and sailing tuition
- Studland Trekking Centre – The stables offers a variety of rides from heathland, woodland and beach rides
- Knoll Beach – This popular sandy stretch is one of Studland’s most famous beaches and draws many thousands of visitors in the summer months. Backed by sand dunes, woodland and heathland, there is also a National Trust café, shop and toilet facilities
