London
2 Best Ferry Operators in London
The listed ferry services are concentrated on Woolwich crossings of the Thames and serve both transport and leisure purposes. Compare them by the travellers and vehicles they carry, the route they replace and the time you can allow for queues.
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We built this page around someone in London who needs ferry operators today: a specialist who knows the work, customers who would recommend them, a phone number or website that works and an address nearby.
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2 Ferry Operators in London Compared
Woolwich Ferry
Woolwich Ferry provides a river crossing between north and south London across the Thames. It suits pedestrians and drivers looking for a practical alternative route, while also offering a brief river experience for leisure travellers. Clear terminal directions, organised boarding and welcoming staff contribute to a straightforward crossing.
Stands out: The crossing can provide a useful time-saving alternative
Crossing the Thames between north and south LondonDrivers seeking a practical alternative river routeNew Ferry Approach, London SE18 6DX, United KingdomWoolwich North Terminal
Woolwich North Terminal operates a free ferry service across the Thames, carrying pedestrians, bikes, cars and lorries. It suits travellers crossing between south-east and east London who are not in a rush, offering river views and a route that can avoid the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels. Separate areas for pedestrians and vehicles make the crossing practical for different travellers.
Stands out: Carries pedestrians, bikes, cars and lorries
Free Thames crossings on foot, by bike or by vehicleTravellers seeking an alternative to the Blackwall or Silvertown tunnelsThe Greyhound, River Thames, 4 Pier Rd, London SE18 5QE, United Kingdom
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What these London ferry services provide
- Thames crossing for pedestrians and driversWoolwich Ferry serves people travelling between north and south London, including pedestrians and drivers.
- Free crossing for varied vehiclesWoolwich North Terminal is described as carrying pedestrians, bikes, cars and lorries on a free ferry service.
- Alternative to tunnel routesWoolwich North Terminal can suit travellers seeking an alternative to the Blackwall or Silvertown tunnels.
- Organised terminal experienceClear terminal directions, organised boarding and welcoming staff are noted for Woolwich Ferry.
- Short river experienceBoth services can function as more than transport, offering river views and a brief experience on the Thames.
How to choose between London ferry options
- Match the crossing to your vehicleWoolwich North Terminal explicitly carries pedestrians, bikes, cars and lorries; check that the service suits how you are travelling.
- Prioritise route practicalityWoolwich Ferry is presented as a useful alternative crossing between north and south London, while the North Terminal can avoid specified tunnels.
- Allow time for queuesWaiting may vary by time of day at Woolwich Ferry, and lengthy afternoon queues are noted for Woolwich North Terminal.
- Decide whether speed is essentialThe North Terminal suits travellers who are not in a rush; build in extra time if your journey has a firm arrival deadline.
- Use the crossing as part of the tripIf river views or a short Thames experience matter, either option may add an experiential element to a practical journey.
Frequently asked questions
Which London ferry carries lorries?
Woolwich North Terminal is described as carrying pedestrians, bikes, cars and lorries.
Can these ferries replace a tunnel route?
Woolwich North Terminal is presented as an alternative to the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels.
Is the Woolwich North Terminal ferry free?
Yes. The supplied description calls it a free ferry service across the Thames.
Should I allow extra time for a London ferry?
Yes. Waiting can depend on the time of day and whether two ferries are running at Woolwich Ferry, while lengthy queues are noted particularly in the afternoon at Woolwich North Terminal.
