Ferry Rules
The Galveston-Port Bolivar Ferry offers a unique and scenic transportation experience between Galveston Island and the Bolivar Peninsula. To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for all passengers, it’s important to be aware of the ferry’s rules, procedures, and attractions.
General Rules and Precautions
Pet Policy: Pets and animals, other than service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must remain inside the owner’s vehicle.
Vehicle Specifications: Vehicles boarding the ferry must not exceed 80,000 pounds in weight, 65 feet in length, 13.5 feet in height, and 8.5 feet in width.
Engine and Parking: Once parked on the ferry, drivers are required to turn off their engines and set the parking brake.
Passenger Conduct: Passengers should remain in their vehicles until the ferry has departed. Walking in front of or behind parked vehicles while the ferry is approaching or entering the landing is prohibited.
Smoking Policy: Smoking, including the use of vapor and e-cigarettes, is not allowed anywhere on the ferry, including inside vehicles.
Medical Priority Boarding
The ferry system offers medical priority boarding for individuals with specific medical conditions requiring immediate attention. To qualify, passengers must present a valid medical priority boarding pass issued by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Applications for these passes can be obtained by contacting the ferry operations office.
Onboard Experience
While aboard the ferry, passengers can enjoy several activities:
Feeding Seagulls: Passengers are permitted to feed seagulls from the rear of the ferry only. This practice offers an up-close experience with the birds and is a popular activity among travelers.
Wildlife Observation: The ferry ride provides opportunities to spot marine life, including dolphins and various seabirds. Keeping a camera or binoculars handy can enhance this experience.
Scenic Views: The journey offers panoramic views of Galveston Bay, passing by landmarks such as Seawolf Park and the Bolivar Lighthouse. These sights make the trip both enjoyable and picturesque.
Vehicle and Passenger Expectations
Boarding Process: Vehicles are loaded onto the ferry on a first-come, first-served basis. During peak times, such as holidays and weekends, wait times can exceed two hours. It’s advisable to plan accordingly and check for real-time updates on ferry operations.
Safety Measures: Passengers should adhere to all safety instructions provided by the ferry crew. This includes remaining seated or in designated areas during the crossing and refraining from leaning over rails.
Amenities: Restrooms are available on the upper deck of all ferry vessels, as well as at the vehicle staging areas on both the Galveston and Port Bolivar sides. An additional wheelchair-accessible bathroom is located on the Bolivar end of the main car deck.
Additional Considerations
Hazardous Materials: The transportation of hazardous materials, including portable gas cans, is forbidden, with the exception of propane tanks attached to recreational vehicles as integral equipment and two extra federally approved gas tanks in trailered boats.
Littering: Dumping trash on the ferry deck or into the water is prohibited by law. Passengers are encouraged to use designated trash receptacles to maintain cleanliness and protect the marine environment.
By following these guidelines and being mindful of fellow passengers, everyone can enjoy a safe and pleasant journey across Galveston Bay on the Galveston-Port Bolivar Ferry.
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