Torpoint ferry

The Torpoint ferry forms a vital transport link across the Tamar (known at this location as the Hamoaze) between the town of Torpoint in Cornwall, and the city of Plymouth in Devon. The crossing is owned by two local authorities, Cornwall County Council and Plymouth City Council, and its operation is governed by the Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry Joint Committee, constituted by elected councillors from the two authorities.

The ferry is operated in conjunction with the Tamar Bridge as a single business unit under powers derived from primary legislation - the Tamar Bridge Acts, and operation, maintenance and improvement of both crossings is funded solely from combined toll income.

Three new ferries have been introduced to the service at a cost of £15 million. Each new ferry has a capacity of 73 cars, some 50% greater than the three former ferries which had been in operation since the 1960's. The new ferries can also carry lorries of up to 44 tonnes.

In conjunction with the transition to new ferries, long overdue major refurbishment work to the ferry slipways at both Devonport and Torpoint has been undertaken. The works, which were designed, managed and supervised by Plymouth City Council with assistance from specialist marine consultant Beckett Rankine Partnership were completed in January 2006 at an approximate cost of £3 million.

Since the introduction of the three new ferries, the timetable below has been in operation:

Weekday schedule

• 10 minute departures 6.30am to 9.30am and 2pm to 6.30pm (three ferry service)
• 15 minute departures 9.30am to 2pm and 6.30pm to 9.30pm (two ferry service)
• Half hour departures 9.30pm to 6.30am (single ferry service)

Saturday schedule

• 10 minute departures 9.30am to 5.30pm (three ferry service)
• 15 minute departures 6.30am to 9.30am and 5.30pm to 9.30pm (two ferry service)
• Half hour service 9.30pm to 6.30am (single ferry service)

Sunday schedule

• 15 minute departures 6.30am to 9.30pm (two ferry service)
• Half hour departures 9.30pm to 6.30am (single ferry service

Drivers of abnormal vehicles or coaches with extensive rear overhang should contact the ferry office in advance. Telephone 01752 812233 daytime and 01752 361577 at night.

Vouchers are available on board the ferries and at the ferry office at Torpoint.