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About
Ferry trips
Brightlingsea Harbour is just 10 miles from the City of Colchester or Clacton on Sea. From April to September the Harbour operates a daily foot ferry service taking you across the river Colne to Mersea Island and Point Clear just waiting to be explored.
Brightlingsea, an historic Cinque Port rich in heritage. As well as the cultural aspect, Brightlingsea is an exciting, fun place to explore no matter what your age is; whether it be an afternoon crabbing, a day at our very own Lido, a ramble along the beach taking in the stunning views or simply a nice lunch in one of our many delightful eateries. Our Harbour ferry provides not only a means of crossing the creek but opens up opportunities to explore the local area and attractions. Use of the ferry greatly reduces road miles – typically a round trip by road between Brightlingsea and St Osyth is 20 miles but takes just 3 minutes on the ferry. The round trip by road to East Mersea is 40 miles, but only takes approximately 9 minutes by ferry
For cyclists and walkers too, using our ferry could provide an alternative route to Harwich, Clacton, and the City of Colchester.
Book your ferry tickets online www.brightlingseaharbour.org
Ferry trip Brightlingsea to East Mersea & Beyond
Leaving Brightlingsea Habour our ferry drops you off at the edge of Cudmore Grove County Park. East Mersea. Explore the park on foot or why not take your bike on the ferry so you can explore the rest of the island itself and admire the coastline. Cudmore Grove Country Park has an excellent coastal themed play area which will keep the younger visitors entertained for hours, or maybe take a walk along the numerous zig zagging paths across the park. Alternatively, if you would like to go further afield why not enjoy the various pubs, café and eateries such as Mersea Barns, Dog & Pheasant or locally brewed beer at Mersea Island Vineyard.
Ferry trip Brightlingsea to Point Clear (St Osyth
Hop on our ferry to Point Clear and enjoy a 2km half hour ramble along the St Osyth Sea wall or the St Osyth/Point Clear Coastal 6km walk. Either one should be finished with a drink at the Ferryboat Inn or café on Point Clear, before returning to Brightlingsea. We have some maps in the Harbour office if you would like some ideas for a nice scenic stroll.
Pub Lunch River Cruise to Wivenhoe
A lovely day out for couples/families/groups etc.
Enjoy the stunning panoramic scenery along the River Colne to the picturesque riverside village of Wivenhoe on Colne Innovation our electric boat.
The trip from Brightlingsea to Wivenhoe takes 1 hour then spend 2 hours at Wivenhoe enjoying lunch and some time to explore before returning to Brightlingsea.
With its narrow streets and quaint buildings, Wivenhoe makes a great day out. It has been home to many famous people including Joan Hickson who played Miss Marple. Numerous artists and journalists have and do live here, giving the town its flamboyant, artistic atmosphere. Right on the banks of the river Colne, the town's history centres on fishing, ship building and smuggling.
Included in the price is a delicious main meal at the renowned Black Buoy Inn which is steeped in maritime history.
The pub is 300 years old and is Rural Pub Of The Year five years running and in 2020 Colchester & North East Essex Camra Pub Of The Year. www.blackbuoy.co.uk
Ferry Charter
Chartering our ferry is another way to explore the River Colne or can be a treat to a loved one for a special occasion, so let us create the perfect trip for you, your family and friends. We can take your party to Wivenhoe, Rowhedge, Hythe Quay or just spend time enjoying the coastline and wildlife.
Harbour Tour
If you are short for time and you want to take a closer look at the yachts and power boats moored within our harbour why not take advantage and book a harbour tour. The ferry takes you around Cindery island which is a salt marsh and is home to many local birds and wildlife, you may even be lucky enough to spot our residential seal or If tides are right you could even pass one or our frequent commercial cargo ships.
Brightlingsea Harbour accepts credit cards (no fee). Other amenities are available in Brightlingsea and the harbour office can pass on details.
Book Tickets
Guide Prices
Ticket Type | /Ticket Tariff |
---|---|
Ticket | Free |
Brightlingsea to Point Clear one way Adult £3.00 Child under 16 £2.00 Child under 1 Free Bikes £1.50 Dogs Free
Brightlingsea / Point Clear to East Mersea one way Adult £4.50 Child under 16 £3.50 Child under 1 Free Bikes £2.50 Dogs Free
Harbour Tours £7.50 per person
Brightlingsea to Wivenhoe Pub Lunch River Cruise to be confirmed.
Map & Directions
Road Directions
By car: From Thorrington Cross take the B1029 to the Harbour Office. Brightlingsea Harbour is 11 miles from Colchester and 12 miles from Clacton on Sea and 15 miles from the A12, Exit 28
Public Transport Directions
Accessible by Public Transport: Alresford station is 4.4 miles away.
First Group Bus Service 62 from Colchester via Wivenhoe