While road trips and railway journeys often top travel wish lists, the humble ferry is rarely given the same recognition. Yet, the UK is home to some of the world’s most scenic and exhilarating sea voyages, capable of transforming a simple trip into the holiday of a lifetime. From epic Atlantic crossings to short, thrilling passages, these six ferry journeys deserve a place on every traveller’s bucket list.
The quintessential ocean adventure is the three-hour trip from Penzance to the Isles of Scilly. Onboard the Scillonian, you’ll leave St Michael’s Mount behind for the open Atlantic, a prime territory for spotting dolphins, puffins, and even magnificent humpback and fin whales. It’s a magical prelude to the islands’ subtropical beauty. In contrast, the one-hour dash from Berneray to Harris offers a different kind of thrill, navigating the treacherous, rock-strewn Sound of Harris with incredible skill.
For a taste of unique engineering and history, the Glenelg to Skye ferry is unmissable. As the world’s last manually operated turntable ferry, it’s a living museum that provides a charmingly old-fashioned welcome to the island. Down in Devon, the classic tug-towed barge across the River Dart offers a short but memorable journey rooted in centuries of maritime tradition.
Completing the list are the industrial-meets-historic views of the Harwich harbour ferry and the utterly unique, barman-operated hand ferry on the River Wye. Each of these voyages offers a distinct and unforgettable experience, proving that Britain’s best adventures can often be found by taking to the water.