Ferry Ride
The Keyhaven to Hurst Castle Ferry
Embarking on the scenic ferry ride from Keyhaven to Hurst Castle offers visitors a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. This short journey (approximately 20 minutes) is not just a means of transportation but also a fantastic part of the overall Hurst Castle experience.
The Hurst Castle ferry experience
Departing from Keyhaven, the Hurst Castle ferry meanders along the tranquil Keyhaven River. As you glide through these calm waters, you’ll be treated to picturesque views of the surrounding saltmarshes and the distant silhouette of Hurst Castle. The journey is slow within these protected waters and the refreshing sea breeze creates a serene atmosphere, making the trip enjoyable for all ages.
Our skippers are both friendly and knowledgeable and would be happy to provide information on the area or answer any questions. They are also able to assist visitors on and off the ferry with a helping hand or to assist with bags or prams/wheelchairs. For further information on accessibility on our ferries please visit our page ACCESSIBILITY
Visitors of all ages enjoy the boat ride, and dogs are also welcome aboard the ferries. For more information on visiting Hurst Castle with your dog, please visit our page DOG FRIENDLY
Wildlife and scenic views
The Keyhaven River and the adjacent Keyhaven marshes are part of what is known as the Keyhaven Nature Reserve and are teeming with wildlife. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting a variety of waders, wildfowl, and other bird species that inhabit this rich ecosystem.
The saltmarshes support an internationally significant feeding population of dark-bellied Brent geese. The ferry ride provides a unique vantage point to observe these creatures in their natural habitat. Other important birds include breeding colonies of terns (often on the shingle islands), ringed plover, black headed gulls and mediterranean gulls.
Added to this, the saltmarshes support a number of rare species of insect.
You may also be lucky to spot a seal as we do have a few who frequent the Keyhaven River – our skippers will be happy to point them out on your journey if they are around.
For more information on the Kehaven Nature Reserve please visit Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.
The Hurst Castle ferry schedule
Ferries depart daily from Keyhaven to Hurst Castle during our open season, with the first ferry leaving at 10am, then approximately every 20-30 minutes. To see the current ferry schedule please visit our page, GETTING HERE
Parking is available at Keyhaven pay & display car park (sat nav: SO41 0TP). Please note, ferry timetables may vary due to weather and tide conditions.
To find out more about getting to Hurst Castle, please visit our page getting here
