Taking the Rock to Padstow Ferry: Your Gateway to Adventure

There’s something magical about taking the Rock to Padstow ferry. As the Black Tor ferry glides across the calm waters of the River Camel, you’re treated to stunning views of the estuary and the bustling harbour that awaits.

In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about the River Camel ferry crossing, plus our insider tips on the best things to do when you step ashore in Padstow, one of Cornwall’s most charming fishing ports.

Rock to Padstow Ferry Times & Schedule

The Padstow ferry service has been connecting Rock and Padstow since 1337, making it one of Cornwall’s most historic crossings. Today’s modern vessels make this scenic journey across the River Camel every 20 minutes throughout the day, offering stunning views of the estuary and both charming coastal villages. Whether you’re planning a morning adventure or an evening stroll around Padstow harbour, knowing the ferry schedule helps you make the most of your visit.

Ferry Summer Timetable (Easter to October)

During the busy summer months, the ferry runs its most comprehensive service to accommodate the influx of visitors discovering our beautiful corner of Cornwall:

Daily Service: 8:00am to 7:30pm

• Departures every 20 minutes from both Rock and Padstow
• Seven days a week throughout peak season
• Extended evening hours are perfect for sunset dinners in Padstow
• The first ferry is ideal for early morning coast path walks
• The last ferry allows a full day of exploration

The summer schedule coincides perfectly with our peak wildlife watching season, when dolphins, seals and seabirds are most active along the North Cornwall coast. Many visitors combine an early ferry crossing with our morning boat trips for the ultimate maritime adventure.

Winter Timetable (November to Easter)

The ferry continues its vital service through Cornwall’s quieter months, with slightly reduced hours:

Monday to Saturday: 8:00am to 4:30/5:30pm

• Regular 20-minute service is maintained
• No service between 1:30 pm and 2:00 pm
• Important: No Sunday service from mid-November to mid-February
• Weekend service resumes in the February half-term

Winter crossings offer their own magic – crisp clear days provide spectacular visibility across the estuary, and you’ll often have the ferry almost to yourself. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric time to visit Padstow, with cosy harbour pubs and the town’s authentic fishing village character shining through.

Service Updates & Weather Conditions

While the Rock to Padstow ferry operates in most weather conditions, safety always comes first on the water – something we understand well from our own boat operations. Strong winds or rough seas occasionally affect the service, particularly during winter storms.

Checking Ferry Status:

• Visit the official Padstow Harbour Commissioners website for live updates
• Call ahead during extreme weather warnings
• Harbour staff provide updates at both boarding points

Tide Considerations: The ferry adapts brilliantly to tidal conditions. At low tide, the Rock boarding point moves to the sandy beach (about a 5-minute walk from the main slipway) – children love this beach departure! At Padstow, the ferry always arrives at the harbour slipway, though the exact landing point may vary slightly with the tide.

Rock to Padstow Ferry Cost

The ferry crossing between Rock and Padstow offers brilliant value – at just a few pounds per person, it’s not only the quickest way to travel between these two popular destinations but also the most enjoyable.  

Current Ferry Prices 2025

The Padstow to Rock ferry maintains simple, affordable pricing that hasn’t changed dramatically over the years – making it one of Cornwall’s best-value attractions:

Single Journey Fares:

• Adults: £3.00
• Children (under 16): £1.50
• Dogs: £1.00
• Bicycles: £3.00
• Children under five: free

Payment Methods (Card Only)

Here’s something essential to know before you board: the ferry operates completely cashless.

Accepted Payment Methods:

• Contactless card payment (preferred)
• Chip and PIN
• Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
• All major debit and credit cards

No Cash Accepted – This modern approach speeds up boarding and means you don’t need to worry about having the right change. The ferry crew have card readers ready as you board, making the whole process quick and efficient.  

How to Get From Rock to Padstow

The quickest and most enjoyable route from Rock to Padstow is undoubtedly the ferry – just 5-10 minutes across the River Camel compared to a 30-minute drive via Wadebridge. 

Where to Board the Ferry

Rock Departure Point: The main boarding point is at Rock slipway, right in the heart of Rock, near the shops and cafes. You can’t miss it – just follow the signs for ‘Padstow Ferry’ or head towards the water where you’ll see other passengers gathering.

Padstow Arrival: The ferry delivers you directly to Padstow harbour, steps away from the shops, restaurants and the departure point for our Sealife Safaris.   

Finding Your Way:

• Rock: Postcode PL27 6LD for Rock Quarry car park (3-minute walk to ferry)
• Padstow: Follow signs to the harbour – all roads lead there!
• Look for the blue and white ferry boats displaying “Padstow-Rock Ferry”

Tide Times & Ferry Boarding Points

The Camel Estuary’s tides add a touch of adventure to your ferry journey. Don’t worry – the ferry always runs, it just adapts to the conditions:

High Tide:

• Board from Rock slipway as normal
• Step straight onto the ferry from the slip
• Padstow boarding remains at the harbour

Low Tide:

• Rock boarding moves to the beach (5-minute walk from slipway)
• Follow other passengers across the sand
• Kids love this beach departure – it feels like a proper adventure!
• Padstow boarding point shifts slightly along the harbour

The ferry crew are brilliant at directing passengers, and there’s something rather special about boarding from the beach when the tide’s out – very Cornish!

Parking at Rock Quarry Car Park

Rock offers easy parking near the slipway, which is why many savvy visitors park here and ferry across:

Main Car Park:

• Location: Rock Quarry Car Park, PL27 6LD
• Walk to ferry: 3-5 minutes downhill
• Best time: Arrive before 10 am in summer
• Parking Cost: Around £5-7 for all day (seasonal variations)

Top tip: Even in busy August, Rock parking is far less stressful than hunting for spaces in Padstow, where parking wardens are particularly vigilant!

Ferry Accessibility Information

The ferry crew are experienced in helping passengers with mobility needs, though the tidal nature of the service means accessibility varies:

General Access:

• Large step down into the ferry (approximately 2 feet)
• Crew always available to assist with boarding
• Stable boats with indoor and outdoor seating
• Wheelchairs and walking aids travel free

Conditions to Consider:

• At low tide, Rock beach boarding requires walking on sand
• Padstow has steep streets leading from the harbour
• The Rock to Padstow ferry can be bouncy in choppy conditions
• No wheelchair lift – manual assistance only

Our Advice: If you can manage a flight of stairs with assistance, you should be fine on the Rock to Padstow ferry. The crew are wonderfully helpful – we see them assist passengers daily from our harbour base. Contact Padstow Harbour Commissioners ahead of your visit if you have specific concerns.

Top 10 Things to Do in Padstow

Once you step off the Rock to Padstow ferry onto the historic harbour, a world of adventure awaits. From thrilling sealife encounters on the open water to peaceful walks along ancient coastal paths, Padstow offers something for every visitor. Here are our favourite activities that showcase the very best of Padstow:

Wildlife Boat Trips & Sealife Safaris

We might be biased, but there’s nothing quite like heading out into the Atlantic from Padstow harbour to spot dolphins, seals, and seasonal visitors like basking sharks. Our two-hour Sealife Safari boat trips explore the dramatic coastline where marine life thrives, with regular sightings of common and bottlenose dolphins playing in the waves. The North Cornwall coast is one of the UK’s best wildlife watching destinations, and seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an experience you’ll treasure forever.

Explore Padstow Harbour

The beating heart of the town, Padstow’s working harbour, perfectly blends its fishing heritage with modern tourism. Watch colourful fishing boats unload their catch, try crabbing from the harbour walls (bait and lines available from harbourside shops), or simply grab an ice cream and people-watch from the various benches. The harbour comes alive at different times – early morning for the fishing boats, afternoons for families enjoying shops and ice creams, and evenings when the world-class foodie scene comes into its own.

Visit the National Lobster Hatchery

Just steps from where the Rock to Padstow ferry drops you, this fascinating conservation charity offers a glimpse into Cornwall’s marine life and fishing heritage. Meet resident lobsters, including Captain Barnacles (over 60 years old!), learn about sustainable fishing, and discover how they’re helping protect vulnerable lobster populations. It’s engaging for all ages and supports vital conservation work in our local waters.

Walk the South West Coast Path

The ferry actually forms part of the official South West Coast Path, and from Padstow you can enjoy spectacular walks in either direction. Head north to Stepper Point (6 miles round trip) for panoramic views over the Doom Bar and chances to spot seals below, or south towards Trevone Bay through stunning clifftop scenery. The paths are well-marked, and you’ll understand why this is considered one of Britain’s finest coastal walks.

Cycle the Camel Trail

Cornwall’s most popular cycle trail starts right here in Padstow, following the old railway line alongside the Camel Estuary. The flat, traffic-free path to Wadebridge (5.5 miles) is perfect for families, with bike hire shops near the trail offering everything from tandems to tagalongs for tiny riders. Stop at one of the riverside pubs for refreshments, or continue all the way to Bodmin for a proper adventure.  

Discover Padstow’s Beaches

While Padstow harbour gets the attention, beautiful beaches are just a short walk away. St George’s Cove (10 minutes from the harbour) offers sheltered swimming and sandcastle territory, while Hawker’s Cove appears at low tide for exploring. For proper bucket-and-spade beaches, nearby Trevone Bay and Harlyn Bay (both within 2 miles) provide classic Cornish beach experiences with rock pools, surf, and seaside cafes.

Tour Historic Prideaux Place

Overlooking Padstow from its hillside position, this magnificent Elizabethan manor has been home to the Prideaux-Brune family for over 400 years. The house showcases stunning period rooms, fascinating family history, and beautiful formal gardens, complete with a deer park. Film fans might recognise it from various productions, and the views over Padstow and the estuary from the grounds are absolutely worth the climb up Church Street.

Sample Padstow’s Food Scene

Padstow has earned its reputation as Cornwall’s food capital, with options ranging from harbour-side fish and chips to Michelin-starred dining. You’ll find exceptional seafood everywhere, traditional Cornish pasties from multiple bakeries, and proper Cornish ice cream. Don’t miss the local delicacy of Cornish crab served simply with brown bread and butter – pure heaven on a sunny harbourside bench (just watch out for the cheeky seagulls!).

Browse Independent Shops & Galleries

Padstow’s narrow streets hide an impressive collection of independent shops that make wandering the town a treasure hunt. Local artists showcase coastal-inspired paintings and ceramics, boutiques offer Cornish-designed fashion, and traditional sweet shops tempt with handmade fudge. The lack of chain stores (apart from the inevitable pasty chains) keeps Padstow’s character intact – this is shopping as it should be, personal and unique.

Enjoy Padstow’s Maritime Atmosphere

Sometimes the best activity is no activity at all. Find a harbour bench, watch the ferry shuttling back and forth to Rock, observe the fishing boats coming and going, and let Padstow’s maritime rhythm wash over you. The combination of crying gulls, lapping water, clinking boat masts, and the smell of the sea creates an atmosphere that captures Cornwall perfectly. This is what visitors have been enjoying here for generations – the simple pleasure of a proper working harbour.

Planning Your Padstow Day Trip

A little planning goes a long way when taking the Rock to Padstow ferry. From timing your crossing to avoid queues to combining activities for the perfect day out, these insider tips will help you make the most of your visit.  

Best Time to Take the Ferry

Early Morning Magic (8am-10am): The first ferries of the day are wonderfully peaceful, with calm water and shorter queues. Early arrival means easier parking at Rock, first pick of bikes at the Camel Trail hire shops, and Padstow at its most authentic before the day-trippers arrive. Plus, morning light across the estuary is absolutely stunning – perfect for photographers.

Lunchtime Considerations (12pm-2pm): Expect queues during peak summer lunchtimes as day-trippers head to Padstow for lunch. Remember there’s no winter service between 1:30pm-2pm. If you’re flexible, arriving at 11am or 2:30pm avoids the rush and still leaves plenty of time for afternoon activities.

Evening Atmosphere (5pm-7:30pm): Summer evening ferries are magical – golden light, calmer crowds, and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for sunset dinners in Padstow, though book restaurants ahead. The last ferry at 7:30pm (summer only) lets you enjoy Padstow’s evening ambience without worrying about driving.

Weekend vs Weekday: Weekdays are noticeably quieter, especially Tuesday through Thursday. If you can avoid summer Saturdays, do – though the buzz can be part of the fun!

Combining Ferry with Other Activities

The ferry opens up brilliant circular adventures that would be impossible by car:

Classic Combinations:

• Morning ferry → Sealife Safari → lunch → afternoon ferry back: Our most popular combo, giving you the full Padstow experience
• Cycle Wadebridge to Padstow → ferry to Rock → beach time → ferry back: Perfect family day mixing exercise and relaxation
• Ferry to Padstow → coast path walk to Trevone → bus back: For keen walkers wanting varied scenery

Tide-Dependent Planning: Check tide times if combining beach activities – low tide opens up rock pooling at Hawker’s Cove, while high tide is better for swimming at St George’s Cove.

Rock to Padstow Ferry with Dogs

Good news for dog owners – your four-legged friends are welcome aboard for just £1 each way! The ferry is incredibly dog-friendly, and Padstow itself loves canine visitors.

Dog-Friendly Padstow: Once ashore, Padstow is wonderfully welcoming to dogs. Most harbourside pubs allow dogs in outdoor areas, many cafes provide water bowls, and the coast path walks are doggy heaven. Note that some beaches have summer restrictions (May-September), but the coast path is always accessible. Our Sealife Safaris welcome well-behaved sea dogs too!

Taking Bikes on the Padstow Ferry

At £3 per bike, the ferry brilliantly connects the cycling opportunities on both sides of the estuary – something many visitors don’t realise is possible.

Local secret: The ferry plus bike combination opens up quiet lanes and hidden beaches that car visitors never discover – it’s the perfect way to find your own piece of Cornwall away from the crowds.

Make the Most of Your Visit

Before or after your ferry journey, take time to explore everything this beautiful corner of Cornwall has to offer. From the charming harbour at Padstow to the golden sands of Rock, there’s so much to enjoy on both sides of the estuary.  

Local Tips from Padstow Sealife Safaris

• Book your boat trip in advance: The ferry makes it easy to join us for a wildlife adventure, but spaces on our safaris can fill quickly, especially in peak season.
• Bring layers: Even on sunny days, it can feel cooler out on the water. A light jacket or windbreaker will make your trip more comfortable.
• Check the tides: The ferry timetable varies depending on the tide, so plan ahead to make the most of your time exploring.
• Look out for wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled while on the ferry – you might spot seals, seabirds, or dolphins even before your safari begins!
• Support local: Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, browsing the shops, or booking an excursion, every purchase helps sustain our local community and coastal environment. Shop local wherever you can.

With a little planning, your ferry trip between Rock and Padstow can be more than just a journey – it’s part of a truly memorable Cornish adventure. We hope you enjoy your trip to see us!

Rock to Padstow Ferry – Frequently Asked Questions