About

Brightlingsea Harbour is just 10 miles from the City of Colchester. From April to September the Harbour runs a daily foot ferry service taking you across the River Colne to Mersea Island and Point Clear just waiting to be explored. Alternatively, why not book a pub lunch river cruise taking you along the River Colne to the waterside village of Wivenhoe or perhaps book a harbour tour.

Brightlingsea, is an historic Cinque Port rich in heritage but also a fun and exciting place to explore no matter what your age is. Whether it be going on a harbour tour, an afternoon crabbing, a day at the Lido or visiting the interactive local museum or perhaps taking a stroll along the beach enjoying the stunning views or simply a nice lunch in one of our many delightful eateries.

Brightlingsea Harbour ferry provides not only a means of crossing the mouth of the River Colne 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.

Download the 2024 Timetable here.

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.