Brownsea Island Ferries
Brownsea Island Ferries
4.5
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- The_Concierge_8Trinidad and Tobago3,710 contributionsVery efficient and smooth crossing to Brownsea island. Pay on the island system.We found it odd that we had to pay for the ferry when we arrived on the island but it actually makes sense as once you're on the island there isn't any other way to get back. They could make the experience more seamless by just selling tickets in advance on the harbour but I understand the chaos it would create if folks pre-buy tickets and then don't utilise it or ask for refunds or have to change their dates / times and perhaps can't get over if the boat is full. The folks know what they are doing. Smooth sailing and we felt safe in their hands. Best seat is at the back once everyone is on board. Less windy than sitting upstairs and close to the bathrooms. The crossing only takes 20 minutes.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten April 26, 2024
- RDWWorthing, United Kingdom132 contributionsCruise around Poole with Friends.Very enjoyable trip to Brownsea Island and walking around the nature reserve. There was certainly plenty of wildlife and we even say a red squirrel. Lots of volunteers to give info. Great dayout.Visited May 2024Traveled with friendsWritten May 15, 2024
- starymandaMytchett, United Kingdom22 contributionsFantastic valueFantastic firework cruise The guy announcing I think he said his name was Stuart however there were some very loud 14-15 year olds on board who did keep drowning out the announcements what I did hear was engaging, informative & funny/cheesy! I had a fantastic view of the fireworks and just £12 bargainVisited August 2024Traveled soloWritten August 1, 2024
- Vacation08087132117London, United Kingdom10 contributionsLovely little boat/ferry service to a beautiful natural islandLovely ferry/boat service we took from Sandbanks (you can also take a larger one from Poole harbour) The boat we took was very small and cute and accommodated about 20 people maximum (estimated guess) The journey to the beautiful island (where I saw a red squirrel for the first time ever!) was very quick (approx. 5-10 minutes) and the staff were all very friendly and great.Visited August 2024Traveled with familyWritten August 21, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Jennie B
Henfield, UK18 contributions
Aug 2020
We went on the Jurassic coast trip. We were sat inside as all the seats outside were taken.
We didn’t see any kind of sanitation done to the tables and chairs between trips, people were crowding In the downstairs enclosed area once they got cold upstairs. Kids running around screaming whilst their parents drank beer you could buy on the boat Cash only!
As we were inside we wore masks, we were the only ones. Some chairs had tape on to say you couldn’t sit there to socially distance, that was ignored. We were stuck in this situation for 2 hours with a chap opposite us continually coughing. It’s the first time since the whole pandemic started that I didn’t feel safe
We didn’t see any kind of sanitation done to the tables and chairs between trips, people were crowding In the downstairs enclosed area once they got cold upstairs. Kids running around screaming whilst their parents drank beer you could buy on the boat Cash only!
As we were inside we wore masks, we were the only ones. Some chairs had tape on to say you couldn’t sit there to socially distance, that was ignored. We were stuck in this situation for 2 hours with a chap opposite us continually coughing. It’s the first time since the whole pandemic started that I didn’t feel safe
Written August 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nicholas C
1 contribution
Jun 2021 • Couples
My partner and I had a great day on Brownsea Island yesterday but the visit was marred by such poor customer service by a representative of the ferry company that I feel compelled to write of it.
I had pre-booked online the National Trust tickets and went to the ferry kiosk at 09:15 to purchase the ferry tickets. Both the company website and the sign on the kiosk said they accepted cards but the man insisted on cash. I pointed out that insisting on cash went against covid advice but he was unmoved.
I asked where the nearest cash machine was and he pointed the way. I told him I had already booked two tickets for the 11:30. How much did I need to pay? He said £12.50. I returned with the cash, at which point he said it was £12.50 each! I expressed my frustration at having to go to the ATM again. And when I returned, he refused to serve me unless I apologised for venting my frustration. He had a threatening manner, having come out of his kiosk.
I was dumbfounded at this attitude and meekly acceded to his request of 'no apology, no visit'. I would there and then have told him I would not go but for the fact that my partner (who was not present) had never been to the island before.
I was shocked at the attitude of this man. His actions went against every rule in the book of customer service, but since they seem to have a monopoly on the ferry service to Brownsea Island I guess they can treat customers as they like. But I never did get an answer as to why we all must pay cash instead of card in these times of covid, so I can only speculate.
But, despite the other tours offered by this company looking interesting, there is no way that I would ever approach that kiosk again.
I had pre-booked online the National Trust tickets and went to the ferry kiosk at 09:15 to purchase the ferry tickets. Both the company website and the sign on the kiosk said they accepted cards but the man insisted on cash. I pointed out that insisting on cash went against covid advice but he was unmoved.
I asked where the nearest cash machine was and he pointed the way. I told him I had already booked two tickets for the 11:30. How much did I need to pay? He said £12.50. I returned with the cash, at which point he said it was £12.50 each! I expressed my frustration at having to go to the ATM again. And when I returned, he refused to serve me unless I apologised for venting my frustration. He had a threatening manner, having come out of his kiosk.
I was dumbfounded at this attitude and meekly acceded to his request of 'no apology, no visit'. I would there and then have told him I would not go but for the fact that my partner (who was not present) had never been to the island before.
I was shocked at the attitude of this man. His actions went against every rule in the book of customer service, but since they seem to have a monopoly on the ferry service to Brownsea Island I guess they can treat customers as they like. But I never did get an answer as to why we all must pay cash instead of card in these times of covid, so I can only speculate.
But, despite the other tours offered by this company looking interesting, there is no way that I would ever approach that kiosk again.
Written June 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
D R
51 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
Took family from away for a visit to Brownsea Island and told them they’d get a great boat ride full of info. The ferry to Brownsea no longer includes any commentary about the harbour and no longer includes the trip around the back of the islands ( despite the tide being high). No reduction in cost, just a reduction in service. Seems the ferry service or national trust are just taking same money for less. Disappointing. The yellow ferries seem to have the monopoly here as the orange ferries no longer run to Brownsea. It’s now just a taxi service at a high price.
Written August 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rob
Bournemouth, UK23 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
Prior to travel, we checked their website which categorically stated that their Wareham River Cruise was operating on the 7th August.
Upon arrival, I spoke to a member of staff who was involved with loading one of the companies boats. He stated that the Wareham River Trip was not running at all this year. When I queried the details on the website, his response was "that's old news, it's not my website and nothing to do with me".
Upon speaking to another lady in their kiosk, she thrust a leaflet at me suggesting I phone the number on the leaflet to point out the error on the website. It was only after I challenged her that, as the face-to-face representative of the company, surely she should escalate the matter, as customers like me would have wasted journeys based on the inaccurate website. Begrudgingly, she agreed.
Totally unacceptable customer service. I strongly advise using this company's competitors.
Upon arrival, I spoke to a member of staff who was involved with loading one of the companies boats. He stated that the Wareham River Trip was not running at all this year. When I queried the details on the website, his response was "that's old news, it's not my website and nothing to do with me".
Upon speaking to another lady in their kiosk, she thrust a leaflet at me suggesting I phone the number on the leaflet to point out the error on the website. It was only after I challenged her that, as the face-to-face representative of the company, surely she should escalate the matter, as customers like me would have wasted journeys based on the inaccurate website. Begrudgingly, she agreed.
Totally unacceptable customer service. I strongly advise using this company's competitors.
Written August 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
D R
51 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
I reported some time ago that the ferries had changed and no longer did a tour of Poole Harbour when returning from a visit to Brownsea Island which was disappointing as added value to the day.
When visiting again today, not only had prices increased but the procedure changed.
Rather than arriving on Poole Quay earlier and paying for tickets to avoid the rush, everyone was piled onto the ferry to all be joining a long queue to pay despite being national trust members.
Previously we would be on Poole Quay and avoid queues on the Island.
Please revert back to paying on the quay and adding the little harbour tour back.
When visiting again today, not only had prices increased but the procedure changed.
Rather than arriving on Poole Quay earlier and paying for tickets to avoid the rush, everyone was piled onto the ferry to all be joining a long queue to pay despite being national trust members.
Previously we would be on Poole Quay and avoid queues on the Island.
Please revert back to paying on the quay and adding the little harbour tour back.
Written October 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gemma a
Bradford, UK198 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
We got on a cruise which ended up being almost 2 hours long, past sandbanks, out too Harry's rocks and even around some of the islands. Amazing to say it was only £10 per adult! We have traveled from Yorkshire and boat trips up there are way more expensive which we where suprised about. During the journey they gave us plenty of information regarding the surrounding area too. We took our dog on board and even she came on for free which was a added bonus. Thankyou
Written June 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The_Concierge_8
Trinidad and Tobago3,710 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
We found it odd that we had to pay for the ferry when we arrived on the island but it actually makes sense as once you're on the island there isn't any other way to get back. They could make the experience more seamless by just selling tickets in advance on the harbour but I understand the chaos it would create if folks pre-buy tickets and then don't utilise it or ask for refunds or have to change their dates / times and perhaps can't get over if the boat is full.
The folks know what they are doing.
Smooth sailing and we felt safe in their hands. Best seat is at the back once everyone is on board. Less windy than sitting upstairs and close to the bathrooms.
The crossing only takes 20 minutes.
The folks know what they are doing.
Smooth sailing and we felt safe in their hands. Best seat is at the back once everyone is on board. Less windy than sitting upstairs and close to the bathrooms.
The crossing only takes 20 minutes.
Written April 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
starymanda
Mytchett, UK22 contributions
Aug 2024 • Solo
Fantastic firework cruise
The guy announcing I think he said his name was Stuart however there were some very loud 14-15 year olds on board who did keep drowning out the announcements what I did hear was engaging, informative & funny/cheesy!
I had a fantastic view of the fireworks and just £12 bargain
The guy announcing I think he said his name was Stuart however there were some very loud 14-15 year olds on board who did keep drowning out the announcements what I did hear was engaging, informative & funny/cheesy!
I had a fantastic view of the fireworks and just £12 bargain
Written August 1, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rossatron68
Birmingham, UK46 contributions
May 2021
First of all Brownsea island is a great day out usually, i have seen the Red Squirrels there multiple times.
However in covid times you now have to pre-book the day before. So if planning a trip check the weather forecast the day before and pre-book your ticket online the day before.
The weather was nice so we just turned up at Poole Quay (it only runs from Poole at the moment) but we were told we would not be able to get on the ferry as we had not booked the day before. I guess they are taking less people per trip to make sure most people are seated on the upper deck outside.
However in covid times you now have to pre-book the day before. So if planning a trip check the weather forecast the day before and pre-book your ticket online the day before.
The weather was nice so we just turned up at Poole Quay (it only runs from Poole at the moment) but we were told we would not be able to get on the ferry as we had not booked the day before. I guess they are taking less people per trip to make sure most people are seated on the upper deck outside.
Written May 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scott-Blake Travels
Poole, UK269 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
We haven’t been to Brownsea island in years. It’s just on our doorstep and it doesn’t go a day or two without seeing it just across the water. I find the the cost to get there by boat and the admission onto the island is really expensive especially if you are paying for a family but likely we had the chance to visit with our little boys squirrels group.
It’s such a wonderful place. Peaceful, full of wildlife and lots to do. We were lucky enough to see some red squirrels 🐿️ too.
There is a nice little scout shop, refreshments and ice cream hut in the middle of the island where there scout camp is which is good when it’s a hot day and there is a lot of walking to do. Just down one of the paths from there is a children’s play area where they can climbs, make shelters and areas to have a picnic 🧺
It’s a real shame they no longer have a National Trust shop there now. There use to be one at the quay side as you went in as we love to have a look around and buy a few things to remind us of our visit.
It’s such a wonderful place. Peaceful, full of wildlife and lots to do. We were lucky enough to see some red squirrels 🐿️ too.
There is a nice little scout shop, refreshments and ice cream hut in the middle of the island where there scout camp is which is good when it’s a hot day and there is a lot of walking to do. Just down one of the paths from there is a children’s play area where they can climbs, make shelters and areas to have a picnic 🧺
It’s a real shame they no longer have a National Trust shop there now. There use to be one at the quay side as you went in as we love to have a look around and buy a few things to remind us of our visit.
Written September 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Does anyone know what time the return ferry is?
Written July 25, 2021
Hi, I want to use the ferry from Poole Port, but not taking the car with me. Is Quay Visitors Car Park the best option for 4 nights, or is there another? How much would it be? (Looking for cheapest and safest option if possible)
Written March 22, 2020
Is there a ferry from Poole to Sandbanks beach?
Written August 14, 2019
Poole / Studland ferry service has been suspended because of mechanical issues. I'm not sure when it will resume.David
Brownsea Island ferry is buggy / pushchair accessible with care on the gangplank.
Written August 26, 2019
Can you take pushchair on the ferry we are hoping to bring our five months old?
Written July 10, 2019
I’m sure I saw pushchairs on board. There were certainly plenty being pushed round the Island and I presume they didn’t have to carry the babies on board. There were staff to help people over the gang plank, which, depending on the tide, can be a bit steep.
Written July 11, 2019
Can I park my motorhome at Poole Quay? Would like to take the kids over to Brownsea on the ferry? TIA.
Written May 2, 2019
I shall be driving my 4 year old grandson and family to see Brownsea Island tomorrow from Shaftesbury.
Please tell me the quickest way to get to Brownsea: it starts raining again mid afternoon! We will be leaving Shaftesbury at around 10.30am
Thank you
Written April 2, 2019
From Shaftesbury take A350 towards Blandford Forum. Continue on A350 towards Poole and Bournemouth and you will pick up signs. There are a few car parks set back from the ferry quay. Have a lovely trip!
Written April 2, 2019
Is there a reasonably priced car park where I’ll be able to leave my car for the weekend that’s also close to the quay at Poole? Thanks 😀
Written January 27, 2019
Hi is there somewhere to lock a bike near the Brownsea Island ferry?
Written July 24, 2018
I did see several bikes locked on the rails just before the dock to the ferry.
Written August 6, 2018
Please tell me it is not £10.75 each way?!
Written September 24, 2017
Cheaper ferry is from Sandbanks as it is a shorter crossing (£6.50 as I recall) Free access to island if you are a NT member.
Written September 28, 2017
Hi we are NT members and would like to visit Brownsea Island. But where is best to catch the ferry Poole or sandbanks? Are the costings different ie carparks and ferry prices ? Please
Written May 29, 2017
As a NT member I would strongly recommend that you go from Sandbanks. Drive to South Haven Point (OS Map OL15 Ref:036867) via Wareham and Corfe then take the B3351. There is a NT car park at South Haven Point where you can park for free. Get the chain ferry (£1 ?) across to Sandbanks. At Sandbanks the Brownsea Island ferry departure point is less than 50 metres away from the chain ferry. I seem to recall that the Brownsea ferry prices from Sandbank were £6.50 and from Poole £10.50 So free parking and cheaper ferry with the added bonus of avoiding the 'hassle' that is Poole. Hope this is useful - enjoy your day.
Written May 30, 2017
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