The Chebeague Island Ferry is the primary passenger ferry connecting Chebeague Island to the mainland of Maine. Operated by the Chebeague Transportation Company, this year-round ferry service makes island living accessible and helps tourists explore a unique slice of Casco Bay. While the ferry primarily carries walk-on passengers, it can also transport bicycles, making it ideal for day trips, weekend visits, or island commutes.
Possible Routes
As of summer 2025, travelers can rely on this main ferry route:
- Operator: Chebeague Transportation Company (CTC)
- Departure Port: Cousins Island Wharf, Yarmouth, Maine
- Arrival Port: Chebeague Island Wharf, Chebeague Island, Maine
This direct route typically takes about 15 minutes and runs multiple times daily throughout the year.
Ferry Schedule
Below is the updated Chebeague Island Ferry schedule (summer 2025). Schedules may shift slightly in winter or during holidays:
Day | Depart Cousins Island | Return from Chebeague Island |
---|---|---|
Monday–Thursday | 6:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:30 PM | 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:30 PM, 9:00 PM |
Friday | Same as above + 10:00 PM sailing | Same as above + 10:30 PM sailing |
Saturday | 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:30 PM, 8:00 PM, 10:00 PM | 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:30 PM, 10:30 PM |
Sunday | 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:30 PM | 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:30 PM, 8:00 PM |
Ferry schedules are subject to seasonal and weather-related changes. Please confirm the latest timings before your trip.
Ticket Prices
Here are the current ticket prices for the Chebeague Island Ferry (2025 rates):
Category | One-Way | Round-Trip |
---|---|---|
Adult (12–64 yrs) | $7 | $14 |
Child (6–11 yrs) | $4 | $8 |
Senior (65+) | $4 | $8 |
Infant (under 6 yrs) | Free | Free |
Bicycle | $4 | $8 |
Car / Motorcycle | Not available | Not available |
Infants under six travel free when accompanied by an adult.
Ticket prices may vary depending on the season or special events. Please check with the operator for the latest fares.
How to Buy Tickets
Travelers can buy tickets easily:
- At the wharf: Pay directly at the Cousins Island or Chebeague Island ticket counters.
- Online: Reserve tickets in advance through the ferry operator’s reservation system, helpful for busy weekends.
- By phone: Call ahead for group reservations or special accommodations.
Because the ferry does not carry cars, there’s a separate parking lot on Route One in Cumberland, with a shuttle connecting to the Cousins Island Wharf.
Travel Tips
- Arrive early: Aim to check in 15–20 minutes before departure; shuttle riders should add extra time.
- Best times: Mid-mornings or weekday afternoons tend to be less crowded.
- Parking: Park at the Route One lot; the free shuttle will bring you to the ferry dock.
- Bicycles: Allowed for an extra fee; walk-on only—cars and motorcycles aren’t permitted.
- Weather: Check daily ferry alerts, especially during winter or storms.
Onboard Experience
The ferry ride is short (around 15 minutes), but passengers enjoy enclosed seating areas, outdoor decks for views of Casco Bay, and restrooms onboard. There is no food service or Wi-Fi, but the scenery itself becomes the highlight.
Nearby Attractions
Near Cousins Island Wharf (departure port):
- Sandy Point Beach
- Royal River Park in Yarmouth
- Shops and cafés in historic Yarmouth Village
On Chebeague Island:
- Chebeague Island Inn and golf course
- Hamilton Beach and Deer Point
- Walking trails, tidal flats, and local lobster shacks
- Island history museum and seasonal events
These make the ferry more than transportation—it’s the start of an island adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always, but reservations are helpful during weekends or holidays.
The crossing usually takes about 15 minutes.
No, the Chebeague Island Ferry does not carry cars or motorcycles.
Yes, pets are welcome if leashed or in carriers.
Yes, though schedules change slightly in winter.
Park at the Route One lot in Cumberland and take the shuttle to the wharf.
Yes, discounted fares apply for seniors aged 65+ and children aged 6–11.
Yes, bicycles are allowed for an additional fee.
Ferries may delay or cancel sailings for safety; always check for updates.