Sen. Lesser Celebrates Opening Day of Rocky Hill Ferry

State Senator Matt Lesser celebrates the seasonal re-opening of the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry on Friday, April 26 at 7 a.m.

“The Rocky Hill Ferry is a beloved service for residents of our district and those across Connecticut,” said State Sen. Matt Lesser. “The opening day of the Ferry is a sign that winter is coming to an end and warmer months are ahead. Constituents have been eagerly awaiting the seasonal reopening and I am thrilled that water levels have now returned to a safe operating level. Here’s to another summer on the Connecticut River!”

Both the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury and the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry services were delayed from an anticipated April 1 start due to high water levels on the Connecticut River. The services run daily through November 30. The two historic ferries across the Connecticut River are some of the most unique modes of transportation in the country, where pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles are all welcome.

The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry is the oldest continuously operating ferry in America, which began service in 1655. At one time, two horses on treadmills supplied the power to propel the vessel across the river. In 1876, the ferry was modernized to steam driven crafts. Today’s craft is a three-car barge named the Hollister III that is towed back and forth by the Cumberland, a diesel-powered tug boat.

Both ferries operate on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and on weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Weather conditions, water levels, or mechanical issues may impact ferry operations, with any closures and delays shared online. Members of the public are encouraged to sign up for alerts on the real-time travel and traffic information website CTroads.com.

For additional information on the ferries, including fares, schedules, and complete history, please visit CT.gov/DOT/CTferries.