ferry

A ferry is a vessel designed to carry both people and vehicles across a body of water on a regular, published route. Ferries may operate between fixed points across rivers, seas, and coastal waterways and can serve as part of public transportation networks or as tourism services.

Ferry services are typically scheduled, with timetables specifying departures, crossing times, and fares. Vessels range from small shuttle boats to large Ro-Pax ships capable of carrying hundreds of vehicles and thousands of passengers. Loading and unloading occur at terminals with ramps, piers, or slipways.

Historically, ferries have existed since ancient times, including rope or chain ferries on rivers. The introduction of steam propulsion in the 19th century expanded routes, and modern ferries use diesel-electric propulsion, gas turbines, or electric power, with roll-on/roll-off designs for vehicles and high-speed catamarans for rapid service.

Types include passenger ferries, vehicle ferries (Ro-Pax), roll-on/roll-off ferries, and fast ferries designed for short, frequent trips; some ferries primarily serve pedestrians on short crossings.

Economic and social role: Ferries link islands and peninsulas, support commuting and tourism, and complement bridges where land-based routes are impractical.

Environmental and policy considerations include emissions, fuel efficiency, and the adoption of alternative propulsion, such as LNG, hybrid, or electric systems.