ferryman

A ferryman is a person who transports passengers and goods across a river, lake, or coastal inlet by boat, typically for a fee. Historically, ferrymen operated crossings where no bridge existed and were often independent tradespeople or part of a town's public transport system. Boats ranged from small rowing boats to larger vessels; some ferries were rope-drawn or cable-assisted. In many regions tolls or licenses regulated service, and ferrymen sometimes provided additional help such as guiding travelers, loading cargo, or assisting with horses and carts.

In classical mythology, Charon is the boatman who ferries souls of the dead across the Styx to the underworld, usually for payment with an obol. This mythic role has influenced later literature and art as a symbol of transition between life and death.

Today, ferries are typically organized as public transportation services or private operations. Modern ferries are powered by engines and may use fixed ramps, floating docks, or cable systems for alignment. The term ferryman remains mainly historical or literary, while the job is now performed by professional ferry operators, including large passenger ferries and small water taxis.