St. Mary's Ferry Schedule to Cumberland Island

Cumberland Island, Georgia · Departs St. Marys Visitor Center

Cumberland Island Ferry Schedule
Your Only Way to Access the Island

Cumberland Island is a secluded and awe-inspiring barrier island off the coast of Georgia, accessible only by ferry. With no bridges, shops, or roads to the mainland, it remains beautifully preserved — offering a true escape into nature and history. From maritime forests and wild horses to Gilded Age ruins and untouched beaches, every visit begins with a 45-minute journey across the water.

~45 minutes each way
Year-round service · seasonal schedules
Advance reservations strongly recommended
Arrive 60 minutes before departure
🌸 March 1 – September 30
Spring / Summer Schedule

Depart St. Marys: 9:00 AM, 11:45 AM
Depart Cumberland Island: 10:15 AM, 2:45 PM (Mon–Sat), 4:45 PM

Peak Season Most Availability
🍂 October 1 – November 30
Fall Schedule

Depart St. Marys: 9:00 AM, 11:45 AM
Depart Cumberland Island: 10:15 AM, 4:45 PM

Mild Weather Fewer Crowds
❄️ December 1 – February 28
Winter Schedule

Service Days: Thursday – Monday only
No Service: Tuesday & Wednesday

Depart St. Marys: 9:00 AM, 11:45 AM
Depart Cumberland Island: 10:15 AM, 4:45 PM

Limited Service Quiet Season
Departure Location
St. Marys Visitor Center
All ferries depart from here
Arrival Time
60 Minutes Early
Required for check-in & boarding
Trip Duration
~45 Minutes
Each way
⚠ Important Reminders
Plan ahead to avoid issues

Ferry schedules are subject to change based on weather and sea conditions. Missing your departure time may result in forfeiting your reservation. Return trip times vary by season — be sure to select your return ferry when booking.

Completely Undeveloped Barrier IslandNo hotels, no restaurants, no commercial development — just raw, protected coastal wilderness.
Rich Layered HistoryFrom Native Americans and Spanish explorers to enslaved communities and Carnegie-era estates.
Wildlife EncountersWild horses, deer, armadillos, and coastal birds roam freely throughout the island.
Unspoiled Beaches & ForestsExplore dunes, maritime forests, marshlands, and miles of untouched Atlantic shoreline.

Ready to visit Cumberland Island?

Ferry capacity is limited and often sells out — especially in spring and fall. Secure your round-trip tickets in advance.