Sandbanks to Studland Ferry
The Sandbanks to Studland ferry departs from the slipway at the southern tip of the Sandbanks peninsula, reached along Banks Road from Poole. Vehicles queue along the approach road before being waved aboard by crew. After a short crossing you land at Shell Bay, from where the Ferry Road (B3351) runs south through the Studland peninsula.
Nearby destinations on the Studland side include Shell Bay beach, Knoll Beach and Studland village, the National Trust heathland and dunes, and the walk out to Old Harry Rocks. This is also the route many people describe as the Poole to Studland ferry.
Studland to Sandbanks Ferry
The Studland to Sandbanks ferry is the return journey. Drivers travelling north along Ferry Road queue on the approach to the Shell Bay slipway. On arrival at Sandbanks, Banks Road leads along the peninsula towards Poole town centre, Canford Cliffs and Bournemouth — the crossing that visitors often call the Studland to Poole ferry.
On sunny summer afternoons, queues for the northbound Studland ferry crossing can build up as beach visitors head home, so allow extra time.
Sandbanks to Shell Bay Ferry
Shell Bay is the name of the southern terminal. The Sandbanks to Shell Bay ferry and the Shell Bay to Sandbanks ferry are therefore the same service as the Studland crossing. Shell Bay itself is a sandy spit with a beach beside the landing, and the road continues a few miles south to Studland village. Those arriving as a foot passenger or cyclist can enjoy the beach immediately or follow paths across the peninsula.
Poole Harbour Chain Ferry
The Poole Harbour chain ferry is a type of floating bridge. Two chains are laid across the harbour entrance and fixed on each shore. Machinery on board pulls the ferry along the chains, which guide it on a fixed path despite the strong tides that flow through this narrow channel. Ramps at each end lower onto the slipways so vehicles can drive straight on and off.
The ferry forms part of the road network between Poole and the Isle of Purbeck. Without it, a journey from Sandbanks to Studland would mean a drive of many miles around the harbour via Wareham. Periodically the vessel is taken out of service for maintenance and inspection, during which the crossing is closed.
Travelling Towards Swanage
Many people search for a Sandbanks to Swanage ferry or Swanage to Sandbanks ferry. Sandbanks Ferry does not sail to Swanage. However, it is a popular part of the journey: after landing at Shell Bay, the road continues through Studland and on to Swanage by car, bike or bus. Likewise, travellers coming from Swanage can drive north through Studland to the Shell Bay terminal and cross to Sandbanks.
Vehicles and Passengers
- Cars: the Sandbanks vehicle ferry carries cars on its open deck. Drivers usually remain with their vehicle.
- Motorcycles: carried, with a toll category separate from cars.
- Cyclists: welcome; the crossing is popular with riders heading for Purbeck.
- Pedestrians: foot passengers can travel on the ferry.
- Other vehicles: vans, vehicles with trailers or caravans, coaches and larger vehicles may be carried subject to the operator's size, weight and safety rules — check before travelling.
Crossing Information
General journey information
The Sandbanks ferry crossing itself takes only a few minutes. The ferry runs back and forth continuously during operating hours, rather than to a fixed timetable of departures.
Where to board
On the Poole side, board at the slipway at the end of Banks Road, Sandbanks. On the Studland side, board at the Shell Bay slipway at the northern end of Ferry Road.
What drivers should expect
Join the queue, follow crew directions, drive on slowly, set the handbrake and turn off your engine. Pay the toll as directed by the operator.
Possible waiting times
Waiting times vary. Weekends, bank holidays and warm summer days are the busiest times, especially mornings heading to Studland and late afternoons returning to Sandbanks.
Weather and service disruptions
High winds, poor visibility, technical faults and scheduled maintenance can suspend the service. When the ferry is not running, the alternative route is the road around Poole Harbour via Wareham.
Official operating updates
Always check live operating status on the official operator website before travelling.
Route Map
Next: read about Sandbanks Ferry tolls and payment or return to the Sandbanks Ferry guide home page.