
The oldest continuously operating ferry in America is set to reopen soon.
On Thursday, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CT DOT) announced that the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry will begin its 2026 season this Friday.
The ferry was scheduled to open a bit earlier, but was unable to due to high water levels on the Connecticut River. The ferry will operate from May through November.
“The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry is returning for 2026, and we’re thrilled to welcome riders back for another great season on the Connecticut River,” said CT DOT Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Jeffrey Gonneville.
The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry has been in operation for 371 years, first going into service in 1655 with two horses on treadmills propelling the vessel across the river.
Today’s craft is a three-car barge which is towed back and forth by a diesel-powered tugboat.
The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, which has operated for over 200 years, will be in service for the 2026 season.
When in service, the ferries will operate weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Additional information on the ferries, including fares, schedules, and history, can be found on Connecticut’s official state website.






