The Connecticut Department of Transportation announced on Apr. 30 that the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry will begin its 2026 season on Friday, May 1. The ferry is scheduled to operate through November, starting service at 7 a.m.
The announcement comes after high water levels delayed the opening of the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry, while the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry began its season earlier on April 1. Last year, both ferries together transported about 91,000 passengers and 42,000 vehicles across the Connecticut River.
“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 Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Jeffrey Gonneville. “If you’ve never taken a ride on the ferry, there’s no better time than now to give it a try. We invite long-term and first-time passengers to come out and enjoy a beautifully unique travel experience.”
The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry has been in continuous operation since it began service in 1655 and is recognized as America’s oldest continuously operating ferry. Over time, it evolved from being powered by horses to steam-driven crafts in the late nineteenth century; today’s vessel uses a diesel-powered tugboat named Cumberland to tow its three-car barge Hollister III.
According to the official website, Garrett Eucalitto serves as commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), which maintains its headquarters in Newington and manages transportation services statewide. CTDOT provides an intermodal transportation network aimed at improving quality of life and supporting economic vitality throughout Connecticut. The department also promotes safety with work zone awareness initiatives and supports community infrastructure through grant programs.
Ferry operations run weekdays from 7 a.m. until 6:45 p.m., with weekend hours from 10:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., weather permitting. Passengers can pay fares using Token Transit app or QR codes at landings; cash or check are also accepted onboard.
Any changes due to weather or mechanical issues will be posted online, with updates available through alerts at CTroads.com.
