Our ferry service is committed to serving the Communities of Bristol

Bristol Community Ferry Boats is more than just a ferry service...

...it is a community-owned and operated business where every pound spent on our waterbus service, private hire, or public trips is reinvested back into the company. This means that by choosing Bristol Ferry Boats, customers are directly contributing to the sustainability and growth of a vital community asset that benefits everyone in the city.

We work with community groups and charities across the city who are actively supporting local people - providing a floating safe space for people to relax and enjoy the city, from  the unique vantage point of Bristol’s waterways. Our boats are an integral part of Bristol's identity, and we want to ensure that everyone, especially those who might not usually have the opportunity, can experience the joy that comes from being onboard.

Hear from some of our community partners below: 

“The Changes Bristol community love Bristol Ferry Boats, many of our members are life long Bristol residents, yet many of them had not been on the ferry before. We've had three amazing trips out around the Harbour and everyone enjoys them so much. They get to see the city from a different perspective, learn interesting and entertaining facts and have a wonderful social time with the other members.”

- Jen Witts, Project Manager Changes Bristol

“A boat ride helps create positive memories and experiences. An environment that can reduce anxiety and depression, providing a temporary escape from their worries. These outings encourage interaction with local communities and help build friendships. where families and friends come together and share positive experiences that strengthen family ties after stressful events. They help foster connections and reduce the feelings of isolation and build feelings of belonging.”

-Sara Ahmed-Qureshi, Activity Groups Coordinator, Aidbox

"It has been a real highlight of our fishing for change trips for the families to climb aboard the ferry and learn so much about the history of the harbour and enjoy Bristol from the water. It has been great to include the ferry in our sustainable journeys and so easy to travel from the station to the centre. All the skippers and crew have made each trip such fun and we can't wait to work with the ferry more."

- Jo Taylor, Sustainable Hive (project short film here)

If you are a charity or community group operating in Bristol, please don't hesitate to get in touch to see how we can support the work you do! 

Free Community Harbour Tours (Running this November-February)

Due to an unprecedented amount of interest in our free Community Harbour Tours, we are allocating places on the basis of financial and social need. Therefore, please can you provide the following information for consideration:

• Your organisation/charity name and purpose
• The groups you serve
• The benefit our free tour would provide to your group
• The social/financial barriers you would face without this offer.

We also provide Harbour Tours throughout the year – starting from £220 for Schools or Community Organisations.

Please email the above information to office@bristolferry.com