Popular Norfolk ferry service returns with new owners
They say they're 'chuffed' to be getting going
Last updated 12th Jan 2022
The popular ferry service that crosses the River Great Ouse between King's Lynn and West Lynn will return this September with new owners at the helm, ready to welcome passengers old and new.
Richard Stannard, 48, and Ben Ellis, 39, both of Terrington St Clement have purchased the business and will be trading as West Lynn Ferry Ltd. Richard has spent time this summer getting the boats ready for the launch of the business, and people may already have seen the boats in the water this August.
Commenting on the launch of the service, Richard said:
"This has been a while in the planning. We know how much the service is valued and wanted to get it up and running as soon as possible. It has taken some time to get the boats ready, get all the paperwork signed off and get all our procedures for Covid-19 in place.
"We are really chuffed to be launching and look forward to meeting previous ferry passengers and new customers alike. We are very grateful for the support we have received from the borough council in getting everything in place. They have been very helpful in guiding us through the necessary processes."
Cllr Paul Kunes, Borough Council of King's Lynn & West Norfolk Cabinet Member for Commercial Services, said:
"The ferry is a vital part of the transport system in King's Lynn. It's a cost-effective alternative to driving into the town and helps to take cars off the road and reduce emissions. I would certainly encourage previous passengers to return to the ferry and support this new business, as well as urging people who haven't yet tried it to give it a go. It's a great way to explore King's Lynn and see the waterfront from a different perspective as well as a commuter service.
"I would like to personally thank Richard and Ben for their efforts in getting the ferry back into service. I know that this will be welcome news for many who have missed it since it closed in March."
The ferry service will launch on Tuesday, 1 September 2020, and will operate Monday to Saturday from 7am until 6pm. Between 7am and 9am, and between 5pm and 6pm, the ferry will run continuously. Between 9am and 5pm the service will run every 20 minutes - on the hour, 20 minutes past the hour and 20 minutes to the hour.
Fares are:
Child - single £1.00, return £1.50
Adult - singe £1.20, return £2.00
As with all forms of public transport, ferry passengers will need to wear masks for their journeys. Hand sanitiser will be provided on board for all passengers.
The King's Lynn ferry is one of the oldest recorded services in the country, and the first recorded service dates back to 1285.
The King's Lynn Ferry is supported by the Borough Council of King's Lynn & West Norfolk by way of a Service Level Agreement, to help ensure this crucial transport service in the town is maintained.