Quick Answer
- Route: The Crossing Dock, Marsh Harbour → Hope Town (Elbow Cay), Abaco.
- Time: about 20–25 minutes across the Sea of Abaco.
- Operator: G&L Ferry — multiple departures daily, no reservation needed (pay cash at the dock).
- Fare: from about $10–$15 one way / from ~$20 same-day round trip per person.
- Why go: climb the 101 steps of the 1864 Elbow Reef Lighthouse — one of the last hand-wound, kerosene-burning lighthouses on Earth.
| Crossing time | ~20–25 minutes |
|---|---|
| Departure point | The Crossing Dock, east Marsh Harbour |
| Operator | G&L Ferry · (242) 816-2628 · WhatsApp +1 (242) 816-2628 |
| One-way fare | from ~$10–$15 per person (cash, at dock) |
| Round trip | from ~$20 per person (same-day) |
| Reservations | Not required for scheduled runs |
| Best season | Year-round; calmest seas Apr–Jul |
Last updated: June 5, 2026 · Schedules & fares change — confirm with the operator before travel.
When can you catch the boat?
Ferry Schedule & Booking Info
G&L Ferry runs regular service throughout the day — no reservation needed. The times below are typical departures; always confirm the current schedule at the dock or via gandlferry.com / WhatsApp before you travel.
Marsh Harbour → Hope Town
Outbound
Departure Point: The Crossing Dock, Marsh Harbour
Look, the dock's right there as you come into town - can't miss it!
Hope Town → Marsh Harbour
ReturnPro tip: That last ferry at 5:30 PM? Don't miss it unless you're planning to spend the night!
Typical Ferry Fares (2026)
Bring cash and pay at the dock — fares can change seasonally, so confirm the current price with the operator before boarding.
From folks who've been there
Insider Tips for Your Trip
Plan a Day Trip
A mid-morning ferry out and a mid-afternoon ferry back gives you enough time to climb the lighthouse, grab lunch on the harbour and wander the village without rushing. Catch the last return ferry unless you're staying overnight.
Skip the Golf Cart
Hope Town village is car-free and tiny — it's roughly a 10–15 minute walk from the ferry dock to the lighthouse, past pastel cottages the whole way. You only need a golf cart if you're heading further down Elbow Cay.
Seasickness Strategy
The crossing is short (~25 min) but the Sea of Abaco can get choppy on windy days. Take a motion-sickness tablet about 30 minutes before boarding, sit outside if you can, and keep your eyes on the horizon.
Pack Smart
Bring cash for the ferry, the lighthouse donation and lunch (cards aren't always accepted), plus reef-safe sunscreen and a camera. Download offline maps before you leave Marsh Harbour — mobile coverage can be patchy.
What's waiting for you
Must-See Hope Town Attractions
This ain't just any island stop - it's pure Bahamian magic!
Elbow Reef Lighthouse
The star of the show — built in 1864 and the only one of its kind still hand-wound and kerosene-burning. Climb all 101 steps for sweeping harbour views. Free to visit with a suggested donation that supports the Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society, which restored the tower after Hurricane Dorian struck Elbow Cay in September 2019.
Hope Town Beach
Atlantic side has gorgeous surf and miles of empty sand. Perfect for beachcombing and that "deserted island" photo op. Just a 10-minute walk from the harbor through town.
Wyannie Malone Museum
Tiny but fascinating! Learn about the Loyalists who founded Hope Town. The docent's stories about hurricanes and wreckers are worth the $5 admission alone.
Tahiti Beach
About 4 miles south - rent a boat or catch a water taxi. Low tide reveals an enormous sandbar perfect for wading. The floating bar serves wicked rum punches!
Cap'n Jack's
Right on the harbor with perfect lighthouse views. Their conch fritters are legendary, and the Friday night fish fry draws locals and tourists alike. Get there early for a good table!
Colonial Cottages
Just wandering the narrow streets is half the fun. Those pastel-painted Loyalist cottages with white picket fences? Pure Instagram gold. Respect the residents - these are real homes!
The approach is half the magic: as the ferry rounds the point into Hope Town harbour, the candy-striped lighthouse rises straight ahead — the same view that has greeted sailors since the 1860s. It's a short, easy crossing that makes one of Abaco's most photogenic islands a simple day trip from Marsh Harbour.
The nitty-gritty details
What You Need to Know
Ferry Operator Info
G&L Ferry — the current operator on the Hope Town route from The Crossing Dock in Marsh Harbour.
📞 Grant: (242) 359-6208 · Lyle: (242) 577-0611
Office / WhatsApp: (242) 816-2628
Website: gandlferry.com
No reservations needed for scheduled runs — buy tickets at the dock.
Getting to the Dock
The Crossing Dock is on the east side of Marsh Harbour, right off the main road. If you're coming from the airport, it's about 10 minutes by taxi ($20-25). There's limited parking if you're driving yourself.
Weather Warnings
Ferries run rain or shine, but they'll cancel for serious weather. During winter cold fronts (December-March), seas can get rough. Check the forecast and maybe pack some ginger candy just in case!
Island Time Alert
While the ferry's pretty reliable, this IS the Bahamas. Schedules can shift, especially on Sundays or holidays. That 3:00 PM ferry might leave at 3:15... or 2:45 if they're full. Don't cut it too close!
Make it an overnight
Where to Stay in Hope Town
The last ferry leaves mid-evening — stay on Elbow Cay to enjoy the lighthouse at sunset. Compare live prices on the map below.
Top Hotel Picks on Elbow Cay
Hope Town Harbour Lodge
from $250/night
Harbourfront classic in the heart of the village, steps from the ferry dock with a pool overlooking the candy-striped lighthouse.
Check AvailabilitySea Spray Resort & Marina
from $300/night
Villas and a marina on White Sound at the quieter south end of Elbow Cay — great for sailors and families wanting a kitchen.
Check AvailabilityAbaco Inn
from $230/night
Laid-back inn perched between the Atlantic surf and calm White Sound, with an oceanfront restaurant and easy beach access.
Check AvailabilityDisclosure: BahamasHopping earns a commission when you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. Rates are indicative and vary by season. Learn more.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the ferry from Marsh Harbour to Hope Town?
About 20–25 minutes across the Sea of Abaco, from The Crossing Dock in Marsh Harbour to Hope Town on Elbow Cay.
Who operates the ferry and do I need to book?
G&L Ferry runs the scheduled service. No reservation is needed for scheduled runs — buy tickets at the dock. Call (242) 816-2628 or WhatsApp +1 (242) 816-2628 to confirm departure times.
How much does it cost?
Fares start from about $10–$15 one way and roughly $20 for a same-day round trip per person. Bring cash and pay at the dock; prices can change seasonally.
Can I climb the Elbow Reef Lighthouse?
Yes — climb the 101 steps during open hours. Entry is free with a suggested donation supporting the Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society, which restored the 1864 tower after Hurricane Dorian in 2019.
Do I need a car or golf cart in Hope Town?
No. The village is car-free and walkable — the lighthouse, harbour and beaches are all a short stroll from the dock. Golf carts are only useful for exploring further down Elbow Cay.
Is the ferry affected by weather or hurricane season?
Ferries run rain or shine but cancel for severe weather. Atlantic hurricane season is June 1–November 30 (peak August–September), and winter cold fronts (December–March) can roughen seas. Check the forecast and consider travel insurance.
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