Visiting Brownsea Island from Poole Quay

Getting to Brownsea

If you're planning a trip to Brownsea, then you'll need to catch a foot ferry which runs every day from Poole Quay.  Please note: You can find information on the Sandbanks service here.

Travelling from Poole Quay 

• The ferries operate on a 'first come, first served' basis, so allow plenty of time if you are planning to catch a ferry at a specific time, as there is a wait between departures.
• With the exception of large groups (15+), including groups staying on the campsite, there is no pre-booking facility for the Poole Quay service. If you are a group of 15 or more, please visit either the Group Booking guidance for groups or campsite visitors. 

Ferry price from Poole Quay

All visitors, including members, will be required to pay the ferry fare on arrival at Brownsea Island Reception. 

Island admission price

Island admission is free for members, so please bring your membership card with you.

Non members will need to pay admission along with the ferry fare please see the homepage for island admission prices.

Ferry Information and timetables

• The crossing takes approximately 20 minutes from Poole Quay.
• You can choose the time of your return ferry, the only exception may be when we have large groups on the island. On these occasions we will allocate a particular crossing for the groups and inform our day visitors which will be the busier service off the island, so that you may plan your visit accordingly.
• Please bear in mind that the last ferry of the day leaving Brownsea at 5pm to Poole Quay can be busy, so we advise catching an earlier ferry, particularly at weekends and throughout the school holidays.
• Please note that bringing large items aboard, such as pushchairs are the responsibility of the owner to carry on and off the ferry. No staff are available to help with this task.

Poole Quay ferry off peak timetable: 15 Mar – 4 Apr inclusive.

Adverse weather

If we need to close the island due to the forecast, a decision to do so will be confirmed by 3pm the day before island closure. Please check the website or social media before travelling.