Connecticut River’s historic ferries return for the season

One of the state’s two Connecticut River ferries will be returning for another season, beginning Friday.

The 2022 schedule for the historical ferries was announced Wednesday by the state Department of Transportation.

The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry will operate this year from Friday, April 1, through Nov. 30.

But due to high water levels on the Connecticut River, the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry will remain closed this weekend, according to the statement. An opening date for that ferry has yet to be determined, DOT said.

“The two historical ferries are some of our most popular modes of transportation, whether for recreation, tourism or routine travel. I am excited to welcome back our crew and passengers for another great season,” Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Joseph Giulietti said. “If you haven’t yet traveled by ferry, I invite you to make the trip. It is truly a unique experience.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in spring 2020, the ferries halted as well, but they returned to operations later that summer, DOT spokesperson Josh Morgan said. During the 2021 season, the ferries operated on a more regular system.

The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry is the oldest continuously operating ferry in America, with its service beginning in 1655. The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry launched its service in 1769.

Both ferries will operate from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. weekdays and from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends, DOT said. Pedestrians, cyclists and automobiles are welcome to cross the Connecticut River on both ferries.

The fee is $5 per vehicle weekdays and $6 per vehicle weekends, or $2 per pedestrian and bicyclist.

Gillette Castle / Contributed photo When the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry makes one of its inaugural 2022 round trips across the Connecticut River at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, a group of supporters intends to make the occasion special at Gillette Castle in East Haddam.