Elizabeth River Ferry
A paddlewheel-style ferry linking Norfolk and historic Portsmouth; its low fare makes it the best-value 'cruise' on the Elizabeth River.
The Elizabeth River ferry is run by the local transit company. Its boats are modelled on 19th-century paddlewheel steamers. They depart from Waterside and reach the two piers of old Portsmouth in about 10 minutes. The crossing is short, but from the water you can see the Norfolk skyline, the USS Wisconsin and the naval shipyard across the river. Tickets can be paid with a transit card or cash. A single trip costs just a few US dollars, and bicycles can be taken on board. Departures are roughly every 30 minutes.
Opening hours
approx. 07:00–23:00 (longer on weekends; check bus company's website)
Nearby sights
- Waterside District
- Town Point Park
- MacArthur Memorial
- Nauticus & Battleship Wisconsin
- Elizabeth River Harbor Cruises
- St. Paul's Episcopal Church
- Hunter House Victorian Museum
- West Freemason Street Historic District