Brownsea Island Ferry

Regular passenger ferry service connecting Sandbanks to Brownsea Island, one of the few places in southern England where red squirrels thrive. The short crossing offers views across Poole Harbour to the Purbeck Hills. Once on the island, explore woodland trails, visit the outdoor centre, or spot wildlife including red squirrels, deer, and over 100 bird species. Best for nature lovers and day trippers. This is a easy activity lasting 15 minutes each way. Group size: max 50. You meet at Sandbanks Ferry Terminal. Key highlights: Only vehicular ferry to Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour's largest natural island, Gateway to red squirrel habitat.

Price: £8

Duration: 15 minutes each way

Difficulty: easy

Group size: max 50

Minimum age: all ages

Best for: nature lovers and day trippers

Best time: Early morning for wildlife spotting on island

Meeting point: Sandbanks Ferry Terminal

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Boarding Check in at ferry terminal - Purchase tickets and wait for next scheduled departure.

First 5 min Depart Sandbanks peninsula - Views of expensive waterfront properties and marina.

Mid-crossing Cross Poole Harbour - Panoramic views of harbour islands and Purbeck Hills.

Arrival Dock at Brownsea Island - Short walk from ferry landing to National Trust entrance.

The whole experience takes 15 minutes each way. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Sandbanks Ferry Terminal.

• Only vehicular ferry to Brownsea Island
• Poole Harbour's largest natural island
• Gateway to red squirrel habitat
• Views of exclusive Sandbanks properties
• Quick 15-minute crossing
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible ferry and island paths

What is included: Return ferry crossing, Harbour views during crossing.

Not included: Brownsea Island entry fee, National Trust membership discount, Island activities. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Island entry fee money, Walking shoes, Camera for wildlife, Waterproof jacket. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Early morning for wildlife spotting on island.

Tip: Island entry costs extra

Tip: Ferries run every 20 minutes in summer

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible ferry and island paths.

Operator: Brownsea Island Ferries

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Compton Acres Gardens (10 min walk)
• Bournemouth Beach (5 min drive walk)

This activity is run by Brownsea Island Ferries.

Cancellation policy: No advance booking required, weather dependent.

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible ferry and island paths.

Best time to go: Early morning for wildlife spotting on island.

How much does Brownsea Island entry cost?

National Trust members enter free. Non-members pay approximately £10-15 for adults depending on season. Children under 5 are free. Family tickets available. Ferry ticket is separate from island entry.

Can you see red squirrels on Brownsea Island?

Yes, Brownsea Island has one of England's largest red squirrel populations with around 200 individuals. Best spotting times are early morning or late afternoon near the woodland trails and feeding stations.

What else can you do on Brownsea Island?

Besides wildlife watching, the island offers woodland walks, an outdoor centre, visitor centre, and beach areas. The island also has historical significance as the birthplace of the Scout movement in 1907.