Chaffee Crossing Historic District | Fort Smith

Information

Landmark: Chaffee Crossing Historic District
City: Fort Smith
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America

Chaffee Crossing Historic District, Fort Smith, USA Arkansas, North America

The Ship Island Ferry Terminal is a departure point for ferries to Ship Island, located in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Mississippi.

Visual Characteristics

The terminal itself is a functional, concrete structure with a covered waiting area. It features a large, paved parking lot. The surrounding area consists of marshland and the waters of the Mississippi Sound.

Location & Access Logistics

The terminal is situated at 1628 East Beach Boulevard, Biloxi, Mississippi, 39530. It is approximately 3.5 miles east of the Biloxi city center. Ample parking is available on-site. Public transport options to the terminal are limited; the primary access is via private vehicle. Bus routes do not directly service the terminal.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The current terminal structure was built to facilitate access to Ship Island, a barrier island that has undergone significant geological changes due to hurricanes and coastal erosion. Historically, the island served as a strategic military location and a quarantine station.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is boarding the ferry for passage to Ship Island. On Ship Island, visitors can explore Fort Massachusetts, swim in the Gulf waters, and observe coastal birdlife. Ferry service operates seasonally.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the terminal. There are no food vendors directly at the terminal; concessions are typically available on the ferry or on Ship Island. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available at the terminal.

Best Time to Visit

Ferry service typically runs from late spring through early fall. The best time of day for ferry departure is generally mid-morning to allow for a full day on the island. Weather conditions in the Gulf can affect ferry schedules.

Facts & Legends

Ship Island has been a point of interest since the early 19th century. Fort Massachusetts, located on the island, was constructed using convict labor and was never fully completed or armed before the Civil War. A unique tip for visitors is to bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be present on the island, especially during dawn and dusk.