Information
Landmark: Oxford-Bellevue FerryCity: Ocean City
Country: USA Maryland
Continent: North America
Oxford-Bellevue Ferry, Ocean City, USA Maryland, North America
Overview
The Oxford–Bellevue Ferry, still carrying passengers across Maryland’s Eastern Shore, has a long history and crosses the calm, slate-gray waters of the Tred Avon River, in turn founded in 1683, it’s the oldest privately run ferry in the country, carrying passengers across the water while keeping a slice of maritime history alive.The ferry covers a short hop-about three-quarters of a mile (1.2 kilometers)-between Oxford on the Tred Avon’s southern shore and Bellevue across the water to the north, likewise this river flows into the broader Chesapeake Bay watershed, a location of winding scenic waterways, weathered historic towns, and the salty air of a deep-rooted maritime culture, in some ways The ferry running this route is the Talbot, its white hull glinting in the morning sun, along with this 65-foot ferry has a steel hull and twin bows, built to handle quick crossings and constant shuttles-sometimes with the smell of diesel lingering in the air, to some extent With a double-ended design, the ferry can glide straight into the dock on either side of the river, no turning needed, letting cars and passengers roll on and off in minutes, furthermore the Talbot hauls as many as nine vehicles-cars, motorcycles, bicycles, even miniature trailers or RVs-tight and steady like gear packed for a long road trip.It welcomes trek-on passengers, letting them step aboard without a ticket in hand, while the ferry runs seasonally, usually from April to October, timed to match the busy tour and tourism months along the Eastern Shore, when the docks buzz with visitors.During this time, they’re usually open from 9:00 a.m, what’s more until sunset, though a rainy afternoon or quieter season might shift the schedule a bit.Funny enough, It takes about seven to ten minutes to make the trip one way-just enough time to watch the shore fade into the distance, on top of that a full trip, with time to load and unload, usually runs about 20 minutes, enough for buses to pull in and head back out several times a day.As far as I can tell, The ferry is a vital lifeline for locals, day-trippers, and tourists, carrying them straight from Oxford to Bellevue along a calm stretch of water, no long road detour required, and the Oxford–Bellevue Ferry, the oldest privately run ferry still operating in the U. S, carries the weight of colonial and early American history-its wooden deck once echoed under the boots of travelers centuries ago, furthermore it stands as a reminder of how people in the 17th century-and long after-depended on rivers and canals to trade goods, send messages, and make their way from town to town.The ferry isn’t just a way to get from one shore to the other-it’s a favorite stop for visitors eager to feel the spray and watch the gulls on a classic Chesapeake Bay crossing, furthermore passengers take in sweeping views of the river, spot herons gliding low over the water, and pass charming waterfront towns tucked along both banks.Ticket prices are reasonable, changing with the size of your vehicle, while amble-on passengers often pay less-or occasionally hop aboard for free, besides you usually don’t need a reservation-the ferry runs on a first-come, first-served basis-but if you’re bringing a massive group or an RV, it’s smart to call ahead when the docks are crowded.Truthfully, The ferry carries safety gear on board, and a trained crew runs it with steady hands, what’s more at both Oxford and Bellevue terminals, you’ll find simple parking and a short, pleasant saunter to nearby cafés, shops, and shaded waterfront parks.Today, the ferry keeps Oxford’s historic downtown buzzing by making it easy to reach its brick-lined streets, art galleries, and cozy cafés, while also linking travelers to Bellevue’s quiet rural lanes and neighborhood homes, also it’s still a treasured piece of Maryland’s maritime story, a working vessel that keeps alive the vital role of water tour across the Chesapeake Bay’s wide, wind-swept channels, in a sense Blending everyday convenience, a rich past, and the sight of sunlight glinting off the water, the Oxford–Bellevue Ferry stands out as a memorable part of Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Author: Tourist Landmarks
Date: 2025-10-06
