FerryConnect

USA (Texas)

Galveston → Port Bolivar

TxDOT’s free, round-the-clock ferry across the mouth of Galveston Bay, carrying SH 87 from Galveston Island to the Bolivar Peninsula.

⏱ About 20m🚢 1 operator📅 24 hours a day, 365 days a year; free🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly
Book with TxDOT Ferry Operations→

Galveston to Port Bolivar ferry at a glance

The ferry from Galveston to Port Bolivar takes About 20m across the Galveston Bay entrance, operated by TxDOT Ferry Operations. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year; free.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: txdot.gov · txdot.gov · How we verify

Return crossing: Port Bolivar to Galveston

TxDOT Ferry Operations also sails Port Bolivar to Galveston, taking About 20m.

Galveston to Port Bolivar ferry timetable & sailing pattern

24 hours a day: one boat round the clock, with a second in service from 6:30am running to traffic demand

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official TxDOT Ferry Operations timetable →Check prices & book on TxDOT Ferry Operations →

Source: TxDOT Galveston–Port Bolivar ferry page. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Galveston and Port Bolivar

📐 2 Nautical Miles
Galveston⇄Port Bolivar
⏱ About 20m · 📐 2 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
🚗 Operator website

Ready to cross from Galveston to Port Bolivar?

Book your crossing with TxDOT Ferry Operations: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Book with TxDOT Ferry Operations→

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
TxDOT Ferry OperationsAbout 20mCar ferries

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

2 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • The Galveston landing is at 1000 Ferry Road; there is a parking garage and lot on the Galveston side
  • The Port Bolivar landing is at 123 SH 87

Tips for the Galveston to Port Bolivar Crossing

  • Pets must stay inside the owner’s vehicle.
  • A round trip, including loading, takes about an hour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Galveston to Port Bolivar?
The crossing typically takes About 20m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Galveston to Port Bolivar ferry sail?
24 hours a day: one boat round the clock, with a second in service from 6:30am running to traffic demand. This is the pattern published in the TxDOT Galveston–Port Bolivar ferry page (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Galveston to Port Bolivar?
TxDOT Ferry Operations operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Galveston to Port Bolivar ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Galveston to Port Bolivar ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Galveston to Port Bolivar ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Galveston from Port Bolivar by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 2 nautical miles (roughly 4 km).