How are buses handled?

We are often asked about the rules for buses using the ferries. Both Cornwall Council and Plymouth City Council are committed to providing a reliable and efficient public transport network for their communities. This helps to reduce road traffic congestion and support environmental initiatives. We deliver part of the local public transport network on behalf of the two local authorities and remain committed to support these principles.

A maximum of two “in-service” buses are permitted to be loaded onto each ferry to avoid unreasonable delay to other customers. The only exception is where there is clear spare capacity, in which case we might take more buses to clear the lanes. Out of service buses, private coaches, and HMS Raleigh coaches queue in the normal lanes and access the ferries with other customer vehicles.

For this reason, you may well see more buses on board in addition to two in-service buses, but this is on a ‘first come first served’ basis and doesn’t unreasonably inconvenience other customers.