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FAQs: Torpoint Ferry
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Why do we sometimes let vehicles out of lanes to queue by slipways before a ferry has arrived?
We aim to avoid this practice where reasonably possible, but there are occasions where high demand may impact on the wider road network and therefore, we proactively try to avoid…
Delays – Why do you say that there are no delays when I’m sitting in the lanes waiting for a ferry and there are none on the slipway?
We use similar terminology to any other public transport network. If you arrive before the scheduled departure time for a train or a bus and have to wait to be…
Why don’t you go at top speed?
The timetable has not been designed to accommodate the fastest possible crossing, but to ensure that we are delivering a safe, reliable and resilient service. Crossing at maximum speed causes…
Who gets priority loading on to ferries?
We operate some priority arrangements for certain vehicles, falling into two categories. A higher level of priority is given to emergency service vehicles and in-service public transport buses. We aim…
What are shipping movements?
Shipping movements are co-ordinated and authorised on behalf of the King’s Harbour Master and involve the movement of large vessels, most predominantly national and international naval and Royal Fleet Auxiliary…
Why do you wait off the slipways rather than continue to load when there are shipping movements?
We work closely with the King’s Harbour Master’s staff, and they try to wait as long as possible before instructing ferries to hold their position on either side of the…
When I’m coming from Tamar street and dropping someone off on the Torpoint side, why am I sometimes kept waiting at the traffic lights?
Since the Torpoint Ferry traffic light gantry refurbishment in 2024, Tamar Crossings staff no longer have the facility to control the traffic lights on the Tamar Street approach to Ferry…
When an Ambulance arrives and is flashing its blue lights, why do you still load other vehicles?
We have a very close working relationship with the emergency services.We encourage drivers to start their engines and be prepared to move when they see an emergency vehicle en-route to…
Essential maintenance – what does it mean?
You will often see a social media message saying a ferry has been delayed for “essential maintenance”. The ferries are complex machines and require regular or planned maintenance, to keep…
How do you schedule planned and major maintenance?
Whilst most planned maintenance can be achieved without disrupting the ferry service there are certain lengthy and complex tasks such as a chain change, that due to time, resourcing and…
Why don’t you use the third Ferry when you are running a two-ferry service and there are problems or queues?
We recognise that queues and delays are very frustrating for customers and we always consider resourcing and other options to minimise disruption. Unfortunately, while it would be great to be…
Can I use my phone while on the ferry?
Mobile phone use is prohibited while you are in control of a moving vehicle, including when driving on and off the ferry. It is illegal to use a handheld phone…