The Bolivar Ferry. The Galveston Port Bolivar Ferry is a free 24-hour marine transportation system provided by the Texas Department of Transportation. This ferry system was one of many to carry passengers between Galveston and Bolivar. Early settlers in this area used their boats to cross what is now known as Bolivar Roads.

A regular ferry service began in the 1890s when the railroads needed a method to move freight across Galveston Bay. The first ferries were large barges that could accommodate entire trains, including freight and passenger cars. The barges would then be pushed by tugboats from one side to the other.

The Gulf and Interstate Railway completed a line between Port Bolivar and Beaumont in 1896. They used these rail barges to cross Bolivar Roads, completing the railroad's link to Galveston. In the early 19 hundreds, the ferries would accommodate trains, walk on, and eventually vehicular traffic. In 1930, after the vast influx of automobiles, a private venture built two ferry boats, the Galveston and the Jefferson, to accommodate vehicles and walk on traffic.

These vessels will make six to seven daily trips initiating the ferry system as we know it. This private ferry system was eventually sold to Galveston County. Shortly after, it was taken over by the Texas Highway Department, which became the Texas Department of Transportation. The ferry system has been expanded and improved constantly since the 1930s with new and improved vessels and landings.

The Bolivar ferry is much more than a means of transportation from one point to another. It is one of Galveston's most popular free tourist attractions. While on the ferry, there is much to see, including dolphins, hungry seagulls, a sunken cement, a world War I cargo vessel, and one of the busiest ship channels in the nation. You can walk on or drive onto the ferry.

The round trip only takes about an hour. It is free, and it is well worth the ride. Enjoy your ride on the ferry. Just make sure you avoid those long lines on holiday weekends!