Tea Gardens Ferry — Nelson Bay to Tea Gardens
Scheduled passenger ferry service across Port Stephens harbour, connecting Nelson Bay with Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest, NSW.
The Service
The Tea Gardens Ferry operates a regular passenger service across Port Stephens harbour. The crossing takes approximately 1 hour each way and is a popular alternative to driving around the harbour — particularly for visitors wanting to explore the Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest area without backtracking through Raymond Terrace.
Departure Point — Nelson Bay
- Address: Public wharf at 40a Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay NSW 2315
- Located outside the Tea Gardens Ferry booking office, adjacent to Dolphin Watch Café
- Right on the Nelson Bay waterfront, next to d'Albora Marina
- Dolphin Watch Café is right here — food and drinks are permitted on board
Practical Information
- Journey time: Approximately 1 hour each way
- Destination: Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest, Port Stephens NSW
- Book in advance during peak season and school holidays
- Check current timetables and availability via the booking link below
Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest
Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest are twin towns on the northern shore of Port Stephens harbour. Known for quiet beaches, excellent fishing, and the famous Singing Bridge. Much less crowded than Nelson Bay — worth the ferry ride if you want a relaxed afternoon away from the main tourist strip.
View today's live departure schedule for cruises →
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does the Tea Gardens Ferry cost?
- Fares effective 1 July 2026 (one way / return): • Adults (15+): $24.50 / $49.00 rtn • Children (Ages 4–14): $14.50 / $29.00 rtn • Seniors (with valid Concession Card): $22.50 / $45.00 rtn • Infants (Ages 0–3): $5.00 / $10.00 rtn • Companion/Carer (with valid Support Card): $20.00 / $40.00 rtn • Bicycles: $5.00 / $10.00 rtn • Golf Bags: Free both ways Online booking fees apply. Book online via FareHarbor — a link is available on the live departures board.
- Is there a ferry from Nelson Bay to Tea Gardens?
- Yes. Tea Gardens Ferry runs a scheduled passenger service connecting Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens. The crossing takes approximately 1 hour each way and is a relaxing scenic alternative to driving.
- How long does the ferry crossing take?
- The crossing is approximately 1 hour in each direction.
- Where does the ferry depart from in Nelson Bay?
- Nelson Bay departures leave from the public wharf at 40a Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay — right outside our booking office, which is where you can buy your Tea Gardens Ferry tickets from 9.00am, 7 days a week.
- Where does the ferry depart from in Tea Gardens?
- Tea Gardens departures leave from the public wharf at 93 Marine Drive, Tea Gardens — opposite the Tea Gardens Hotel.
- Where can I park at Nelson Bay for the ferry?
- The wharf carpark on Victoria Parade has 9-hour metered parking and roadside parking nearby is metered at 4 hours. Free parking is also available in Nash Lane — approximately a 5-minute walk from the booking office. Disabled parking is available right next to the office.
- Where can I park at Tea Gardens for the ferry?
- Parking in Tea Gardens is free. Street parking is widely available near the wharf.
- Is the ferry wheelchair accessible?
- Yes — MV Tea Gardens is wheelchair friendly and is the only wheelchair-accessible vessel in Port Stephens. Please enquire at our office to find out what size ferry is running.
- Can I bring my bike or golf clubs on the ferry?
- Yes — both are welcome. Golf clubs travel free. Bikes are A$5.00 each way. Please advise the team before departure so they can accommodate them.
- Are dogs allowed on the ferry?
- Yes — well-behaved dogs are welcome on a lead. Please don't allow them on the seating.
- Can I bring food and drinks on the ferry?
- Yes — you're welcome to bring your own food and drinks on board, including BYO. Please no large eskies and be mindful of other passengers.
- Is there a toilet on board?
- Yes — MV Tea Gardens has a standard flush toilet, MV Wallamba has a marine toilet, and MV Jesse has a camp-style toilet.
- Does the ferry operate every day?
- Yes — Tea Gardens Ferry runs every day during summer, weather permitting. The winter timetable is subject to change, and services may not run on some Mondays during the winter months. The last departure from Tea Gardens can change from 5.15pm to 4.30pm. The service does not operate on Christmas Day, New Year's Day, or Good Friday. On Anzac Day only the Nelson Bay 11:30am departure runs.
- Can I reserve a specific seat?
- Pre-booking is recommended but you cannot request a specific seat — for example, the back deck cannot be reserved.
- Why is there a charge for infants?
- Everyone aboard — regardless of age — counts toward the vessel's capacity head count. Tea Gardens Ferry appreciate your understanding on this.
- What do I need to bring for the ferry?
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure. If you have pre-booked, bring your booking confirmation. Let the team know in advance if you're bringing bikes or golf clubs.