The King Harry Ferry will be out of service from 1030 Monday 3 March to 1930 Sunday 9 March. The operators have apologised to its many hundreds of customers for any inconvenience caused.

If you use the ferry service regularly or keep a check on its operation via the website and social media platforms you will already know, but others are about to find out that the King Harry Ferry will be out of action for one week for resurfacing work.

Normal service will resume at 0700 Monday 10 March.

Wear and tear on the ferry deck

After 19 years of wear and tear the resin and bauxite aggregate coating on main deck has started to come loose in places.

Specialist contractors are being brought in to carry out repairs. The old coating will be scraped off, the steel deck will be shot blasted and primed, and a new resin and bauxite aggregate surface will be applied. The deck will then be sealed, and new lines painted.

The ‘green’ big blue ferry

One of only five chain ferries in England, the King Harry Ferry is a vital link across the upper reaches of the River Fal between the Roseland Peninsula and Feock, Truro and Falmouth. The service cuts out a 27-mile road journey and supports an average of 200 commuter trips, 150 local businesses and up to 650 vehicle crossings each day and in all weathers.

As a result, it is estimated the ferry saves 5 million car miles a year.

Five yearly inspection scheduled for 2026

This one-week, one-off closure, is in addition to the ferry’s five yearly refit and inspection. The inspection, stipulated by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, includes the condition of the steel hull, the hydraulic, cooling and mechanical systems, as well as the safety kit. The next inspection is scheduled for next year when the ferry will be tugged down to Falmouth and go into dry dock. The inspection generally takes 10 to 14 days.

You can keep up to date with all the King Harry Ferry news via their website and social media.