The Original Tea Gardens Ferry
WELCOME ABOARD
For over 30 years, The Original Tea Gardens Ferry has proudly served the Port Stephens and Myall Coast communities. Their mission is to restore these iconic vessels to their original heritage beauty, ensuring that they remain a source of pride for the community and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
OUR NELSON BAY - TEA GARDENS FERRY SERVICE
Special Cruises & Events Departing Nelson Bay
Special Cruises & Events Departing Tea Gardens
Explore the Historic MV Tea Gardens
Discover the captivating journey of the MV Tea Gardens! Built in 1944 for the RAAF Marines, did you know this iconic vessel originally transported munitions to Catalina flying boats? After WWII, she transformed into a beloved ferry, changing hands and names along the way. How did she navigate the bustling waters of Sydney? What adventures did she embark on during her years of service? Read more about her remarkable history and find out how she still connects travelers between Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens today!
Our Mission
To provide an exceptional passenger experience onboard our beautiful timber vessels … its about the journey … and the destination
The Original Tea Gardens Ferry operates a daily return ferry service between Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens. Crossing the bay is a must for visitors and locals to the Port Stephens and Myall Coast Blue Water Wonderland. Our friendly knowledgeable crew will provide informative commentary while you take in the panoramic views of Port Stephens and The Myall River. Sit back and relax as we travel through Port Stephens Marine Park. Keep an eye out for some of our locals …. Dingoes, Turtles, Seabirds and the bay resident dolphins enjoy putting on a display for our passengers regularly.
What others say of our ways!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Love the character and charm of this old lady of the river, her staff, and crew. A converted ww2 munitions boat, who knew. From the moment we stepped into the dock to the moment we left, we boarded an historic time capsule.
– Tripadvisor, Dave S.
This old ferry from Nelson Bay to Tea Gardens is full of character. The crew gives a commentary about the area and we were lucky to spot some dolphins along the way. It’s about an hour across and plenty of time to grab lunch at the Tea Gardens Hotel before catching the ferry back. Great way to spend a couple of hours with friends.
– Tripadvisor, Kerri M.
We booked this ferry trip not knowing what to expect. However, we were pleasantly surprised to find ourselves enjoying a relaxing trip over to the lovely little town of Tea Gardens. On the way we spotted dolphins, pelicans and many black swans. We were given a very interesting commentary about the area and the boat itself.
– Tripadvisor, Gail C.
Join this quaint old ferry and she takes you from Nelson Bay to Tea Gardens (or the other way) and back. The timings are perfect for lunch at the old fashion Tea Gardens pub. I've done this trip many times with visitors and have never failed to see a dolphin or two. It's still the best way to see Port Stephens.
– Tripadvisor, Peter G.
Return trip to Tea Gardens was lovely and relaxing. Showing off the beautiful water ways. On the way back as the sun was setting our captain stopped to allow all on board a veiw a dolphin fishing in the chanel. Thank you for a memorable cruise.
– Tripadvisor, Rhonda G.