It operates from Easter weekend until the end of October on a varying timetable,[1] and can also be used as a water taxi to moored yachts.

In 1894 Sir William Quilter, owner of Bawdsey Manor, established a steam-drawn chain ferry which the family owned until 1931.

c. xxvi),[5] the Felixstowe and Bawdsey Ferry Railway (Extension of Time) Act 1890 (53 & 54 Vict.

c. xvi)[7] A small ferry operates across the River Butley for foot passengers and for cyclists using Regional Cycle Route 41.

Frank Palmer then restarted the old rowing ferry and was succeeded by Bob Cross and David Church.