The Tilbury ferry is one of the few remaining ancient Thames river crossings, and dates back to the 13th century when a small rowing boat was used.

The introduction of steam power in the mid 19th century saw the ferry operated by the London,Tilbury and Southend Railway, which was subsequently taken over by the Midland Railway.This in turn was incorporated into the London, Midland and Scottish Railway and finally became part of British Railways Sea-Link establishment.

The ferry boats used have traditionally been flat-bottomed vessels; paddle steamers were used in the second half of the 19th century, with the first twin-screw steamer ‘T.S.S Carlotta’ acquired in 1893 and remaining in service until 1930.

In 1911 a new vessel was able to carry vehicular traffic for the first time, and this remained until the completion of the Dartford Tunnel in 1963.The West Street Pier, used for the vehicular ferry, was converted to a passenger ferry terminus. The Town Pier, which had been used since 1850, was sold in 1967.

More recently, the ferry has been run with financial help from Kent County Council and Thurrock Council. The vessel ‘Duchess M’ was purchased in 2002 by the two authorities, in conjunction with the operator, Captain John Potter.

Kent County Council Transport Integration Gibson Drive Kings Hill West Malling Kent ME19 4QG www.kentpublictransport.info Thurrock Council Passenger Transport Unit 01375 413884 Lower Thames & Medway Passenger Boat Co. (crossing details) 07973 390124