BRANFORD FERRY FIELD GUIDE
A Private Crossing to Horse Island: Yale’s Short Ferry Into the Thimble Islands
A reserved, one-way ferry from Stony Creek Dock to Horse Island — a 15–20 minute outing offered to Yale students and employees; this guide explains what to expect and how to secure your spot.
A Private Crossing to Horse Island: Yale’s Short Ferry Into the Thimble Islands.
Adventure brief
A Private Crossing to Horse Island: Yale’s Short Ferry Into the Thimble Islands
This outing is a short, purpose-built ferry run from Stony Creek Dock to Horse Island, offered exclusively to members of the Yale community. It’s a concise way to reach one of the Thimble Islands and take in the island’s shoreline scenery on a ride reserved for Yale students and employees.
Enjoy a private and exclusive ferry ride from Stony Creek Dock to Horse Island, located in Branford, Connecticut. This short 15-20 minute journey, operated by Thimble Islands Ferry Service, is designed exclusively for Yale students and employees, providing a serene escape with stunning coastal views. The ride offers a rare chance to experience the rugged shoreline and peaceful waters of the Long Island Sound. Upon reaching Horse Island, travelers can explore its natural beauty, walk quiet paths, and enjoy an unspoiled environment away from the usual crowds. This trip is perfect for anyone looking to balance relaxation with a touch of adventure. Booking your spot is easy with a special promo code, making this an accessible way for the Yale community to recharge and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re interested in photography, casual hiking, or simply soaking in the coastal scenery, the Stony Creek Dock to Horse Island ferry ride offers a refreshing change of pace from everyday life.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Key stops and what to expect along the way for this Stony Creek Dock → Horse Island run:
Stony Creek Dock (Departure)
The ferry departs from Stony Creek Dock; this is the meeting and boarding point for the service.
On the Water — Thimble Islands Crossing
A short crossing across the Thimble Islands waters; the passage lasts approximately 15–20 minutes.
Horse Island (Arrival)
Disembark at Horse Island to explore the shoreline and island features accessible to Yale passengers holding valid tickets.
This service is reserved for Yale students and employees. Confirm ticket purchase with the required promo code and check your confirmation email for ticket details before arrival.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A scenic, short crossing
The trip is a memorable, compact ferry ride across the Thimble Islands area to Horse Island, offering passengers a brief but scenic approach to the shore.
Reserved for the Yale community
This service is restricted to Yale students and employees; a promo code is required to purchase tickets, ensuring the outing remains an exclusive offering.
Quick, focused outing
At roughly a quarter-hour in length, the crossing is brief and well suited to a short excursion or a scheduled campus outing.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
Board at Stony Creek Dock, settle in for a short passage across coastal waters, and disembark on Horse Island. The journey is designed as a simple point-to-point transfer for Yale affiliates to reach the island and enjoy its setting.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ferry outing is for — and who it excludes.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The crossing takes approximately 15–20 minutes; plan arrival at Stony Creek Dock with time to present your ticket and board.
Bring your ticket (found in your confirmation email) and the promo code used for purchase; tickets serve as your boarding pass.
Tickets are reserved for Yale students and employees and require a promo code at purchase; tickets include a one-way ride to or from Horse Island.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Who can buy tickets for this ferry?
This ticketed ferry is reserved for Yale students and employees only; a promo code is required to purchase.
How long is the ferry ride?
The crossing lasts approximately 15–20 minutes.
Where does the ferry depart from?
The service departs from Stony Creek Dock.
Are tickets one-way or round-trip?
Tickets include a one-way ferry ride to or from Horse Island.
How will I receive my ticket after purchase?
Tickets are supplied in your confirmation email; keep that email available for boarding.
Is a promo code required to purchase tickets?
Yes. A promo code is required to complete the ticket purchase.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-13T02:15:15.294Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.