Seven Days a Week, Year-Round: The Grafton Ferry Just Got a Whole Lot More Neighborly

Well, it’s been a big day in our little corner of the world, and if you weren’t down at the riverfront this morning, you missed a real "Grafton moment."

We all gathered ’round for the official ribbon cutting of the Grafton Ferry, and let me tell you... this isn't just a seasonal "maybe it’s running" situation anymore. We are officially moving to a 7-day-a-week, year-round operation. No more checking the calendar to see if you can get across the way to Calhoun or back; if the weather’s behaving, the boat’s moving.

A Proper River Welcome

Our own Mayor Mike Morrow was out there leading the charge. He was joined by Kimberly Stacy from the Calhoun Ferry Company, and the folks from IDOT, Andy Jackson, JD Lorton, Donna Smith, and more...

Mayor Mike really set the mood by handing out free passes to the first 15 travelers. You should’ve seen the looks on their faces. It’s not every day your morning commute comes with a high-five from the Mayor and a free ride!

Family, Friends, and a Few Tail-Waggers

It felt more like a backyard BBQ than a formal ceremony. We had the whole crew out, including; Tony from the Ruebel Hotel, Peter, Ben, and Trudy from The Loading Dock, The Aerie’s Resort crew, the Rivers & Routes team, and numerous council members and locals.

And because we’re Grafton, you know we didn’t forget the four-legged locals. We had plenty of pups show up for the maiden voyage. It’s a great reminder that the ferry is (and always will be) dog-friendly and pedestrian-friendly. Whether you’re on four wheels, two feet, or four paws, there’s a spot for you on the deck.

The New Routine (and the Rates)

We wish we could have a giant greeting party every time you pull onto the boat, but even when the crowd clears, the service stays. Here’s the "new normal" for your river crossings:

Vehicle / Passenger Type	One-Way	Round-Trip
Passenger Car / Small Truck	$10	$19
Motorcycle	$7	$13
Bicycle	$6	—
Foot Passenger	$5	—
Trailers	+$2 per axle	—

Pro-Tip for the Locals: If you're going to be a regular, grab the Commuter Book. It’s $70 for 10 one-way trips, which knocks the price down to $7 a ride. That’s a 30% savings. Pretty "neighborly" if you ask us!

Ferry accepts Cash or Debit.

The Hours:

• Mon – Thurs: 5 AM – 9 PM

• Fri – Sat: 5 AM – 10 PM

• Sun: 8 AM – 9 PM

It’s about more than just a boat ride... it’s about keeping our community connected, from the bluffs to the Calhoun side, every single day of the year. So, next time you’re itching for a drive or just want to see the sunset from the middle of the river, come on down. We’re open, we’re ready, and we can’t wait to see you on the water. Check out the full gallery of images provided locally by Lady Luck Designs & Photography.