It may not be the Star Ferry, but this little ferry provides an excellent free service across the Vieux Port in Marseille. It is only a short journey but it is used by locals and tourists alike, and saves a walk of probably 20 minutes around the end of the harbour. At just 283 metres, it is in fact the shortest maritime crossing in the world. It carries 45 people at a time, and can transport as many as 3000 people in a day.
It is more than a convenient mode of transport, though. This “ferry boite” first operated in May 1880 and was iimmortalised by Marcel Pagnol in his famous trilogy. The current electro-solar ferry is new, but Le Cesar of Pagnol’s day was sitting alongside, and was brought back into service for a while in 2013 when the new ferry had technical issues.
Ferry arriving
It takes a break in the middle of the day and the exact operating hours vary by season, but apart from that it just ploughs its way back and forth.
Views from on board
About to dock
It provides a useful and efficient service, as well as lovely views through its large windows and glass doors.
Linked to Photo a Week: Transportation and Travel Tuesday.
Travel with Intent 
What a cute little ferry! and beautiful pictures 🙂
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And I didn’t realise what a history it had when I rode on it. I would have appreciated it even more!
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Your photos are seriously gorgeous! And I find it so hilarious how in France they use English word like ferry…oh those French people 😉
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I love short jaunts like this, there’s usually a photo opportunity being along the waterfront
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I forgot that I took this ferry until you reminded me! Thanks.
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It’s very handy isn’t it. Though it was closed for technical work when I tried to use it a couple of hours ago.
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Tant pis.
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I like the idea of this little ferry taking a siesta at midday 🙂
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