The ferry was established in the 15th century and this latest one it connects the fishing village of St Mawes on the Roseland Peninsula with Feock, Truro and Falmouth. Using the ferry avoids an alternative 27 mile route through Truro & Tresillian.

Each year the King Harry Ferry saves motorists many road miles. Thus, reduces carbon emissions. Generally in most years it carries around 300,000 cars annually. The chain ferry clanks it way over the river channel and it takes around 5 minutes to make each crossing. This iconic ferry with its glass side, chain viewing windows which combines state of the art technology with a traditional friendly service. This is the seventh vessel on the crossing and powered crossing started in 1888 with the King Harry Steam Ferry.