Ferry Services

The State of Tennessee is responsible for the operation of two ferries:

  • The Benton-Houston Ferry runs across the Tennessee River between Benton and Houston Counties. It is located approximately 2.35 miles west of McKinnon in Houston County on State Route 147. 
    • For inquiries regarding the operation status of the Benton-Houston ferry please use the number below:
           Call or text: 931.249.0831
           Note: Cell coverage is not dependable.  If you cannot get through call the Cumberland City Ferry number below.
  • The Cumberland City Ferry operates across the Cumberland River. It’s located in Cumberland City on State Route 46 in Stewart County.
    • For inquiries regarding the operation status of the Cumberland City Ferry please use the number below:
           Call or text: 931.827.2322

The ferries (tugs and barges) are owned by the State of Tennessee and operated by River Marine Service, Inc., located in Clarksville, Tennessee. The contractor operates the ferries 365 days per year. Captains and deckhands have the required state, federal and USCG certifications and licenses to perform their duties.

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Monday thru Friday - 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time

Saturday and Sunday - 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time

ferryBenton-Houston

The Benton-Houston Ferry on a river shown with
4(four) cars loaded on it. A man is opening the gate on the ferry to let the cars off. 

CROSSING FEES:

Automobile, passengers and driver $2.00  
Automobile trailer  $1.50  
Person, each on foot $0.50  
Truck or bus (1 ton capacity and under) and driver $2.00  
Truck or bus (over 1 ton capacity) and driver $4.00
Truck trailer or bus trailer (fee in addition to towing vehicle) $3.00  
Motorcycle and driver $2.00  
At Benton-Houston Ferry residents of Houston, Benton, Stewart and Henry Counties $0.75  
At Cumberland City residents of Montgomery, Stewart and Houston Counties $0.75  
*All official government vehicles are exempt from paying any crossing fee.