For many Londoners, the Woolwich Ferry is simply a convenient way to cross the Thames.
For me, however, it is much more than that.
It is a vital transport link, a unique place to work, and one of Transport for London’s hidden gems.
I joined TfL in January 2024, after spending several years working on the Thames Clippers.
Among river professionals, the Woolwich Ferry has long been regarded as one of the most sought-after jobs on the Thames.
The vessels are larger than the Clippers and bring a completely different set of challenges, making the role both demanding and rewarding.
Many people are surprised to learn that I had no marine experience before I began working on the River Thames.
Becoming a commercial captain requires significant dedication and training.
To qualify, you must obtain a Boatmaster’s Licence, a nationally recognised maritime qualification.
Before you can even apply, they need a minimum of two years’ experience working onboard a vessel, learning everything from rope work and vessel operations to emergency procedures and safe navigation.
The licensing process is rigorous.
It includes practical assessments on the water and an extensive oral examination covering safety procedures, vessel stability, weather conditions, passenger and vehicle loading, emergency preparedness, and navigation rules.
It is a challenging journey, but one that proves that determination and commitment can open unexpected career paths.
The weather, river conditions, and tides constantly affect how we operate, while the people we meet range from daily commuters and school groups to tourists who stumble across the service by accident.
While many people think of it purely as a vehicle crossing, we get hundreds of pedestrians and cyclists using the ferry every day, due to its location along the Thames Path and Woolwich Town Centre on the south side, while also being close to Royal Victoria Gardens and the University of East London on the north.
What I love most is that no two days are ever the same.
For example, one memorable moment for me was when a passenger suffered a seizure while sitting in his car onboard the ferry.
My crew immediately recognised that something was wrong and sprang into action, safely removing him from his vehicle and providing first aid, while I contacted the London Ambulance Service.
Paramedics arrived within minutes and took over his care, and the passenger went on to make a full recovery.
A few weeks later, his family contacted us to thank the crew personally.
It was an incredibly proud moment and a powerful reminder of the importance of training, teamwork, and vigilance.
Having operated for more than 150 years, the ferry service continues to play an important role in east London’s transport network.
With new developments seeing more people wanting to cross the river for work, leisure, or to visit family and friends, we now serve a total of more than two million passengers.
For them, the Woolwich Ferry may simply be part of a journey – but for those of us who work here, it’s a historic and essential service that remains one of London’s best-kept secrets.
- Emma Lewis is captain of the Woolwich Ferry.
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