Horne’s Ferry restoration advances, but no return date is set

Progress is continuing toward restoring Horne’s Ferry between Cape Vincent and Wolfe Island, Ontario, officials said Tuesday, but the cross-border service does not yet have a target return date.

Horne’s Ferry has been closed for two years. The route crossed the St. Lawrence River and had connected the two communities since 1802.

On Wolfe Island, Canada is updating the border-crossing station and waiting for direction from Canadian border service agencies on staffing requirements for ferry operations. Richard Allen, Frontenac County’s manager of economic development, said the remaining work involves meeting the requirements of a modern border crossing.

Cape Vincent Mayor Jerry Golden said cleanup and maintenance at the U.S. ferry landing are the main local priority. Officials said the ferry could be close to returning once the Canadian station is completed, Canadian border officials approve the operation and the Cape Vincent landing is prepared.

The closure has affected Wolfe Island businesses, according to Allen. Visitor traffic has declined during the two-year interruption, while a ferry route on Kingston’s side was altered for renovations. Businesses on Wolfe Island depend on summer tourism, he said.

The ferry’s return could affect travelers and businesses on both sides of the border, including people who use the Cape Vincent connection to reach Wolfe Island and the broader Thousand Islands area. Golden has advocated for a 2027 return, but officials have not announced a date.

Updates on the ferry’s operating status and schedules can be checked with the operator and the Canada Border Services Agency.