Lungi to Freetown Ferry and Water Taxi Guide 2026

All options for crossing from Lungi Airport to Freetown. Ferry schedule and cost, water taxi operators, why there is no helicopter, and what to do when crossings are cancelled.

The Lungi-Freetown Crossing

There is no bridge between Lungi Airport and Freetown. Every international arrival must cross the Sierra Leone River estuary. This fundamental geographic fact shapes all Sierra Leone airport logistics — understanding your options is essential planning.

Option 1: Government Ferry (SLMA)

Cheapest option. Operated by the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration from Lungi jetty to Government Wharf, Freetown.

• Fare: NLe 50–100 per person (approx USD 2-5)
• Vehicles can be transported (queues can be very long)
• Journey: 45-90 minutes depending on vessel
• Schedule: irregular intervals through the day; last ferry about 8:30 PM from both Tagrin and Kissy
• Reliability: Medium — weather and mechanical cancellations are common

Option 2: Water Taxi / Speedboat

Multiple private operators from the Lungi jetty to Aberdeen, Government Wharf, and other Freetown landing points.

• Fare: USD 20-50 per person
• Journey: 15-30 minutes
• Capacity: 8-20 passengers typically
• Schedule: More frequent than ferry, primarily daylight hours
• Reliability: Higher than ferry, still weather-dependent

What about the helicopter?

There is no helicopter service between Lungi and Freetown any more, so ignore older guides and forum posts that still list one. For a fast crossing, use a water taxi in daylight; for a late arrival, stay the night in Lungi and cross in the morning.

Late Night Arrivals: The Right Choice

The last government ferry leaves at about 8:30 PM; water taxis usually meet international flights but it is a paid night crossing. If you land after about 6:45 PM (check yours with the free Lungi ferry checker), the practical and safe choice is to stay overnight in Lungi. Hariom Yogi Guest House is directly opposite the Lungi Airport terminal — right by the New Airport Gate. Clean rooms, restaurant, 24-hour generator, free Wi-Fi. The established first-night base for hundreds of NGO workers and business travellers annually. Book via WhatsApp +232 90 380 100. Landing late? Hold a room tonight for $5 (it comes off your room bill).

Pre-Booking Crossings

Water taxi seats can fill for popular flight arrival times (especially December-January peak season). Globe2Me can pre-arrange crossing tickets and onward transport as part of your Sierra Leone booking.