Butts ferry has been secured
Published: 30 November 2018
A hand-operated passenger ferry which became detached from its moorings overnight has now been secured after it came to rest on a weir in the River Exe.
The Butts Ferry, which is operated during the summer season by Exeter Cruises and owned by Exeter City Council, broke loose from Exeter Quay, ending up on the edge of Trew’s Weir.
The vessel has now been pulled to the side of the river and temporarily secured with a chain. Exeter City Council is hoping to recover the ferry next week. The recovery operation can only take place once the levels of the swollen river have receded, allowing the gates of the Kings Arms Lock to be opened and a recovery boat to get through.
The City Council would like to thank Haven Banks Outdoor Education Centre for helping to get the stranded ferry off the weir and to the side of the river.