Cooper Ferry

Hi Harry

It will all depend on how many vehicles that need to cross when you arrive. Another fact to consider also is the wind....The day that we returned last Thursday there were 5 vehicles that need to cross which was not a problem.

The day before the waves were breaking over the side of the ferry, it was that windy, so they had to then cancel all further crossing from 11am until sun up next morning, when there were over 40 vehicles from both directions waiting to cross.

If you have the time, set up camp and take the atmosphere in, it is just unreal. For a couple of extra images, check the post below that shows you some of the bird life out there.



Cheers


Stephen

It doesn't take very long at all, even if there are a few vehicles in front of you, time doesn't matter, leave your watch at home, what's the hurry, have a cuppa and a sandwich and enjoy the moment, chat with any one around that are waiting before & after you.

Took us about 20 minutes with 4 cars in front a couple of days ago - at 1 car at a time it would be a long wait coming down after the races.

We went up just after the races 2 years ago and here was 1 high speed 4wd per km - some 500 oncoming.

Every car going up took some damage - aviod if you can.

Probably not what you want to hear but in July last year, we waited 4 and a half hours to make the crossing from North to South. We lined up pretty well first thing in the morning after camping on the northern side overnight. It was just after lunch before we got across.

However....in September, we only waited 15 minutes to do the same crossing.

As others have said..... enjoy the quiet time. Chances are if you're waiting, others will be too. So get out the car, stretch the legs, have a chin wag and a cuppa and make the most of it.

Recommendation....have some fold out chairs at the ready and some drinks and nibbles. Watching the ferry cross while you wait is surprisingly relaxing.

Fab.

We just spent two days camped on the Cooper watching the ferry go back and forth, biggest line up was 4 cars that we saw. Others informed us of 30 odd lined up the other day as strong winds had closed it.
No fish and rats everywhere.
MM

Just back from our trip....We took 4 days from Maree to Birdsville...
Suggest don't camp at Maree but 50k up the Track at Claytons..pleasant surprise waiting.
Also, heaps of li'l bitey insects (midgeys??) when camped naer the Ferry, so suggest you avoid that area.
How long to wait for the ferry??? Depends on how many vehicles....we were second in line...