How to Use the Lagos Ferry System : Water Transport Guide

Lagos is notorious for its traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. To ease this burden, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and private operators are steadily expanding ferry services across the metropolis. Whether you're a commuter, tourist, or investor exploring Lagos, the ferry system can save you time, offer scenic views, and reduce stress.

1. Understand the Ferry Routes and Terminals

Lagos has over 15 operational ferry terminals, including:

• Ikorodu Terminal (main hub for mainland routes)

• Five Cowries Terminal (Falomo, Ikoyi)

• CMS Terminal (close to Lagos Island business district)

• Badore and Ijede Terminals (serve Lekki-Ajah and Ikorodu)

• Ipakodo Terminal

• Ilaje-Bariga Jetty

Routes typically connect:

• Ikorodu – Falomo – CMS – Apapa

• Badore – Ikoyi – Lekki

• Ipakodo – Victoria Island

• Oworonshoki – Ilaje – Addax – Marina

Always check the LASWA website or operators like LagFerry for updated routes.

2. Choose a Ferry Operator

There are two types of operators:

• Public: Lagos State-owned LagFerry offers subsidized fares and standardized boats.

• Private: provide more premium services, often with air-conditioned cabins.

  
  

3. Know the Schedule

• Ferries run mostly Mondays to Fridays, between 6:30 AM and 6:00 PM.

• Peak times: 6:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM.

• Some terminals offer weekend leisure cruises, but not regular commuter services.

Check operator websites or visit terminals for daily schedules. Note that weather and tide conditions can affect operations.

4. Ticketing and Payment

• Buy Tickets On-site or Online: Some terminals have ticket counters; others accept online payments.

• Fares range from ₦200 to ₦1,500, depending on distance and operator.

  
  

• Payment methods: Cash, POS, or online platforms (e.g., Cowry Card integration is ongoing for LagFerry)

  
  
  
  

5. Safety and Comfort Tips

• Wear a life jacket (mandatory, provided by operators).

• Arrive at the terminal 10–15 minutes early.

• Listen to crew safety briefings.

• Keep valuables secure and dress comfortably.

• Avoid ferry use during heavy rains or thunderstorms.

  
  

LASWA regularly inspects boats and mandates safety compliance, especially for public ferries.

6. Additional Tips

• Download the LASWA app (if available) or follow them on social media for real-time updates).

• Ferries are especially ideal for commuters from Ikorodu, cutting travel time from 2 hours by road to 30–45 minutes by water.

Lagos' ferry system is a smart, scenic, and efficient transport option, especially for professionals, students, and tourists navigating the city’s often gridlocked roads. As water transport continues to evolve, knowing how to navigate the system will give you a significant mobility edge.