Ferry Docking

The docking of ferry craft often involves the use of so-called ferry slips at the shore line which are facilities specifically designed for positioning the vessel for efficient loading and unloading of passengers and vehicles. Vehicles are loaded and unloaded by the use of an adjustable ramp component of the slip, known as an apron. Some ferries feature their own integral aprons for vehicle loading and unloading, which in fact provide a secondary function as wave guards during transportation when returned to their elevated position.