Legal Definitions - ferry franchise

Definition: A ferry franchise is the right, usually exclusive, given by government franchise, to carry persons or property across water for a fee. A ferry is a boat or vessel used to carry persons or property across water, usually with fixed terminals and short distances. The commercial transportation of persons or property across water is also considered a ferry.

Examples: An example of a ferry franchise is the Staten Island Ferry in New York City. The government has granted the exclusive right to operate the ferry service between Staten Island and Manhattan for a fee. Another example is the Washington State Ferries, which operates a system of 20 ferry routes in the Puget Sound region of Washington State.

These examples illustrate how a ferry franchise is a government-granted right to operate a ferry service for a fee. The ferry service provides transportation for people and goods across water, usually between fixed terminals. The ferry franchise holder has the exclusive right to operate the service, which can be a profitable business.