East Ferry is situated at the East Passage in Cork Harbour. It is here that the second of two ferries operating between Great Island and the mainland was located many years ago. To overcome the strong current in the East Passage, the ferry ran on cables. Although the ferry was destroyed in a storm, the pier and old metal ends are evident at East Ferry to this day.

East Ferry with its coastal woodlands is very far removed from the busy shipping channel of Cork Harbour. It is a charming place to walk or horseride. Facilities for visiting boats are excellent. East Ferry Marina lies on the eastern side of the Great Island. Nestled in the woods, it is a sheltered spot which is accessible at all states of the tide. Showers, water, diesel, petrol and electricity are all available and a restaurant is run in conjunction with the marina.

SailCork.com has its base at the East Ferry marina. SailCork.com offers courses in powerboating, crusier and dinghy racing, navigation, VHF and sea survival. The team of instructors is led by Eddie English, one the most experienced sailors and longest-established power boat instructors in the country.