The island ferry that runs on a whim
The small cable ferry to the island has a printed timetable on a wooden board. It is accurate in the way that weather forecasts are accurate: broadly, and with optimism.
The first time I missed the last crossing, I spent the evening on a bench by the pier with a family who had done the same. They had brought a picnic. I had brought a lens cap.
Lessons, in order of importance
Bring a jacket even in September. Ask the café owner, not the board, when the last ferry really leaves. And never, ever say out loud that you have plenty of time.
The second time I missed it on purpose. The light over the strait after nine in the evening was worth a long walk around the bay to the road bridge.