The 40-year-old Manchester United keeper will call time on his playing career this summer and a coaching offer is on the table from Old Trafford manager Ferguson.
But the Dutchman has decided to take a lengthy break after more than 20 years as a professional.
Down time: Van der Sar has decided to take a break to enjoy family life
He said: 'I will hopefully not start coaching too quickly. I will try to have 18 months or two years for myself - and I've a family to do nice things with too.
'I think about 80 per cent of players who played in football are saying that.'
Van der sar starred for Ajax, Juventus and Fulham before joining United in 2005 but wishes he had linked up with Ferguson in 2001.
The Cottagers offered a better deal at the time and Van der Sar added: 'One of the biggest regrets from both sides - United's and mine - is that we didn't come together earlier.'
Source: Daily Mail