Long future on ferry horizon after big year

PORT Phillip Ferries is celebrating its first anniversary of crossing the bay between Portarlington and Docklands.

Port Phillip Ferries initially committed its passenger service between Portarlington and Docklands for three years.

But chief executive officer Murray Rance says after seeing the results of its first year of operation, the company is looking to extend that into the future.

“Our initial commitment was for three years – but we’re really looking beyond that – and when we see the results of our first year of operation, they are a testament that this is a reliable, well-supported passenger ferry that the community has embraced,” Mr Rance said.

“In fact, just this month saw the inclusion of a new service route every Saturday afternoon between Portarlington and Geelong and that service will continue from now through to Christmas.”

It has been a big year of business for the captains and the crew, ticking off 910 journeys across Port Phillip Bay and travelling close to 40,000km.

The service also hosted 2,500 seniors during the 2017 Seniors Week and has spotted five whales, along with heaps of dolphins, penguins and seals.

Portarlington Safe Harbour and Bellarine Ferry Group chair John Rae said the direct route to Melbourne had been great for the town.

“It’s been a fantastic first year and look out for exciting news from Port Phillip Ferries in December – it’s only getting better.”

For more information, head to portphillipferries.com.au.