More than a quarter of a million people have now crossed the River Derwent on the Derwent Ferry service since its inception in 2021.
With the route from the Hobart Waterfront to Kangaroo Bay on the eastern shore averaging around 500 passengers each day, Infrastructure and Transport Minster Michael Ferguson says the popularity of the transport option continues to soar.
Over 300,000 people have boarded the ferry, which initially began in 2021 as a trial in 2021 and was later made permanent in 2022 due to its widespread appeal.
Ferguson said the “significant milestone” coincided with the close of the consultation period on the draft River Derwent Ferry Masterplan.
“More than 600 pieces of feedback were received from the community in relation to the draft River Derwent Ferry Masterplan and we have received strong engagement from River Derwent stakeholders and industry,” he said.
“This shows there is a strong appetite to grow the ferry network, which will help ease traffic congestion and revitalise key locations along the River Derwent.”
Potential locations for new ferry infrastructure and connections include Lindisfarne, Howrah, Wilkinsons Point, Sandy Bay, Regatta Point and Kingston Beach.
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A “more detailed timeline” detailing the chosen sites for the future network is expected to be announced in the coming months.