Gulf ferry to start in October

A new 60-metre SeaSA Ferry, the ‘Sea Star’ is on its way from China and is expected to begin trips soon.

The ferry service has not been operational since September 2014, due to the construction of a transshipment facility and extensive harbour development undertaken at Lucky Bay.

Sea Transport Developments SA manager Mr Cant said they had been pushing to have the service restart by Easter this year but due to the construction delays of periods of wet weather, there was a delay.

“We apologise for not being able to re-introduce the service sooner, but many factors were out of our control, however we hope locals and visitors will support the new vessel,” he said.

“Our priority has been to finish everything with precision to ensure safety and compliance with Department of Transport Marine requirements.

“Some outstanding issues with other Government departments will hopefully also be resolved shortly”.

SeaSA managing director Stephanie Dawson indicated that the Spencer Gulf Ferry will operate from Wallaroo to Lucky Bay for nine months of the year, with two return trips daily, reducing to one return trip in the slower months.

“Travel time onboard the vessel is approximately two hours from Wallaroo to Lucky Bay; and we aim to have passengers and vehicles on and off in 15 minutes,” she said.

“The service is an alternative route from either Peninsula, to give drivers a break from behind the wheel, which is paramount for safety on our roads.”

The vessel design has changed and will carry 65 passenger vehicles and up to 100 passengers, which includes passenger seating on both upper and deck level.

Mrs Dawson said the company has developed a new booking system, with bookings for the ferry service to start later in September.