ONE of Newcastle's ferries has returned to service between Queens Wharf and Stockton after undergoing a major refurbishment.
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The 'Shortland' ferry had been out of the harbour in recent months for an overhaul identical to the one the 'Hunter' underwent last year.
Keolis Downer's Andrew Flecter said the refresh had improved the customer experience on board the local icons, which have more than 30 years of service on Newcastle Harbour.
"Floors, ceilings, windows and lighting have been replaced in the facelift, the bike racks have been improved and new surfboard racks added," he said.
"The changes to the interior have opened up much more space for passengers.
"Customers are also now able to enjoy Newcastle Harbour with outdoor seating now available on the back deck."
Mr Fletcher said Newcastle Transport had added an additional 79 ferry services per week since the transport network was overhauled in 2018.
He said the more frequent services, combined with the addition of frequent light rail services and an easy transfer between modes at Queens Wharf, had boosted ferry patronage.
"Every month we are seeing more people using the ferry," he said.
"There was an average monthly increase of over 3000 passenger trips on the ferry in the twelve months to 30 June 2019.
"More and more Novocastrians are embracing the service with customers taking advantage of the leisurely commute and families enjoying the day out to explore the new Stockton playground and skate park."
Key features of the ferry refurbishment:
- Four on-board wheelchair spaces
- Four surfboard racks to match those on the new light rail vehicles
- Four spaces for bikes
- Outdoor seating on the back deck
- New internal seating.