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About us – history and information "Williamstown Ferries" were established in 1984 when the launch Heritage cruised from the City to Williamstown daily – the first boat since 1948 to go to Williamstown on a regular basis. In 1986 the ferry "John Batman" was designed and built primarily for the purpose of providing a regular ferry service linking the City of Melbourne with Williamstown and St Kilda. This was a "first" for Melbourne, the last ferry service across Hobson’s Bay was the Rosney, which operated between Station Pier, Port Melbourne and Williamstown, and ceased in 1931. In 1990
in order to provide a reliable service a support vessel was sought
and a catamaran design was chosen and built. Both craft have provided
an all year round service and operate in all conditions. Since 1997 both the John Batman and Southern Spirit have been used simultaneously on the St Kilda run to provide for increased patronage and to maintain the advertised timetable. The Southgate – Williamstown ferry service is operated by five yellow and blue ferries (Williamstown football colours) headed by the Williamstown Seeker. Being low profile, the Williamstown Seeker and the Bay City Ferries are ideal for traversing under low bridges and the conditions in the Southbank area. The Bay-City ferries are ex-naval work boats that have been converted with comfortable seating in the main cabin and an extended stern deck for outdoor sightseeing. Being navy vessels they are extremely reliable and sturdy. Both the Southgate
– Williamstown and St Kilda ferries were born of passion – not only
for boating but to share the views of our marvellous city and the
hidden delights of Williamstown with locals and travellers alike. The ferries have been supported by our charter boat business (for the first 4 years they ran at a loss) and even now, Melbourne’s weather dictates that we have a very seasonal business. Despite this, we operate all year round so as not to penalise those passengers wishing to travel in the cooler weather. Today several other companies operate to Williamstown, often on our advertised times; however usually only on the sunny days. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our many loyal customers who support us as the original Williamstown ferry – who put service ahead of profit. Your support enables us to operate all year round. Thank you |
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