News / Bristol Ferry Boats
Bristol Ferries plan return to waterways this spring
The sight of the distinctive blue and yellow boats in the waterways will be a welcome sign things are starting to return to normal.
Although when Bristol Ferries relaunch this spring, it will be with Covid-safe measures that include reduced passenger numbers to aid social distancing, enhanced cleaning, PPE and extended times for boarding and disembarking.
The operators of the community-owned organisation have confirmed they are planning a return to the harbour on May 17 at the earliest, in line with government guidelines.
is needed now More than ever
Roisin Tobin, the general manager at Bristol Community Ferryboats, says she is delighted to finally be working towards a re-opening date after what has been a very challenging year for so many.
https://twitter.com/BristolFerry/status/1370117422179610626
“We have used the past few months to carefully plan how we can re-open safely whilst still offering great trips, whether it’s on one of our regular ferry boat services or aboard a private boat tour of the city,” says Roisin.
“We can’t wait to welcome back our customers onto the water. Our passenger numbers will be reduced to allow social distancing, with PPE worn by our staff and our customers at this time. This will be our ‘soft opening’ period, where we hope to operate our waterbus to a temporary timetable, with enhanced cleaning and extended times for boarding and disembarking safely.
“We will also be offering private hire for up to six passengers – and a schedule of trips and tours for groups of no larger than six.
“We’d like to thank everyone who has shown such support for us over the past 12 months. As a community business we rely on this support; our customers have been so generous in their donations and well wishes.”
Bristol Ferries should be back in operation from May 17 – photo courtesy of Bristol Ferries
Bristol Ferry Boats hope to be able to increase passenger capacity to 30 from June 21, in line with government guidelines. Bookings are now being accepted for larger, private-hire groups and boat parties from this date on.
Roisin adds: “It has been so heartening to receive enquiries and hear our customers excited and able to begin forward-planning after such a long period. Whilst we navigate these unchartered waters – we will be proceeding with caution and offering only what feels safe before increasing the limit on larger gatherings.”
Trips and tours within the Bristol Floating Harbour, down the Avon Gorge and upriver to Beeses are navailable to purchase online at www.bristolferry.com/public-trips-and-tours/, with Covid-flex terms in place.
Main photo courtesy of Bristol Ferries
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
