Ferry service coming by October

By October 20 this year, Vincentians will have the option of travelling by air or sea on a daily basis to the neighbouring islands of Barbados, St. Lucia and Grenada, courtesy a new ferry service with a seating capacity for 300 persons.{{more}}

The new ferry service, owned and operated by BEDY Oceanlines of Grenada, will be officially launched on October 1. However, it will make its maiden voyage three weeks later on October 20, 2009.

This is the third time in less than two years that a fast ferry service has announced its intention to start operations among the islands.

This service, however, comes at a time when the traveling public has been negatively affected by unreliable service, high airline rates and baggage restrictions.

Arthur G. Hosten, Marketing Director, told SEARCHLIGHT depending on the route it would cost Vincentians approximately $300 for a round trip ticket.

“We are working to keep it low,” said Hosten.

Passengers are promised a fast, reliable, comfortable, and a safe way to travel. Hosten disclosed that depending on the sea conditions, each trip will take three to four hours.

One ferry will be based in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and will service the St. Vincent and the Grenadines to Barbados and St. Lucia routes, while the second ferry will be based in Grenada and will service the Grenada to St.Vincent and the Grenadines route.

Check-in will be up to 30 minutes before departure, and passengers will be searched and subjected to customs and immigration regulations.

Passengers will not be allowed to consume alcoholic beverages while on board.

With regard to the baggage and ticketing system, there will be a free baggage allowance of two pieces at a maximum of 60 pounds, plus a carry-on. Extra pieces will only be accepted if space is available.

Customers are cautioned that the fares will be non-refundable. However, passengers will be allowed to change their reservations up to three hours before scheduled departure.

Tickets will be valid for 60 days.

Further details on the ferry’s operations will be announced at a press conference in St.Vincent and the Grenadines soon.