Tryout: Shutterbugs snapping pictures of one of the new ferries, ‘Teluk Bahang’, which went on a short cruise after leaving Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s four new ferries will feature higher closed decks for the safety of pedestrians and two-wheelers.
Ferry rides will be free for the first month when they come into service at 6am on Aug 7.
Rides will be available every 30 minutes.
Each ferry is also able to pivot sideways like a large cruise ship and has two-diesel powered engines on the bow and stern, which allows it to dock in either direction.
Penang Port Sdn Bhd took delivery of the four ferries – Teluk Bahang, Teluk Kumbar, Teluk Duyung and Teluk Kampi – which cost a total of RM72mil, here yesterday.
Soon after leaving the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal, Teluk Bahang made an abrupt 360-degree turn, much to the amazement of government officials and members of the media who were on board for a short cruise.
On board were Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Deputy Education Minister Lim Hui Ying, several executive councillors and port officials.
Penang Port Commission general manager V. Vijayaindiaran said the maximum speed of each ferry is 12 knots (22.2kph), while the proposed official speed is 11 knots.
The ferry’s new features include an air-conditioned sitting area for passengers.
“The high-speed ferries are expected to attract more commuters with some 3,000 people using the ferry daily currently,” Loke said.
He added that the new ferry fares will be announced at a later date.
