San Francisco Bay Ferry to launch East Bay service

Written by Nick Blenkey

sfferryMAY 15, 2012: San Francisco Bay Ferry’s service between the East Bay and South San Francisco will launch on Monday, June 4, giving commuters an alternative to traffic on the Bay Bridge and along Highway 101. Commuters will have the option to enjoy a comfortable and scenic 40- to 50-minute ride aboard sleek, modern vessels equipped with free WiFi and a other amenities. Fares are free for the first week of service.

The East Bay-South San Francisco service – the first new water transit route on the Bay in nearly 20 years – will operate Monday through Friday during peak commute periods, with three morning departures from Alameda Main Street and Oakland’s Jack London Square, and two evening return departures from South San Francisco’s new Oyster Point Ferry Terminal.

“The June 4 maiden voyage of the East Bay to South San Francisco ferry service marks a new chapter in water transportation on San Francisco Bay,” said Nina Rannells, Executive Director of San Francisco Bay Ferry. “Our vision for the future of transportation around the Bay Area includes a robust ferry system, starting with this important step in serving the vibrant and growing employer base in South San Francisco. In addition to providing an alternative to our increasingly congested roadways, this service ensures emergency access in the event of a natural disaster.”

The two vessels serving the route carry up to 149 passengers at a top speed of 25 knots. A one-way adult fare for the East Bay-South San Francisco route will be $7.00. Seniors, disabled, and youth (5-12) are $3.50. Clipper cards, credit cards and cash are accepted.

About San Francisco Bay Ferry

San Francisco Bay Ferry is a service of the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA). SF Bay Ferry also serves the San Francisco Ferry Building and Pier 39/Fisherman’s Wharf, Harbor Bay and Main Street in Alameda, and Oakland (Jack London Square), with seasonal service to AT&T Park and Angel Island. On July 1, 2012 San Francisco Bay Ferry will assume operations of the Vallejo Ferry. Future plans call for serving a number of other new Bay Area locations.

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