Commuters and dignitaries helped christen Bermuda's two newest ferries last night, which are even faster than the first two.

Free rides on the entire ferry service are being offered on Saturday, August 21 and Monday, the 23th ? the same week and will begin service.

With 177 seats, the new boats carry 28 fewer passengers than and which began service in 2002 but they are faster.

Transport and Tourism Minister Dr. Ewart Brown said the $2.5 million catamarans can motor along at 35 knots.

"The higher speeds are necessary to enable faster service from St. George's and other destinations."

He said the fast-ferry project ? which has involved dock reconstruction as well ? had remained on budget and a decision on adding a fifth boat would be made soon.

He said: "That's our goal, we are hoping to get it. A decision will be made within the next 30 days it would be the same design and cost and probably the same company."

Dr. Brown said he was extremely pleased with the new boats which will temporarily replace and on the Hamilton-Rockaway and Hamilton-Dockyard-St. George's routes. The larger boats are due to get some much needed service.

When the larger two boats return, they will be used to replace old boats on the Somerset routes and to provide more service from Hamilton to Dockyard and St. George's.

"I am amazed at the quality of finishing work. It's yacht-quality finishing. I think people will really enjoy them."

Dr. Brown said plans for further expansion of the ferry service will include commuter markets to St. George's, and other East End destinations.

After the christening ceremony, aided by Kimberley Barnes who came up with the name and Sonia Lambert who suggested guests enjoyed a water-borne tour of Hamilton harbour, ride which was smooth despite the rough weather.

Somerset commuter Dawn Simmons said she hoped the new boats would speed up her daily trip from Cavello Bay, where facilities are also being upgraded.

"I am looking forward to getting home a lot earlier."

Passenger Sandy Gilbert said: "It's a really smooth ride. I haven't been on these fast ferries but this one is very nice. It's windy tonight but it's so smooth."

Rockaway commuter Valerie Dill said she has already been enjoying the fast ferries, which she said had provided a flawless commute so far. Plain sailing was the norm, whatever the conditions, she said.

"It's excellent. It's so relaxing when you are coming home in the summer. It's absolutely beautiful. You can enjoy the sunsets.

"It makes the whole day worthwhile."

The boats were built by Northwest Bay Shipyard of Tasmania.

Managing Director Steve Quigley said the Marine and Ports team had been: "Robust in their commercial negotiations, extremely professional and a pleasure to work with."