Millennium ferry begins service
A new ferry chartered by Government has finally gone into action, transporting passengers between Dockyard and St. George’s.The 400-seat Millennium was brought in from the US amid concerns that Government’s existing fleet of public transport ferries would not be able to cope with a surge in demand during the busy tourism season. Last year cruise ship visitors complained of being stranded in the West End because public transport was poorly organised, and questions have also been raised about the reliability of the fast ferry fleet, which has been hit by a number of mechanical failures in recent months.Millennium, which will cost Government around $1.3 million for the summer, was due to go into service two weeks ago, but her arrival in Bermuda was delayed by poor weather conditions.Announcing her maiden voyage in Bermuda’s waters yesterday, Tourism and Transport Minister Shawn Crockwell said: “I am pleased to report that the Millennium ferry has completed all safety checks and drills and having completed a dry run between Dockyard and St George’s, began service at 11.30am.“Before the Millennium could commence service, the Department of Marine and Ports had to carry out dock fender modifications at Penno’s Wharf which took place during the Bermuda Day holiday weekend.“This addition to our ferry service for the summer holiday season will help ensure a much improved transportation service for our visitors and residents and I will provide a full update on the Millennium to the House and public on Friday, May 31.”