Business owners are celebrating news of plans for weekday ferry services from Hamilton to St George’s.

The Government announced in the Budget that it had increased the ferry service for the upcoming season to allow a Monday-to-Friday service to the East End.

Business owners and others operating under the collective name of the St George's Stakeholder Committee, have been advocating for an improved service since 2021 along with the Corporation of St George and Renée Ming, the Progressive Labour Party MP for St George's North.

The St George's Stakeholder Committee and the Corporation of St George said: "The Town of St George is thrilled to announce that, after concerted efforts and constructive dialogue with the Government of Bermuda, we will finally have a ferry service operating every week day.

“This achievement, which we have been advocating for since 2021, marks a significant milestone for our community.

“We encourage both visitors and residents to take full advantage of this vital transportation link.

“Let us embrace this opportunity to explore the rich history, vibrant culture and unparalleled beauty of St George's, while also enjoying a plethora of experiences including tours, shopping, dining, and more.

“Let's make the most of our ferries to connect people to the diverse offerings of our cherished town."

Ms Ming added: “The news of an increased ferry lift to St George's is a positive step in the right direction. I had the opportunity to meet with the St George's Stakeholder Committee and this was one of their requests. I'm grateful to the Minister of Transport for hearing us in the East.

“I trust that the people of St George's will utilise this service as it can reduce vehicular traffic. The 2024 ferry schedule can accommodate our residents, who will now be able to board in Hamilton.”

The schedule is yet to be publicly released, but Ms Ming said on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, the ferry would leave Hamilton, stop in Dockyard, and then travel to St George's.

On Tuesdays and Fridays, the ferry will start in Dockyard and head to St George's.

The Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association has been calling for improved public transportation to help alleviate the workload for its members, not least during the tourist season.

Dennis Furbert, the BTOA’s president, said: “It is good news. The taxis on the road can’t do all the work. It is impossible when you have 4,000-plus people in Dockyard alone and expect every taxi to be at Dockyard.”

He added that night service ferries were needed to cross the Great Sound in Hamilton to connect Airbnbs on Harbour Road.

“That would alleviate some of the demand on taxis as well.”