Plans unveiled for ferry service to connect Cork

By Tara Maher

Aidan Coffey has revealed plans for a new tourist and commuter ferry service in Cork harbour, with a potential investment of €60m to €80m. Building on a similar proposal from 2008 that didn't proceed due to the economic downturn, this updated and more extensive project aims to be operational within two years.

The proposed service includes 17 stops, more than double the original plan, and will utilize four hi-tech, zero-emission, fully electric catamarans. It intends to connect communities on both sides of the lower harbour, extending into the city with stops at locations like Blackrock Castle, Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Marina Market, and the future transport hub at Kent train station.

The proposed plans for the ferry service that will connect Cork harbour

Serving Crosshaven, Monkstown, Carrigaline, Passage West, Ringaskiddy, Spike Island, and Paddy’s Point, the ferry will operate every half hour from 7 am to 10 pm daily, 364 days a year. After the morning peak, two of the four vessels will transition to a tourist-focused service.

Mr. Coffey, who previously spearheaded the DFDS ferry route between Rosslare and Dunkirk believes the alignment of local, regional, and national planning strategies, coupled with Cork's anticipated growth as a city region, creates the ideal conditions for this venture. He emphasizes Cork's unique advantage of the River Lee as a natural and uncongested transport route, envisioning a "stylish yet sustainable mode of all-electric zero emission transport."