What is a Ferry?
A ferry is a boat or ship used to transport passengers, vehicles, and goods across bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, or seas. Ferries are a form of public transportation that provide an important link between different coastal regions or islands.
Types of Ferries
- Passenger ferries
- Car ferries
- High-speed ferries
- Ro-Ro (Roll-on/roll-off) ferries
Examples of Ferry Services
One of the most famous ferry services is the Staten Island Ferry in New York City, which transports passengers between Manhattan and Staten Island free of charge. Another example is the BC Ferries in British Columbia, Canada, which operates one of the largest ferry systems in the world.
Case Study: Sydney Ferries
Sydney Ferries is a popular mode of transportation in Sydney, Australia, with services connecting the city to various suburbs and attractions along Sydney Harbour. The ferry ride offers passengers a scenic view of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Statistics on Ferry Usage
According to the International Maritime Organization, over 2.1 billion passengers were carried by ferries worldwide in 2019. The Asia-Pacific region accounted for the highest number of ferry passengers, followed by Europe and North America.