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If you’ve been meaning to make more use of Sydney’s most scenic form of PT, September might be the month to finally commit. For the month of September, Sydney Ferries are operating free of charge, with Opal readers switched off across the network. According to reports, readers have been switched off as part of an arrangement linked to ongoing protected industrial action by Maritime Union of Australia members employed by Transdev Sydney Ferries. The fare-free arrangement will run until 11.59pm on Wednesday, September 30. Here’s what we know so far (and where you can sail free of charge this spring).
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First up, the key catch: not every ferry on Sydney Harbour is free to ride this month. Private operators are excluded from the arrangement, so you’ll still need to pay if you board services such as the Manly Fast Ferry. Transport for NSW distinguishes between Sydney Ferries and private operators, with different fares applying to the latter.
The free travel comes as Maritime Union workers undertake protected industrial action during enterprise bargaining negotiations with Transdev. The action, which began on September 4, includes bans on certain work arrangements and overtime and is scheduled to continue until the end of the month. As you’d expect with this kind of industrial action, they’re not spelling smooth sailing for Sydney’s ferry network. Transport for NSW has warned that the industrial action may lead to cancellations, delays and changes to ferry services, sometimes at short notice. Most services are expected to continue running, but passengers have been advised to allow extra travel time and check the latest information before setting off. Transport for NSW says it is working with Transdev to minimise disruption while negotiations continue, with a formal offer on the table and a "relatively small gap" remaining between the parties. So, by all means, make the most of the free ferry rides – just don't rely on your usual service running exactly when you expect it to.
Wondering where to explore? Sydney Ferries currently operates 10 public routes, including F1 to Manly, F2 to Taronga Zoo, F3 along the Parramatta River, F4 to Pyrmont Bay, F7 to Double Bay and F9 to Watsons Bay.
Before heading to the wharf, check the latest updates on Transport for NSW, the Opal Travel app or transport alerts.
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