A $73 million project to upgrade the port facilities servicing Kangaroo Island in South Australia is now complete, however the full benefits expected to be delivered for freight operators and residents are still some way off.
The Cape Jervis and Penneshaw ports are part of the essential link between Kangaroo Island and the mainland for cars, freight, and passengers, with the Kangaroo Island Ferry Service carrying approximately 500,400 passengers, more than 146,000 cars, and 14,000 freight vehicles per annum.
The upgrade includes new fit-for-purpose facilities, which will support an increased number of ferry services and faster turnaround times, along with improved safety for passengers and the new, larger SeaLink vessels, particularly during adverse weather and storms.
Timing-wise, the delivery of Sealink’s two new ferries has been delayed with the company guaranteeing the State Government its two new vessels will be operating between Cape Jervis and Penneshaw from June 1 next year.
In a statement announcing the completion of the works, which the government says supported approximately 175 jobs during construction, residents have been given a guarantee of additional daily return services and cheaper fares.
“The current ferries will continue to service KI to keep tourists moving to and from the Island and importantly back local businesses, while giving residents cheaper fares,” the statement said.
“The Resident Vehicle Saver fare, originally planned to start with the new ferries, will now be available prior to the arrival of the new boats, with KI residents to be able to book a vehicle on the boat for just $30.35, a saving of $48.55.
“From November 1, the new saver fare will be available on two morning departures from Penneshaw and two evening departures from Cape Jervis.
“We also recognise it’s been a tough period for farmers with the drought. That’s why we’ve worked with SeaLink to hold ferry livestock freight fees at the lower rate of $39.60 until the end of 2026 – including once the new ferries come online. This is something the industry called for and we are delivering on.”
When the new ferries do arrive, the statement warns that SeaLink will requires a three-day suspension of all services to replace the ramps for the new roll-on, roll-off ferries. This is expected to occur in May, with final timing to be announced closer to the shutdown.