Every morning, from 6:10 a.m., locals stream down the gangway at Manly Wharf, coffee in one hand — and sometimes a cold drink in the other — with a short but scenic ride ahead. The Manly Fast Ferry now offers more than just a view. With a new onboard bar serving wine, beer and soft drinks, it’s become a uniquely refreshing part of the daily commute. For many, it’s the best part of the workday — the familiar hum of the engines, the salty air, and the Manly Fast Ferry, a familiar ride that now feels brand new.
A Familiar Journey, Made Better
Manly Fast Ferry passengers are noticing the difference the moment they step onboard. New timber-look floors, sleek navy seats with extra legroom, and the soft lighting that fills the cabin all signal a major change. But it’s not just a visual upgrade — it’s a shift in the whole experience.
The first two ferries to receive the overhaul, Ocean Rider and Ocean Adventurer, are already carrying passengers between Manly and Circular Quay. The remaining vessels in the fleet are scheduled to be completed by June 2025. The 20-minute service, long regarded as one of Sydney’s most picturesque commutes, now offers a smoother, more comfortable ride with features that make the journey easier for everyone on board.
Made in Australia, Made for Locals
While the new interiors look sharp, it’s the story behind them that gives the update a sense of community value. Every seat, panel, and finish has been designed and built in Australia. The NRMA, which operates the service, focused on using local suppliers and manufacturers to keep the work close to home.
Nigel Ellsmore, the NRMA’s Chief Operating Officer Marine, says the upgrades weren’t just about looks. They were about creating a ferry experience that reflected the city and its people. That local focus extends to what’s on tap, too. The ferry’s bar is now stocked with Northern Beaches favourites like Four Pines beer and Manly Spirits, alongside a range of wines, soft drinks and non-alcoholic drinks.
For many regulars, the ability to unwind with a local drink on the ride home has added a fresh layer of enjoyment to an already-loved route.
Small Touches with Big Impact
Beyond aesthetics, the refurbishments were designed with accessibility and comfort in mind. Wider aisles and doorways make it easier for wheelchair users and parents with prams to move through the ferry. Priority seating is clearly marked, and USB and power outlets at select seats mean commuters can charge their devices en route.
Restrooms have also been updated with modern finishes, and new window treatments help control glare while framing the harbour views that have always defined this route.
Though the upgrades may seem subtle at first glance, they’ve already made an impression on locals. As the peak summer crowd heads to the beach and office workers return from the city, the ferry now feels more like a lounge than public transport.
Passengers can also continue to tap on and off using their Opal cards, with standard Opal fares and caps applying to the Manly Fast Ferry service. The convenience of Opal integration means locals and visitors alike can enjoy the upgraded ride without needing separate tickets or payment systems.
A Community Ride, Reimagined
For long-time ferry riders, these changes have been a welcome surprise — a sign that even a daily routine can be improved without losing what makes it special. The decision to keep the design and manufacturing process local has added a layer of pride to the commute, too.
The ferry still leaves on time. Check the schedule:
The view of the Opera House as you glide into Circular Quay is still breathtaking. But now, there’s more space to move, a place to grab a drink, and a sense that the journey matters just as much as the destination.
Published 31-March-2025
