Breaking News: Ferry Fares Set to Rise, Again!
Ferry users in Northern Ireland are facing another round of price hikes on key routes, sparking concerns about the impact on commuters, families, and local businesses. This increase, announced just two hours ago by BBC News NI, affects services on Strangford Lough and Rathlin Island, with the changes set to take effect from next month, February 1st.
The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has confirmed that fares on the publicly-funded ferry routes between Strangford–Portaferry and Ballycastle–Rathlin Island will increase by 4-7%, depending on the specific route. This marks the third consecutive year of fare increases, following previous rises of up to 30%. The DfI attributes the increase to inflation and emphasizes its ongoing subsidy of the ferry services to keep fares as low as possible. They also state that the additional revenue generated will help cover rising operational costs, with the department still subsidizing the services by over £2 million this year.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Ferry users are already expressing worries about the impact of these rising costs. Commuters, sports teams, school pupils, businesses, and those needing healthcare services are all expected to feel the pinch. Let's break down exactly how much more it will cost:
- The Rathlin Ferry will see a single adult ticket increase from £8 to £8.40, while a child's ticket will rise from £4 to £4.20.
- On the Strangford-Portaferry route, a foot passenger will pay more, with the adult fare increasing from £1.30 to £1.40. Child fares will remain unchanged.
- Car fares on this route will increase from £7.70 to £8.
Naomi McNally, a regular user of the Portaferry service, shared her frustration. She uses the ferry to visit family and access local services, noting the journey is a quick mile by boat compared to a nearly 46-mile drive. She feels the increases are excessive, especially considering a 30% hike in 2024. "It's taking the mick a little bit," she stated, explaining that the car fare is "a little bit excessive for the length of the journey that you are actually paying for."
And this is the part most people miss...
Naomi McCallum, owner of Eden Beauty in Portaferry, also expressed concern, predicting the changes will negatively affect her customers, particularly those traveling on foot. She anticipates it will impact her business and family life. Many locals rely on the ferry for appointments at Downe Hospital, and McCallum worries about the added expense. Her daughter plays for a local sports team, and she anticipates the fare increase will affect players who use the ferry on match days. "Where does the money come from for them?"
Local SDLP councillor Joe Boyle, chairperson of the Strangford Lough Ferry Service Working Group, voiced his disappointment, highlighting the added burden on households already struggling with rising costs. He noted that the increase comes "with no insight" into how long the new fares will be in place "before yet another increase is imposed upon an already struggling customer base."
Boyle also expressed frustration at the context of the rise in fares since 2024. He acknowledged the current increase is small, but pointed out that there has been a 40% increase in fares over the last 12 to 15 months, which is "quite significant." To illustrate, in 2024, the standard single passenger fare between Strangford and Portaferry increased from £1 to £1.30, and a standard single car fare increased from £5.80 to £7.70.
What are your thoughts on these fare increases? Do you think they are justified, or do you share the concerns of local residents? Share your opinions in the comments below!
