A historic ferry is returning to Dublin city, allowing locals and visitors to cross the city by sailing across ‘the Liffey in a jiffy’.
‘Liffey Ferry’ during the inaugural crossing. Photo by Artur Widak via Getty
The Liffey Ferry last ran in 1984 and connected the north and south docklands. Now from Monday 11 February, it will run again to ferry people between three points. Starting from the MV Cil Airne pontoon on the north side, it will take three minutes to cross to Sir Rogerson’s Quay, then back to North Wall again, this time next to the 3 Arena.
It is initially envisaged as a ferry for commuters – carrying up to 18 people at a time – as there are many multinational companies with their offices in the area. It will run Monday to Friday between 7am and 7pm and the crossings will cost €2 (US$2.27), payable either by cash or by a Leap card, the cashless alternative. Best of all, the proceeds go to the local community, helping to train young adults from the area in sailing.
It will cost €2 for the journey. Photo by Artur Widak via Getty
Before it was decommissioned, the No. 11 ferry ran for 300 years and was known as the ‘docker’s taxi’ by locals and there are many still in the city who remember it fondly. The original boat was bought in 2016 and restored. For now, there will only be one ferry in service but there is a possibility of adding more if demand is there.
In a statement, the Lord Mayor of Dublin Nial Ring praised the effort to bring it back to the water. “The Liffey Ferry is part of Dublin’s story and to see the No.11 back on the River after all this time is fantastic, and testament to those who had the foresight to preserve this important piece of history. The ferry will be returning to a very different Dublin than the one she left, but I have no doubt that a new generation of Dubliners will enjoy this very welcome addition to the city just the same.”
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