Proposed passenger ferry service in Cork Harbour would transform commuting – Stanton

A feasibility study into the introduction of a new passenger ferry service to connect communities across Cork Harbour should be carried out, a Fine Gael General Election candidate has said.

Mark Stanton, who is running for Fine Gael in Cork East, said the proposed service would offer a sustainable, zero-emission alternative to road transport, supporting daily commuters, local residents, and tourists, while also enhancing the region’s overall transport infrastructure.

“East Cork is crying out for better transport links. While communities across the harbour are only a few miles apart, it often takes over an hour to drive between places like Aghada and Ringaskiddy because of traffic. By ferry, that journey will take only minutes.

“The idea of a passenger ferry in Cork Harbour is not just about convenience—it’s about creating a world-class transport system for the region. Similar services already work successfully in major cities like Sydney and Vancouver, but also in smaller port cities such as Bergen, Norway. They have shown that ferries can be a real alternative to road traffic.

“A proposed ferry service in Cork Harbour would operate year-round, utilizing modern, zero-emission vessels powered by renewable energy. This service could connect key communities and industries around the harbour, including Cobh, Aghada, Whitegate, Ringaskiddy, Monkstown, and Crosshaven.

“This service would also enhance tourism by offering convenient access to popular attractions like Fota Wildlife Park, Spike Island, and Camden Fort Meagher. It could further support the growing number of cruise ships docking at Cobh, adding a new dimension to Cork Harbour’s transport and tourism offerings.

“There has been discussion on such a service in the past, but I believe we are now at a point where it can become a reality. A lot of effort is needed in developing such a service, whether it is run as a fully funded public service or as a public-private partnership. This is about creating a modern, sustainable transport option that works for everyone — commuters, residents, and tourists.

“I have spoken with Failte Ireland, the Port of Cork, Iarnród Éireann, and Cork County and City Councils, and they all see the potential for this service. If elected, I will work with all these stakeholders, as well as local communities, to ensure a feasibility study is carried out to make this concept a reality.

“We must look at innovative travel solutions like this ferry service. The lack of connectivity across Cork Harbour is holding back its potential.

“I’m calling on local authorities and government bodies to support the next step in this initiative by commissioning a feasibility study into the proposed service. The study will assess the potential routes, vessel types, and operational costs, ensuring that the service is practical, sustainable, and beneficial to all”, concluded Stanton.