Douglas Shire Council adopts solution for cutting Daintree Ferry queue times

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A new larger ferry will be custom-made for the Daintree River crossing to replace the existing vessel and cut waiting times.

A survey conducted in 2018 found half of users were disappointed with the service and more than a third wanted a second ferry to address long queues in the peak tourism season.

Douglas Shire Council considered a range of options, including a bridge and a second ferry.

A vote was put to the public, with 66 per cent preferring a second ferry and 33 per cent choosing a bridge.

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However, investigations since then have deemed a second ferry inappropriate due to dredging costs to build a second channel, additional maintenance costs and environmental regulations.

Councillors have now opted to replace the existing Daintree Ferry with a single ferry capable of increased loading capability as well as  associated landside infrastructure upgrades on both riverbanks.

“Over the past 12 months, we have conducted extensive research to re-evaluate all reasonable initiatives to improve ferry services,” said Douglas Shire Council Mayor Michael Kerr.

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"When it comes into service, we can offer a better tourism experience for visitors and reduced travel time for locals.”

Council will now prepare a design scope for the replacement vessel to confirm its capabilities and carrying capacity.

A spokesman said a timeframe for completion of the new ferry can’t be determined, however it will take at least a year before the detailed design is finalised by a naval architect before any amendments are made and a tender awarded to a ship builder.

The cost of the project is also unknown, however ferry fares were increased substantially last year after Council purchased the ferry and contracted out its operation.

Road infrastructure leading to the ferry boarding ramp is also being upgraded and should be completed by the 2025 tourist season.