Yarra loop back for summer

The Yarra Loop water taxi service will be in operation this summer after WTC Wharf again began running the service, transporting passengers by boat to destinations along the Yarra.

The service will run on Fridays between 4pm and 7pm and on the weekends between 11am and 5pm.

It has four stops: WTC Wharf, South Wharf, Southgate and Federation Wharf at Federation Square.

WTC Wharf’s Phillip Hill said last year’s service had been a great success and he hoped the loop would increase in popularity this year.

“Last year, 200 people used the service and with a growing number of premier restaurants, bars, shopping and entertainment precincts opening up along the Yarra, we anticipate numbers this year to increase dramatically,” Mr Hill said.

“We also expect that the Yarra Loop will once again be a desirable option for workers looking for a reliable and affordable mode of transport from one end of the city to the other,” he added.

The Yarra River Business Association (YRBA) are also pleased about the return of the Yarra Loop. YRBA president John Ahern said the service was a great benefit to the Yarra River precinct.

“The WTC Yarra Loop service was a welcome addition to Melbourne’s transport network in 2012/13 and was a landmark step toward greater activation and integration of Yarra River landmarks and destinations,” Mr Ahern explained.

“We are thrilled that the service is set to re-commence in December 2013 as it is a great asset to local tourism and elevates Melbourne to the other great river cities of the world,” he added.

The service is $5 for a single trip or $10 for a day pass. Kids can travel for $2 for a single trip and $5 for a day pass.

The Yarra Loop will operate until March. For more information head to www.melbournewatertaxis.com.au/yarra-loop/