Swan River ferries to fulfil electric dreams

SWAN River commuters will be travelling on Western Australia’s first electric ferries in late 2027 after Henderson-based Echo Marine Group won a state government contract to design and build five vessels.

The $66 million deal is part of the METRONET on Swan Ferry Service Expansion project, which also includes recently-secured development approval for new ferry terminals at Applecross and Matilda Bay in what the government says is the largest ever expansion of Perth's ferry network.

Each ferry will feature passenger toilet facilities, bike storage and external seating for passengers, “providing a high-quality, accessible experience for commuters and recreational users”.

The new ferries will be designed to produce a low wake, have a carrying capacity of approximately 140 passengers and a maximum operating speed of 25 knots.

The contract award follows a Request for Tender issued earlier this year and construction is expected to commence in coming weeks. Early tender advice has been issued on the design and construction of the two ferry terminals with a formal tender to be released in early 2026.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said: "The Swan River is the heart of Perth, and it has so much potential to be a key transport link for Perth commuters and visitors - that's why we've invested in the expansion of the Perth ferry network.

"An expanded ferry network needs more ferries, and WA has a proven record of building quality ferries.

"That's why we're so pleased these new electric ferries will be designed and built in Western Australia, for Western Australians."

WA Transport minister Rita Saffioti said: "Today's milestone marks another step forward in the biggest ever expansion of Perth's ferry network and I look forward to seeing these new services operating from late 2027."