COMMUTERS rejoice, and even the Premier has dubbed it “ferry nice” that two new ferry routes will hit the harbour later this year.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced this morning the introduction of an extra 85 weekly ferry services between the North Shore, CBD and Eastern Suburbs — to be rolled out in October.

This follows an announcement earlier this year that six new ultra-modern ferries will be introduced to the Harbour.

media_camera NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announces new ferry routes with NSW Transport minister Andrew Constance at McMahons Point today. Picture: John Grainger

media_camera Gladys then boarded the ferry to the office. Picture: John Grainger

There will now be an F4 cross-harbour route, stopping at Pyrmont, Barangaroo, Balmain East, McMahons Point, Milsons Point, Circular Quay, Rose Bay and Watsons Bay.

The ferries will travel in both directions, as currently services between Pyrmont and King Street Wharf operate in only one direction.

There will also be an F7 Eastern Suburbs route travelling between Double Bay, Darling Point, Garden Island and Circular Quay.

media_camera It was announced this morning the introduction of an extra 85 weekly ferry services and two new ferry routes.

The Premier said the new cross-harbour route will now provide direct connections between the CBD and key points around the Harbour.

“In my time, I know that many people who live on the north side or the east side wanted to be connected to the ferry system and today’s new services actually allow that connection to occur,” she said.

“We are a government that wants to get people out of cars and onto public transport and what better way to get to work than on the water.

“It’s also great news for all of us who believe more public transport leads to healthier lifestyles and less pollution.”

Transport Minister Andrew Constance said since March 2011, the NSW Government has delivered 16,000 new weekly transport services across the state.

“The new routes extend from the Eastern Suburbs to northern suburbs and over to Barangaroo and Pyrmont,” he said. “This will be a great way for people to get around in the morning and afternoon peaks.

“At McMahons Point alone, there will be 20 additional services at peak times.”

The Barangaroo ferry hub is also set to open in time for the new services.