The Westgate Punt, which ferries western suburbs cyclists across the low end of the Yarra River each day, has been spared the boot after a government review found patronage is growing.

The Napthine government committed $1.4 million over four years to the punt service, with an option to kill it off after two years if usage was deemed too low.

Regular commuter Benjamin Laurins lives in Seaholme and rides into the city for work via the 'Punt'. Credit:Simon O'Dwyer

But a review found patronage had risen this year to an average 103 passengers a day, up from 72 a day last year, with a total of more than 40,000 boardings since the service returned in October, 2011.

The punt crosses the river between Spotswood and Fishermans Bend, running to a 20-minute timetable in the peak on weekdays and on demand on weekends. It is the only cycle route between the city and the western suburbs south of Footscray Road. It carries up to 12 cyclists and costs $2 per ride.