The number of passengers using Melbourne's trial Port Phillip commuter ferry service has been disappointing, the company says, as it looks at new ways to make the trip more viable.

Only five people used the ferry on Wednesday morning, which started running between Wyndham to Docklands just over a month ago.

The 31-kilometre trip takes about 80 minutes.

But weekends have been more popular, particularly with families, the man behind the idea, businessman Paul Little, said.

Mr Little told 774 ABC Melbourne the main issue for customers was cost, and the length of the trip.

"By far the greatest concern was the overall price. We've now met the equivalent rail price, which is less than $8," he said.

"The numbers during the week for commuters have been quite disappointing. However, weekends in contrast have been very encouraging.

"They want a more effective price, they want quicker speed and probably a more flexible schedule.

"So we're working on both, so that's why, whilst today's numbers have been very low, we're confident we can turn this around."

Mr Little said they were in talks with the Port of Melbourne about lifting the speed limit on the ferry, which has been restricted due to safety concerns.

He said boosting it to 15 to 20 knots would cut 15 minutes off the travel time.

Relaxing, easy trip to work: commuter

Michelle Goodwin is a regular user of the ferry, and said she hoped more people would get on board.

"It's not as crowded as going on the train. It's an easier way to get to work. You can read, it's really relaxing," she said.

"So many people out west complain about how they get left out of the public transport system options.

"Now they have an option and they don't take it up."

Mr Little said the fact more than 600 passengers took advantage of a free travel day last Friday meant the interest was there.

He said he would meet with the State Government at the end of the trial to discuss whether it was financially viable for the service to continue and if the Government could potentially help subsidise it.