Fantasea Cruising launches express ferry ride linking Manly to Watsons Bay and Double Bay

Three of Sydney’s most popular seaside hot spots will now be more accessible after the NRMA introduced its first ferry service linking the city’s northern beaches to the exclusive eastern suburbs.

Sydney’s northern beaches and eastern suburbs are now closer with the launch of the Bay2Beach Express ferry service which connects popular destinations Manly, Watsons Bay and Double Bay.

This is the first time NRMA-owned Fantasea Cruising has operated the swift service linking Double Bay to Manly via Watsons Bay.

It was introduced for locals and tourists to experience both regions instead of eliminating one on a day trip.

The 15-minute journey links Manly to Watsons Bay, while Manly to Double Bay takes 30 minutes with a maximum fare of $9.50.

NRMA chief operating marine officer marine Nigel Ellsmore welcomed the ferry service, which gives passengers access to the natural beauty of the northern beaches and “gastronomic delights” of the city’s east.

“Sydneysiders often struggle to think of recommendations for visitors, but no trip to Sydney is complete without exploring the eastern suburbs,” he said.

“The Bay2Beach Express is the ideal way to experience it all.”

The new ferry also means avoiding parking challenges in the eastern suburbs, he added.

The rollout of the vessel follows the NRMA’s plans for the Manly Fast Ferry’s’ new design and bar menu for one of the city’s favourite services.

The service, which runs between Manly and Circular Quay, is refurbishing the “worn out” interior of its six vessels with a new manufactured cabin interior on the first of its ferries, the Ocean Rider, that includes special priority seating for people with mobility issues.

A new bar menu that features beers and spirits brewed and distilled on the northern beaches will also be introduced.