Overview
The busy summer season on the water has started! With increased visitors supporting local tourism and exploring the beautiful Hauraki Gulf, we want to share an update about the expected passenger volumes in the lead up to Christmas.
We anticipate that Friday 18 December 2020 will be our busiest day on the water since March 2020. We advise all customers who intend to travel on this date to expect an increased volume of travellers and to arrive at least 30 - 45 minutes ahead of their preferred sailing.
As well as allowing extra journey time, please stay up to date by regularly checking the Fullers360 and Auckland Transport websites and mobile apps for the latest information regarding any changes to services.
We understand delays can be frustrating and want to ensure you that we will endeavour to have all capacity available to ensure we get passengers where they need to be.
Important information about Friday 18 December includes:
Prada America’s Cup World Series Auckland and Prada Christmas Race: With the second race day of the sailing event taking place in the Waitemata Harbour from 17 – 20 December, there will be an increased number of vessels sharing the water space, and we will be required to operate our services under speed restrictions from midday. Services to Waiheke Island, Devonport, Birkenhead, Hobsonville and Half Moon Bay will run on customised race day timetables. For more information about travelling on race days, visit: https://www.fullers.co.nz/customer-updates/customer-updates/ferry-services-during-36th-america-s-cup/.
Fullers360 is supporting Auckland Transport’s Home Free initiative, which provides a safe alternative home for customers as the festive season starts. From 4pm on Friday 18 December and all-day Saturday 19 December, public transport will be free on buses, trains and select ferry services for all customers. For more information, please visit: https://at.govt.nz/about-us/campaigns/home-free/.
Large number of corporate bookings: We are anticipating the largest volume of ferry passengers for corporate functions on 18th December, with a significant increase in groups travelling to Waiheke Island in particular. We encourage all large groups to please familiarise themselves with our race day timetable, arrive at least 30 minutes early for their sailing and to allow additional time for travelling.
Last but not least, please remember to wear a face mask or face covering on our services, as mask-use continues to be mandatory on all public transport in Auckland.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we approach the peak summer season. See you on the water.