TENDERS have been called for the design and construction of five new electric ferries to ply the Swan River in Perth.

The state government wants to expand the ferry service, initially adding stops at Applecross and The University of Western Australia.

Works has started on the design of the electrical infrastructure needed to charge the new vessels.

The tender called by the Public Transport Authority (PTA) is seeking a local vessel manufacturer to design and built the ferries which will be operated by Transperth on the expanded route.

Transperth already operates a service with ferries including the MV Tricia, MV Shelley Taylor-Smith, and MV Phillip Pendal, which run between Elizabeth Quay and Mends Street Jetty.

The tender request incorporates information provided by local vessel manufacturers as part of the expression of interest released by the PTA last year. 

The new ferries will be fully accessible and incorporate passenger toilet facilities and bike storage. A new feature in the design includes external seating for passengers.

While Applecross and the university have been earmarked for new ferry stops, other sites are being assessed including Point Fraser, Burswood Park, Optus Stadium and Claisebrook Cove.

Other stops that would be considered as part of future expansions include Belmont, Belmont Park, Rivervale and Maylands.

Transperth currently operates ferries between Elizabeth Quay and Mends Street Jetty in South Perth, every 15 mins during peak hours.

The request for tender for the ferry design is available from the Tenders WA website, closing 21 May 2025.

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said building the new ferries is part of the government’s Made in WA plan.

“The valuable input we received from local vessel manufacturers as part of the EOI process last year will help inform next steps as part of the business case development,” Miss Saffioti said.

“We look forward to supporting our local industry playing a big part in delivering the ferries to be used on Perth’s iconic Swan River, as we progress plans to expand our ferry system.”