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SeaLink invites locals to help name the new Kangaroo Island ferries

A blue and white ferry in the ocean

After winning the South Australian Government’s tender in late 2021 to provide the Kangaroo Island Ferry Service, SeaLink is investing $57 million to build two new larger vehicle ferries expected to come into service by July 2024.

SeaLink’s General Manager for South Australia, Tracy Croft, said SeaLink is proud of its 33-year history providing the vital ferry transport connection to Kangaroo Island and the new contract will see SeaLink deliver the service for at least another 15 years.

“SeaLink started out right here in South Australia, so our relationship with Kangaroo Island and South Australia runs deep.

“We have stood with the community over many decades, through the highs and lows of devastating bushfires, the massive response and recovery efforts, and the global COVID pandemic that decimated the visitor economy.

“SeaLink is thrilled to continue supporting the KI community and sharing this very special island with domestic and international visitors.

“The SeaLink team is genuinely excited about the significant investment we are making to the Kangaroo Island Ferry Service with many new features set to benefit local residents and visitors to the island,” she said.

SeaLink’s new Kangaroo Island ferries will be approximately 10 metres longer, and two metres wider than the current vessels, providing around 150 metres more vehicle lane space.

“Our two new ferries will provide a smoother ride and more capacity for local residents, freight and visitors and as part of the new service, we are also adding more daily departures in both the peak and off-peak seasons,” she said.

“We want the South Australian community to be as excited about the two new ferries as we are and thought a great way would be to ask the local community to help us come up with vessel names that really represent Kangaroo Island,” Tracy Croft said.

SeaLink’s Kangaroo Island Ferry Naming Competition is open now until 10 February 2023. SeaLink will announce the names of the two news vessels in April of next year.

As part of the competition, SeaLink is offering two 4-night ultimate luxe-holidays at Ecopia Retreat on Kangaroo Island for two people, including a daily breakfast hamper and a variety of dining experiences including the five-course dinner at The Odd Plate in Kingscote. The total prize pool is valued at $7880.

To enter, visit www.sealink.com.au/kifs

People can also keep up-to-date with the latest information regarding preparing for the commencement of the new Kangaroo Island Ferry Service on 1 July 2024 by visiting the SeaLink website.