Work begins on Melbourne Ferry Terminal: set to change the way we live, work and play around the bay

Port Phillip Ferries (PPF) have commenced construction of the new Melbourne Ferry Terminal in the Victoria Harbour Docklands Precinct, in partnership with Development Victoria and City of Melbourne.

Site preparation began last month and pre-constructed off-site building components have been craned in place on the Harbour Esplanade foreshore.

Featuring large waterside facing windows designed to showcase the spectacular views of Victoria Harbour, this state-of-the-art, ergonomically designed facility includes a welcome foyer and reception area, visitor information services, an onsite café and accessible amenities.

Designed to blend within Docklands existing infrastructure, the new Melbourne Ferry Terminal will be located on the north side of the existing Glass House structure. It is positioned adjacent to the ‘Cow Up a Tree’ sculpture, giving the culturally significant landmark by John Kelly greater presence.

The Melbourne Ferry Terminal will cater for passengers of Port Phillip Ferries, as well as patrons wishing to access services provided by other charter operators in the area, with the potential to open up new routes and connect more communities to the bay.

During business hours, Port Phillip Ferries staff will be on hand to share their knowledge on local tourism and travel options, including tours, transport, events and accommodation – catering to visitors heading to Geelong, the Bellarine or beyond - in addition to those seeking information on the Docklands Precinct or wider city area.

Melbourne’s Docklands is one of Australia’s largest urban renewal projects and has attracted more than $14.6 billion in private investment. Port Phillip Ferries is pleased to be collaborating with Development Victoria, the Victorian Government’s development agency, to continue to transform this precinct.

In December 2020, Development Victoria called for Expressions of Interest for the continued activation of Harbour Esplanade, Wharf VH08. Port Phillip Ferries, who has operated a ferry service from Docklands to Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula for the past five years, was announced as the successful bid in August last year. Construction of the new Melbourne Ferry Terminal is expected to be completed this April.

The new Melbourne Ferry Terminal is conveniently located in the CBD’s Free Tram Zone, in close proximity to Southern Cross Station and Marvel Stadium.