Organization

There are several reasons to be proud of the Waterbus as a special travel alternative in the Rotterdam-Drechtsteden region. First and foremost, we think of all the passengers who have been using this unique Public Passenger Transport by Water network in South Holland since the start of the fast ferry services in 1999.

It is truly wonderful that so many people travel to their destinations by water. And in doing so, they not only make a positive contribution to all the problems resulting from car use, but also to the economic development of the cities, villages, business parks, nature reserves, and attractions in the area, not to mention the environmental objectives.

The Waterbus existed as a merger of Fast Ferry and Waterbus already a few years, when our transport organization truly became acquainted with the ambitions of the Province of South Holland and the Drechtsteden, but also the Municipality of Rotterdam and the Port Authority, in 2006.

And our thoughts turn to the book “De Rotterdam, de kunst van het reizen” by Sandra van Berkum, which was also published in 2006. In the book, which is about the steamship Rotterdam, it is particularly emphasized that passengers should feel at home on board “away from home”. This is precisely the vision that we, as a carrier, have placed at the heart of all our ferry services. We want to do everything possible to bring travelers to their destination in a safe, efficient, and pleasant manner, on every sailing. Where necessary, in combination with other forms of mobility.

As of January 1, 2022, we, as Aqualiner, provide the transport of the Waterbus And we are going to do that with a virtually new fleet, which we will introduce step by step, to replace the current generation of water buses. Together with Damen Shipyards from Gorinchem, we have an extremely modern hybrid fast Waterbus Ferry developed for the route between the Drechtsteden and Rotterdam. With much more space for bicycles, which can also be charged during the journey, a modern interior with all kinds of modern digital gadgets, and wide gangways for quick boarding and disembarking.

To the Waterbus To serve travelers even better, improvements are also being implemented regarding timetables and destinations. For instance, there is a new stop near the Zalmhuis/Rivium, thereby connecting Capelle aan den IJssel and the surrounding area by water. This is partly in view of the potential development of Feijenoord City. Work is also underway on a Rotterdam stop “Op Zuid” right in front of Hotel New York. Finally, a direct connection between Zwijndrecht and Papendrecht will be established within the Drechtsteden region.

We would like to extend a huge compliment to all crews, the technical service, and the office organization. We know very well what it means to keep all ships sailing from early morning until late at night. Punctual, clean, hospitable, and above all, safe. Exactly what passengers can expect from us, but certainly not easy to do every single day.

Finally, we would like to thank the clients who make Public Passenger Transport by Water possible: the Province of South Holland and the Drechtsteden Region. It is a very important step to offer water buses as a transport alternative for so long, alongside buses, trains, and trams. It demonstrates a long-term vision, but also courage and perseverance.

In the coming period, we will do everything we can to build on the amazing Waterbus foundation to build an even more ambitious and sustainable transport system. That certainly won't go flawlessly from day one, but know that we will do everything we can to let our passengers experience the Art of Travel. On board the Waterbus To your destination…