GEORGE TOWN: Fancy an unparalleled journey through the scenic landscapes of Penang, offering breathtaking views of the world-renowned Penang Bridge against the backdrop of a mesmerising sunset?
Then, have a go at the Penang Bridge Sunset Cruise, the state's newest tourism experience.
Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) chief executive officer Datuk V. Sasedharan said the soft launch of the Penang Bridge Sunset Cruise yesterday marked a significant milestone for Penang's tourism industry.
"The Penang Bridge Sunset Cruise is not only a leisurely pursuit but also poised to significantly contribute to the growth of Penang's tourism sector.
"By showcasing the beauty of Penang's landmarks in a novel way, the cruise aims to attract both domestic and international tourists, thereby boosting local businesses and the economy," he told newsmen at the soft launch event.
Elaborating, Sasedharan said PPSB would be collaborating with restaurant operator, SeaQueen, with the former offering the ferry while the latter the food and beverage.
He said the ferry was one of four new ferries which PPSB had purchased.
He said PPSB is now using three of the four ferries during peak hours and two ferries during non-peak hours.
"We have one extra ferry for the Penang Bridge Sunset Cruise. For now, SeaQueen has chartered the ferry for the Penang Bridge Sunset Cruise Buffet package on weekends.
"We welcome any other companies with plans to charter the ferry for any events or activities," he added, noting that prior to yesterday's soft launch, they had received numerous enquiries to charter the ferry for private events.
Sasedharan said they had been working tirelessly in the past four to five months to ensure the success of this new tourism product by obtaining the necessary approval from the regulator.
"Since this is the first time, we are starting without expectations. We hope to have between 80 and 100 trips per year.
"We used to have good demand for the old ferries. We hope that those who used the old ferry then will come back and have a try at this," he said.
Departing from the Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda (PRTU) ferry terminal here, the Penang
Bridge Sunset Cruise follows a route, providing passengers with a unique perspective
of the architectural marvel of the first Penang Bridge.
Yesterday's soft launch event introduced this enchanting experience to the public, with regular weekend cruises scheduled from 5pm to 8pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
With a limited capacity of 100 passengers per cruise, the experience is designed to be exclusive, ensuring a personalised and enjoyable atmosphere for all on board.
The official commencement of the Penang Bridge Sunset Cruise is targeted for Dec 16.
Ticket prices are set at RM148 for adults and RM68 for children (12 years and below) which comes with a buffet dinner onboard.
Tickets are available for purchase through SeaQueen.