Estuary ferries link Conwy communities
A new river taxi service in Conwy is linking two estuary communities to boost tourism and cut congestion.
Operators say it will be the first time in more than 180 years that a public ferry service has run across the River Conwy between Deganwy and Conwy.
The service is being run as a partnership between two yacht and sailing clubs, a boat brokers, and is being backed by Conwy council.
It will see four boats sailing between five stops on the river.
Passengers can hire the boats just like booking a private cab, catching trips from Conwy Quay marina and Conwy Beacons, across the estuary to Deganwy beach and marina for a £3 one-way charge.
The whole project is being run by the North Wales Cruising Club, Conwy Yacht Club and Network Yacht Brokers.
Rob Woodward, director of Network Yacht Brokers, said: "It's been terrific how everyone has come together on this with support from all sides.
"We all believe it's a great idea and we're confident the service will be a boost for businesses on both sides of the river, while providing an essential service for boat owners and river users too."
The operators said they wanted to run the service all year, not just in the peak tourism season.
They also hope it will help ease traffic congestion problems, especially in Conwy during the summer months.
The service was given a champagne launch on Friday, when the first "taxi", a boat called Old Tom was dropped into the river from a hoist at Deganwy Quay Marina.