San Juan, Puerto Rico – Puerto Rico’s ferry system has shattered its previous annual passenger record, transporting nearly 1.494 million passengers across all routes by November, marking an impressive 8% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge in ridership, driven by robust growth in both Metro and island routes, solidifies the system's status as a vital transportation link for residents and tourists alike.
HMS Ferries, the operator of Puerto Rico Ferry, has maintained an exceptional on-time performance of 97% across more than 20,000 departures in 2024. The company attributes this success to continuous improvements in service and a strong partnership with the Puerto Rico government.
Island Routes Experience Significant Growth
Travel to the islands of Culebra and Vieques has seen a particularly notable uptick, with a combined increase of over 5% in passengers and nearly 104,000 vehicles transported in 2024. Culebra experienced a surge of over 41,000 additional passengers from January to November, while Vieques welcomed an extra 19,000 travelers during the same period. The allure of these pristine islands, coupled with the convenience and reliability of the ferry service, has contributed to this remarkable growth.
Metro Route Also Sees Substantial Increase
The Metro route, connecting San Juan and Cataño, has also experienced a significant boost in ridership, transporting over 376,000 passengers by November. This represents an increase of nearly 67,000 passengers compared to the same period in 2023. The rising popularity of the Metro route can be attributed to factors such as increased tourism, commuter convenience, and ongoing efforts to enhance the overall passenger experience.
Looking Ahead
Matthew Miller, president of HMS Ferries – Puerto Rico, expressed his enthusiasm for the system's continued success. "The ferry system has solidified its reputation as a reliable and efficient mode of transportation," said Miller. "We are thrilled to have achieved this new passenger record and look forward to building upon our accomplishments in the coming year."
As Puerto Rico's tourism industry continues to flourish, the ferry system is poised to play an even more significant role in connecting visitors to the island's many attractions. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and service enhancements, HMS Ferries is committed to providing safe, reliable, and enjoyable ferry experiences for all passengers.
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