A new daily ferry service connecting the Chula Vista waterfront to downtown San Diego is set to launch June 1, marking a milestone in the long-term development of the South Bay waterfront.
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Flagship Cruises & Events announced the route May 21, linking Safe Harbor Marina South Bay — adjacent to the newly opened Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center — with Fifth Avenue Landing in downtown San Diego.
One-way fares are $15 per passenger, with each crossing taking approximately 45 minutes. Service begins daily with an 8 a.m. departure from Chula Vista, with alternating hourly departures between terminals throughout the day. The final trip of the day departs Fifth Avenue Landing at 7 p.m.
Chula Vista Mayor John McCann said the launch fulfills a vision that dates back more than two decades.
“From the beginning of the Bayfront planning process in 2003, ferry service has been a key component of the vision for the Chula Vista Bayfront Master Plan,” McCann said in an email. “The Ferry will expand public access for residents and visitors alike, connecting the Chula Vista Bayfront to the San Diego waterfront today, and the Coronado waterfront in the future.”
McCann said residents stand to benefit as well. The ferry offers a practical alternative to driving for those heading to the San Diego Convention Center and major events such as Comic-Con, he said, helping riders avoid traffic, parking challenges, and rising fuel costs.
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The operating agreement was reached directly between Safe Harbor Marina and Flagship Cruises within the framework established by the Bayfront Master Plan.
The ferry launch comes as Safe Harbor Marina is separately embroiled in a dispute with the operators of the tall ship Schooner Bill of Rights, a historic vessel that received a termination notice from the marina in March with no reason given.
Brad Engel, president of Flagship Cruises & Events, said the company sees room to grow.
“We look forward to growing the service and adding additional trips to the schedule in the future,” Engel said in a statement.
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