SeaLink Kangaroo Island ferry annual maintenance almost complete

SeaLink SA general manager Sarah-Jane "SJ" Tilbury said maintenance and repairs on the Sealion 2000 were about half way through and on track to be completed on schedule.

Spirit of Kangaroo Island had already completed its three-week maintenance last month, she said.

"Safety is a first priority for SeaLink and it is compulsory that maintenance and survey work is carried out each year on both vessels to remain compliant," Ms Tilbury said.

"This work is undertaken at what is traditionally the quietest travel period of the year."

Interestingly, this winter SeaLink was experiencing unprecedented demand, particularly for local KI vehicular travel, including the carriage of heavy freight.

This could have something to do with the rebuilding after the fires and shipping of commodities.

Last winter, the numbers were up for tourist visitation after the SA opened up for intrastate travel following the initial COVID-19 disruptions, with various tourism campaigns.

"We do understand there has been some frustrations at not being able to book your vehicle on the service of your choice, and we can assure you that we have and will continue to add extra services where possible," Ms Tilbury said.

SeaLink has been encouraging the use of its SeaLink's shuttle bus service from Kingscote or American River and connection coach from Cape Jervis for those may not need a car on the mainland.

These services operate each morning and evening, and special KI Resident packages are available.

See the SeaLink website for further details: www.sealink.com.au/residents/

"We thank you for your patience and your business. If you wish to provide any feedback, please email feedback@sealink.com.au"

Meanwhile, it was announced at the end of August that the ferry ports at Cape Jervis and Penneshaw will both be getting a major $22 million upgrade.

See: Kangaroo Island ferry service ports get facelift

SeaLink is one of three companies have been shortlisted to bid to run ferry services between Kangaroo Island and mainland South Australia for coming decades, after the current contract expires in 2024.

Late last year, the state government called for Expressions of Interest from companies to run the ROPAX roll-on, roll-off vehicles and passenger ferry services between Penneshaw and Cape Jervis for up to 25 years.

The contract will be for an initial 15-year period with a further two five-year extensions based on the successful company meeting a strict set of criteria, including high levels of service performance.

See: Three companies bid for Kangaroo Island ferry service