The introduction of the Hangang Bus ferry system has not reduced passenger numbers for private cruise ships on the Han River and their overall ridership has increased this year, the Seoul Metropolitan Government said Tuesday.
"Contrary to some reports that introduction of the Hangang Bus has caused a decline in other existing cruise passengers, the overall number of passengers has increased," the city government said.
The statement came after a local news report Monday stating that passenger numbers for private cruise ships along the Han River had fallen following the launch of the city's river bus service.
The report said the Hangang Bus, which charges 3,000 won ($2.24) was attracting passengers with its low fares, potentially drawing customers away from private cruises, which charge around 20,000 won to 25,000 won for a one-way trip.
However, the city said the passenger numbers for two private operators, E-Land Cruise and Hangang River Cruise, totaled 339,845 from January to September this year, up about 21 percent from the same period last year, which recorded 280,803.
The city government added that the Hangang Bus serves as a form of public transportation, unlike private sightseeing cruises, meaning the two services cater to different demands.
"The Hangang Bus provides people with a new transit option while boosting public interest in the Han River," said Park Jin-young, head of the Future Hangang Headquarters. "We will continue to ensure that Hangang Bus and cruise ships grow together with their unique characteristics, and strive to revitalize the use of the river as a whole, while driving the development of the water tourism industry."
mjcha@heraldcorp.com
