One last ride - The iconic Penang Ferry

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When we talk about visiting Penang, we will think about Komtar tower or Penang bridge. But for me it is the iconic double-decker ferries that stands above the rest. For many generations, it was the main mode of transportation to shuttle pedestrians, cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, connecting Penang Island's main city, George Town, to Butterworth on the Malaysian mainland.

Unfortunately the Penang ferry service has ceased operations on 31 December 2020 after nearly a century of service. From 1 January 2021, cars are not allowed anymore and must use one of Penang’s two bridges. Pedestrians will have to take the new catamaran service, while two-wheeled vehicles are still allowed to use the old ferries.

Before it decommissioned, I took the opportunity to ride the ferry for one last time. We have been told that five ferries will be transformed into floating museums, floating restaurants and tourist ferries. The ferries will soon be retiring completely, but our fond memories with the ferries will live on forever.