To understand better the current and potential market for Sydney Ferries and determine what initiatives could most efficiently increase patronage, a major business development study was undertaken in 2000-2001. A key element of the study was primary research to provide base data and analytical insights into demand for ferry services. The extensive data collection including qualitative research, origin-destination surveys of 16,000 passengers, and stated preference surveys to value service quality attributes. The data was used to develop a demand model to evaluate a range of service development options including new services and service extensions, rationalisation of existing services, and improvements to wharf and vessel quality. The paper includes sections on the characteristics of ferry travel, valuation of service quality aspects, the modelling approach and assessment of a range of service development options. Of over 20 potential service developments which were evaluated, few offered potential to improve financial performance, highlighting the difficulties of providing commercial ferry services. (Author/publisher) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E209537. This paper may also be accessed by Internet users at: http://www.btre.gov.au/docs/atrf_02/program.html
Samenvatting