Toronto is about to test a whole new way to travel across the waterfront

Toronto's waterfront is set to see a new mode of transportation this summer as the city moves forward with a seasonal pilot project testing water-based transit across the Inner Harbour.

On Tuesday, Waterfront Toronto, the City of Toronto, and the Toronto Port Authority officially revealed that York Bay Marine Services has been selected to operate the upcoming East-West Water Shuttle Pilot.

The seasonal service, which is launching this June, is designed to explore whether a marine transit route can provide a viable alternative to traditional, land-based travel along the waterfront.

The pilot stems from a recommendation in the Sea Bus Feasibility Study, which was delivered by the advisory firm CPCS back in October and examined the potential for a fixed-route marine passenger service that could operate in Toronto's Inner Harbour.

The service will operate from June through September, for an initial three-year term, and connect three stops, including Ookwemin Minising in the Port Lands (providing direct access to Biidaasige Park), Yonge Street Slip, and the Portland Slip/Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

A map of the pilot's stops along the waterfront. Photo: CNW Group/Waterfront Toronto.

The selected operator, York Bay Marine Services, already manages several waterfront facilities, including the Toronto Island Marina, Island Yacht Club, Kiss n' Sail at Yonge Street Slip, Toronto Harbour Nautical Centre, and marina infrastructure on the Toronto Islands.

The company's services also include boat maintenance, watercraft skills development, boat rentals, marina development and restoration, as well as dock building and installation.

"Toronto's waterfront is growing fast, and we need new ways to help people move across it. This water shuttle pilot is about building a more connected city, linking communities from the Port Lands to the western waterfront and making it easier for people to get where they need to go," said Mayor Olivia Chow.

"We are investing in practical, innovative solutions that expand transit options, reduce congestion, and open up our harbour for everyone to enjoy."

Details regarding the pilot's service details, including schedules and fares, have yet to be announced but are expected to come soon.