Sierra Queen To Kickoff Soon

The much anticipated and highly needed new ferry service by Sovereign Ferries looks set to commence operations soon. Following various trials and tests that the company have been conducting between Freetown and Lungi the company is now in the process of carrying out some additional works on their new flagship vessel the Sierra Queen to better suit the local climate and conditions, which include enhanced air conditioning, hull strengthening and measures to prevent floating debris entering inlet valves. The company have also been undertaking major improvements to the various ferry terminals both in Lungi and Freetown and it is understood that they are developing additional terminals both sides of the river including a strategic new terminal in Aberdeen. Speaking on behalf of the company, newly appointed Operations Director of Westminster Management Services (SL) Ltd, Musayeroh Barrie said: “This is a major project and a significant investment by Westminster and we are excited by the prospect of delivering a much needed professional, safe and reliable ferry service to the people and visitors of Sierra Leone. Whilst we are anxious to start operations ASAP safety and reliability are our primary concerns and that is why we are conducting extensive trials and undertaking appropriate works before formal commencement of operations as once operations start we have high expectations from the service.” Miss Barrie also commented on the fact that the company has been actively recruiting and training of local staff including hospitality, admin and support staff as well as able seamen and engineers to help run the vessels. “We are committed to providing good careers and empowering local Sierra Leoneans through extensive training and skills transfer so that we not only provide a first class service to our customers but our staff have a career to be proud of” said Miss Barrie The company have been operating in Sierra Leone for the past four years; after successfully transforming the face of airport security, they are now committed to providing a seamless airport transfer process that will include luxury busses (in collaboration with SLRTC) that will collect passenger from a comfortable waiting room at the Airport and transport them to the newly refurbished terminal at Targrin and then onto the Sierra Queen. They also intend to import a fleet of vessels to provide a quick, safe and reliable service to other landing points around Freetown as well as further afield destinations including neighbouring countries. Once operational tickets for the various ferry services may be booked online via the company’s website www.sovereign-ferries.com  which can accessed even through mobile devises as well as from travel agents, hotels, airlines, at the terminal buildings themselves.