Abu Dhabi launched its first scheduled, multi-destination passenger ferry service last month, affording a new perspective of the UAE capital and its surrounding landmarks through 100 kilometres of scenic waterway. It also provides an alternative to road travel for residents and tourists alike.
Jalboot Marine Network (Jalboot), a home-grown brand founded by Emirates Consortium, links major attractions and landmarks in the city and surrounding islands with a scheduled daily service taking in four strategically located stops, which will include Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi Mall, Yas Marina and the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr. There are also expansion plans to integrate new stops. 'Jalboot will cater to all. It is an exciting alternative to getting around Abu Dhabi’s spectacular coastal area in a service unique in the emirate. Our intended route offers panoramic views and unparalleled sights that highlight Abu Dhabi’s heritage and traditions while significantly complementing the existing transportation facilities and contributing to the realisation of Abu Dhabi’s 2030 Vision,' says Thomas Rebollini, head of finance, sales and marketing at Jalboot.Named Jalboot to pay homage to the UAE’s traditional pearl-diving boats, the ferries have been designed by award-winning European boat builder and custom-made in the UAE. The jet-powered ferries, which can host up to 40 seated passengers, two standard wheelchairs and up to three crew members, are fully enclosed but with windows to take in the views, air-conditioned and with leather business class style seating. Jalboot is poised to be the first SME in the GCC to implement the mobile Point of Sales system (mPOS) technology powered by Etisalat and NBAD, which will eliminate queues and in the future allow passengers to pay with mobile credit. 'At Jalboot, customer service is at the very heart of the company culture. The team has worked tirelessly during the development phase to introduce methods that are designed to streamline the customer journey. The ‘chip ‘n pin’ system is a secure and reliable means to buy tickets on the spot with cash or card, while the tickets are printed on the sales receipt and also emailed to the passengers. The crew will have on-board scanners to verify tickets whether printed or presented on a smartphone screen. Sales kiosks are also conveniently located in Abu Dhabi Mall, Al Wahda Mall and Mushrif Mall,' adds Rebollini.Jalboot’s regular schedule is from 2pm to 9:25pm daily. The full service is primed to be available in 2016, offering a more flexible, daily, scheduled service.