This July, the Mandurah Foreshore will boast an exciting new attraction – a giant pirate ship.
The 12-metre ship is just months away from completion and project creator Ben Dougherty said he was keen to bring the unique experience to Mandurah locals.
Originally from Yorkshire, Mr Dougherty ran a similar business in the English coastal town of Bridlington.
He said it was a big project but one he and his partner Anita Elphinstine were excited to bring to life.
“So far we’ve received really positive feedback,” he said.
Mr Dougherty said there was particular hype around the vessel’s maiden voyage.
Mr Dougherty moved to Mandurah more than 10 years ago and said he saw a void that the business could fill.
The purpose built pirate ship can carry about 50 passengers with room for four crew members.
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The boat was designed to operate in the Mandurah Canals, focusing on providing an exciting experience for children and a comfortable ride for adults.
Travellers will be able to steer the pirate wheel, ring the bell or sit back and enjoy the scenary and wildlife that call the Mandurah canals home.
The service will include short, themed joy rides for children aged between three and 12-years-old, with each trip lasting between 15 and 30 minutes, according to Mr Dougherty.
So far Mr Dougherty has received strong interest from people hosting childrens’ parties.
The vessel will dock at the Marina overnight and along Mandurah’s eastern foreshore during the day.
It is anticipated there will be two full-time employees working at the vessel with the potential to expand it to four full-time staff members during peak tourism season.
The construction of the new vessel started in September 2017 and is scheduled to be finished around May.
Mr Dougherty said he hoped to have the ship up and running by the first week of July 2018, just in time for school holidays.
He also said the company intended to host a launch party in July, ahead of the vessel’s maiden voyage.
For the latest news about The Pirate Ship Mandurah subscribe to the company’s mailing list by visiting their website via www.pirateshipmandurah.com.au.
