Free Melbourne-Geelong ferry trial kicks off

Commuters have ditched the morning traffic snarls and taken to the water as part of a trial of ferry transport between Geelong and Melbourne.

Dozens of people boarded the 95-minute free service just after 6am today, with many telling 9NEWS they relished not having to concentrate on the road.

“It was terrific… smooth sailing,” Lachlan Drummond said.

“It went about 30 knots which is about 55km/h… faster than the VLine, which suits me fine.”

Fellow ferry-goer Maria Sanigorski said she “thoroughly enjoyed” the experience.

“I hope it succeeds, it’s wonderful,” Ms Sanigorski said.

While the average Melbourne to Geelong car trip is faster at 75 minutes, the ferry is not impacted by pesky road closures or bottlenecks.

A second free trial day will be held by Port Phillip Ferries on the July 31.