Interferry Information

For more than 45 years, Interferry has served as the shipping association representing the ferry industry worldwide. What began as an organization that largely facilitated networking among our members, has transformed into a highly respected global association with more than 270 members from 40 countries. Today, Interferry not only continues to support networking among our members, but also has a laser-like focus on the safety and security of passengers, crew, cargo and ships. We also ensure that fair and equitable regulations exist for the ferry industry, including free, fair and open competition, as well as the protection of the environment. Interferry’s Domestic Safety, Regulatory and Security committees focus on those topics of importance to our industry. Interferry has consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which allows us to advocate for our industry and fight for sector-specific amendments to regulatory proposals to ensure they are most appropriate for the distinct design and operational requirements of ferries. Our members represent all types of ferry operations: RoPax, RoRo, Cruise Ferries, Fast Ferries, Passenger-only Ferries, and ferries both large and small. Suppliers to the industry are also an important part of our membership from shipbuilders and designers, to naval architects and marine engineers. The diversity of the ferry industry is such that a one-size-fits-all regulatory environment is detrimental to many of Interferry's members. From very small, very local domestic operators, to very large companies that operate in multiple locations – many internationally – Interferry advocates on behalf of the wider industry, ensuring we represent all members' interests. We believe the industry is stronger together. While domestic associations work on the issues faced by ferry companies in their home markets, Interferry focuses on the picture with a global lens.