Hangzhou launches temporary ferry services for cyclists and e-bike riders crossing the Qiantang River. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

Hangzhou's free ferry service across the Qiantang River opened on Nov 18, offering cyclists and e-bike riders a new way to cross the river during the temporary closure of the Qiantang Third Bridge.

By 10 am, the service had already carried 140 passengers, with many residents eager to be among the first to try the new route.

From Qianjiang Century Park, it's a 10-minute shared-bike ride to the City Balcony pier, where passengers can board after a brief wait. The 15-minute crossing to the Olympic Sports Center has quickly become a social-media favorite, with netizens posting about their 30-minute door-to-door commutes and pushing the topic onto local trending lists.

Passengers praised the ferry for being warm, stable, and safe — especially compared with riding across the windy bridge. Volunteer teams were on site from 6 am to guide cyclists, while the cabin was equipped with air-conditioning, life jackets, first-aid kits, and fire-safety gear. "I'd rate this trip 98 out of 100," one commuter said.

The ferry currently operates three vessels, each able to carry up to 50 non-motor vehicles. Services run from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, with intervals of 15 minutes during peak hours and 30 minutes during off-peak times. Authorities remind users that schedules may be adjusted due to tides, fog, or poor weather, and advise checking updates through the WeChat account of Qiantang Third Bridge Temporary Ferry Terminal.

Passengers enjoy river views while aboard the ferry. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]