Trial period for fly-boat trips to Abrolhos Islands

Fly-boat trips to the Abrolhos Islands will be introduced for a trial period until the end of the year, Fisheries Minister Gordon Hill said today.

"The plan will allow visitors to travel to the islands in relative comfort before boarding their chartered vessel for a two to four-day cruise through the islands," he said.

"Visitors presently have to endure quite long boat trips, often in unfavourable weather. This sometimes discourages people from taking the trip."

Mr Hill, who is also Minister for the Mid-West, said the trial would involve a Geraldton-based charter vessel and the air charter service operating to the Abrolhos Islands this year.

When the trial ended on December 31, the results would be analysed to determine the future viability of the service.

"There are four issues related to this plan which need to be resolved," he said.

"They are spelt out in a report by the Abrolhos Islands Aquatic Reserve Working Party, being released today."