A former Belfast Citybus has been repurposed as a boat and is now navigating the waters of the River Bann. The vehicle, after completing its service with Citybus, was acquired and is currently undergoing a restoration to its original red and white livery.
Paddy Bloomer, the owner and operator of the bus boat, is sailing it from Coleraine up the River Bann, with plans to travel through Lough Neagh and reach Portadown. Bloomer stated that his objective is to explore the sights along the route, interact with local communities, and find a suitable location to keep the vessel over the winter. "The best way to do that is get out and about and see where the wind takes me," he commented.
The unusual sight has garnered significant public interest. "People are excited about it, some children cheered and some adults came to talk buses, tell me their bus stories and have a look," Bloomer said. He added that the reception on the Bann has been positive, describing the journey as a pleasant cruise.
The bus boat's transformation marks a unique transition from urban passenger transport to a vessel for river exploration. The journey is drawing attention and sparking conversations among those who encounter it along the riverbanks.
