An attraction laid on for tourists has led to an unexpected bonus for Island seniors.

What was meant to be a scenic boat trip from Hamilton and Dockyard to St.

George's for visitors has turned into a weekly social outing for dozens of pensioners.

So, when the Bermudian pulls into the Hamilton ferry terminal each Wednesday, waiting on the quayside to grab their seats are up to 60 seniors -- armed with their packed lunches and thermos' full of refreshment.

Greeting them on board is captain Joe Bailey, in full uniform, providing the personal touch that his passengers enjoy.

The success of the service, which is free to residents over 65 but was originally intended as an extra summer excursion for visitors, has surprised Marine and Ports officials.

Acting director Mike Dolding heard the reports from his staff on the grey cruisers but had to see it for himself to believe it.

"I stood on the dockside, it was so amazing to see this group of people dressed up, with their flasks and lunch boxes,'' he said.

"It has become quite an institution, and there's another batch that get on when the Bermudian calls at Dockyard.'' After leaving the West End, the 400-seat former cruise ship tender heads along the north shore to St. George's, where its passengers enjoy a few hours sightseeing and shopping, before setting out on its return journey.

"We have been expanding the service each year, I think so many seniors turned up word got around that it is such a great deal. We never thought it would become so popular.

"We are running the service anyway and we are pleased there has been this spin-off.''