In an effort to attract passengers to TheBoat — a new O'ahu commuter ferry service — the city is inviting the public to view one of the vessels before Monday's inaugural sailing.

The city will host a dockside open house Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Pier 9 by Aloha Tower. Officials will distribute information and answer questions.

The event will be part of the Aloha Tower Ukulele Contest, and will include free balloons and cookies for children.

Starting Monday, TheBoat will make three weekday trips in each direction between Barbers Point Harbor in Kalaeloa and Aloha Tower.

The ferries will be linked at Barbers Point to new city bus routes serving Wai'anae, Kapolei and Makakilo.

From Aloha Tower, buses will go to the University of Hawai'i-Manoa and to Waikiki via Ala Moana.

A single fare will pay for the entire journey: the one-hour ferry ride and buses at each end. The one-way fare for adults is $2, and bus passes also will be honored.

A plan awaiting final City Council approval would offer free rides from Sept. 24 through Sept. 28 on the ferries and new bus lines.

Fresh-brewed coffee and a "grab-and-go" breakfast will be available for purchase on TheBoat, and restrooms are also available.

The ferries are twin 72-foot aluminum catamarans, named the Melissa Ann and the Rachel Marie, which will be operated by Hornblower Marine Services.

Federal grants totalling $5 million are expected to pay for one year of service, which could be extended if successful.

For more information, go to www.trytheboat.com.

Reach Johnny Brannon at jbrannon@honoluluadvertiser.com.