Stacey and Richard Lampton have purchased Koala Ferries, a service that has operated from the Lemon Tree Passage marina for more than a decade with the aim to provide locals and visitors adventure and educational tours.

"The plan is to operate a commercial ferry service from Lemon Tree Passage to all parts of Port Stephens, including the Bay area and beyond," the couple said.

"Currently, we have the one boat but we have plans to purchase a second vessel which would allow us to run historic and Indigenous-based tours in the future.

"There are so many opportunities to expand the business ... but our first priority is to build a relationship with our local Tilligerry community and Indigenous population, as well as the local restaurants, cafes and other tourist attractions."

The service will kick off its Tahlee Historic Tours in October, leaving Lemon Tree Passage marina at 9am every second Tuesday for a two-hour boat ride and tour of the historic town of Tahlee.

Stacey and Richard say they want to revive some of the old ferry rides that were once the only means of transport in and out of Nelson Bay. They also want to work with other tourism operators to showcase the wonderful waterways and shorelines the area has to offer.

The vessel, a catamaran hull which seats 28 people, is believed to have serviced the Parramatta River during the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, ferrying visitors to and from the Games venue at Homebush.

Tilligerry historian Fran Corner said that the water taxi service and historic cruises would provide the area with a much-needed tourism boost.

"It's a great concept which would open up the western part of Port Stephens for exploration. I think it's a great initiative from a local couple looking to provide a welcoming community service while running their business."

The Lamptons say they are also planning to introduce a paddle boat service at the marina. To find out more, contact Koala Ferries on 0401 424 738.