Area residents don’t need to travel far to enjoy a beautiful harbor cruise this summer.

The Economic Development and Industrial Corp. of Lynn is sponsoring an evening cruise on Aug. 19 aboard the Lynn-to-Boston commuter ferry, operated by Boston Harbor Cruises. The free event will feature live music and light refreshments and is open to the first 200 people to respond.

The cruise will depart promptly from Lynn at 6:30 p.m. and arrive back at 7:45 p.m. Attendees are asked to arrive no later than 6:15 p.m. to board. James Cowdell, executive director of EDIC/Lynn, hopes the event will introduce more residents to the benefits of the service.

“We want to showcase the ferry,” said Cowdell. “It’s a chance to open people’s eyes to how quick of a ride it is to Boston and how viable an option it is.”

“I hope that many Lynn residents join us for a beautiful ferry ride into Boston,” said City Council President Daniel Cahill. “If you haven’t taken a ride yet, this is your chance to see what everyone is talking about.”

Ferry ridership last year reached 13,136, surpassing the goal of 10,000. Cowdell said ridership this year is on track to match last year’s numbers. He is hopeful that two successful seasons will result in a continued commitment from the state.

“The ultimate goal is for this to become a permanent means of commuting from Lynn,” said Cowdell. “At the end of this season we will be able to present to the state that there is a demand for our commuter ferry.”

For more information or to RSVP for the cruise, call EDIC/Lynn at 781-581-9399.