Canada spending $38.6M on temporary replacement ferry between P.E.I. and Nova Scotia

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WOOD ISLANDS, P.E.I. — The Authorities of Canada is spending $38.56 million on a ferry to quickly service journeys between P.E.I. and Nova Scotia whereas it awaits a substitute for the MV Vacation Island.

Ottawa inked a cope with Norway’s Nye Fanafjord AS to be used of the MV Fanafjord between Wooden Islands, P.E.I. and Caribou, N.S. for the subsequent 4 years, beginning when ferry service resumes in Could 2024.

“Following business evaluation, the Authorities of Canada decided that the acquisition of the MV Fanafjord is the one answer that meets operational necessities and assures service continuity as an interim measure whereas 2 new ferries are being constructed,” authorities acknowledged in a launch.

The 16-year-old vessel, becoming a member of the MV Confederation on the two-ferry route, can carry 600 passengers and 212 autos. 

The Vacation Island suffered “catastrophic harm” in a July 2022 engine room fireplace, placing it out of service for good. Transport Canada changed it with the MV Saaremaa, which had the capability for 600 passengers and 110 autos. 

Design work for one new vessel is already underway, with supply anticipated as early as 2028.