From visiting friends and family, to getting goods to market, Canadians in Atlantic Canada and Eastern Quebec, and businesses rely on safe and efficient ferry services to keep communities connected and build an economy that works for everyone.
Last summer, the MV Holiday Island, one of two ferries providing service between Prince Edward Island (PEI) and Nova Scotia, was removed from service due to an onboard fire that resulted in catastrophic damage to the vessel.
Today, the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, announced that the Government of Canada awarded a $38.56 million contract to Nye Fanafjord AS to purchase the motor vessel (MV) Fanafjord to replace the MV Holiday Island until its successor is built and ready to enter into service. The MV Fanafjord, which is expected to enter into service during the 2024 operating season , will serve as an interim replacement solution to ensure a reliable, predictable and safe two-vessel ferry service between Wood Islands and Caribou that meets the needs of the communities.
Longer term, the Government of Canada will build two new ferries, including the permanent replacement of the MV Holiday Island, at Chantier Davie Canada Inc. Design work for the new vessel is already underway, with delivery expected as early as 2028.