Marine Atlantic, a ferry operator providing essential transportation services between Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia, has announced plans to expand its fleet with a new vessel by 2024. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing travel options and elevating the overall passenger experience. The new vessel, with a capacity to accommodate up to 1000 passengers and crew, will feature 146 passenger cabins, including 40 innovative two-berth “pods”. These pods are designed to provide a more comfortable and private travel experience for passengers. Murray Hupman, the President and CEO of Marine Atlantic, emphasized the significance of this addition, stating that it represents a substantial upgrade from the company’s current offerings and is expected to deliver considerable long-term benefits for the region. In a strategic partnership with Stena North Sea, a U.K.-based ferry operator, Marine Atlantic has entered into a five-year charter agreement with an option to purchase the vessel. This agreement ensures that the addition of the new ship will not lead to an increase in passenger costs, as funding for this initiative was secured through the federal government’s 2019 budget. The new vessel will incorporate advanced green technology, aligning with Marine Atlantic’s commitment to sustainability. It is designed to use dual-fuel technology and batteries, which will significantly reduce its carbon footprint and underwater noise, minimizing its environmental impact on marine life. Hupman highlighted that the new 200-meter vessel will share similarities with the existing Blue Puttees and Highlanders ferries, but with the added advantage of incorporating advanced green technology. The ship’s design prioritizes environmental consciousness and aims to preserve the delicate marine ecosystem. In response to passenger feedback, the new ship will introduce pet-friendly cabins, catering to the growing demand for inclusive travel experiences. Recognizing that half of the passengers canceled bookings during the pandemic due to the unavailability of cabins, the addition of sleeping pods is intended to address this issue and provide more flexibility for travelers. The new vessel will continue to offer a range of passenger amenities, including food service options, a dedicated children’s play area, and diverse seating options to accommodate various passenger preferences. It is expected to replace either the Atlantic Vision or the Leif Ericson in the Marine Atlantic fleet. Hupman acknowledged that the pandemic had a significant impact on passenger levels, but with increasing vaccination rates and the resumption of interprovincial travel, there has been a noticeable rebound in demand. Despite operating at reduced capacity due to public health restrictions, the vessels frequently reach maximum passenger capacity. To accommodate the rising demand, Marine Atlantic is planning to increase the frequency of crossings, with the Atlantic Vision set to offer additional trips on the Port aux Basques to North Sydney route. Marine Atlantic remains committed to managing its operations as safely as possible, adhering to public health protocols and ensuring the well-being of its passengers and crew.Feedback from passengers and crew regarding the implementation of these protocols has been overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating the company’s dedication to providing a safe and comfortable travel experience.
Marine Atlantic to Enhance Fleet with New Vessel by 2024
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