Canada to Launch Revamped Ferry on Saint John Digby Route

zoom The government of Canada plans to retire the Ro-Ro passenger ferry MV Princess of Acadia, currently serving the Saint John  Digby route, and replace it with the 2000-built MV Fundy Rose as of July 18. Back in October 2014, Canadas government bought the MV Blue Star Ithaki from a private ferry operator located in Greece at a cost of approximately CAD 44.6 million. The vessel arrived in Canada on December 2, 2014 and was sent to Halifax for an engine overhaul and the conversion of the engines from heavy fuel to marine diesel. Additional refit work was also done to the vessel including replacing flooring surfaces, adding vessel fenders, installing a truckers lounge, constructing a children’s play area and a business lounge; and painting of car decks and exterior surfaces. The Saint John-Digby ferry service is operated year-round by Bay Ferries Ltd. Since 2006, the government of Canada has provided approximately CAD 45 million to support this service. This is an exciting time for all Canadians, especially those in the Maritimes, as the MV Fundy Rose enters into service. This ferry service provides safe transportation for residents and visitors; moves goods; generates jobs; and stimulates the regional economy and enhances the efficiency and reliability of the transportation corridor, as a whole. May all who sail on her enjoy a safe voyage, fair wind, and following seas, said Lisa Raitt, Canadas Minister of Transport. The Fundy Rose is 124 metres in length and 19 metres in breadth, and has the capacity to carry 1,317 passengers and 245 cars.