Nova Scotia’s provincial government has received the final report on the ferry service connecting Yarmouth and Maine, nearly a year behind schedule. Public Works Minister Fred Tilley indicates that officials are reviewing the document from consulting firm 21 FSP Advisory Inc., with decisions expected shortly.
Minister Tilley’s Update
Tilley shared these details after his government’s first cabinet meeting in a month. “We should have something on that fairly soon,” he stated. The Bay Ferries-operated service uses a high-speed catamaran, known as The Cat, leased from the U.S. Navy. It runs through this year, with the contract set to expire soon.
Officials began exploring options using an interim report released in October 2024. A major focus is reflagging the vessel under the Canadian flag to allow a Canadian crew, as it currently requires an American crew due to its U.S. registry.
Potential Options for the Service
Department officials are evaluating alternatives, including acquiring a different vessel or purchasing The Cat outright. “Anything is possible within the structure of the deal,” Tilley noted. “What we’re concerned about is getting the best possible deal for Nova Scotians.”
Yarmouth Mayor’s Perspective
Yarmouth Mayor Pam Mood emphasizes the ferry’s role as a vital international link to millions along the northeastern seaboard. “The biggest thing beyond continuing with the service would be a long-term contract,” she said. “For me, that’s at least 10 years because economics depend on that.”
Mood highlighted a vacant hotel across from the Yarmouth terminal, owned by Rodd Hotels and Resorts, which awaits clarity on the service before reopening.
Report Findings and Service History
The interim report confirmed economic benefits across the province, with ferry passengers staying longer and spending more than those arriving by other transport. It also aligned government support with comparable services elsewhere.
The province extended the seasonal service into 2026 and allocated $21 million this year, following $21.6 million last year. Passenger numbers on The Cat rose in recent years before declining last year, due to fewer Canadians traveling to Bar Harbor, Maine.
The final report’s delay stemmed from the consultants awaiting additional data. The project budget increased from $180,000 to $250,000 after expanding the scope to include more datasets. A department spokesperson confirmed no penalties applied, as the delay was beyond the firm’s control.
