Veteran Nova Scotia Ferry to be Replaced

Government of Canada to invest in replacement of 'MV Princess of Acadia' for Digby to Saint John ferry service.

The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Central Nova; Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament for West Nova; and Rodney Weston, Member of Parliament for Saint John, have announced that the Government of Canada will invest in a replacement vessel for the federally-owned MV Princess of Acadia.

Travelling the 70 kilometres between Digby, Nova Scotia and Saint John, New Brunswick, the MV Princess of Acadia, built in 1971, operates on a year-round basis carrying passenger and commercial traffic with a total of 155 cars and 33 tractor trailers.

“Today’s announcement begins the process to secure a replacement vessel for the MV Princess of Acadia,” said Minister MacKay. “A replacement vessel will ensure safe, reliable and efficient operation of this ferry service while creating jobs and supporting the local economy.”

The MV Princess of Acadia is owned by Transport Canada and is operated by Bay Ferries Limited, a private company. Transport Canada also owns both ferry terminals and supports other private operators who provide ferry services between Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island and Caribou, Nova Scotia; and Cap-aux-Meules, Iles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec and Souris, Prince Edward Island.

“Our government understands the importance of this ferry service to the local community and economy in support of regional trade and tourism,” said MP Weston. “Since 2006, we have made significant investments in the Digby to Saint John ferry service.”