Marine Atlantic Prepares to Temporarily Resume Argentia Ferry Service in Response to Damaged Road Network

For immediate release

St. John’s, NL – Preparations are underway to temporarily resume the Argentia – North Sydney ferry service effective Thursday, November 25, to provide the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador with a marine link to transport people and critical supplies.

A severe storm system impacting the west coast of Newfoundland has resulted in significant infrastructure damage to the road network. This means traffic arriving in Newfoundland via the Port aux Basques port are unable to connect with the rest of the province. Following a request from the Provincial Government, Marine Atlantic has implemented its contingency plan to temporarily resume the Argentia ferry service.

The Argentia – North Sydney sailing schedule will be available on Marine Atlantic’s website www.marineatlantic.ca. The first sailing between North Sydney and Argentia is scheduled to depart at 1700 Atlantic Time. Customers with reservations will be contacted with additional information as soon as preparations have been finalized.

The Argentia terminal is a seasonal service that normally operates between June and September. Employees are working diligently to prepare the terminal to accept customers on this emergency basis.

Quotes

“Marine Atlantic is an essential ferry service and vital part of the national supply chain. Given the significant damage to the provincial road system and its adverse impact on the movement of people and the supply chain, we have made the unprecedented decision to temporarily provide service via our Argentia route. We are committed to doing our part during this challenging time.”

Murray Hupman President and CEO

Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer, Corporate Communications
Telephone: (709) 772-0073 or (709) 727-2405
e-mail: [email protected]