The Ala’suinu will begin service on the Gulf run this evening after a month of delays—but more disruptions are in store in the coming days.

Problems with the vessel’s lubrication system were identified this spring after a pan-global journey from the shipyard in China where it was built.

While the long-awaited start of the Argentia service will officially start today, Marine Atlantic warns the July 17 and 18 crossings will be cancelled as they complete additional port trials.

The delay in port trials was caused by the unavailability of personnel to complete the required drills.

Customers affected by the cancellation of the July 17 and 18 crossings will be re-routed through the Port aux Basques service.