The scheduled introduction of the new Marine Atlantic ferry Ala’suinu to the Argentia run has been delayed again.
It’s now been pushed back to July 3 as work to repair the vessel’s lubrication system continues.
The ferry arrived in Nova Scotia back in April after sailing to Canada from the Chinese shipyard where she was built, but the vessel encountered mechanical issues en route and after arriving.
Marine Atlantic acknowledges the required repairs are taking longer than expected to fix.
The ferry was originally scheduled to enter service in mid-June, but that was pushed back to June 26th, and now July 3. That means changes for passengers on both the Argentia and Port aux Basques runs between June 26 and July 1.
Anyone with reservations for the Argentia service will be re-booked on the Port aux Basques/North Sydney run, and should receive an updated itinerary, as well as potential compensation.
That will also mean disruptions, and possible compensation, for people already booked through Port aux Basques.
(Marine At;lantic CEO Murray Hupman)
Marine Atlantic CEO Murray Hupman says the changes are regrettable but necessary, adding he apologizes to all customers for the inconvenience.
“These disruptions have a significant impact on our customers’ travel plans and, together with the vessel owner, both organizations have been working tirelessly to expeditiously resolve these mechanical issues,” he said.
He says he’s confident the vessel will be a great asset to the service, “despite these initial setbacks.”
“The Ala’suinu is an impressive vessel and we look forward to welcoming customers aboard once it enters service, and we thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this challenging period,” stated Hupman.
Meanwhile, the Town of Placentia has issued a statement expressing concern with the delayed crossings to and from the nearby Argentia port.
“Our ferry service plays a critical role in connecting our community and supporting our tourism industry,” said Mayor Keith Pearson. “We are doing everything in our power to address the problem and minimize the impact on our residents and visitors, including advocating for another vessel to fill this gap in service.”
Pearson says another available vessel for the interim is crucial.
“With the tourism industry grown accustomed to upwards of three thousand visitors per week, this will be an economic shock to the business community, region and province.”
It’s not clear what, if any compensation Marine Atlantic might receive as a result of the unexpected mechanical issues with the new vessel.
