Marine Atlantic’s newest vessel, the A Nepita, will not be in service in time for the peak of the 2026 tourism season – and that has Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador thinking about ways to extend their season.

The vessel won’t arrive here from Europe until the summer, and won’t be put into service until the fall.

Board chair John Devereaux says while the new ship won’t be ready for the busiest time of the year, it gives them a chance to look at their shoulder season.

He says they have been advocating for more capacity and for a season extension, so that may be something they can look at for this fall.