Labrador Marine Inc’s MV Qajaq W will start transporting passengers and vehicles across the Strait of Belle Island later this month, approximately two months earlier than expected.
The ferry arrived in St. John’s on Sunday morning and departs for St.Barbe Wednesday.
The eight year old MV Qajaq W (pronounced Kajak W) replaces the 49 year old MV Apollo to service the Strait of Belle Island.
The vessel can transport as many as 300 passengers, 120 passenger vehicles and 8 tractor trailers – 60 passengers and 35 vehicles more than the MV Apollo.
The 7 year old MV Hiiumaa is currently undergoing modifications in Norway and will begin serving communities on the north coast of Labrador and Black Tickle in June, as scheduled.
The two vessels improve the way passengers, freight and vehicles are transported throughout Labrador and across the Strait of Belle Island. Both vessels are accessible for passengers with disabilities, A1 ice class certified and capable of operating heavy sea ice conditions.
The contracts with Labrador Marine are valued at approximately $11.9 million per year for a 12 year term on the Strait of Belle Island and $14.6 million per year for a 15 year term for Northern Labrador.
The contract serving Northern Labrador will be delivered in working partnership with Nunatsiavut Marine Inc.